Brittany Lockley

BrittanyLockleyjpeg-1679519515040.jpeg

Millions of people across the Plains are preparing for a potentially dangerous stretch of weather this weekend as thunderstorms capable of producing flash flooding, large hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes develop across the region.&nbsp;The plains have been active over the past several days, with multiple areas having flooding concerns. In the past 24 hours, Kansas has reported rainfall totals over 9 inches.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-06 083641-1780756612104.png">An active weather pattern will take shape from the southern and central Plains into parts of the Upper Midwest as warm, humid air from the Gulf of Mexico combines with a series of disturbances moving across the country. The setup is expected to fuel widespread thunderstorm development, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours.&nbsp;<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-06 083950-1780756810945.png">The greatest concern will be for severe thunderstorms capable of producing hail large enough to damage vehicles and property, along with powerful wind gusts that could bring down trees and power lines. While the primary threats will be hail and wind, a few storms may become strong enough to produce isolated tornadoes.&nbsp;<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-06 084111-1780756881559.png">In addition to the severe weather risk, there is a slight risk of flash flooding on multiple days. Thunderstorms are expected to produce heavy downpours, and some locations could see multiple rounds of rain over the same areas. This could quickly lead to flooded roadways, overflowing creeks, and dangerous travel conditions, especially in low-lying and poor-drainage areas.&nbsp;<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/2026-06-06 08-41-46-1780756929509.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>The flood threat extends from portions of Texas northward through the Plains and into parts of the Midwest. Areas that receive repeated storms will face the highest risk of flooding as rainfall totals continue to add up through the weekend.&nbsp;<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/2026-06-06 08-43-13-1780757019083.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Stay alert and keep a close eye on forecast updates. With storms expected to intensify quickly, having multiple ways to receive watches and warnings will be important. Drivers are also reminded to avoid traveling through flooded roads, as just a small amount of moving water can be enough to sweep away a vehicle.&nbsp;The unsettled weather pattern is expected to continue through the weekend, bringing the potential for additional rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms across the nation’s heartland.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Severe Storms, Flash Flooding Threaten Millions Across the Plains This Weekend

Screenshot20260606083606png-1780756573698.png

Above average temperatures are in place for parts of the Northeast for today and Saturday. A few records did fall on Friday and more records will be possible on Saturday. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/1-1780711493213.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. Storms will push southward into the Mid Atlantic region for Sunday.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/BARON 5-1780711640189.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>The Storm Prediction Center has issued a severe risks for Saturday and Sunday. 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/2026/06/1-1780711740727.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/1-1780711765900.png">Behind the system, cooler air will return early next week, bringing temperatures back closer to seasonal averages.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/1-1780711823703.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>

Patrick Crawford

Brief Summer Warmup in the Northeast Before Weekend Rain

1png-1780711350796.png

<h2 style="text-align: center">It's <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/news/hurricane-prep-week-2026">Hurricane Prep Week on WeatherNation</a> for the first week of the Atlantic Hurricane season!</h2><h3>Eastern Pacific Becomes Focus of Early Hurricane Season Activity:</h3>While the Atlantic Basin remains quiet to start the 2026 hurricane season, forecasters are closely monitoring growing activity across the Eastern Pacific. The National Hurricane Center is tracking Tropical Storm Amanda along with two additional disturbances that could develop in the coming days, making the Pacific the most active tropical basin in the Northern Hemisphere right now. ( See Above Image)<h3>Amanda Becomes First Named Storm of the Season:&nbsp;</h3>Tropical Storm Amanda formed on Wednesday, becoming the first named storm of the 2026 Eastern Pacific hurricane season. The storm is currently located well away from land and is not expected to threaten any coastal areas. Amanda is producing sustained winds of around 45 mph as it moves west-northwest over open waters. Forecasters expect some additional strengthening before the storm encounters cooler ocean temperatures and less favorable atmospheric conditions later this week, leading to gradual weakening. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h3><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-06 045911-1780743576936.png"></h3><h3>Two Disturbances Could Bring Additional Development:</h3>In addition to Amanda, meteorologists are watching two separate areas of disturbed weather south and southwest of Mexico. Both systems currently have medium to high odds of tropical development over the next several days as they move over warm waters conducive to tropical cyclone formation. Some impacts on portions of Mexico are possible if either system strengthens and tracks closer to the coastline. &nbsp;&nbsp;The National Hurricane Center continues to monitor these disturbances closely, and future outlooks could increase or decrease development chances depending on how environmental conditions evolve.<h3><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-06 045948-1780743605521.png"></h3><h3>Signs Point to an Active Eastern Pacific Season:</h3>The early burst of activity is occurring as sea surface temperatures across parts of the Eastern Pacific remain warmer than average. Combined with the development of El Niño conditions, forecasters expect the basin to remain favorable for tropical cyclone formation through much of the season. NOAA’s seasonal outlook calls for an above-average Eastern Pacific hurricane season, with between 15 and 22 named storms possible. Several of those storms could reach hurricane strength, including multiple major hurricanes. &nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot 2026-06-05 073331-1780666421832.png">Meanwhile, the Atlantic Basin is off to a slow start, with dry air associated with Saharan dust helping suppress tropical development across much of the region. While quiet conditions are expected to continue in the near term, the Eastern Pacific is already showing signs that the 2026 tropical season could be an active one. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h1>Atlantic</h1>The Atlantic is starting the season with no activity expected through the first week. A big burst of Saharan Dust is providing plenty of dry air, which could impact air quality and visibility in the Caribbean and parts of Florida through the week ahead.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/06/BARON 5-1780712357291.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h3>Stay With WeatherNation This Hurricane Season:</h3>Whether storms threaten land or remain over open waters, WeatherNation is your destination for around-the-clock tropical coverage. Our meteorologists track every tropical wave, depression, storm, and hurricane with the latest forecast models, expert analysis, and live updates whenever conditions warrant.<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/a1C9h87MYTY" start="0"></iframe></div>

Two Disturbances in the Eastern Pacific Have a Chance of Developing

Screenshot20260606045814png-1780743527686.png

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/FORECAST-1780744645161.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/FORECAST2-1780744733393.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/2026/06/1-1780712126251.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 This Weekend

PIC2jpg-1780745201517.jpeg

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

RobBradleyjpeg-1679518597323.jpeg

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 through the overnight hours 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 201844-1780712330861.png"> The SLIGHT risk for severe storms extends from Nebraska to Illinois, with another SLIGHT risk for storms moving across Wisconsin. The significant severe potential sticks around, too. 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 201924-1780712371331.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 201947-1780712400470.png"><h2>Timing</h2>Storms are persisting 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/hrrrrr-1780712527230.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Tune into your full Central U.S. breakdown on WeatherNation at :30 past the hour every hour.

Severe Storms Target the Midwest Overnight

Screenshot20260605201659png-1780712239627.png

WeatherNation Meteorologists

headshotspng-1676305264677.png

<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>

Jesse Kelley

Hurricane Prep Week 2026

Screenshot20260528140939png-1779998994929.png

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.

X-Class Flare Could Spawn Aurora Thursday Night

ezgifcomvideotogifconverter2gif-1780594124050.gif

Chatham, NJ

https://youtu.be/Pqiz2AubMME

&nbsp;

Long Island, NY

https://youtu.be/zMQ3aOlVptA

&nbsp;

Humane Society of the United States

https://youtu.be/pnlJY_aJars

Northeast Communities Deal with the Winter Storm

Severe Storms, Flash Flooding Threaten Millions Across the Plains This Weekend

Millions of people across the Plains are prep

Brief Summer Warmup in the Northeast Before Weekend Rain

Above average temperatures are in place for p

Two Disturbances in the Eastern Pacific Have a Chance of Developing

It's Hurricane Prep Week on WeatherNation for

Tropical Moisture Brings Increased Flood Risk to the Gulf Coast This Weekend

The start of hurricane season is bringing an

Severe Storms Target the Midwest Overnight

Strong storms have been surging across the Pl

Hurricane Prep Week 2026

HURRICANE SEASON IS HERE!The Atlantic Hurrica

X-Class Flare Could Spawn Aurora Thursday Night

Charge your camera batteries! Aurora Borealis