Patrick Crawford has always been a huge weather buff! He grew up in Plano, Texas, and it was there that he experienced what Mother Nature was capable of doing. He would always turn on the television to see what local meteorologists were saying about the weather. That's when he realized he wanted to be a meteorologist.

Patrick graduated from Northern Illinois University (’04) with a degree in Meteorology and a double minor in Mathematics and Geography. Broadcast Meteorology has been great to him and he has been able to work in television markets all across the country. Some of his stops have included New Orleans, Green Bay and even Yuma, Arizona. He is so excited to be part of the WeatherNation team.

He has been awarded the prestigious CBM (Certified Broadcast Meteorologist) weather seal from the American Meteorological Society.

Feel free to catch up with Patrick Crawford on his <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MeteorologistPC/">Facebook</a> and on <a href="https://twitter.com/MeteorologistPC">Twitter</a> pages.

Patrick Crawford

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<p>Thursday is the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season and right on cue we have something churning in the Gulf waters. An area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms in the Gulf of Mexico has sparked interest with the National Hurricane Center. This disturbance currently has a 10% chance of formation within the next 48 hours and a 20% chance in the next 7 days. This disturbance is very disorganized at the moment, but even a disorganized low in the Gulf can bring heavy rain.</p><h1><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/gulf low-1685468779425.jpg">Forecast</h1><p>Showers and storms will develop along weak boundaries and sea breeze fronts over the next few days. Check out all the stormy conditions that will be impacting Florida over the next several days.</p><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/FORECAST-1685525919883.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><p>Over the next 3 days, the heaviest rainfall will favor southern Florida with the risk of over 5" in spots. Generally, Florida's soils can handle this amount of moisture, but given how saturated some areas are flooding could definitely take place. This rainfall however will be useful for the ongoing drought which is in the "extreme" category along Florida's West Coast.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PIC3-1685526062164.jpg"></p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/drought monitor-1685468752296.jpg">For more on the wet weather forecast in the Sunshine State and for eyes on the Gulf, stay with WeatherNation for the latest forecast information.</p>

Rainy Pattern Returns to Florida & Tropical Interest

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<h1><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PIC1-1685526609504.jpg">Wednesday</h1><p>As stronger upper-level winds begin to overspread the region bringing another risk for isolated to scattered severe storms. Again covering much of western Kansas, the threat extends further south into eastern New Mexico and the Texas Panhandle. The risk for tornadoes is situated across eastern New Mexico and the OK &amp; TX panhandles. </p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PIC2-1685527686784.jpg"></p><h1><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PIC4-1685526680124.jpg">Forecast</h1><p>The timing of the storms will be just like the last few days. A few storms during the morning hours and then the strongest storms develop through the afternoon and early evening.</p><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Wed Plains BAMS-1685497247022.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><p>A lot of the storm activity continues after sunset and into the overnight hours, especially across the High Plains. We expect most of this threat to be heavy rainfall and lightning but a few severe storms cannot be ruled out for the overnight.</p><h1>Thursday</h1><p>On Thursday the severe focus will be more into the Texas and Oklahoma panhandles. Damaging winds and hail will be the main risks.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PIC5-1685527108543.jpg"></p><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/FORECAST-1685527221848.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h1>Friday</h1><p>Another risk of severe storms returns to West Texas and East New Mexico. All modes of severe will be possible and this includes the risk for tornadoes.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/PIC6-1685527603413.jpg"></p><p>Check back for updates, tune in to continue to follow this developing story on WeatherNation!</p>

Severe Weather Continues Across the Great Plains

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<p style="margin: 0in; margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 13.5pt; color: #454545;">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></span></p>

Rob Bradley

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<p>Meteorological Summer begins on June 1, but summer-like temps are already challenging records across much of the Northern United States. An upper-level ridge has led to highs 10-15 degrees above average in the Upper Midwest which will slowly make its way eastward, bringing potential record-breaking heat to the Northeast by the end of the week.</p><h2>North Central</h2><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/2023-05-31 04-21-52-1685528526529.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><p>There are several areas in the Upper Midwest in the next few days which could set record highs. Summer-like temperatures are expected across Minnesota and Wisconsin Thursday through Saturday.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-31 Midwest Highs-1685528934873.png"></p><h2>Northeast</h2><p>Many records could be set across the Northeast as well in the coming days. 90-degree heat will be possible well into northern New England, with residents of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh feeling temperatures into the 90s by Friday!</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-31 Avg 90 Highs-1685529057313.png">Highs in the 90s aren't typically observed in some of these areas for another few weeks.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-31 NE Highs-1685528921197.png">Daily record high temperatures could fall as well by the end of the week across the Northeast.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-31 NE Record Dots-1685528928349.png">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.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/car sea-1685223974983.jpg"></p>

Early Summer Heat for Northern U.S.

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<p>Fires in Nova Scotia, Canada, have been raging and producing thick smoke over the last few days. This smoke has made its way into the Northeast and is decreasing air quality to unhealthy levels for sensitive groups.</p><p>Here's a view from Nova Scotia of the huge plumes of smoke pouring from these fires!</p><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/VON_053023_INT'L_NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA_HUGE SMOKE BLOCKS THE SUN IN VARIOUS SHOTS OF CARS EVACUATING_(@BIGMACDADDY_ETH)_DSC_E053023-1685495591176.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><p></p><p>Air Quality Alerts are in place across most of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Air quality should improve some into Wednesday, though we may still see some smoke lingering in the area. The state of New Jersey and much of southeastern Pennsylvania are under Air Quality Alerts Wednesday. </p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-31 NE AQ Lerts-1685529491595.png">Sensitive groups will be most at risk to experience respiratory issues, so any outdoor activity should be limited.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Smoke tips-1685496235554.png"></p><h2>Southwest</h2><p>Meanwhile, there are fire concerns in the Southwest U.S. as dry conditions and high temps will spread through parts of New Mexico. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Critical Risk for fire across parts of Western New Mexico for Wednesday. </p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-31 SPC FIre-1685529718170.png">Red Flag Warnings are already in place so precautions should be taken. Don't burn anything for the day, make sure chains on trailers are tied up above the road surface, and properly dispose of cigarette butts.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-31 Red Flags-1685529710201.png"></p>

Wildfire Smoke in the Northeast

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<p>A cutoff area of low pressure is migrating from the Pacific into the Four Corners region in the Southwest U.S. This storm system is overall weak but will still provide enough upper-level energy to assist with daily thunderstorm development over the Southwest on the "wet" side of the system. We will also see gusty winds from the south and southwest, which could spell trouble for fire danger conditions in New Mexico mid-week too. </p><h2>Rainfall/Flood Threat</h2><p>After a historic snowfall over the winter, there still is a healthy snowpack in the higher elevations. The snowpack will continue to melt under warmer temperatures and new moisture, so be prepared for high-flowing rivers, creeks, and streams. Please do not drive through flooded roadways and watch out if you live near a recent area burn scar.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/snowpack-1685464063709.jpg"></p><h2>Forecast</h2><p>Expect daily showers and storms that mostly develop over the higher terrain, but a cold front will also assist in storm development. While it may not look like a lot of rainfall, given the saturated soils and general nature of the soil in the Southwest, a quick 0.5" of rain can overwhelm the ground. Keep in mind that rivers, creeks, and streams are already running high as a result of snowmelt. While storms won't likely reach severe criteria (58 mph winds or 1 inch hail), they will still be capable of producing gusty winds, small hail, and the threat of frequent lightning. Remember, "When thunder roars, head indoors".</p><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/2023-05-31 04-11-02-1685527939245.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/05-31 GB Rain-1685527923801.png"></p><h2>Fire Concern</h2><p>Winds from the south and southwest in our upper atmosphere will ride over the Rocky Mountains and descend on the east side of the slopes, providing gusty winds, low humidity, and warmer temperatures around central and western New Mexico through Wednesday and Thursday. As a result, we anticipate high fire danger concerns, and subsequent RED FLAG WARNINGS have been issued. Additionally, with winds gusting between 30-40 mph at times, areas of blowing dust will be likely in SW New Mexico. If you are caught in a dust storm, pull off the road as far as possible, shut off your lights, and remain in your vehicle until the dust clears.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/fire weather -1685463766254.jpg"></p><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/nmwind2-1685489597345.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><p>For more on the Southwest forecast, join us for your Western Regional Forecast, always :50 past the hour.</p>

Cutoff Low Brings Daily Storm Chances to the Southwest

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<p>The Storm Prediction Center has issued a <strong>MARGINAL</strong> (level 1 out of 5) risk for portions of Minnesota, northern Iowa, and western Wisconsin. Hail will be the main threat but damaging winds will also be likely. This follows hail from the same system on Monday in the Dakotas.</p><p>The peak of storm activity will be associated with warmer afternoon temperatures before letting up by the evening. Storms continue into the overnight hours, as more moisture and energy arrive from the west.</p><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/mnstorms-1685490007006.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><p>Forecast rainfall totals will be locally higher where stronger storms are expected to move through. Currently, there is a risk of 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. This would be good news for the drought in western Iowa.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/rainfall-1685461597072.jpg">More on this story can be watched live at :30 minutes past the hour during the Central Regional forecast. Join us!</p>

Strong Storms for Minnesota & Iowa

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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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<p>Flooding concern arose across the Snake River Valley in Idaho last Sunday when flash flood warnings were prompted for an additional inch of rainfall. An inch might not seem like a lot, but look at what that was capable of producing in Heglar, Idaho! Localized flood alerts continue and for the exact details on your county, head to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://weather.gov">weather.gov</a> for the latest information. The good news is that we will see the opportunity for showers and storms to shift into Montana and Wyoming and away from Idaho this week. However, heavy rainfall in these areas will create flood concerns. Upwards of 3" will be possible along the I-90 and I-25 corridors of the northern Rockies.</p><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/VON_052923_RNW_HEGLAR, ID_FLOODING IN IDAHO_TW_@LUCASPRATLING_BH_052923-1685413149213.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><p>The Weather Prediction Center has highlighted the risk of excessive rainfall Thursday and Friday in nearly the same locations - a<strong> SLIGHT </strong>risk, level 2 out of 4 through central Montana.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot 2023-05-30 172214-1685488942212.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/Screenshot 2023-05-30 172347-1685489039298.png"></p><p>Additional thunderstorms are possible again over the next few days with a combination of energy in the upper levels, surface instability, orographic lift, and daytime heating. Storms will have the potential to dump very heavy rain in a short amount of time.</p><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/interiornw-1685494111893.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><p>As the rain potential shifts to the east, we will see ridging move back into the Western U.S., which will boost our temperatures up through the beginning of June. High temperatures this weekend will be well into the 80s for the I-5 corridor and inland locations, and the longer-term pattern shows the above-average temperature trend continuing.</p><p><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2023/05/3 day highs-1685467053293.jpg"></p><p>For more information and updates with this system, tune into WeatherNation for :50 past the hour for our Western Regional Forecast.</p>

Flood Threat Continues in the Northwest With More Heavy Rain Ahead

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The Western U.S. continues the hot and dry pattern this week. With low humidity, toasty afternoon highs and breezy winds much of the region will see high fire danger through Saturday. Red Flag Warnings cover Nevada, Utah and Wyoming as well as parts of Colorado, South Dakota, Nebraska, Arizona and California.

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Exercise caution in these areas. Check local ordinances for fire restrictions and do not burn anything outdoors while warnings are in effect. Fires can start and spread quickly with conditions like what we'll see in the coming days.

The warmth will certainly play a factor, as will the dry air. We're stuck under a ridge of high pressure that will remain stubbornly in place over the coming days. This will pull in more warm and dry air to the region and keep any disturbances off to the north and west from making it into the region.

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Highs will generally keep to the 90s for most areas under the Red Flag Warning through the start of the weekend thanks to this ridge.
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For Weather Nation: Meteorologist Emily Roehler

High Fire Danger Through The Weekend

Rainy Pattern Returns to Florida & Tropical Interest

Thursday is the official start of the Atlanti

Severe Weather Continues Across the Great Plains

WednesdayAs stronger upper-level winds begin

Early Summer Heat for Northern U.S.

Meteorological Summer begins on June 1, but s

Wildfire Smoke in the Northeast

Fires in Nova Scotia, Canada, have been ragin

Cutoff Low Brings Daily Storm Chances to the Southwest

A cutoff area of low pressure is migrating fr

Strong Storms for Minnesota & Iowa

The Storm Prediction Center has issued a MARG

Flood Threat Continues in the Northwest With More Heavy Rain Ahead

Flooding concern arose across the Snake River