Brittany Lockley

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The start of hurricane season is bringing an increased risk of heavy rainfall and flooding to parts of the Gulf Coast and Southeast. A broad area of tropical moisture moving across the Gulf is expected to fuel widespread showers and thunderstorms over the coming days.&nbsp;As of now, this is not expected to develop into anything tropical, even though Gulf waters are in the 80s, because the low-pressure system is associated with a frontal boundary.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-03 083113-1780497088904.png">While the system is not currently expected to develop into a tropical storm, it will have plenty of moisture to work with. That could lead to periods of torrential rainfall, especially in areas where storms repeatedly track over the same locations. Flash flooding may become a concern in urban areas, low-lying spots, and places with poor drainage.&nbsp;<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/2026-06-05 04-11-57-1780654346974.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>The heaviest rainfall is expected to focus on portions of the central and eastern Gulf Coast, where several inches of rain could accumulate over a short period of time. Localized flooding could disrupt travel and create hazardous conditions on roads during periods of intense downpours.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/2026-06-05 04-12-44-1780654408825.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Some communities may welcome the rain after dealing with dry conditions and drought concerns in recent months. However, the potential benefits could be overshadowed by flooding issues if rainfall becomes too concentrated or persistent.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/1-1780625971084.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-04 040143-1780567318119.png">The Atlantic hurricane season officially began this week, and although no tropical cyclone development is anticipated at this time, we will continue monitoring the Gulf and surrounding waters for any signs of organization. Residents across the Gulf Coast are encouraged to stay informed and be prepared for changing weather conditions as tropical moisture continues to move through the region.&nbsp;

Tropical Moisture Brings Increased Flood Risk to the Gulf Coast

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A surge of warmer air will bring summer-like temperatures to much of the Northeast through the end of the week, offering a welcome break from the cooler, wetter pattern that has dominated much of spring. Afternoon highs are expected to climb into the 80s across many locations, with some areas near I-95 hitting 90 degrees or greater by Friday.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-05 040515-1780653932548.png">The warm spell is expected to be short-lived, however, as a weather system moving in from the west begins to change conditions over the weekend. Clouds will increase on Saturday, followed by a growing chance of showers and thunderstorms. Rain is expected to become more widespread by Sunday, potentially affecting outdoor activities and travel plans across parts of the Northeast.&nbsp;<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/2026-06-05 04-06-29-1780654027550.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight risk for severe thunderstorms on Saturday for the Northeast. Scattered storms capable of producing large hail and damaging winds are possible for portions of the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley into the Northeast.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-05 040557-1780653970145.png">Behind the system, cooler air will return early next week, bringing temperatures back closer to seasonal averages. While some lingering showers may persist in a few areas, the return of rainfall will help replenish moisture in locations that have experienced drier conditions in recent weeks. The shift marks a return to a more typical early June weather pattern after a brief taste of summer heat.&nbsp;<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-05 040733-1780654070199.png">Tune into WeatherNation TV on YouTube for the latest.<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/a1C9h87MYTY" start="0"></iframe></div>

Brief Summer Warmup in the Northeast Before Weekend Rain

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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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Strong storms have been surging across the Plains and Midwest this week, producing lots of hail and strong winds, with a tornado or two. The threat continues on Friday as the low pressure system continues to slide farther east toward the Great Lakes.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-05 071611-1780665380988.png"> The SLIGHT risk for severe storms on Friday extends from Nebraska to Illinois, with a marginal risk through Michigan. The significant severe potential sticks around on Friday. Damaging winds over 75 mph and even hailstones that are 2" in diameter or larger are possible!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-05 071700-1780667052134.png">An isolated tornado is possible as well, particularly for areas around the I-80 corridor.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-05 074112-1780666919593.png"><h2>Timing</h2>The previous night's storms will gradually fizzle through the late morning before a new round gets going in the afternoon. Storms could persist through the overnight hours so make sure to have a few ways to receive alerts in case warnings are issued.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/plainsstom-1780626519828.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Our forecast models like the I-80 corridor for some of the largest hail tonight into tomorrow.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-05 072526-1780666949084.png">Tune into your full Central U.S. breakdown on WeatherNation at :30 past the hour every hour.

Severe Storms Target the Midwest on Friday

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WeatherNation Meteorologists

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<h1 style="text-align: center">HURRICANE SEASON IS HERE!</h1>The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30. Join WeatherNation as we help you know your risk, get your plan together, and better understand the science behind tropical systems.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 at greatest risk of destructive winds and dangerous storm surge and may have to evacuate. But even people hundreds of miles inland are at risk from high winds, flooding rains, severe weather, and tornadoes. Even after the storm passes, the lasting threat of flooding and power outages could occur days or weeks after a storm hits.Though Hurricane Melissa became one of the strongest hurricanes to ever make landfall in the basin, it was the first time in a decade that a hurricane did not make landfall in the U.S. That doesn't mean we were without impacts. Let's take a look back:<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/i3WsK0L2JP8" start="0"></iframe></div><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/news/noaa-predictions-for-the-2026-hurricane-season">WHAT'S THE FORECAST THIS SEASON?</a> NOAA has released <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-predicts-below-normal-2026-atlantic-hurricane-season">its predictions for the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season</a>. They are calling for a below normal season with 8-14 named storms, 3-6 hurricanes, and 1-3 major hurricanes. For probability, they predict a 35% chance of a near-normal season, a 10% chance of an above-normal season, and a 55% chance of a below-normal season.<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2rztDcYFRbM" start="0"></iframe></div>NOAA cites several factors in their forecast, including the burgeoning El Ni­­ño, and possible Super Ni­­ño, shaping up in the tropical Pacific. The expectation for an El Ni­­ño event during the peak of the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane season is a big factor in keeping numbers lower than previous years, along with near-normal sea surface temperatures, which have been much above average in recent seasons.Why does El Ni­­ño typically reduce hurricane activity in the Atlantic Basin? The warmer water in the equatorial Pacific often leads to a more energetic subtropical jet, leading to stronger winds in the upper atmosphere over the Caribbean. Surface winds in the Caribbean most often come from the east, known as the trade winds. When these winds lie under strong winds from the opposite (or even the same direction), it leads to strong wind shear, which tears hurricanes apart.Forecasters at Colorado State University also predicted a below-average season. Hear their reasoning:<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PrEEwxSK5tU" start="0"></iframe></div>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 a storm will strike. Even below-average seasons can have major impacts. All it takes is one storm making landfall for it to be a devastating season in the U.S.In preparation for the upcoming season, NOAA's National Hurricane Center is incorporating new tools and processes to keep the public better informed. Here's what's new this season:<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ep7nsPYWyFw" start="0"></iframe></div><h1>PREPARE AT HOME</h1>GET YOUR SUPPLY KIT READY. Once you know your risks, you should put together an essential hurricane supply kit. There are two types of "kits" you should put together: one if you're sheltering at your home during a storm, and one that you can grab and go should you need to evacuate. Get your supplies ready to shelter at home. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1e04d512b273e2133cb865833cc0e32d/FEMA_checklist_parent_508_071513.pdf">Click here for a full list of essentials from FEMA</a>&nbsp;Additional Helpful Tips:&nbsp;<ul><li>Learn much more and get storm-ready by visiting<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes"> Ready.Gov/Hurricanes</a></li><li>Make sure your home is <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://ibhs.org/hurricanereadyhome/">Hurricane Ready with IBHS</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.floodsmart.gov/">Check your insurance coverage</a>. If you are uninsured, apply BEFORE a storm threatens, as it may be too late if you wait</li><li>Sign up for emergency alerts with your local county, city, or town to ensure you are receiving the most up-to-date information before and during a storm.</li><li>Talk through your emergency plan with your family ahead of hurricane season</li><li>Understand<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/aboutgloss.shtml"> tropical weather terminology</a></li></ul><h1>ABOUT THE SCIENCE</h1>We get it. There's A LOT of jargon, phrases, and information that can make understanding tropical cyclones difficult. Understanding the basics may help when a storm threatens.WATCHES VS. WARNINGS Do you know the difference between a watch and a warning? What about all of the alerts issued during the tropical season? Whenever a tropical cyclone (a tropical depression, tropical storm, or hurricane) or a subtropical storm has formed in the Atlantic or eastern North Pacific, the NOAA National Hurricane Center (NHC) issues tropical cyclone advisory products&nbsp;at least every 6 hours at 5 am, 11 am, 5 pm, and 11 pm EDT. A WATCH is issued when hurricane, tropical storm, or storm surge conditions are expected within 48 hours. A WARNING is issued when life-threatening conditions are expected within 36 hours.WHAT IS THE SAFFIR-SIMPSON SCALE? The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a 1 to 5 rating based on a hurricane's sustained wind speed, with 5 being the highest. This scale estimates potential property damage. Hurricanes reaching Category 3 and higher are considered major hurricanes because of their potential for significant loss of life and damage. Category 1 and 2 storms are still dangerous, however, and require preventative measures.&nbsp; (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/aboutsshws.php">Source: NHC</a>)When a tropical system reaches winds of 39mph or greater, it's given a name to better track and communicate its risks. The 2026 name list may look a little familiar. Here's why:<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cLoG9Qce7C8" start="0"></iframe></div>UNDERSTANDING THE FORECAST "CONE" Listening to forecast details can mean the difference between being prepared and caught off guard. Before a storm strikes, you'll often see a forecast "cone" to represent the expected forecast track of a system. The forecast cone <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/aboutcone.shtml">represents the probable track of the center of a tropical cyclone</a>. The width of the cone is based on historical forecast error percentage and uncertainty in the forecast. In 2024, NHC released an experimental version of the cone to not just communicate the center track, but also show the widespread nature of potential impacts. They plan to fine-tune and continue to use this concurrently until it becomes the primary forecast.WHAT PART OF A HURRICANE IS THE MOST POWERFUL? When a hurricane threatens landfall, most often the most impacts will be felt on the "front right quadrant" in relation to the direction of movement. Impacts can and will be felt on all "sides" of a storm, but the threat of the highest winds, storm surge, and indirect impacts, such as tornadoes, is often increased in the front right quadrant.LIVE INLAND? YOU AREN'T IMMUNE TO HURRICANES! Even if you live nowhere near a coastline, impacts from tropical systems can still occur. This lesson was learned during Hurricane Helene with historic, catastrophic flooding as far north as North Carolina. Inland rain and water are the deadliest parts of Tropical Storms, and the impacts can spread far away from the immediate coastline.UNDERSTANDING STORM SURGE Along the coast, storm surge is often the greatest threat to life and property from a hurricane.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/surge/">Storm surge</a> has come along with some of the most powerful storms in history.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://x.com/WeatherNation"> X</a>. Or, as always, you can watch LIVE on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@weathernation">YouTube</a>!<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/a1C9h87MYTY" start="0"></iframe></div>

Hurricane Prep Week 2026

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Charge your camera batteries! Aurora Borealis, aka the Northern Lights, could be gracing the skies over North America Thursday night into Friday morning. An X-Class solar flare on Wednesday (top of page) sent high energy particles from the sun toward earth, initially causing radio communications issues Wednesday morning and afternoon. The CME takes longer to arrive than the initial burst of energy from the flare, which is why more than 24 hours later were anticipating the potential for Aurora to appear.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-04 111544-1780594141267.png">The Space Weather Prediction Center has issued their forecast (above) for where Aurora could be visible under ideal conditions (dark, cloud free skies). Unfortunatley some areas that are expected to have potential to see Aurora, will also have storms in the area. Areas in Montana and northern Idaho should have the best chance for clear conditions.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-04 111550-1780594150301.png">These forecasts will change quickly - check the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/communities/aurora-dashboard-experimental">Space Weather Prediction Center</a> for real time conditions and updates.

Severe Storms Target the Midwest on Friday

Hurricane Prep Week 2026

X-Class Flare Could Spawn Aurora Thursday Night

Tropical Moisture Brings Increased Flood Risk to the Gulf Coast

Brief Summer Warmup in the Northeast Before Weekend Rain

Severe Storms Target the Midwest on Friday

Hurricane Prep Week 2026

X-Class Flare Could Spawn Aurora Thursday Night

Tropical Moisture Brings Increased Flood Risk to the Gulf Coast

Brief Summer Warmup in the Northeast Before Weekend Rain

Severe Storms Target the Midwest on Friday

Hurricane Prep Week 2026

X-Class Flare Could Spawn Aurora Thursday Night