Kit grew up in the Piedmont of North Carolina outside of Charlotte, spending most of his childhood in Belmont, an old mill town on the Catawba River now grown into a bustling suburb. He had a passion for mathematics and science through grade school, having ambitions to become an architect, engineer, theoretical/astrophysicist, or geologist, but eventually choosing to pursue Meteorology. He went to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte to obtain his degree, taking all electives on atmospheric sensing, tropical, and mesoscale meteorology for a full, in-depth understanding of the atmosphere (though he maintains on every hike, he should have taken more geology classes!) He interned at WCNC in Charlotte, learning the craft of presenting off-script and how to tell a weather story. After Graduation, he worked in the Quad Cities at WHBF-TV and KLJB-TV, the CBS/Fox affiliates. From there, he moved to Grand Island, Nebraska at KSNB-TV, the NBC affiliate for Central Nebraska. The active winters and severe seasons kept him busy, experiencing a wide range of wild weather. He remembers the most impactful event in March of 2019, when a massive snowmelt, heavy rain, and blizzard all struck the state in 36 hours. Kit later moved to the Denver area taking a job as a Producer with WeatherNation. He was brought on as a full-time on-air meteorologist in June of 2022 and can now be seen with the rest of the team on WeatherNation! You can follow him on Facebook and Twitter @KitCwx.

Kit Thomas

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ABOVE: Super Typhoon Mawar on the (local) morning of Wednesday (Tuesday evening US time) closing in on Guam. The storm underwent an Eyewall Replacement Cycle, closing off the previously well-defined eye. Typhoon Mawar in the western Pacific Ocean is impacting the U.S. territory of Guam and the Mariana Islands. On Saturday, was the equivalent of a tropical storm, and now is a Category-4 equivalent storm with sustained winds of 138mph. For Typhoons, they are not ranked on the Saffir-Simpson scale, which is what we use for Atlantic and East Pacific hurricanes. Remember, the category of the storm only speaks to wind strength and not the additional threats the storm may bring. Impacts were already being felt ahead of landfall in terms of damaging winds and heavy rainfall.<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="1661069482373296129" src="https://twitter.com/WeatherNation/status/1661069482373296129"></div>After undergoing an eyewall replacement cycle, Mawar is not expected to reach Category-5-equivalent before passing Guam. Winds will still be incredibly strong and wreak havoc across the island.A Typhoon WARNING has been issued for Guam and a tropical storm warning for the Mariana Islands. Storm surge could be up to 30 feet which is absolute devastation for the island. We would refer to this system as a hurricane here in the United States. However in the Western Pacific, these are referred to as Typhoons. It's the same thing. Because this is in the Northern Hemisphere, the typhoon swirls in the same direction as our hurricanes, counter-clockwise. Mawar will weaken slightly as it moves over Guam, but is still anticipated to reach winds upwards of 160mph later this week in the Philippine Sea.Impacts from Typhoon Mawar will be major, including damaging wind, storm surge, and flooding rainfall. You can get more information from the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weather.gov/gum/">National Weather Service located in Guam here.</a>

Mawar to Hit Guam as a Super Typhoon

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WeatherNation Meteorologists

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<h1>Top 5 Costliest Storms</h1><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PKG_050823_TRT 4.00_TOP 5 COSTLIEST HURRICANES IN US HISTORY_ALANA CAMERON_NJ-1683662646798.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>#5 Sandy: In late October 2012 sandy made landfall as a post-tropical cyclone near Atlantis city, New Jersey. Similar to a category one hurricane, Sandy packed winds of 80 mph as it pushed ashore. The storm damaged over 650 thousand homes and left millions without power.&nbsp;Sandy’s storm surge flooded portions of New York city’s subway system, leaving several routes out of service for weeks. Adjusting cost to 2022 levels, the storm ranks as the fourth costliest in us history causing nearly 84 billion dollars ($83.9B) in damage.&nbsp;&nbsp;#4 Maria: As the strongest storm to strike Puerto Rico in nearly a century maria made landfall on the islands southern cost in September of 2017 with sustained wind speeds of 155 mph. Maria’s fierce winds, damaged structures island wide including an estimated 80 percent of all utility poles. The destruction left majority of residents without power or cell service for months after the storm.&nbsp;With nearly 109 billion dollars ($108.9B) in damage, maria is not only the costliest hurricane in both Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, but the fourth costliest in us history.&nbsp;&nbsp;#3 Ian: Ian became a hurricane in the Atlantic basin on September 23, 2022, undergoing rapid intensification and strengthening to a major hurricane before making its first landfall in western Cuba as a category 2 hurricane, knocking out power for the entire island.&nbsp;Ian strengthened to a low-end category 5 hurricane over the Gulf of Mexico before making landfall as a Category 4 Hurricane on the island of Caya Costa near Fort Myers, Florida with winds of 150 mph and its second us landfall near Punta Gorda with 140 mph winds. Ian brought catastrophic storm surge of 10-15 feet and battering waves that washed homes off their foundations as Ian tore through Florida.&nbsp;Ian exited Florida's east coast, restrengthened over the Atlantic to a category 1, and made another us landfall near Georgetown county, South Carolina. Sadly, 150 people lost their lives as a result of hurricane Ian. In total, Ian is estimated to cost nearly 113 billion dollars in damage.&nbsp;#2 Harvey: Hurricane Harvey struck the Texas Gulf Coast in August of 2017 as a powerful category four storm. Harvey’s strong winds and record setting rainfall changed south Texas forever.&nbsp;&nbsp;Over 60 inches of rain fell, making Harvey the wettest tropical system in united states history. Houston and surrounding areas were flooded for days as drenching rains continued well after landfall. The storm cost an estimated 151 billion dollars in damage making it the second costliest hurricane.&nbsp;&nbsp;#1 Katrina: As one of the most infamous hurricanes in history, Katrina's storm surge and powerful winds overwhelmed southern Louisiana and the central gulf coast region in august 2005.&nbsp;Katrina peaked in intensity as a monster category 5 storm with sustained winds of 175 mph. A category 3 at landfall, Katrina ushered in historic storm surge flooding and torrential rainfall. Over 1.2 million people were under evacuation orders, a testament to Katrina's size and strength.&nbsp;Katrina ended up taking many lives and causing 190 billion dollars in damage. The costliest hurricane in united states history.&nbsp;<h1>2022 Season Recap</h1><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PKG_042623_TRT 03.32_2022 HURRICANE SEASON RECAP_ROB BRADLEY_MR_E042623-1683061450239.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Unlike the two previous super active seasons, from a number standpoint, the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season was relatively average, with 14 named storms, eight hurricanes, and two major hurricanes. But it ended up being the 6th most costly Atlantic hurricane and on record.After starting on June 1, the season saw its first name storm with the formation of Tropical Storm Alex on June 5. It was the first time since 2014 the first storm of the season actually formed. After the season had officially begun. As it crossed Florida, Alex dropped torrential rains, causing flash flooding and doing around $100,000 in damages in the state.Next up, tropical Storm Bonnie formed in the southern Caribbean Sea on July 1 and made landfall shortly thereafter near the Costa Rica Nicaragua border. Bonnie survived crossing over into the Pacific Basin The next day, becoming the first storm to do so since Hurricane Otto in 2016. In an unforecasted surprise, on July 1,a low pressure system near Savannah, Georgia suddenly organized into Tropical Storm Colin, a nonconsequential system that dissipated on the second day inland over northeastern South Carolina.Then for almost two months, the Atlantic Basin was quiet. It was the first time since 1997 there were no new tropical storms in the month of August. It was the first time since 1997 there were no tropical storms in the month of August. Then on September 1, the basin reawakened with the formation of Tropical Storm Danielle over the Central Atlantic. When Danielle intensified into a hurricane the next day, it became the latest first hurricane of the season since 2013.Tropical Depression Nine formed the Caribbean Sea and Tropical Depression Ten formed the Eastern Tropical Atlantic. Since Tropical Depression Ten Attained tropical storm strength before TD Nine, it became Tropical Storm Hermine.After Tropical Depression Nine became Hurricane Ian, it grew into one of the most destructive storms of the season, making landfall in western Cuba As a high end category 3 hurricane. Then Ian slammed southwestern Florida as a high end category four hurricane. And finally, after leaving Florida, Ian hit South Carolina as a CAT1.Subtropical Storm Nicole formed on November 7, the next day, Nicole transitioned into a tropical cyclone. And on November 9, Nicole made landfall as a tropical storm at Marsh Harbor, Great Abaco Island, Bahamas with sustained winds of 70 mph. Only hours later, the storm strengthened to a CAT 1 hurricane while making landfall on Grand Bahama with sustained winds of 75 mph. On the 10th, Nicole made landfall in North Hutchinson Island, Florida with 75 miles per hour sustained winds. Despite being relatively weak, Nicole's huge size produced widespread heavy rainfall and a giant wind field across the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas and Florida. Several days of strong onshore winds and the east coast of several days of strong onshore winds on the east coast of Florida created severe beach erosion, in many cases finishing the destructive job that hurricane Ian had started. In fact, Ian and Fiona were such impactful storms their names were retired by the World Meteorological Organization in March of 2023.

Hurricane Prep Week 2023: Ian Now the 3rd Costliest in U.S. History

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<div>Lucy is originally from the Boston area but has spent the last four years forecasting and living in Colorado! She stayed in the northeast for her education, graduating Summa Cum Laude from SUNY Oswego with a B.S. in Meteorology. Just a few days after graduation, she made the cross country move to Colorado Springs, CO to begin her career at KKTV, the CBS affiliate. Lucy has covered historic blizzards, tornadoes, windstorms, the largest wildfires in Colorado state history and dust storms ... they truly "get it all" in Colorado! Lucy is excited to forecast on a national level and continue her passion of explaining the science behind the weather!</div>
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Lucy Bergemann

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We are a little under two months away from the start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season on June 1st, and even closer to the Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season on May 15th. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami, FL is responsible for issuing outlooks, alerts and discussions on areas of interest in the tropics along with storms that develop in both ocean basins. This year, there are some changes to the products that NHC issues, to help more clearly communicate threats and allow appropriate preparation timelines for storms.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/PKG_041223_TRT 1.44_NHC CHANGES FOR 2023 HURRICANE SEASON_KARA JAMES_NC_E042123-1682522519023.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h2>Change 1: Storm Surge</h2>The "Peak Storm Surge" graphics have been experimental in the last few seasons, but as of 2023 they will be fully operational. This will not change how WeatherNation brings you storm surge forecasts, we have implemented the "new" storm surge graphics in our past two seasons. Storm surge outlooks are issued 4x daily, at 5a, 11a, 5p and 11p EDT. Additionally, the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/surge/inundation/">potential storm surge flooding map</a> will now be available for the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. According to NHC, these maps "takes into account: Flooding due to storm surge from the ocean, including adjoining tidal rivers, sounds, and bays, Normal astronomical tides, Land elevation, Uncertainties in the track, landfall location, intensity, forward speed, and size of the cyclone".<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/surge exampke-1680893426829.JPG"><h2>Change 2: Tropical Development Outlooks &amp; Invests</h2>Tropical storm outlooks have previously been issued for 2 and 5 day periods by the National Hurricane Center. They highlight areas of Low, Medium and High probability of development using "x"s and hatched regions in yellow, orange and red. In the 2023 season NHC will still issue 2 day outlooks but instead of 5 days will transition to 7 day outlooks. The additional lead time will be helpful for people to prepare ahead of a potential storm. Additionally, if a storm is labeled "Invest" as in an area that the NHC will be watching for potential development, those statistics and observations will be available on NHC's homepage. The National Hurricane Center begins issuing Tropical Cyclone Outlooks in both the Atlantic and Eastern Pacific on May 15, or sooner if required.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/tropical example-1680893185143.JPG"><h2>Change 3: Reducing Redundancy in Communication</h2>Previously, tropical watches &amp; warnings were published in multiple text advisories from the NHC and lead to communication failures and the potential for errors. This year, "NHC will remove land-based tropical cyclone watches and warnings from the Tropical Cyclone Forecast/Advisory (TCM). Currently, a list of tropical cyclone watches and warnings are provided in both the TCM text product and the Tropical Cyclone Public Advisory (TCP) issued by NHC." This means watches/warnings will ONLY be seen in the Tropical Cyclone Public Advisory or TCPs.<h2>Change 4: Tropical Cyclone Error Track</h2>Each year NHC uses analysis to determine how accurate their forecasts were from the actual path of the storm's center and work to correct the uncertainty. The "cone of uncertainty" is the official forecast of the storm's center (the line) and then the potential margin of error in the forecast based on historical accuracy. The forecast "cone" accounts ONLY for the center of the storm, and not for the potential impacts away from the center of the storm. This year there are no major changes to the Atlantic Basin forecast cone, but for the E. Pacific "it will be similar in size to the 2022 cone through 60 h, and slightly smaller at days 3 through 5."Stay with WeatherNation for the latest in the Hurricane Season - our Hurricane Prepardness Week begins May 15.

Hurricane Prep Week 2023: Changes Coming to the Forecast in 2023

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Cone and Spaghetti ... no not the food, the hurricane tools we use to communicate where a storm may go! Otherwise known as the "forecast cone of uncertainty" and "spaghetti models". Both are important tools to help determine where a storm may go and communicate uncertainty in the forecast.<h2>Spaghetti Plots</h2>Spaghetti models are used when the storm is an "Invest" or area of focus and could develop tropical characteristics. Each individual line in a Spaghetti model plot represents a model and where that model projects the CENTER of the storm will go. Usually we see outliers or lines that are way outside of where the cluster of models may be. Spaghetti models are useful early on in the forecasting procedure!<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/LL_071420_TRT 1.14_EXPLAINING SPAGHETTIE MODELS_STEVE GLAZIER_ JSV_E071420-1682543383278.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h2>Cone of Uncertainty</h2>The Forecast Cone is an official product from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and communicates where THE CENTER of the storm could go over the next 120 hours (6 days). The cone gets wider further out in time, signifying uncertainty in the track. It is so important to remember that the cone accounts for the center of the storm, and impacts can, and will be felt outside of the cone. It is also common for the cone to shift and adjust which is why you need to know your risk and prepare ahead of time.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/PKG_072022_TRT 0.55_UNDERSTANDING THE FORECAST CONE UPDATED_STEVE G_MR_E072022-1682543400066.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>

Hurricane Prep Week 2023: The Tools We Use

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Rob grew up in South Florida, where daily afternoon storms and hurricanes piqued his interest in meteorology early on. That interest was fostered by his teachers and his father, who one time brought him onto the roof of their home to watch a funnel cloud move through the Everglades several miles away. Years of filmmaking and tv production in high school gradually pushed him toward broadcast meteorology at Florida State University, where he joined and eventually led the student run daily weather show. After graduating with a Bachelors of Science in Meteorology, he began his career at KESQ in Palm Springs, California before heading to KFSN in Fresno and WLOS in Asheville, North Carolina. He has covered a diverse array of extreme weather events, including haboobs and flash flooding in the desert, extreme snow in the Sierra, hurricanes, and Appalachian ice storms. He also enjoys telling stories and reporting about weather issues.

Connect with Rob on <a href="https://twitter.com/WxRobBradley">Twitter</a>

Rob Bradley

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It's hard to believe it's been a decade since Moore, Oklahoma took a direct hit from a mile-wide monster tornado that killed 24 and injured hundreds. The violent storm forever changed the lives of thousands and caused billions in damage during the 40 minute span it was on the ground. As of the publication of this article, it is the most recent EF-5 tornado to occur in the United States. <div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mNYO5n3aQp4" start="0"></iframe></div>The line of intense supercells that produced multiple tornadoes on May 20th, 2013.The tornado formed near the leading edge of a cold front and dry-line as a strong trough of low pressure moved into the northern Great Plains. A region of intense low-level winds (low level jet) helped increase cyclonic wind shear as a short wave ejected from the Rocky Mountains. Temperatures and dew points surged ahead of the frontal boundary, leading to an incredibly unstable airmass. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/newcastle-moore-ref-1684600485402.gif">A line of supercells formed by the early afternoon, with storms quickly becoming supercells with violent mid-level rotation. A tornado warning was issued for the cell around 2:40 pm, with the tornado first touching down around 2:55 pm.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/ktlx-moore-loop-1684600634065.gif">The tornado expanded to over a mile wide at one point, with maximum winds estimated at over 210 mph as it tore through the towns of Newcastle and Moore, Oklahoma. It was one of 15 confirmed tornadoes that day, but it was the only tornado to cause any injuries. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/20130520-ef5-tornado-path-1684600892887.jpg">The damage path through northern Newcastle and Moore shows the intense damage (red) that occurred through highly populated areas. Photos below are from the damage survey conducted by the National Weather Service following the storm. Additional photos and a summary of the event can be found <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weather.gov/oun/events-20130520">here</a>.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PlazaTowersElementary-1684600904926.jpg">Damage at Plaza Towers Elementary in Moore. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/MooreMedicalCenter-1684600914711.jpg">Moore Medical Center.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/BriarwoodElementary-1684600929270.jpg">Remnants of a classroom at Briarwood Elementary.

A Decade Since the Moore EF-5 Tornado

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So what do you really need in your Hurricane Prep Kit? <ol><li>Water Purification Tool<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/PKG_022823_TRT 53 sec_JUST ONE THING - HAVE A WATER PURIFICATION TOOL IN YOUR GO-BAG IN CASE YOU NEED TO EVACUATE_DR JIM SIEBERT_EM_E022823-1682524286198.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video></li><li>Toilet Paper<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/PKG_032123_TRT 41sec_JUST ONE THING - DO NOT FORGET TOILET PAPER FOR ANY STORM PLAN WHETHER TO EVACUATE OR SHELTER_DR JIM SIEBERT_EM_E032123-1682524696788.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video></li><li>2+ Weeks of Non-Perishable Food<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/PKG_022123_TRT 42sec_JUST ONE THING - HAVE 2 WEEKS OR MORE OF NON PERISHABLE FOOD IN YOUR PANTRY_DR JIM SIEBERT_EM_E022123-1682524771707.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video></li><li>Weather Radio</li><li>Game/Activity<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/PKG_031423_TRT 0-38_JUST ONE THING - DR JIM SIEBERT SAYS HAVING A GAME FOR THE KIDS DURING SHELTER OR EVACUATION FROM SEVERE WEATHER COULD HELP LIGHTEN THE MOOD_DR JIM SIEBERT_EM_E031423-1682525829064.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video></li><li>2+ Weeks of Medications</li></ol>

Hurricane Prep Week 2023: 6 Things to Have in Your Prep Kit

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This week is WeatherNation's Hurricane Preparedness Week and we are bringing you the latest on the forecast, science behind storms, how to best prepare and stay safe for the upcoming season. Our field correspondents Ben McMillan and Josh Morgerman are on the Gulf Coast this week, looking back at some of the most powerful storms to hit the U.S. in recent years. Each Day they will bring us stories of survival and resiliency from hard hit communities.<h2>Thursday: Panama City &amp; Mexico Beach, Florida (Michael)</h2>Five years later Panama City and Mexico Beach Florida are still rebuilding following monster CAT 5 Hurricane Michael in 2018. Ben McMillan sat down with the city about how their recovery is hitting its stride.<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5rSIxoY3RZM" start="0"></iframe></div><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/LL1_051823_TRT 2.26_RSE_MEXICO BEACH, FL_BEN'S HURRICANE PREP TOUR INTERVIEW WITH DOUG BABER_WHATSAPP_BEN MCMILLAN_DSC_E051823-1684430644073.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h2>Wednesday: Gulfport &amp; Bay St. Louis (Katrina)</h2>Our Hurricane Tour continues as Josh Morgerman speaks with a couple that survived Hurricane Camille and Katrina's storm surge by cutting a hole in their attic to survive.<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GPbOJ-3agsY" start="0"></iframe></div>We look back at Gulfport, MS which was hit by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and how the city recovered from the deadly storm.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/LL_TRT 2.23_051723_RSE_GULFPORT, MS_ BEN TALKS TO A FIRE CHIEF ABOUT WHAT HER EXPERIENCED DURING HURRICANE KATRINA_WHATSAPP_BEN MCMILLAN_MT_e051723-1684351312422.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h2>Tuesday: Lake Charles, LA (Laura, Delta)</h2>In 2020 and 2021, the state of Louisiana got hit by 4 hurricanes in just over a year. Just 3 years later, Josh Morgerman revisits the city of Lake Charles telling the stories of the Louisiana survivors that just couldn't catch a break.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PKG_051623_TRT 4.11_JOSH OVERNIGHT PKG_JOSH MORGERMAN_BH_051623-1684283059989.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>In 2020 Lake Charles, LA was struck by two hurricanes that destroyed the city a little under 3 years ago. The city is continuing to rebuild after widespread damage. Ben McMillan spoke with the Public Information Officer about what this city still has to rebuild.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/BEN LL 2_TRT-3.01_051623_RSC_LAKE CHARLES,LA_LOOKING AT PAST,PRESENT&amp; FUTURE OF H-CANE PREP,REMEMBERING H-CANE LAURA_BEN MCMILLAN_DO_E051623-1684263884392.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h2>Monday: Rockport &amp; Port Aransas, Texas (Harvey)</h2>We look back at Hurricane Harvey, the return of the American Hurricane.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PKG - FIXED LOWER THIRD_051523_TRT 5.11_JOSH OVERNIGHT PKG MONDAY_JOSH MORGERMAN_BH_051523-1684246493209.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Ben sat down with a family who evacuated the morning Harvey hit and their home was destroyed in the storm. Now 6 years later they look back at that time in their lives and their advice to others facing a storm.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/BEN LL2 FOR 520 PM_051523_TRT 3-01_RSC_PORT ARANSAS, TX_BEN SPEAKS WITH LOCAL FAMILY WHO EVACUATED HARVEY AND REBUILT THEIR HOME_WHATSAPP_BEN MCMILLAN_EM_E051523-1684177144832.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>

Hurricane Prep Tour 2023: Learning from the Past, Preparing for the Next Storm

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<h2>Why Are Hurricane Names Retired</h2><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PKG_050823_TRT 1.39_WHY ARE HURRICANE NAMES RETIRED_DAVE HOLDER_NJ-1683662106150.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Ian ... Katrina ... Harvey – hurricanes that will never be forgotten… and hurricane names that will never be used again.&nbsp;How and why do hurricane names like these get retired?The World Meteorological Organization, an international group of scientists, creates the list of names used to label each tropical storm and hurricane. The names are used in alphabetical order, and range nearly the entire alphabet, A to W. The same lists are recycled every six years unless a name is retired.&nbsp;If a storm is particularly damaging or destructive, the WMO decides if the name should not be used again. Future use of the name would be insensitive to those whose lives were altered by the storm.&nbsp;Most recently in 2022 the WMO retired Hurricane Fiona after it slammed into Puerto Rico bringing widespread flash flooding to the island. The storm then survived all the way to the Canadian Maritimes, as a post tropical cyclone, the costliest for Atlantic Canada.&nbsp;Ian was also retired after it made landfall on Florida’s Gulf Coast in late September, Ian caused widespread flooding and extensive erosion along the Atlantic Coastline. Ian was responsible for 150 deaths and caused over $150 billion dollars in damage, the most expensive hurricane in Florida history and 3rd costliest in U.S. history behind Katrina and Harvey.&nbsp;In the last three seasons 6 hurricane names have been retired. Because of confusion in 2020 season, the Greek alphabet will not longer be used to name hurricanes, instead an alternate list will be used. In all, 96 names have been retired by the World Meteorological Organization.&nbsp;<h2>Do Hurricanes Ever Strike the Same Place Twice?</h2><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PKG_091622_TRT 1.00_HURRICANE MINUTE_DO HURRICANES EVER STRIKE THE SAME PLACE TWICE_JOSH MORGERMAN-1683662597697.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>

Hurricane Prep Week 2023: Two More Names Retired this Year

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The Climate Prediction Center (CPC) has issued their Summer 2023 Outlook for precipitation and temperatures for the months of June, July and August. Before we dive into what the outlooks say, it is important to note that the darker colors indicate a higher level of confidence in above or below average conditions, NOT the degree to which we will be above or below average for the season.<h2>Temperatures</h2>The CPC has high confidence in above average temperatures through the southern Four Corners and West Texas. This darkest color orange covers a 60% chance of above normal temperatures in this region. According to CPC, "The highest probabilities of above normal temperatures (60 to 70 percent) are over parts of the Southwest, Southern Rockies, and western Southern Plains". We see the same potential for above average temperatures (50%) through the entire Eastern Seaboard. Lesser potential for above average temperatures encompass much of the West Coast and Central Plains with likely average temperatures for much of the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/seasonal temp-1684418321106.jpg"><h2>Precipitation</h2>The precipitation outlook from the CPC calls for wetter than average conditions through the Ohio Valley and Mid-South with the potential for slightly above average precipitation in the summer months into the Lower Great Lakes region and into the Deep South. There is a large swath of the center of the country that will likely see average precipitation through the three month period. There is confidence in drier than normal conditions in the Desert Southwest and Pacific Northwest this summer.<h2><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/precip outlook-1684418476413.jpg">Drought Outlook</h2>In addition to the seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks, the CPC releases a seasonal drought outlook, summarizing where drought conditions may improve, worsen or remain the same. After peaking at drought coverage nationwide in October 2022 of 63%, drought coverage has steadily decreased over the last 6 months nationwide, with the most drastic improvements in the western U.S. thanks to repeated atmospheric river storms. Now, in mid-May, drought covers only 20% of the country.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/current drought-1684419623162.jpg">For the summer season, CPC is forecasting drought persistence in the western U.S. as a result of drier than average conditions expected there. This includes the PNW and northern Rockies. Drought is expected to remain in Great Plains of eastern WY, CO, and Nebraska and Kansas where normal precipitation chances won't be able to reverse drought but improve it slightly. We will likely see Florida's wet season and contribution from the monsoon pattern in the SW remove drought conditions in Nevada and the sunshine state. Drought will persist across West Texas and New Mexico with the potential for drought development in central Texas.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/season_drought-1684419479164.png"><h2>Conditions Behind the Outlook</h2>The seasonal outlooks are determined by large scale weather and atmospheric patterns, one of which is the ENSO, or El Niño Southern Oscillation, pattern which is the relationship between ocean and atmospheric temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean. The last three years we have been in a La Niña season which is characterized by cooler than average ocean temperatures. La Niña seasons typically have active Atlantic Hurricane conditions.The CPC announced earlier this year that we are officially in ENSO neutral conditions with little variance in the ocean and atmospheric temperatures in the E. Pacific. While forecasters anticipate El Niño to develop in the next few months, the neutral conditions are expected to continue through the summer months. When we look at a typical "ENSO Neutral Pattern" the seasonal outlooks above parallel typical ENSO neutral seasons. Typically, the ENSO pattern is most pronounced during the winter months, but we can see the influence year round.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/enso neutral-1684418885020.jpg">Headed into the fall and winter months, there is high confidence from forecasters at the CPC (above 90% confidence) that we will transition to El Niño conditions in the Northern Hemisphere, where sea surface temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific Ocean will be above average. El Niño patterns typically spell wetter than average conditions for the southern U.S., while warmer than average conditions are experienced in the northern and western United States.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/el nino-1684418994787.jpg">Remember, these are just outlooks and are meant to help look at the global weather pattern. Individual weather systems are more impactful for day to day life, so stay with WeatherNation as we continue to keep you updated on the latest weather stories, always streaming 24/7.

Summer Outlook 2023: Warmer than Average in the SW and Wetter than Average in the SE

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<h2>Inland Dangers of Tropical Systems</h2><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/PKG_072022_TRT 1.35_INLAND DANGERS OF TROPICAL SYSTEMS_ROB BRADLEY_SS_EM_E072022-1682528626110.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Hazards from tropical systems are not limited to areas along the coast. In some cases, inland impacts can be even more dangerous. While tropical systems begin to weaken once they’re over land, they can still cause catastrophic impacts for hundreds or even thousands of miles. Water is the leading cause of death in tropical systems, and many occur hundreds, if not thousands of miles away from where the storm makes landfall. Take Hurricane Ida in 2021 for example, the storm was a remnant low, but the lingering tropically charged rain produced widespread deadly flooding in the NYC metro. Other inland hazards include widespread damaging winds and tornadoes. According to the Director of the National Weather Service, Ken Graham, <blockquote>"There was wind damage into central portions of Georgia with Hurricane Michael so well inland you could see that tree damage."</blockquote>Tropical tornadoes are usually fast moving, weaker and short lived. But as we found out with Ida in 2021… strong tornadoes can occur and cause damage well away from the center of the storm. These hazards emphasize the need to have a hurricane plan in place and an emergency kit ready. Be prepared for power outages that can last for days or even longer. Remember, every storm will be different and its impacts unique … be ready for the specific hazards that can threaten your community.<h2>Tropical System Hazards</h2><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/UPDATED_PKG_110921_TRT 2.18_TROPICAL SYSTEM HAZARDS_TABAN SHARIFI_MD_MR_E041223-1682528706636.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>It does not matter what type of tropical system threatens your home…the potential hazards are numerous. Since 2017, inland flooding from heavy rain has ranked #1 for storm-related fatalities during hurricane season. Half of those deaths occurred in cars. Heavy rain can lead to flooding from the beach to hundreds of miles inland…and can continue for days… even after the main system has moved out of the area.Storm surge is another potentially deadly water-related hazard … and can lead to complete destruction from inundation to communities along the coast. Powerful, destructive winds can also accompany any storm: Tropical storm force winds can reach speeds of up to 73 miles per hour, and hurricane force winds could top more than 100 miles per hour with some of the stronger storms, creating devastating scenes like this.&nbsp; Just remember -- it’s not the wind itself that can hurt you … it’s what’s in it!Tornadoes can also form anywhere from close to the center of the storm to up to hundreds of miles away in outer rain bands.&nbsp;&nbsp;Even after a storm passes, there still can be deadly impacts. For example, Hurricane Laura in 2020 was blamed for more than two dozen indirect deaths… caused by improper generator use, a stifling heat wave, and clean up related injuries.<h2>Hidden Hazards of Hurricanes</h2><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/UPDATED_PKG_051122_TRT 2.25_HIDDEN HAZARDS 2022_ROB BRADLEY_EK_MR_E041223mp4-1682528896579.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Hurricanes are deadly - there’s no way around it. Whether it’s storm surge, high winds, or inland flooding, hurricanes pose numerous obvious risks to life and property. But there are other hidden hurricane hazards that can threaten your safety. The Director of the National Hurricane Center, Dr. Michael Brennan says not to let your guard down even if a storm is thousands of miles away.<blockquote>“you can be at the beach and it's a beautiful day, but it's dangerous to go in the water and just trying to increase awareness of that. If you see those red flags or warnings, stay out of the ocean, really do that, you don’t want to become a statistic to a hurricane that is a 1,000 miles away”</blockquote>Even if skies are clear, rip currents can still impact your area. Always pay close attention to warnings on the beach. Many of the hidden hazards of hurricanes come after storms have passed. Rivers can still rise for days after a tropical cyclone has left an area, which is exactly what happened in North Carolina after Hurricane Matthew. Roads that were once dry, can become inundated, leaving motorists and pedestrians stranded. Flood waters should be avoided if at all possible. Dangerous debris and washed out roads can be hidden in the water. Plus, the water itself may contain harmful chemicals or could even be electrified by down power lines that are still active. If the power is out, use flashlights and lanterns instead of candles to avoid starting a house fire. If you’re going to use a generator, make sure it’s operating at a safe distance away from windows and doors. According to Dr. Brennan,&nbsp;<blockquote>“A lot of fatalities after the event, indirect deaths, deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning from improper generator use, heat exhaustion, medical issues. So just a reminder to people if they’re asked to leave by the local authorities, its not just for your safety during the storm, it is potentially for your safety after the storm”</blockquote>Speaking of the aftermath, the clean up process can be another hidden hazard. Be sure to check for power lines when trimming trees and use ladders safely. Mold can quickly invade living spaces that were inundated with water. And finally, take care of yourself. Be mindful of the stress you may be putting on your body and mind in the weeks and months that follow a tropical cyclone.

Hurricane Prep Week 2023: Hazards of Hurricanes

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Cyclone Mocha struck Myanmar on May 14 in Sittwe, Myanmar as the equivalent of a CAT 4 hurricane, bringing widespread damaging winds and storm surge. Storm surge was on the order of 10-12 feet! Local news is reported flooded streets and immense wind damage. There are reports of extensive damage and casualties as a result of the storm. <div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="1658321375751294977" src="https://twitter.com/WeatherNation/status/1658321375751294977"></div>The CAT 4 struck the area of Cox's Bazar, which is one of the world's largest refugee camps, home to over 1 million refugees in Myanmar. According to the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), <blockquote>"There is no confirmation yet of damage levels in the northern townships of Maungdaw and Buthidaung where more than half of the shelters are either temporary or semi-permanent, placing households at very high risk in case they were not able to reach evacuation centres."</blockquote>There are failures in the telecommunication systems, leading to the lack of confirmation of casualties and damage extent. Just ahead of landfall the storm contained winds of 175 mph, the equivalent of a CAT 5 storm. It went under a period of rapid intensification on May 14, and is tied for the strongest cyclone on record in the North Indian Ocean basin. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/mocha-1684347338456.png"> Atlantic Hurricane Season is only 13 days away - stay with WeatherNation as we bring you the most up to date forecast.

Cyclone Mocha Hits Myanmar as a CAT 4 Over the Weekend

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<h2>Tropical Terminology:</h2><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/PKG_042722_TRT 1.48_UNDERSTANDING ALL OF THE TROPICAL TERMINOLOGY_KARA JAMES_EM_E042722-1682518856044.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>In the Earth's oceans, tropical waves can become potential tropical cyclones, which can eventually develop into tropical storms and hurricanes.&nbsp; They can transition into extratropical cyclones and weaken to remnant lows. So what do all of these tropical titles mean? A TROPICAL WAVE is a loosely organized area of lower pressure and thunderstorms.&nbsp; These originate over Africa and move west across the Atlantic Ocean.&nbsp; Tropical waves often develop into tropical cyclones …TROPICAL CYCLONE is a generic term---used to describe an organized, warm-core low pressure system.&nbsp; Tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes are examples, each with varying intensity.A POTENTIAL TROPICAL CYCLONE describes a disturbance that is not fully formed, but poses a threat of tropical storm or hurricane conditions to land within 48 hours.HURRICANES, TYPHOONS, AND CYCLONES…These are the same kind of tropical system.&nbsp; The only difference is their name, based on where they form.A POST-TROPICAL CYCLONE is exactly what you think:&nbsp; a storm that loses its tropical characteristics.&nbsp;&nbsp;These can also be called REMNANT LOWS, which have calm winds and little-to-no thunderstorm development … Or EXTRA-TROPICAL CYCLONES. When a storm moves away from the warmer waters of the tropics, its energy source transitions to the contrast of warm and cold air masses.SUB-TROPICAL CYCLCONES have both tropical and extratropical characteristics. Because of their hybrid nature, these storms often form outside of the typical Atlantic hurricane season, including all of the "A" named storms from 2015 through 2019. No matter what type of tropical system is threatening, count on WeatherNation to bring you the latest forecast.&nbsp;<h2>Rapid Intensification:</h2><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PKG_051223_TRT 2.10_RAPID INTENSIFICATION TROPICAL SYSTEMS WITH STEVE GLAZIER_SS_E0512223-1684157049864.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>By definition, rapid intensification means a tropical cyclone has quickly gained strength, its maximum winds increasing at least 35 miles per hour within 24 hours.&nbsp;In 2021 alone, there were 5. In the record setting 2020 season … 8 storms. Most notably Hurricane Laura and Hurricane Ida both underwent rapid intensification right before slamming into the Louisiana coastline.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hurricane Laura strengthened from a Category 1 to a Category 4 storm with winds at 150 mph in just one day! The strongest hurricanes to have hit the country in the last 100 years have been tropical storms less than 3 days prior stressing the short timelines of preparedness.According to Dr. Phil Klozbach, “Storms that rapidly intensify, the wind threat obviously goes way up, but also the storm surge threat can increase dramatically as well. So when you’re looking in terms of evacuations and people getting prepared for these storms, it’s critical to know, as far in advance as possible, what kind of intensity you’re going to be looking at.”Prediction of rapid intensification has come a long way recently, but still remains a challenge.&nbsp; Large scale computer models struggle to understand small scale storm movements. Computer models struggle to understand small scale changes in storm ingredients and life cycle that come together for major impacts on storm strength.&nbsp;<h2>Bonus: True or False</h2><ol><li>Similar to tornadoes, hurricanes are rated based on damage?&nbsp;</li><li>Hurricanes are around 300 miles wide on average?</li><li>Wind speed is always the same on either side of a hurricane’s eye?</li><li>No hurricane has ever crossed the equator?</li><li>Hurricane season for the Atlantic basin peaks in July?</li></ol><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/PKG_090821_TRT 1.37_TROPICAL TRIVIA_LUCY BERGEMANN_RH_CM_E090821-1682520438700.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><ol><li>False, hurricanes use the Saffir Simpson scale which classifies tropical systems based on maximum wind speed.&nbsp;The Saffir Simpson scale does not count for flooding, storm surge, or tornadoes.&nbsp;</li><li>True, however they can be much larger. In 1979 super typhoon Tip had a diameter of 1,380 miles which is nearly half the width of the lower 48.</li><li>False, hurricanes are often very asymmetrical and typically, the right front quadrant has the strongest wind speed.&nbsp;</li><li>True, although many speculate that a strong enough hurricane could pass the equator. There’s no record of it happening.&nbsp;</li><li>False, the most active time for tropical systems in the Atlantic is mid September. </li></ol>

Hurricane Prep Week 2023: Tropical Terminology You Need to Know

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<h2>How Hurricanes Form:</h2><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/PKG_051322_TRT 1.10_HOW HURRICANES FORM_JACKIE BROWN_EM_E080322-1682529809138.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>What does a tropical system need to form? There are 3 main ingredients. Warm water, ample moisture and low wind shear.&nbsp;Tropical systems need warm water to form.&nbsp; Sea surface temperatures of at least 79 degrees Fahrenheit are needed for development. Typically, these warm waters are found between the equator and the tropic of cancer.Tropical storms or hurricanes need a continuous up-flow of warm and wet air to create clouds and rain. One factor that can limit the available moisture is dust. Saharan dust that comes off of Africa can dry out a storm causing it to weaken.&nbsp;The last ingredient is low wind shear. Shear refers to the change in wind speed or direction with height. As a storm develops vertically, a low wind shear environments allows the storm to stay intact&nbsp; and&nbsp; strengthen. With high shear, the system becomes tilted and weakens. Under these conditions… a system can intensify and live on…potentially becoming a major destructive hurricane.<h2>What is Saharan Dust &amp; How Does it Impact the Tropics?</h2><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/PKG_062520_TRT 1.46_EXPLAINING THE SAHARAN AIR LAYER IN DETAIL_ROB BRADLEY_BJR_E062520 (1)-1682529958751.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h2>Are Larger Hurricanes Stronger? </h2><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/PKG_102722_TRT 1-00_HURRICANE MINUTE_ARE LARGER HURRICANES STRONGER_JOSH MORGERMAN_EM_E102722-1682532639484.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>

Hurricane Prep Week 2023: How Hurricanes Form

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After a record breaking hurricane season in 2020, the second most storms in 2021 and a devastating 2022 season with Hurricane Ian, we are gearing up for another season ahead. Hurricane season begins on May 15 for the Eastern Pacific Basin, and on June 1 for the Atlantic basin. WeatherNation will be recognizing "Hurricane Preparedness Week" from May 15-21. We'll help you get your plan together, understand the science behind tropical systems, and much more so you can be prepared this hurricane season. Whether you live on the coastline or inland, it is important to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes">know your risks</a> when it comes to tropical systems.&nbsp; Coastal communities are most at risk of destructive winds, dangerous storm surge, and are more likely to have to evacuate. Communities even hundreds of miles away from coastlines are still at risk, with the threat of high winds, flooding rainfall, severe weather &amp; tornadoes, and the longer-lasting threat of flooding and power outages that could occur days or weeks after a storm hits.<h2><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/04/tropical names-1681394417433.jpg">The Week Ahead</h2>Throughout this week, WeatherNation will be bringing you information on the science behind storms, tropical terms to get familiar with, historical storms and preparation tips to stay ahead of game. Additionally, our field correspondents <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/about-us/ben-mcmillan">Ben McMillian</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/about-us/josh-morgerman">Josh Morgerman</a> will be along the Gulf Coast, talking to residents and remembering some of the strongest storms to hit the U.S. in recent history.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Tropical Tour 1x1-1683662803092.png">Being prepared before hurricane season is key to reacting quickly when a storm threatens your area. Understanding your risks where you live, and knowing how to react can mean the difference between saving your life and property when a storm approaches. WeatherNation will continue to follow any and all systems that threaten the U.S. and Caribbean Islands throughout hurricane season to make sure you stay informed long before a storm strikes<h2>CSU Forecast</h2>Hurricane season forecasts for the 2023 Atlantic basin from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://media.weathernationtv.com/news/csu-releases-initial-outlook-for-2021-atlantic-hurricane-season/">Colorado State University</a>. Early predictions expect this year’s hurricane season to be slightly below average. Dr. Phil Klotzbach and the Tropical Meteorology Project at CSU are among the first to issue an outlook for the season. This year they anticipate 13 named storms, 6 of which will become hurricanes and 2 of those are expected to become major hurricanes (CAT 3 or greater). In a typical season we see 14 named storms, 7 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/CSU vs avg-1683060210521.jpeg">Reasoning behind the forecast are the ENSO neutral conditions, expected to transition to El Niño this fall. The climatological trend of Atlantic hurricane season to be below average during these years outweighs the impact above average sea surface temperatures in the subtropical Atlantic Ocean can have on a busier season potential. While seasonal outlooks give us some idea of what to expect, there is no way to know for certain just what the season will have in store for YOUR area.&nbsp; Seasonal outlooks cannot forecast exactly when, where, or if storm will strike. Remember, it only takes one to impact your area to become a "bad season".&nbsp; So, it's important to prepare before a storm threatens.Still have questions? Be sure to watch Hurricane Prep Week on WeatherNation, or get in touch with us on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/WeatherNation/">Facebook</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://twitter.com/WeatherNation">Twitter.</a>

Hurricane Prep Week 2023: May 15-21

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The first storm of the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season already happened, according to the National Hurricane Center. A "subtropical storm formed in the Atlantic Basin of the Northeastern U.S. coast in mid-January 2023". This was discovered as part of a re-assessment of weather systems and determined that it had enough sub-tropical characteristics to be worthy of the first tropical system of the year. This system brought strong winds, rough surf, and snow to New England in the days prior to it strengthening farther east over the North Atlantic.According to the National Hurricane Center, a Subtropical Low is defined as: <blockquote>A non-frontal low-pressure system that has characteristics of both tropical and extratropical cyclones. Like tropical cyclones, they are non-frontal, synoptic-scale cyclones that originate over tropical or subtropical waters, and have a closed surface wind circulation about a well-defined center. </blockquote><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://center.So">W</a>ill the next tropical storm (or sub-tropical system) be named Bret? No! Since the storm was not named at the time, the first storm that reaches tropical or sub-tropical storm status later this year will still be named Arlene, but it will be regarded as the second storm of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane Season.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-11 Atl Names Q-1683819785730.png"> The last time there was a tropical system in January was in 2016, when Hurricane Alex formed near the Bahamas. That was only the second tropical system in the month of January, making this season's the 3rd. Off season tropical cyclones are rare, but not unheard of. You can read the full <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/text/PNSNHC/2023/PNSNHC.202305111500.txt">public information statement here</a>. Stay with WeatherNation this hurricane season for the latest.

NHC Determines Sub-Tropical Storm Formed Off the Northeast Coast in January

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Lauren Bostwick grew up in the small town of Aledo, Texas. Her interests have always involved sports, science, and of course, the weather! After interning at KBTX in College Station, she graduated from Texas A&amp;M University with a B.S. in Meteorology. During her time at Texas A&amp;M she became efficient in many areas of meteorology such as analyzing the radar, detecting severe weather, and forecasting for different regions. Straight out of college, Lauren started her career as a Weekend Meteorologist and Multimedia Journalist at CBS7 in Odessa, Texas. Due to the large coverage area, she was responsible for forecasting for many types of terrain stretching from the Big Bend National Park to southeastern New Mexico. She has experienced reporting on a variety of severe weather events, such as tornadoes, disastrous flooding events, and the devastating February 2021 winter storm. Lauren is thrilled to be a part of the WeatherNation team. Say howdy to Lauren on <a href="https://twitter.com/LBostwickWX">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LBostwickWX">Facebook</a>!

Lauren Bostwick

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An upper-level low has been helping to produce unsettled weather in the central United States. For the next several days there will be a risk for severe thunderstorms from the western to central Plains due to this upper-level low flow. The Storm Prediction Center has released mainly Marginal outlooks, a level 1 out of 5 for the severe weather threat for isolated strong to severe thunderstorms.<h1>Monday</h1>On Monday, the SPC (Storm Prediction Center) released a Marginal risk including portions of northeast Colorado, extreme northwest Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Daytime heating will help bring in some instability to create updrafts capable of producing large hail and damaging wind gusts.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/RNC Marg Slgt-1685377551914.png">The timing of Monday's storms will be during the peak heating; storms are likely to fire. Most of the morning should be quiet and clear for these areas but be prepared to run into some afternoon and evening storms.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/1-1685358810928.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h1>Tuesday</h1>Tuesday a Marginal risk can be found across the central Plains. This remains a level 1 out of 5 for severe thunderstorms extending from the panhandles through Minnesota. Wind and hail will once again be the primary threat.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/2-1685358920079.png">Storms will fire during the afternoon, once again.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/2-1685358926870.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h1>Wednesday</h1>Wednesday is a bit of a repeat cycle seen from the past few days. An isolated threat of severe weather will be probable once again from Nebraska to Texas.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/3-1685358968736.png"><h1>Rainfall &amp; Flooding Potential</h1>Forecast rainfall totals will be locally higher where stronger storms are expected to move through. Currently, there is a risk for excessive rain that may lead to localized flooding. Since there is a persistent and slow-moving pattern, some storms are capable of producing up to 3" of rainfall.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/5-1685359011958.png">The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/#page=ero">Weather Prediction Center</a> has issued a Marginal (level 1 out of 4) risk for flash flooding in these areas.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/4-1685359021969.png">More on this story can be watched live at :30 minutes past the hour during the Central Regional forecast. Join us!

Unsettled Weather Across the Plains

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Scattered thunderstorms are expected to ignite this afternoon once again for some of the same cities that have already been impacted by heavy rain and severe storms. Below, are some reports taken from Sunday that include very large hail and very strong winds.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-28_plains hail-1685328845080.jpg"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-28_plains winds-1685328850346.jpg"><h2>Severe Outlook</h2>The Storm Prediction Center has issued a general thunderstorm outlook for portions of Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas. This means that severe weather is not anticipated, however, a strong cell could produce gusty winds, hail, and heavy downpours today.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/2-1685365516156.jpg"><h2>Forecast</h2>By Monday afternoon, further storms will be possible. Notice that the storms ignite during the peak heating, t-storms will be anticipated until the sun sets, then the storms will settle down.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/1-1685365523464.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h2>Flood Potential</h2>Heavy rain has fallen over the past few days across much of the southern Plains. With further rainfall expected, flash flooding is possible. The Weather Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk of excessive rainfall on Monday.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/3-1685365543781.jpg">Localized rainfall totals from storms have had a tendency to trigger flash flood warnings. These have been very slow-moving storms. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/4-1685365576898.jpg">For more on the storm threat, join WeatherNation for the latest forecast always streaming 24/7.

Southern Plains Flood Risk

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Temperatures for Memorial Day weekend have been quite warm for some, but the thermometer will continue to climb in the upcoming days! A high pressure will ridge and this aid in maintaining above-average temps into the work week (ABOVE). Looking at the upcoming week, cities including Minneapolis, Indianapolis, and Omaha will reach near 90 degrees! The average for these cities should be in the 70s. Summer-like heat will be felt, so find ways to stay cool! <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/7-1685360189691.png">Temperatures across the northeast will begin to crank up too, especially by the end of the upcoming week! Building high pressure in the upper levels will cause temperatures to soar. Washington D.C. is expected to reach 91 by Friday, but average highs are typically in the 80s. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/9-1685360201984.png">Daily record high temperatures could fall as well, from the U.P. of Michigan across to the Northeast by the end of the week.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/3-1685360262283.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>As the temps continue to rise, don't forget to check the backseat for pets or children. It only takes 10 minutes for temperatures to go from 90 to 109 in the car! According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 33 children died of vehicle heatstroke in 2022. A child can pass away once their body temperature reaches 107 degrees. Remember, hot car deaths are preventable.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/car sea-1685223974983.jpg">For more information on the Central Regional Forecast tune in to WeatherNation at :30 past the hour.

Heating Up in the Central & Eastern U.S.

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Originally born in Spokane, Washington,  Jackie's Dad was in the Air Force which led her to a life of travel. She has lived in Wichita, Okinawa, Japan, Baltimore, New Jersey, Indiana and South Carolina.  After graduating from Kadena High School, in Okinawa Japan, she got a full basketball scholarship to Coppin State College. On the court she was a 4-year starter and reached over 1000 points in her basketball career. She was also named Athlete of the Year for the whole university in 2002. Off the court, she earned a degree in Broadcast Production/English.

After college, she landed a job as a radio personality. Jackie went on to have a successful career for 12 years working at KXLY broadcast center. While on the radio, she decided to change career. Jackie went back to school, graduating from the Mississippi State Meteorology Broadcast Program. From snow, to tornadoes, to hurricanes, she has had experience forecasting all these events.

Jackie Brown

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The western U.S. has been no stranger to rain and storms (as we have seen for the past few days). Expect the pattern to remain active, as a frontal boundary combines with an area of low pressure to bring showers and thunderstorms. Diurnal heating will also play a role, as the heating of the day will help fuel these storms.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/activewest-1685319733258.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Through Tuesday night we may see rainfall amounts of 1-2 inches. Isolated heavy rain and flash flooding can't be ruled out as storms develop daily.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot 2023-05-28 182258-1685319787412.png">Another issue we are seeing is warm temperatures and rain helping to melt the snowpack. This can cause rivers to elevate. With an active pattern in place and more showers and thunderstorm activity in the future, flooding will be an issue, especially where we have seen multiple days of rainfall. Flood alerts remain in place for the rainfall and snowmelt.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-28_wesr flood-1685301823652.jpg">As we look ahead to the first week of June, The Climate Prediction Center has issued an above-average precipitation outlook for the Northwest and West. This means that these areas have a better chance of seeing higher-than-normal precipitation next week.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-28_west cpc-1685301849972.jpg">For more information and updates with this system, tune into WeatherNation for :50 past the hour for our Western Regional Forecast.

Active Weather Across the Western U.S.

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Alana Cameron was born and raised in Canada in the city of Mississauga, just outside of Toronto. Alana is the oldest of 4 siblings, all close in age, and grew up playing outside with them in all types of weather. After graduating high school, Alana moved to study at the University of British Columbia in Kelowna for a year before transferring to Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia where she completed a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Atmospheric Science. Upon completion, Alana moved back to Toronto where she completed a post-grad degree in Meteorology at York University. After her post-grad, she went on to complete another post-grad in Broadcast Journalism - TV News at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario. During her final year of studies she had the privilege of interning with the best in the business in Canada at The Weather Network. Once she finished her internship, she got the call from small-town Denison, Texas where she accepted a job as an on-air meteorologist at KTEN-TV, right in tornado alley, covering severe weather from Sherman/Denison (North Texas) to Ada (Southern Oklahoma). After the most active tornado season Oklahoma had seen in May 2019 (105 tornadoes!) Alana is excited to join WeatherNation to cover weather all across the nation. If you're interested in following her on social media she can be found @alanacameronwx!

Alana Cameron

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An area that the National Hurricane Center was monitoring last week is still bringing beach hazards from the southeast Atlantic coast through the middle Atlantic. Beach hazard statements remain in effect through early Monday morning. If you're celebrating Memorial Day by the water know your beach hazards and what the beach flags mean:<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/beach warning flags-1685299956052.jpg">Here's a look at where we have weather alerts along the coast. The Beach Hazards Statement is for dangerous rip currents and large breaking waves through this evening. This means it is especially dangerous for swimmers.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot 2023-05-28 174502-1685317513213.png"><h1>Forecast</h1>As this low moves inland, the rain will move along with it through tonight. Gusty winds will also be impacted by this system. Some of the highest gusts on Sunday are expected in the Carolinas and Virginia.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/windycarolina-1685317608943.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/selow-1685319594375.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h1>Flood Risk</h1>Locally, the heaviest rainfall will be much farther inland from the coast. Interior Virginia, upstate North Carolina, and the Appalachians will receive the heaviest rainfall totals.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-28_mid atl rain through tue-1685300106560.jpg">There is an excessive rainfall outlook through tonight that remains at a level 2, SLIGHT risk, for those in the darker green regions.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot 2023-05-28 174724-1685317655071.png">For more info on your Southeast Regional forecast, tune into WeatherNation at :10 past the hour.

Southeast to Mid-Atlantic Low Brings Beach Hazards

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<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PKG_052523_TRT 1.54_2023 HURRICANE OUTLOOK_KARISSA KLOS_SS_E052523-1685046735976.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has released their 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook. Every year a team of scientists develops an initial forecast of the number of named storms, hurricanes and major hurricanes based on climatological patterns and sea surface temperatures. Remember, the season outlook only refers to the potential number of storms, not where and who they impact. It only takes one storm to hit where you are, even in a below average season.In 2023, NOAA is calling for 12-17 named storms, 5-9 hurricanes and 1-4 major hurricanes (CAT 3+). Additionally, there is a 40% chance of a normal season, with 30% chance of both an above average or below average season.In an average season, we typically see 14 named storms, 7 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes, making the initial 2023 forecast near normal. Scientists at Colorado State University released their forecast earlier in the Spring, calling for a slightly below average season for 2023.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/comapred-1685028192508.jpg">One of the major drivers of the forecast is the fact that we are in an ENSO neutral state transitioning to an El Nino by fall. ENSO is the relationship between the atmospheric and ocean temperatures in the equatorial pacific ocean. The last three years (2020-2022) we were in a La Nina pattern, which is characterized by cooler than average ocean temperatures and typically leads to a more active Atlantic Hurricane Season. El Nino patterns typically lend themselves to below average hurricane seasons in the Atlantic Basin.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/el nino-1685024978352.jpg">The other forecast factor is sea surface temperatures (SST). Warmer SSTs are favored for tropical development because of the heat and moisture release they can provide, fueling thunderstorm development within a tropical system. There is a balance between the El Nino pattern and sea surface temperatures and their impact on the forecast.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/sst-1685024991059.jpg">NOAA also is releasing a new hurricane model this year, which has shown a 15% improvement to forecast track and intensity compared to previous models. It also will be better at forecasting rapid intensification. This is in addition to a new storm surge model and 7 day outlooks for tropical weather. Atlantic Hurricane Season begins on June 1. For the latest in tropical systems and the threats, join WeatherNation for the forecast throughout the season.

NOAA Releases 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook

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Brittany Lockley

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It has been stormy week in the sunshine state, with multiple days of heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms as a front pushed Southward across the Peninsula. In Southeast Florida, multiple water spouts, funnel clouds, and a couple of tornadoes were spotted this week.Storms have also been very slow-moving and rainfall totals have added up quickly, leading to localized flooding. Lakeland received 4.52" of rain in just the last 24 hours!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/FL Rain Totals-1685148017442.jpg">The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has highlighted areas south of I-4 with a "General" risk for thunderstorm through the weekend, meaning that there will be heavy rain and lightning as the main threat, but it is unlikely that storms reach severe criteria (1" hail or 58 mph wind gust). Overall, storm coverage will be much lower on Saturday and Sunday than the past couple of days thanks to northerly winds helping to dry out the atmosphere.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/FL SPC Weekend-1685148115073.jpg">Headed to the beaches this weekend? Watch out for rip currents and rough surf as an area of low pressure developing just offshore of the Southeast Coast will churn up the ocean.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Weekend FL Futurecast-1685148699567.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>The flood threat will continue through the weekend, mainly down in South Florida where the ground is saturated and rives, creeks and streams are running high from rain over the past few days. Though there's a risk of flooding, there is a bright side to this active forecast. All of this heavy rain is likely to help with the ongoing drought on Florida's Gulf Coast<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/FL Weekend Rain Forecast-1685148710365.jpg"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-26 drough FL-1685114033134.jpg">Stay with WeatherNation for the latest on the severe weather threat across the South this week.

Florida Thunderstorm Chances Persist through Friday

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Cassie Nall

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Numerous large fires are burning in Canada, producing thick smoke that has impacted much of U.S. northern states, creating low visibility, murky skies, and poor air quality. There have been over 1400 fires nationwide this year. Close to 60 fires burning right now are "out of control" where fire crews are unable to contain the flames with a number of fires "being held" or "in control".<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/US Smoke-1685155332344.jpg">Recent rainfall on the fires have helped to dampen flames and reduce the spread of wildfires in Northwest Territories and the Providences of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia. That is all thanks to an area of low pressure over the West Coast (shown above). We are stuck in an "Omega Block" pattern, named for the Greek letter it resembles, with an area of high pressure in the central U.S. and lows on either side. That same area of high pressure is driving smoke around it and into the East, but also trapping smoke underneath the high with little daily movement.We see many communities in the MODERATE air quality category in the central and southeastern U.S.. If you are sensitive to smoke or have health conditions, take extra precautions.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Air Quality Fri-1685155362587.jpg">Stay with WeatherNation for the latest on-air quality concerns and the fires burning in Canada.

Stagnant Pattern Keeps Wildfire Smoke Around

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Cold air draining in behind a low pressure system and cold front has led to frost and freeze alerts Friday morning for a large portion of the Northeast &amp; Great Lakes! Freeze warnings are in place for Northern Michigan and Wisconsin. Frost and freeze conditions can damage sensitive vegetation and crops.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/frost alerts-1685050770220.jpg">Temperatures will be coolest in interior areas and valleys.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/5-25 RNE lows-1685056740045.png"> Make sure to take the proper steps to keep your plants safe from the cold! In the colder temps, it is always a nice reminder to be mindful of of plants, pets and people!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/FROST ALERTS RNC-1685051673017.jpg">With these cold temps we can see record low possible Friday morning for portions of the Northeast including Pennsylvania and New York.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/potential record lows-1685052060268.jpg">The Northeast will start off cold, and remain below average on Friday. Expect temps to get warmer on Saturday and Sunday! Temps will reach 10-15 degrees above average for locations like Burlington, Bangor and Boston for your Memorial Day weekend. So it will be warmer for any plans that you have.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/fri - sunday highs-1685052239718.jpg">Friday morning will be chilly in the northern tier, but with plenty of sunshine the afternoon will be pleasant.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/5-25 RNC lows-1685056773553.png">Temps will slowly creep back up to well above average by Saturday. On Sunday, we can see temps reaching the low 80s in multiple cities, including Detroit and Madison.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/RNC FORECAST-1685052253659.jpg">For More info on the North-central and North Eastern Regions, tune into WeatherNation at :10 and :30 pas the hour.

Frosty Friday Morning In The Northeast & Great Lakes

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Taban Sharifi grew up in Southern California between Los Angeles and San Diego. She is a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) with the American Meteorological Society (AMS). She has a B.S. in Atmospheric, Oceanic, and Environmental Sciences with a minor in Environmental Systems and Society from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Go Bruins! While in school, Taban was a meteorology intern with NBC LA. There she helped forecast daily weather for the greater Los Angeles region and created a playbook to deploy weather sensors for NBC owned-and-operated stations across the country. Her first on-air job took her to San Angelo, Texas, where she was a morning meteorologist and co-anchor. Working in West Texas gave her knowledge and experience covering severe storms. From there, she moved to Palm Springs, California. People think forecasting in California is sunshine all the time, but with temperatures in the 120’s, wildfires, damaging winds, floodings, and earthquakes, the forecasting kept her very busy! She also worked there as a general assignment reporter and told community stories. Taban is excited for the challenge and opportunity to forecast nationally with WeatherNation. She also looks forward to exploring all that Colorado has to offer!

Taban Sharifi

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An upper level low is pushing out of Canada and into the Northeast, with just enough lift and energy to potentially create thunderstorms through this evening in New England, New York, and Pennsylvania. The Storm Prediction Center has highlighted the risk for "general thunderstorms" but don't be surprised to see a storm that has winds gusts in excess of 58 mph. Still, the weather will be unsettled Wednesday with highs dropping through the end of the week thanks to a cooler push this low brings in too! We are already about 20 degrees cooler along the Great Lakes compared to this time yesterday!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/spc ne-1684939741138.jpg">A frontal boundary is bringing widespread showers to the I-95 corridor this evening. Rainfall accumulations will be generally light as this front doesn't have a ton of moisture to work with, generally less than 1" for many, but along and north of the I-95 corridor in Maine is where there is the greatest opportunity for rainfall. By the late evening, the front will push out of the area and the rainfall will come to an end.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-24-1684963375268.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>The bigger factor to this surface front and upper level low is cooler air that works-in for the later portion of the week. As the front moves through the northeast, temperatures will drop significantly compared to the same time of day yesterday. Some areas are 15 to nearly 30 degrees cooler today compared to Tuesday.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot 2023-05-24 152347-1684963444238.png">For most, the coolest day will be Thursday when highs drop about 5-10° below average with a bit of a breeze. Temperatures warm back up for the start of the Holiday Weekend, with highs just shy of normal for many. Overnight lows will be cool too - in the 40s and 50s on Thursday and Friday morning. Looking ahead to the long weekend, temperatures will be in the 70s and 80s back in store!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/9-1684928525079.jpg">Stay with WeatherNation during the Eastern Regional forecast for the latest in the wet weather potential in the Northeast at :10 past the hour.

Wet & Cool Weather in the Northeast

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ABOVE: A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued further into Texas through 2 AM. Threats include large hail up to teacup-sized, isolated wind gusts up to 75 mph, and a couple of tornadoes possible. We have already seen some large hail in these areas:<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-23_rsc_hail-1684884547789.jpg">The Storm Prediction Center has a SLIGHT (level 2 out of 5) risk for severe thunderstorms across much of west Texas. Our main potential is very large hail but damaging winds and a tornado or two cannot be ruled out.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot 2023-05-23 212217-1684898546140.png">This includes a tornado potential, on the low end but still non-zero. There is also a "significant" hail outlook for the same areas as the tornado outlook - this encompasses the threat for 2" diameter or larger hail!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot 2023-05-23 212253-1684898579931.png">Showers and storms will continue through tonight across west Texas as a weak surface low-pressure system forms around a weak boundary with minimal upper-level support. We could even see an overnight MCS (mesoscale convective system) head into the I-20 corridor of North Texas. The temperature and moisture differences in the atmosphere will help to maintain strong storms which move into central Texas overnight and early Wednesday morning with the risk of damaging winds.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/overnighttxhrrrr-1684898662200.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Stay with WeatherNation for updates on this developing situation!

Texas & New Mexico Severe Threat Overnight

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It is officially rainy season in Florida and the Sunshine State could use moisture; drought conditions on the Gulf Coast of Florida are in the extreme category following a dry winter. Now, an upper-level low-pressure system will dig into the South, pulling in Gulf Moisture and touching off daily thunderstorms across Florida. Winds move counter-clockwise around an area of low pressure, meaning with the low situated around Alabama/Mississippi, northerly and easterly winds will be seen in the upper levels across Georgia and Florida, pulling in Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico moisture.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/fl drought-1684519833600.jpg">The Weather Prediction Center (WPC) has highlighted the risk of heavy rainfall on Florida's East Coast Monday through Wednesday of the upcoming week as temperatures warm into the 80s and 90s and daily thunderstorms develop along the sea breeze, having support from the upper-level low mentioned above. Early indications are for rainfall totals in the 3-5" range in central and southern Florida. Despite the ongoing drought, this rainfall could potentially overwhelm soils and lead to flash flooding, especially in urban communities.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/wpc fl-1684519863522.jpg"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot 2023-05-21 114512-1684691126129.png">The exact placement of the upper level low and subsequent concentration of moisture will wiggle as we get closer to the forecast period, so stay with WeatherNation for the latest in the extended forecast. Your Eastern Regional Forecast can always be found :10 past the hour.

Rainy Season is Back in Florida

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A cold front continues to move further south in Texas, sparking strong to severe storms in the lower Rio Grande Valley. On Friday, severe storms brought hail over two inches in diameter (ping pong ball size) to the Lone Star State. The threat for hail remains the same on Saturday, as the cold front continues to run into a warm and unstable airmass, that will fuel stronger storms. Scattered severe storms will continue through Texas before the front shifts east and impacts the Gulf Coast. However, a few lingering storms are likely in South TX on Sunday.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-20 Texas Hail-1684583689598.jpg"><h2>SATURDAY</h2>The SPC has issued a Marginal Risk of severe storms from Laredo southward to Brownsville. Isolated damaging winds and hail will be the main threat. The storms tracking to the south will be diurnally driven, so expect the best chance for severe weather in the afternoon and early evening.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/slot0-1684610658378.jpg"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/slot0-1684610686622.jpg">Storms from earlier have produced heavy rain and a few flooding reports southwest of San Antonio. Isolated flooding could be a concern as thunderstorms continue to grow near the Rio Grande! A few storms will develop behind the front, and then a dryline will become the driving force behind the storms on Sunday. Stay weather aware this weekend as there will be storm activity again in the Panhandle and west Texas, with a few storms on the strong side.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Futurecast Now-1684610900265.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>As always, the Central Regional Forecast airs at :30 past the hour, every hour.

Strong Storms in Texas this Weekend

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Summer of 1993, New England Dragway. That's when and where Steve knew he wanted to become a meteorologist. More than 20 years later he is extremely fortunate and blessed to be able to live his childhood dream. As a lover of math and science, Steve had a consistent interest in weather in elementary, middle, and high school before discovering you can major in meteorology. He attended Lyndon State College in Vermont where he received a bachelor's in meteorology-broadcasting and associate's in television news. He has worked as a meteorologist and reporter in Winchester, VA, Burlington, VT, and most recently in West Palm Beach, FL. He's recognized by the American Meteorological Society with the Certification of Broadcast Meteorologists.

Steven Glazier

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Upper-level energy increases in the northern Plains and Upper Great Lakes as a surface low pressure system and front sweep across the region. This follows severe weather through the High Plains on Wednesday that produced hail (above). Today, there is a low end, but non-zero, severe weather risk in Wisconsin and eastern Iowa. While the primary threats will be damaging winds and hail, an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/GL spc-1684431768173.jpg">Showers and storms will be at their strongest around dinner time and continue into the first part of the evening. We will likely see areas of ponding on the roadways and low visibility. Storms continue into Michigan during the first part of Friday morning, but most should be sub-severe at that point, possessing mostly heavy rain as the primary concern.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/2-1684449241626.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Stay with WeatherNation for the latest, and in your Central Regional Forecast, every :30 past the hour!

Severe Storms Move from the Northern Plains to the Great Lakes Today

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Tuesday and Wednesday's cold front have dropped temperatures across the northeast and lowered humidity to very low values. As a result of the dry airmass and northwesterly winds, temperatures will drop overnight into the 30s for most. Valleys could even dip into the upper 20s! Cities will stay mostly above freezing as daytime heat will get trapped in the urban heat island.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-17_rne_overnight lows-1684368684254.jpg">There's even the potential for many cities to break record lows on Thursday morning!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-17_rne_pot ercord-1684368689393.jpg">Due to the cold air and that blooms have already begun for many plants we anticipate frost conditions across much of the Northeast. Widespread alerts have been issued in the region, so cover up sensitive plants or drag them inside!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-17_rne_frost and freeze-1684368693923.jpg">For more on the chilly and dry airmass in the Northeast, join WeatherNation for your eastern regional forecast, always :10 past the hour.

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