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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A large area of high pressure continues to bring the heat across the United States. Extreme heat warnings and heat advisories are in effect across the western U.S., with some extending into Oklahoma and Arkansas for Wednesday. Find ways to stay cool and stay out of the sunshine.HEAT RISKSIn addition to the heat alerts, the Heat Risk is up to major to extreme levels, especially across the southwest. This means that the heat will be dangerous for everyone, even if you're used to the desert heat.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-05 084323-1785941007684.png"><h1>Southwest</h1>Temperatures for Los Angeles will climb into the 90s, with Las Vegas climbing into the 110s. Normally this region is known for hot and dry conditions, but with monsoonal moisture in the area, the heat index values will be abnormally high!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-05 084338-1785941022662.png"><h1>Northwest</h1>Temperatures across the interior Northwest will spike over the next few days as well, with heat alerts issued for Wyoming and Montana. Smoke from nearby wildfires is expected to filter some sunshine out and curb temperatures by a degree or two, but won't keep some from threatening the century mark again.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-05 084349-1785941034030.png">These temperatures across the northwest will also affect firefighter efforts to get wildfires in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho under control. More on the fires burning in the northwest: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/news/pacific-northwest-fires-bringing-down-the-air-quality">Spokane Complex Fire Continues to Burn</a>.For everyone across the country dealing with the intense heat, practice heat safety, take frequent breaks, and stay hydrated as best as you can in the days to come. The longer-range outlook for temperatures from August 10 - 14 has higher confidence that temperatures will remain above average.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-05 035954-1785924005850.png">More on your Western Regional Forecast can be found :50 past the hour on WeatherNation.

Western U.S. Under More Heat Alerts

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WeatherNation Meteorologists

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SPOKANE, WA - On Saturday, August 1st, the Old Trails Fire ignited northwest of Spokane. This fire was fueled by hot, dry conditions and wind gusts up to 45 mph, which helped the fire spread rapidly through grass and brush before reaching neighborhoods. The fire eventually crossed the Spokane River, creating additional challenges for firefighters.UPDATE: The cause still remains under investigation, but a convicted felon has been arrested on an arson charge as the primary suspect for starting the Old Trails Fire, which has now burned over 3600 acres.<h3>Impacts:</h3><ul><li>The Spokane Complex, consisting of the Old Trails, Autumn Lane, and Fairview fires, has scorched over 10,000 acres with 0% containment</li><li>Thousands of residents remain under evacuation orders</li><li>Approximately 800+ structures have been destroyed, and thousands more are threatened</li></ul><div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2084640508320854421" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2084640508320854421"></div>The Governor of Washington, Bob Ferguson, has declared a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://governor.wa.gov/news/2026/governor-ferguson-declares-statewide-wildfire-emergency-issues-statewide-burn-ban">statewide wildfire emergency</a>, including a statewide burn ban due to the current drought conditions, high temperatures, and high winds.<h2>Forecast Ahead</h2>Forecast winds are expected to ease through tonight, but active fire behavior will likely continue in these areas. Red Flag Warnings are in place for portions of the Northwest and Northern Four Corners.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-05 083614-1785940606283.png">Residents should have a go bag packed and an evacuation plan in place in case evacuation orders expand into their area. If your community is placed under an evacuation order, leave immediately and follow instructions from local emergency officials.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-02 163825-1785710315388.png"><h2>Air Quality</h2>Smoke from the ongoing wildfires has prompted air quality alerts across much of the northwestern United States. People in affected areas should limit or avoid outdoor activities while poor air quality persists, especially those with respiratory conditions, older adults, and young children.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-05 083746-1785940671476.png">Forecast models indicate areas of dense smoke will spill southward. As temperatures cool after sunset, a temperature inversion often forms, trapping smoke close to the ground and leading to deteriorating air quality near the surface.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-05 083822-1785940713133.png">Residents should expect reduced visibility and degraded air quality through Monday morning before seeing improvements.

Spokane Complex Continues to Burn

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Temperatures are feeling cooler across the plains today! Enjoy it...because it won't last long. Temperatures will begin to warm up again, and a few storms remain possible today.The Storm Prediction Center has issued a MARGINAL (level 1 out of 5) risk for severe thunderstorms along the front across Missouri, central Illinois and southern Iowa (above). All threats look possible, including Isolated tornadoes will be for portions of Illinois and Missouri.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-05 083210-1785940339413.png">Storms have already fired up across the central Plains and will continue along the frontal boundary through tonight. On Wednesday, the same front stalls out, tapping into additional Gulf moisture, bringing the chance for severe weather through the evening.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/0805-1785940432474.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Another threat to keep an eye on is the flooding threat. This front isn't going to be in a hurry, so as it walks southward, it will focus a few rounds of storms somewhere. Right now, that looks to take aim at Iowa and northern Missouri.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-05 083401-1785940446725.png">Flood Watches are in effect for the potential of heavy rain and flooding.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-05 083457-1785940543309.png">More details on your Central Regional Forecast can always be found :30 past the hour on WeatherNation.

Cold Front Brings Storms and Cool Down

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Kevin Schneider

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Storms packed quite the punch on Monday night in the southern part of Arizona and New Mexico! Multiple dust storm warnings were reported. The most notable being in Phoenix, as a haboob was caught on camera rolling through!<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2084753745464938624" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2084753745464938624"></div>And for good reason! Check out some of the highest wind gusts that were recorded Monday night:<ul><li>Willcox, AZ&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 88 mph</li><li>Tucson, AZ&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 71 mph</li><li>Nogales, AZ&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 66 mph</li><li>San Simon, AZ&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 64 mph</li><li>Douglas, AZ&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 62 mph</li></ul>As those storms fell apart, the outflow of winds from their collapse kicked up a dust storm...<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-04 103009-1785861039399.png">In fact, more windy storms are possible on Wednesday. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a MARGINAL (level 1 out of 5) risk for severe weather. Damaging winds will, once again, be the main concern.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-05 084044-1785940848710.png">The best time for storms to develop will be in the afternoon with daytime heating.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/08051-1785940922822.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>During Monsoon season, haboobs are possible with just about any thunderstorm. It's important to remember what to do if you get caught in one in your car:<ul><li>pull off the road</li><li>keep your seatbelt on</li><li>turn your lights off and take your foot off the brake</li></ul>

Haboob Blows Through Phoenix; More Possible

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The threat for flooding rain continues across the Northeast today after heavy downpours have already hit the region. Places like Williamsport picked up more than 5 inches of rain, making it the 5th wettest day on record there!Flood watches have been extended to include New York City Monday morning.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-03 120506-1785780314860.png"><h2>Severe Potential</h2>With this low that's driving storm chances spinning so much, there will be a tornado threat, especially into this afternoon. Damaging winds could accompany any storm that becomes organized this afternoon as well. The Storm Prediction Center is monitoring areas from New England all the way to New Jersey.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-03 120536-1785780354657.png">Storms in the morning will continue into the afternoon. Thankfully, they'll be out of here by the time many are going to bed tonight.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/08-03_rne bams-1785780453236.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h2>Forecast Rainfall</h2>Rainfall rates up to 1-2 inches per hour could overwhelm many spots of the northeast, especially areas that have more concrete and asphalt.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-03 120754-1785780490389.png">Be sure to follow along on WeatherNation or on Youtube - where we're streaming 24/7 with the latest forecasts and weather updates.

Alana Cameron

More Storms for the East Through Monday

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<h1>Pacific</h1>Genevieve formed last Friday south of Acapulco, Mexico. Chewing up loads of warm water, Genevieve rapidly intensified into a Category 5 hurricane; after moving into cooler waters, it started weakening and is back to a tropical storm. Luckily, the storm will stay away from land. However, choppy waters and rough surf can be expected from the coast of Mexico up to Southern California.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/Screenshot 2026-08-02 132115-1785698498667.png"><h1>Atlantic</h1>All remains quiet in the Atlantic for now. Saharan dust is working it's way across the ocean. As waters continue to warm into early fall, stay vigilant! The tropics can create systems quickly this time of year. WeatherNation will always keep you updated with the latest!<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/08/xxxzzz-1785722471047.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>

Jackie Brown

After Reaching Category 5, Genevieve Weakens in the Pacific

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Meteorologist Jesse Kelley is excited to join the talented staff at Weather Nation. Jesse spent most of his childhood in Birmingham, Alabama. The state of Alabama is prone to seeing various types of weather from severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, and winter weather. For college, Jesse attended the University of South Alabama where he received his degree in Broadcast Meteorology along with minors in Math and Geography. From Alabama, Jesse started his broadcast television working three years at KAVU-TV in Victoria. Recently, he finished a stint in Shreveport, LA. Jesse and his wife are looking forward to making the Rocky Mountains and Colorado home. If you would like to follow me, you can follow me on Twitter @JesseKelleywx and on Facebook at Meteorologist Jesse Kelley.

Jesse Kelley

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<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2083190950491480302" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2083190950491480302"></div>After an active week of storms across the northern U.S., another round of severe storms is expected in parts of the Midwest to end the week. A cold front will drop across the region, tapping into warm temperatures and abundant moisture to fuel storms.On Thursday, winds downed trees and heavy rain caused a few flash flooding issues. Gusts topped 80 mph in the strongest storms!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/07/1-1785464306636.png"><h1>Severe Weather Outlooks</h1>Tonight, a severe weather risk remains across parts of Missouri and Mississippi River Valley. However, the severe threat has looked minimal so far but don't let your guard down tonight.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/07/1-1785548118325.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/07/1-1785548138252.png"><h1>Forecast</h1>For the overnight, the highest severe threat will be across SE Missouri, Western Kentucky, and Southern Illinois. Storms should start to weaken after midnight across the Ohio Valley. People attending Lollapalooza in Chicago should stay aware of the weather and have a place to shelter in mind. North of the center of low pressure, moisture will continue to wrap counter-clockwise into Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/07/BARON 5-1785548313154.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Heavy downpours also posing a threat for flash flooding. Rainfall totals could surpass 2-4 inches in some areas. Get the latest forecast for the Central Region on demand anytime with the WeatherNation app, or tune in to our feed at :30 past the hour!

Flooding, Severe Storms Target the Midwest Again

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A wildfire near Interstate 70 in Kansas led to evacuation orders Friday afternoon. The Topeka, Kansas Emergency Management Agency issued a mandatory evacuation for areas between Vera Road to West Union Road from I-70 to the Kansas River.

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A large wildfire flared up Friday in Shawnee County, KS and spread quickly due to strong southerly winds. Throughout Friday afternoon, Topeka observed sustained winds between 25-35 miles per hour from the south. The wildfire burned just north of Interstate 70 west of Topeka, KS and it could be seen by the nearby Topeka radar.

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Later on Friday, Maple Hill was "all clear" per the Wabaunsee Emergency Management Agency. This region was under a Red Flag Warning until 8 p.m. CT Friday. Dry conditions, with low relative humidity levels and a gusty wind, provided a high danger Friday.

A high fire danger may exist this weekend too. Stay up-to-date with the latest weather forecast and any fire alerts for your area. If fire alerts are issued, avoid sparking a fire because it may spread very quickly under these weather conditions!

Fires Sparks Evacuations in Kansas Friday

Western U.S. Under More Heat Alerts

A large area of high pressure continues to br

Spokane Complex Continues to Burn

SPOKANE, WA - On Saturday, August 1st, the Ol

Cold Front Brings Storms and Cool Down

Temperatures are feeling cooler across the pl

Haboob Blows Through Phoenix; More Possible

Storms packed quite the punch on Monday night

More Storms for the East Through Monday

The threat for flooding rain continues across

After Reaching Category 5, Genevieve Weakens in the Pacific

PacificGenevieve formed last Friday south of

Flooding, Severe Storms Target the Midwest Again

After an active week of storms across the nor