Kevin Schneider

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NEW: The first tropical depression of the Eastern Pacific season has formed over the open waters of the Pacific. Tropical Depression One-E has formed and is expected to become a tropical storm on Wednesday.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-02 143917-1780433518209.png">Hurricane Preparedness Week began on Monday here at WeatherNation, coinciding with the start of the Atlantic hurricane season. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season began on May 15. Right now, the National Hurricane Center is tracking another disturbance in the Eastern Pacific Ocean with a medium chance (above). The names for the Eastern Pacific start with Amanda.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-31 074929-1780235388727.png">The Climate Prediction Center Outlook showcases a low chance for development through the middle of June.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-02 142522-1780432008462.png">Sea surface temperatures for the Pacific are already very warm for the start of the season. The El Niño pattern showcases the potential for higher activity across the Eastern Pacific. On the other hand, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/news/noaa-predictions-for-the-2026-hurricane-season">NOAA Predicts a Below Normal 2026 Season for the Atlantic</a> basin.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-31 074939-1780235440882.png">Stay tuned to WeatherNation for the latest during hurricane season. Join us through Hurricane Prep Week, June 1 - June 7.

Jackie Brown

PACIFIC: First Named Storm of the Season

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SEVERE THREATThe Storm Prediction Center has maintained a MARGINAL (level 1 out of 5) risk for severe weather overnight for a small portion of southern Florida. Damaging winds will be the main concern. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/overnighttt-1780452544069.png">As the frontal boundary pushes to the south, there will be storms in place in southern Florida. <video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/cold frontttt-1780452604778.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>While this rain is causing flash flooding, it is beneficial in many areas, as widespread drought conditions were introduced in this week's drought update, with Mississippi and Alabama having the greatest improvements.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-26 115148-1779817916121.png">Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to stay weather-aware and avoid driving through flooded roadways.&nbsp;Excessive rainfall outlook remains in place through tonight across the Central Gulf Coast and Atlantic Coast of Florida.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-02 141412-1780431294597.png">Tune into WeatherNation for more details.

Heavy Rain and Flooding Threat Continues Across the South

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It's early June: it's hot, it's humid, it's going to storm this afternoon. We get in the habit of doing this most afternoons in the Summer. And this is a summer-like pattern we've been locked into so far this week.Severe storms will be possible from the North Dakota border down the Front Range to West Texas this afternoon. The surest bet will be on the High Plains: North and South Dakota, where all threats will be in play.<h1>TORNADO THREAT</h1><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-02 140948-1780431005859.png">Most storms will be capable of producing damaging winds and large hail, with some hailstones in excess of 2 inches in diameter, but the tornado threat won't be for everyone. The closer the upper-level low is, the better the odds of a tornado touching down. This gives us the wind shear needed to get storms to rotate.<h1>UNCERTAINTY</h1>Storms lingering into the morning hours will give every day some uncertainty when waking up. Many models don't handle intense squall lines well in setups like this - where the jet stream winds are WAY north of the area. So the forecast could change drastically some days - get in the habit of checking the forecast once or twice: morning &amp; afternoon.<h1><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-02 104004-1780418412921.png">NORTHERN PLAINS</h1>Storms will begin discrete in the afternoon, before forming into a line of storms by the evening. A large hail and isolated tornado threat will turn into more of a damaging wind threat by the overnight hours.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/06-02 rnc hrrr-1780431079551.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h1>SOUTHERN PLAINS</h1>Thunderstorms will favor the afternoon hours farther south. It's uncertain how far east the threat will migrate, if it will reach the Oklahoma City or Dallas metro areas.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/06-02 rsc-1780431127292.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>

Alana Cameron

Border to Border Severe Threat Today

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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 most at risk of destructive winds, dangerous storm surge, and may have to evacuate. But, even people hundreds of miles inland are still at risk, with the threat of high winds, flooding rainfall, severe weather &amp; 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 no hurricanes made 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">their 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 sites 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 sub-tropical jet, leading to stronger winds in the upper-atmosphere over the Caribbean. Surface winds in the Caribbean most often comes from the east, known as the trade winds. When these winds lay 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 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 your 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 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 to 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 highest winds, storm surge, and indirect impacts, such as tornadoes, are 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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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.

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COLORADO - Severe warned storms have been moving through the I-25 corridor of Colorado today, including this funnel cloud spotted in Castle Rock, a southern suburb of Denver.<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2061534854928613741" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2061534854928613741"></div>An area of low pressure will bring strong and severe storms across portions of the Plains over the next few days. Overnight, there is a SLIGHT risk for severe storms across eastern Colorado, Kansas, and portions of Nebraska. Thunderstorms capable of producing severe wind gusts and large hail are likely. There is a significant hail threat, meaning hailstones of 2 inches or larger will be possible with these storms. Make sure to have a plan in place as these storms continue through the overnight hours. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/fss-1780366024839.png"><h1>Timing:</h1>Storms have fired up this afternoon and evening, and some storms will hold together overnight. Some of these storms will be strong to severe.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/overnight222-1780366057315.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h1>RAINFALL TOTALS:</h1>There will be some isolated heavy rain as these storms develop. Localized heavy rain up to 2 inches will be possible.<h1><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/forecast rainfallll-1780339790808.png">MORE SEVERE:</h1>On Tuesday and Wednesday, the severe threat moves north, bringing a risk for damaging winds and hail from Oklahoma to North Dakota. A few tornadoes will be possible as well.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/tuesday ss-1780340052435.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/wednesday-1780340058286.png">For more on the severe threat, tune into WeatherNation at :30 and :50 past the hour.

Big Hail Targets the Central Plains Today; More Storms on the Way

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Clear skies provided perfect viewing conditions for Manhattanhenge this year. The biannual event took place on Thursday, May 28, and Friday, May 29, when the setting sun aligned with the east-west street grid of Manhattan. The timing couldn't have been better, as clouds and rain showers moved into the Northeast over the weekend, obscuring the view.<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2060201967289577750" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2060201967289577750"></div>While some saw rain for the first half of the weekend, high elevations in New Hampshire actually saw some snowfall on Saturday! Mount Washington reported nearly 6" of snowfall.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-30 190735-1780189663746.png">The next quick-moving system moves in on Sunday, bringing rain showers and some embedded storms. The chance for additional snow has lowered for these spots.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-30 190848-1780189736644.png">On Sunday, a quick-moving cold front brings New York and northern New England rain chances. Some start in the Champlain Valley as early as daybreak and continue to follow the front throughout the day into more of New England.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/05-30 rne bams3k overnight-1780189842614.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>The pattern ahead will also keep temperatures on the comfortable side as we wrap up meteorological spring and move into meteorological summer on Monday, June 1st!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/pic5-1780176839270.png">For more on this be sure to join us on WeatherNation at :10 past the hour for your eastern regional forecast.

Wrapping Up Another Cool and Wet Weekend for the Northeast

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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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<h1>SET-UP</h1><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/PIC 3-1780015341246.jpg">An upper low is sitting and spinning over the Great Basin out west. That puts our friends in the northwest on the northern side of this feature. Usually, you're looking at areas on the southern and eastern peripheries with the best dynamics for storms. Regardless, a strong corridor of winds is expected to spark storms each afternoon over the next few days.<h1>IMPACTS</h1>Check out some of the damaging wind reports from Thursday's storms.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/PIC 2-1780015303746.jpg">The wind threat will be the primary severe weather threat for Friday. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-03-29 061107-1780061390025.png"><h1>TIMING</h1><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/FORECAST-1780015366094.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Showers will be sporadic but strengthen each afternoon. Notice they'll rotate from east to west since we're staying north of the low spinning up these severe chances.

Patrick Crawford

Severe Storms Possible in the Pacific Northwest

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Tracey Anthony

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Record high temperatures have been breaking since Memorial Day Weekend in the Northern Plains, making the High Plains the hottest temperatures across the country! On Wednesday, another record was broken in this area for Baker, Montana, reaching 89°!Heat Advisories remain in effect for portions of Montana through Thursday for the dangerous heat. Afternoon highs will once again soar into the 90's<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/web 3-1779977649808.png">The heat will remain into Friday, but more storm chances could throw some cloud cover into the afternoons, which might help.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-27 183319-1779928459791.png">When record heat strikes, often times so does fire danger. Red flag warnings impact most the counties under the heat advisory today. Be mindful of anything that could spark a flame! <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/web 5-1779977987247.png">Record highs in Billings will be in trouble through Friday, before relief rolls in for the weekend.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Web 1-1779977558933.png">

Northern Plains Heat Pushes into Upper Midwest

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The Storm Prediction Center has highlighted a SLIGHT risk (level 2 out of 5) for severe storms from Ohio to the northern reaches of the Tarheel State. Damaging wind gusts will be the main threat through Thursday morning, with some small hail mixed in.<h1>Timing</h1>As we head into the overnight hours, storms will fizzle out in intensity along the front as we've lost daytime heating.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/ovn-1779929090823.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h1>Rain Totals</h1>Some areas could pick up a few inches of rain, which could lead to some localized flooding. The heaviest will likely stay down south across the Mid-Atlantic. There are flood watches in effect across the Ohio Valley through Wednesday night.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-27 114005-1779903612410.png">

Severe Storms Threaten Nation's Capital

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<h1>WHAT TO EXPECT</h1>Heavy rain has already hit numerous areas in the Southeast this past week, creating major flash flooding issues in Atlanta. A marginal risk for severe weather remains in place for Sunday and into the overnight hours for portions of GA, AL &amp; FL. Damaging winds and hail will be the primary concern. On Monday, we have another chance of strong-to-severe storms, including in Tallahassee and Atlanta. Once again, damaging winds will be the main concern. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/mondayyaa-1779653951757.png">As the low moves through, scattered showers and storms will continue through the holiday on Monday. Heavy rain will also be a concern as this frontal boundary lingers. Always turn around and never attempt to drive through flood waters. <video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/ovvv-1779654086424.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Additional heavy rain is expected to increase the potential for flash flooding, in addition to strong storms and severe weather threats. For more on the flood potential, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/news/repeated-rain-raises-flood-threat-down-south">click here</a>.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-23 073318-1779543220474.png">More rain is expected over the next few days for portions of the south. Mobile, Alabama, will have storms around for Memorial Day, and the storm chances continue into Tuesday and Wednesday.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/mobile alabama-1779640203804.png">

Severe Storms, Heavy Rain Target the Southeast

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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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The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released several important seasonal outlooks today, including their expectations for the upcoming Atlantic Hurricane Season. Hurricane season and summer are expected to be impacted by a burgeoning El Niño, which could be very strong through much of the second half of 2026. Among the new outlooks issued are the seasonal forecasts for meteorological summer, which runs from June through August. NOAA is expecting much of the lower 48 to experience above-average temperatures (top of page), with higher confidence across the Western U.S. The Midwest and parts of the middle Mississippi Valley have an even chance for above or below-average temperatures.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-21 113803-1779385356524.png">Much of the country is forecast to have near-normal rainfall for meteorological summer, but a few areas are favored for below-average precipitation. These include the Texas Gulf Coast, Upper-Midwest, and the Pacific Northwest. In contrast, the Northeastern U.S. is slightly favored to see above-average precipitation. There is some confidence in parts of the Four Corners region having above-average rainfall, indicating the Climate Prediction Center expects an above-average monsoon season.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-21 113858-1779385377893.png">Not surprisingly, the forecast rainfall in the Four Corners could lead to drought improvement, which is expected in the seasonal drought outlook (above). Drought is also expected to improve in Florida, parts of Texas, and the lower Mississippi Valley. Drought is expected to expand or develop from California through Minnesota.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-21 113928-1779385397348.png">The North American Monsoon (NAM) develops in Mexico in June and shifts north into the Four Corners, Great Basin, and California into July, August, and September. More data is needed to understand any correlation between El Niño and the NAM, but tropical systems tend to be more active in the Eastern Pacific during El Niño years. Remnants of these systems can greatly increase rainfall during the NAM.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-21 114106-1779385397348.png">

NOAA Releases Summer Outlook, Above Average Temperatures Expected

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Several rounds of storms have been swinging through the Southern Plains the last few days, producing large hail, damaging winds, flooding, and even a few tornadoes. Severe storms will remain in the forecast for the long weekend, with all modes of severe weather possible. Yet again, hail was the biggest risk of severe weather on Friday, with hail up to tennis and baseball-sized across the Texas Panhandle. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/1-1779501942188.png">Additional scattered thunderstorms are in the forecast for parts of the Lone Star state and Mississippi (top of page), with the biggest hazards being damaging winds, large hail, and heavy downpours. An isolated tornado or two will be possible across portions of the Magnolia State. <h1><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-23 144208-1779568935067.png">Forecast</h1>New rounds of thunderstorms are expected across the Southern Plains through the evening hours, with some storms persisting overnight. By Sunday, the upper-level energy supporting the storms will move farther east toward the Sabine River, bringing a better chance for storms into Louisiana and Mississippi.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/sattxstorms-1779569121085.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>As mentioned above, heavy rainfall is likely in spots, and flooding will occur. The Gulf coast of Texas and Louisiana could see rainfall of over six inches!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-23 144544-1779569159662.png">

Dave Holder

Severe Storms Persist in the Southern Plains, Gulf Coast

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SIMI VALLEY, CA - On Monday, May 18th in Ventura County, California, a new wildfire formed named the Sandy Fire. It has since burned over 2100 acres and grew quickly, threatening life and property. This prompted evacuation orders and warnings to the area.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/1-1779416671274.png">Footage in the region shows the extent of the smoke and poor air quality.<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2056736634754809931" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2056736634754809931"></div>Additional fires have since quickly formed in southern California, despite no red flag warnings or fire weather outlook. The winds managed to be strong enough for fires to quickly get out of control in the areas. The Bain Fire in Riverside started to burn heavy fuels at a moderate rate before quickly burning up to almost 1000 acres. This prompted evacuation orders and warnings for many Riverside Zones.The Bain Fire is burning in Riverside County, CA. This fire began on Tuesday, May 19, and quickly spread to over 1,400 acres. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/1-1779416718052.png">Another fire we are watching is one that possibly started from a shipwrecked sailor off the coast of California. This is the Santa Rosa Island Fire which is over 16,000 acres. Not many people reside on this island but there are species on the island that are threatened by the fire.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-03-29 061107-1779367133110.png">Due to the extent of several wildfires burning in southern California, air quality has worsened in the area, and air quality alerts have been issued for parts of the Greater Los Angeles area.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/1-1779416760992.png">For more on these, be sure to join us at WeatherNation at :50 past the hour.

Jesse Kelley

CALIFORNIA: Wildfires Prompt Evacuations

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ROCKIES - Through the rest of the week, an upper-level low and a cold front will move into the Rocky Mountains, bringing cooler air, chances for thunderstorms, and even snow across the region!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-21 114928-1779385809408.png">A Winter Weather Advisory and Winter Storm Warning have been issued for portions of Montana and Wyoming in the higher elevations. Heavy snow is expected on north-facing slopes above 7,000 feet, where snowfall totals of 8–13 inches are possible.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-21 115055-1779385865123.png">In addition to the snowy conditions, temperatures ahead of the system will remain warm enough to support instability and thunderstorms. Portions of the Plains are under a highlighted risk area for severe thunderstorms as this cooler air mass collides with the warmer air ahead of the front. A SLIGHT (Level 2 out of 5) risk for severe thunderstorms is forecast for Colorado and surrounding states today. Wind and hail are expected to be the primary hazards, but a tornado or two will be possible.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-21 115022-1779386008123.png">As the front moves in and provides additional forcing, stronger storms will become possible through the afternoon and evening.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/eco-1779386103698.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Rainfall totals are not expected to be nearly as high as they were earlier this week, but some minor disruptions to outdoor plans during the holiday long weekend are still possible.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-21 115520-1779386130337.png">Be sure to join us on WeatherNation for the latest!

Rockies Brace for Snow, Severe Storms as Cold Front Moves In

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Brittany Lockley

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A big warmup is taking hold across the eastern United States, bringing temperatures that will feel more like midsummer than mid-May. Much of the East Coast, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast saw temperatures surge into record-breaking territory as a strong area of high pressure settled over the region.&nbsp;Numerous records were broken on Tuesday afternoon, including Newark, NJ, which hit a high of 99 degrees. The NE can see one more day of record warmth before temperatures cool off.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/NORTHEAST HIGHS-1779242730674.png">RELATED: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/news/severe-storms-possible-in-the-plains-midwest-to-end-the-week">Severe Chances on the Plains</a>High temperatures are forecast to climb into the 80s across many areas, while some cities could approach or even reach 90 degrees for the first time this year in the Northeast. The normal average for New York City this time of year is 72°, but the forecast high is expected to be 85° on Wednesday. Temperatures will dip back down to the 60s on Thursday, once a front passes.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-20 030656-1779268041186.png">On Wednesday, more records will be broken with some locations up to 20 to 30 degrees warmer than what is typical for this time of year.&nbsp;This has prompted heat advisories through Wednesday afternoon. Major cities along the Interstate 95 corridor, including Philadelphia and New York City, will come close to daily temperature records if the heat intensifies enough. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-20 031314-1779268412172.png">Additional records are likely to fall through mid-week across the East before our central U.S. cold front draws in cooler air and stormy weather.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-20 032043-1779268878961.png">Despite the urge, stay out of the waters in the area. Many bodies of water are barely above freezing, which could shock the system into paralysis if you jump in<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-18 104353-1779122640973.png">The unusually warm pattern will come to an end after our front passes through on Thursday. By the end of the week, many spots will be closer to seasonal norms in the 70's<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot 2026-05-20 031551-1779268564533.png">

PACIFIC: First Named Storm of the Season

PACIFIC: First Named Storm of the Season

Heavy Rain and Flooding Threat Continues Across the South

Heavy Rain and Flooding Threat Continues Acro

Border to Border Severe Threat Today

Border to Border Severe Threat Today

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Hurricane Prep Week 2026

Big Hail Targets the Central Plains Today; More Storms on the Way

Big Hail Targets the Central Plains Today; Mo

Wrapping Up Another Cool and Wet Weekend for the Northeast

Wrapping Up Another Cool and Wet Weekend for

Severe Storms Possible in the Pacific Northwest

Severe Storms Possible in the Pacific Northwe

Northern Plains Heat Pushes into Upper Midwest

Northern Plains Heat Pushes into Upper Midwes

Severe Storms Threaten Nation's Capital

Severe Storms Threaten Nation's Capital

Severe Storms, Heavy Rain Target the Southeast

Severe Storms, Heavy Rain Target the Southeas

NOAA Releases Summer Outlook, Above Average Temperatures Expected

NOAA Releases Summer Outlook, Above Average T

Severe Storms Persist in the Southern Plains, Gulf Coast

Severe Storms Persist in the Southern Plains,

CALIFORNIA: Wildfires Prompt Evacuations

CALIFORNIA: Wildfires Prompt Evacuations

Rockies Brace for Snow, Severe Storms as Cold Front Moves In

Rockies Brace for Snow, Severe Storms as Cold

One More Day of Blistering Temperatures

One More Day of Blistering Temperatures