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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It's been unbearably hot across the West for the last week, after warm and dry conditions for a good chunk of the winter season. This has led to drought conditions, with dry vegetation ready to burn. Another cold front moves across the Northern Rockies and High Plains to promote for fire danger this weekend.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774663887541.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774663911136.png">Off the heels of the larges fire in Nebraska's history, two additional fires broke out overnight into early Thursday, 3/26. The Ashby and Minor fires grew rapidly by tens of thousands of acres, very close to the Morrill burn scar. Given the continued fire weather conditions, more fire growth is possible.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774664322421.png">In the Southeast, fire danger will be increasing this weekend too. Friday's cold front will drop relative humidity values down into the teens and 20s. Moisture values shouldn't be this low. Once you add the strong winds, any kind of spark could create more fire growth. A few fires have developed including the CR 145 fire near Winona, MS. The fire has burned about 2400 acres.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774664151223.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774664171391.png"> Keep it locked in on WeatherNation, as we continue to update you on these fires and their impacts!

Jesse Kelley

Passing Fronts Increase Fire Danger

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ABOVE - The month of March has been setting record after record, with nearly 100 locations nationwide breaking all-time March records. Each red dot above denotes a city that has tied or broken its all-time March record.It cooled off in parts of the Central United States on Friday. More records fell in the Southwest again to no one surprise!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774664514078.png"><h1>Heat Continues, Surges Back Briefly</h1>While some areas are getting a nice cool down this weekend, locations like Las Vegas, Palm Springs, and Phoenix are still stuck under the pesky ridge of high pressure. This will lead to additional record heat through early next week before this pattern finally comes to an end.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774664591275.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774664553299.png">Highs stick to the 90s and 100s in the desert areas of Nevada, California, and Arizona on Friday and through the weekend. While areas like Denver and Salt Lake City are cooler on Friday, warmth quickly rebuilds this weekend. Record heat potential lingers through the mid-week in the Southwest before rain and cooler temperatures finally arrive!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-27 051737-1774610482932.png">In the Central U.S., the weekend starts cool but warmth quickly rebuilds next week. The warmth is expected to last through the middle/end of the week before a trough drops temperatures and creates heavy rain potential.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-27 051751-1774610497987.png">There are signs that the pattern is beginning to change, with higher confidence in above-average temperatures shifting to the southeastern half of the country as we begin April. This would also suggest more of a classic, springtime severe thunderstorm pattern.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774664635230.png">

More Record Highs Obliterated in Historic Heat Wave

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Dave Holder

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While much of the country, and in particular the Southwest, has been baking underneath a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/news/record-heat-rolls-east-this-week">historic heatwave</a>, a shift in the jet stream will mean cooler and wetter weather ahead!<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/swweekend-1774633996630.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>By this weekend, stronger upper-level winds will begin to overspread the Desert Southwest. As this occurs, rain and high elevation snow chances will increase both on Sunday and Monday with afternoon heating.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-27 115526-1774634146026.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774663680996.png">Unfortunately, drought conditions have been building across much of the West for the last couple of weeks. Extreme and Exceptional Drought now covers the majority of western Colorado. The good news is that there is some confidence in above-average precipitation as we head into April.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/southwestnextweek-1774634268367.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Precipitation chances will persist through much of next week, particularly so for the Four Corners on Tuesday. Another strong upper-level low dropping in from the Northwest could keep things active through the latter half of next week.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774663747775.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774663770354.png">Although not a "Drought Buster" by any means, these systems will at least help put a dent into the record-low snowpack across the West, along with some relief from the heat!

Southwest Pattern Change Ahead

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A strong cold front raced across the Midwest Thursday producing numerous severe thunderstorms. A few small tornadoes were confirmed in Ohio otherwise the biggest issues were wind and hail.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-27 044015-1774608059978.png">Hail topped the size of tennis balls in Mount Etna, Indiana, with quite a few more significant hail reports over the size of golf balls! Thankfully the hail was no where near the size of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/news/destructive-tornadoes-hail-rip-through-central-us">record breaking 6"+ hail stone that fell about two weeks ago</a>.<h1>Next Storm System</h1>Cool and drier conditions are expected behind the front, but temperatures and humidity will recover quickly across the east through next week. A large trough is expected to move off the Rockies late in the week, bringing back several ingredients needed for severe storms. Models are still less certain about exact timing and locations for severe weather, but heavy rain and strong storms will be possible. Check back for updates!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-27 044152-1774608384293.png">The CPC is highlighting a large area from the Great Lakes to the Lower Mississippi for heavy rain that could lead to flooding. Severe storms will be possible in the Plains, Midwest, and South as well.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1774641978910.png">While it's still a bit too early to determine locations and threats for this next event, climatology tells us where tornadoes are more likely heading into the month of April.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-27 044209-1774608399915.png">

Large Hail Hits the Midwest, Strong Storms Return Next Week

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Kevin Schneider

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The National Hurricane Center is always improving and looking for better ways to communicate threats when it comes to Hurricane Season. This year, they're rolling out a handful of new products, with a new cone, website and symbology to talk about. <h2>NEW CONE</h2>They've been toying around with an experimental cone for the past 2 years. This year the National Hurricane Center making it operational. It makes it easier to show inland impacts, especially wind, of a landfalling tropical system. Watch and warnings that pertain to a certain tropical system will now be shown along the cone's path.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/NHC Cone-1774369916399.png"><h2>TRACK FORECAST ERROR</h2>Speaking of the cone, which again, is used to show where the center of any particular tropical system will be in the future, is getting trimmed. These cones are built in with a typical error within the forecast. This year, it's shrinking by 4-8% vs last year. In the Pacific Basin, it will be 3-8% smaller vs 2025. <h2>STORM SURGE ALERTS FOR HAWAII</h2>This one's pretty straightforward. The National Weather Service will have the ability to issue Storm Surge Watches and Warnings for the Hawaiian Islands like they do in the lower 48. This will also come with a peak storm surge graphic and a potential inundation map. <ul><li>Generally, a Storm Surge Watch will come out when the threat is within 48 hours of occurring</li><li>Generally, a Storm Surge Warning will come out when the threat is within 36 hours.</li></ul><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Example Peak Storm Surge-1774369995289.png"><h2>A NEW WEBSITE</h2><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://Hurricanes.gov">Hurricanes.gov</a> will get a makeover of sorts. They're beginnging to work on a mobile version that will be more accessible with a bit of a different look. <h2>UPDATED SYMBOLOGY</h2>This one has some scary words, but is pretty simple too: anything that is not expected to develop in both the 2 &amp; 7 day timeframe will come with a grey/white X. So now the scale will go0% | Grey/White 10%-30% | Yellow 40%-60% | Orange 70%+ | RedBelow is an example of what the Tropical Weather Outlook could look like this year<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Example Outlook-1774370071665.png">

NHC Rolls Out New Products in 2026

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Top Image Credit: National Parks Service<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8V6xqwukzO0" start="0"></iframe></div>Spring is here and so are the blooms of flowers all across North America. This includes the famous cherry tree bloom around the National Mall in Washington, D.C.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-26 080814-1774534143457.png">On Thursday, March 26th, the National Mall announced peak bloom has been reached! The peak is expected to last about a week or so, depending on weather conditions. On March 5th, the National Park Service announced its projected peak cherry blossom date for 2026, which was only off by about 3 days, an impressive forecast! <h2>What is "peak bloom"?</h2>The peak bloom date is defined as the day when 70% of the Yoshino Cherry blossoms are open, one of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/cherryblossom/types-of-trees.htm">many types of cherry trees</a> in the area. Peak bloom usually lasts for several days, with the blooms taking <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/cherryblossom/bloom-watch.htm">about two to three weeks to reach peak</a> after the appearance of green buds. As buds begin to appear, the forecast peak date will be updated by National Park Service horticulturists.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-26 080844-1774534352362.png"><h2>Past Blooms</h2><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-06 080035-1772811048593.png"> Due to variable weather conditions, peak bloom has occurred as early as March 15th (1990) and as late as April 18th (1958).Visiting the blossoming cherry trees has become a favorite springtime tradition for Americans and tourists alike, dating back to 1912 when Japan gifted the U.S. about 3,000 cherry trees. The cherry trees in Japan have been putting on a show for thousands of years, with the dates of blooms being <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/date-of-the-peak-cherry-tree-blossom-in-kyoto">recorded all the way back to the 9th century</a>. The dates for this year's peak blooms in Japan are expected from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.japan-guide.com/sakura/">late March through late April</a> from north to south across the nation.

PEAK BLOOM - Cherry Blossoms Emerge at the National Mall

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We finally made it! Out of Winter and into Spring, which means allergies, and America's Pastime! However, this might not feel like Opening Day for everyone: some will see toasty temperatures that remind us of the Dog Days of Summer already, but others might have to contend with some rain delays.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-24 043448-1774348607592.png"><h1>RAINY GAMES</h1>A front will drop into the strike zone on Thursday, which will make contact with some warm and humid air. The result might annoy some fans, depending on the timing of things.Related Article: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/news/sharp-front-sparks-more-severe-chances-late-week">Severe Chances Thursday</a><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-25 161650-1774477017499.png">Starting in St. Louis, the threat appears pretty slim at the start. Better bet rainfall might be in the later innings, but a solid chance to get the game in as of right now. It'll be HOT though, with a first pitch around 90!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-25 073929-1774445980567.png">A bigger concern might be the Cubs in Chicago for an outright delay. Late morning rain turning into some rumbles of thunder could mean some delays in the proceedings.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-25 074219-1774446150665.png">The Reds will host the Red Sox from Boston Thursday and looks like we'll get the game in here as well. Watch out for storms leaving the stadium if you have to travel north, though, by the evening.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-25 074607-1774446381784.png"><h1>GOOD NEWS</h1>If your first official ballgame isn't being played in the Midwest, you should be okay! Head far enough down south and you shouldn't run into any issues at all for the Angels vs Astros game!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-25 075547-1774446959718.png">

Patrick Crawford

OPENING DAY: Hoping Home Openers Don't Strike Out

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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.

Jackie Brown

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Heavy rainfall from moisture that inundated the Hawaiian Islands late last week is on the move. It's being funneled around an area of high pressure, taking aim at the Pacific Northwest. Thankfully, it won't be nearly as heavy or intense as what Hawaii faced.Related: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/news/flash-flood-emergency-for-oahu-additional-rain-expected-for-hawaii">Kona Low Recap</a>This round looks like it will be a little different than the previous round, which brought only rain to the area. Snow levels with this system will drop a bit, bringing a shot at some wintry impacts to the mountain passes.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-24 033707-1774345071882.png">An active Jetstream will bring more energy into the region on Tuesday. That's when you can expect the most widespread rain, with only scattered coverage from Wednesday onward.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/2026-03-24 03-38-07-1774345113637.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>There will be winds with this latest batch, with some of the mountain peaks expecting the worst of them. Sporadic power outages will be possible.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-24 033943-1774345194700.png">Make sure you're staying tuned to WeatherNation for your northwest forecast at :50 past the hour!

Adrian Hernandez

Pineapple Express Delivers Another Round of Rain

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After record shattering rain and hurricane force winds last weekend, Hawaii is already dealing with another strong low pressure system moving in from the west, known locally as a Kona Low.<h2>FRIDAY</h2>Catastrophic flash flooding unfolded overnight Thursday into Friday morning on the northern side of O'ahu, after 5-9 inches of rain fell from slow moving thunderstorms. As a result, a dam failure was possible but officials say that the dam is in good condition so far. More heavy rain is possible to change the status. Evacuation orders have been issued for Haleiwa and Waialua as intense flooding cut off roads and inundated low lying areas. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-23 042733-1774261661310.png">The heavy rain was created by an approaching Kona Low, which will keep the weather pattern rainy through the weekend.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-22 112518-1774200333277.png">The low is shifting east into this week, leading to sunnier conditions and a much-needed break from the rain.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/2026-03-22 11-27-05-1774200450759.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Rainfall totals could easily surpass 1-4 inches where thunderstorms train, or move over the same locations multiple times. Flooding will happen fast as the grounds are very saturated from the previous storms.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-22 044159-1774176130318.png"><h1>Previous System Record Rain &amp; Wind</h1>Rainfall totals from the previous system are almost unfathomable. Each island had at least one weather station record over 20 inches of rain with hurricane-force winds recorded as well. These intense conditions left the islands more prone for impacts from following storms.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-20 110451-1774026907445.png">

Powerful Kona Low Devastates Hawaii Over the Weekend

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A series of systems moving across the Northern half of the nation will spark a sharp contrast with the record heat building in the south / southeast over the weekend. As cold fronts move from the Midwest into the East, several rounds of severe storms are possible. The current threat is likely to have the most widespread impacts with wind and hail remaining possible.<h1>Through Monday</h1>The Storm Prediction Center has highlighted parts of the Mid-Atlantic and Ohio Valley region with a SLIGHT Risk of severe storms through the overnight hours.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-22 200457-1774231654561.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-22 200517-1774231710312.png">On Monday as the front drops south into the Carolinas, a few isolated severe storms are possible in the afternoon.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/03-22_Rse bams3k-1774231815701.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Get the latest forecast for the East anytime on the WeatherNaiton app, or by tuning in at :10 past the hour.

Severe Storm Potential Heads East from the Ohio Valley to the Southeast

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Brittany Lockley

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Wildfire activity is ramping up across the United States, as a dangerous combination of dry air, gusty winds, and above-average temperatures creates ideal conditions for fires to ignite and spread. From the Rockies to the Plains, fire weather alerts have been issued frequently, with low humidity and strong winds allowing even small sparks to quickly turn into fast-moving wildfires. The next several days will be concerning across central parts of the country, where dormant grasses act as fuel and can carry flames over large distances in a short amount of time.&nbsp;Precipitation will be limited over the next few days, and cold front will brings gusty winds. Red Flag warnings are in place.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-22 114616-1774201587137.png">For Sunday, fire alerts have been issued from Kansas down through the Texas Panhandle. While the actual temperatures of this heatwave have been the main focus, increasing temperatures lead to low relative humidity. Winds will kick up at times, too, in response to systems riding around the periphery of the upper-level heat dome.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-22 114746-1774201678543.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-22 114822-1774201714644.png">Unfortunately, some fires have already sparked and continue to grow. The 24 Fire, located to the southwest of Colorado Springs, has has grown to over four and a half thousand acres and remains uncontained, prompting evacuation orders for nearby communities. Crews on the ground, along with aerial support, are working to slow the spread, but shifting winds and dry fuels continue to pose challenges. Smoke from the fire has been visible across the region, a reminder of how active the situation remains.&nbsp;<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-22 114938-1774201788226.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-22 115050-1774201865700.png">Frequent wind events, dry air, and limited moisture are all contributing to an elevated fire risk heading into spring. As a result, follow evacuation orders if necessary, and take extra precautions to avoid starting new fires. With the current pattern in place, the potential for additional wildfire outbreaks will likely continue in the weeks ahead.&nbsp;Stay tuned for WeatherNation for more details.

Fire Danger Continues Through the Weekend Across Central States

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<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2033702354504323511" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2033702354504323511"></div>It wouldn't be March without a good ol' fashioned blizzard. The Upper-Midwest experienced intense blizzard conditions last weekend, and while the blizzard has cleared, additional rain and snow makers are on the way. While additional snow, ice, and storms are in the forecast, these systems are not expected to be as impactful.<h1>Timing</h1>Clipper systems with limited precipitation and impacts are expected to phase through the Great Lakes and Northeast through Friday. Stronger systems begin taking shape this weekend, with heavier precipitation and gusty winds. Friday into Saturday can expect heavier rain and snow in New York and New England, while the Upper-Midwest gets a new round of moderate snowfall from the trailing system. By Sunday, that next system is expected to move from the Great Lakes into the Northeast, bringing ice, snow, rain, and wind!<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/2026-03-20 10-29-40-1774017019380.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h1>Rain and Snow Totals</h1>I-95 and the Central Appalachians are likely to stay on the rainy side of these systems, but higher elevations in the Northeast, along with areas that see lake-enhanced precipitation, will see some snowfall. Mountain areas could see some 6"+ totals.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-19 201431-1773972882164.png">Make sure to check in with us here on WeatherNation! We'll be covering these clipper systems all week, so follow along to stay updated on the latest!

Tracey Anthony

Clippers Keep the Great Lakes and Northeast Gusty, Cooler

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Alana Cameron was born and raised in Canada in the city of Mississauga, just outside of Toronto. Alana is the oldest of 4 siblings, all close in age, and grew up playing outside with them in all types of weather. After graduating high school, Alana moved to study at the University of British Columbia in Kelowna for a year before transferring to Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia where she completed a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Atmospheric Science. Upon completion, Alana moved back to Toronto where she completed a post-grad degree in Meteorology at York University. After her post-grad, she went on to complete another post-grad in Broadcast Journalism - TV News at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario. During her final year of studies she had the privilege of interning with the best in the business in Canada at The Weather Network. Once she finished her internship, she got the call from small-town Denison, Texas where she accepted a job as an on-air meteorologist at KTEN-TV, right in tornado alley, covering severe weather from Sherman/Denison (North Texas) to Ada (Southern Oklahoma). After the most active tornado season Oklahoma had seen in May 2019 (105 tornadoes!) Alana is excited to join WeatherNation to cover weather all across the nation. If you're interested in following her on social media she can be found @alanacameronwx!

Alana Cameron

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NEBRASKA - On Thursday, March 12th, a vegetation fire broke out with visible heat signatures detectable on satellite. As winds shifted and the fire headed south quickly, mandatory evacuations were prompted near the town of Oshkosh, NE. Since then, the fire has continued to grow, becoming the largest in state history for the state of Nebraska, named the Morrill Fire.<ul><li>Acres: 643,074</li><li>Containment: 98%</li><li>Status: Active</li><li>Counties involved: Keith, Arthur, Garden, and Morrill</li></ul>Additional fires broke out across the state on this critical fire risk day, including the Cottonwood Fire, which has now burned about 130,000 acres with 80% containment. This fire broke southeast of North Platte in Dawson, Lincoln, and Frontier counties. Evacuations were ordered last week but lifted on Saturday, March 14th.<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2033022876803281258" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2033022876803281258"></div>The governor of Nebraska Jim Pillen issued an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/press/WildFiresCentralNebraska.pdf">emergency proclamation</a> to unlock state resources and support the response to multiple wildfires in central and Western Nebraska. The fires include:<ul><li>The Road 203 Fire (within the Nebraska National Forest) - 35,916 acres | 76% contained</li><li>Cottonwood Fire (near Brady and Gothenburg) - 131,259 acres | 78% contained</li><li>Morrill County Fire - 643,074 acres | 67% contained</li></ul><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/PIC 2-1773936782932.jpg"><h2>Fire Outlooks and Forecast</h2>Fire weather outlooks show elevated and critical conditions in the Central Rockies into the Western Great Plains. Warm, dry, and gusty conditions are expected to persist in these areas for the next several days, making for difficult firefighting conditions.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/PIC 3-1773936756106.jpg"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/PIC 4-1773936761845.jpg"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1773946906307.png">Please stay aware of smoke plumes in your area and do not undertake activities where a spark or flame could start a new fire.

Morrill Fire - Largest in Nebraska State History

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WeatherNation Meteorologists

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Spring has sprung, and the arrival of the season sparks the beginning of so many different facets of the world we live in. From the renewed growth of plants, to the great migrations of animals returning home, spring has an endless list of things to look forward to. As we kick off this spring season, we want to get you ready for every aspect of the season.<h2>Spring Garden Trends:</h2>One of the biggest kickoffs to Spring is the kickoff to the growing season. But what can you expect this year as you head to the gardening section? We spoke with Garden Media to learn more.<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/A0rAvB6Y5vs" start="0"></iframe></div>The theme for 2026 is "Lemonading", which simply means making the most of the challenges life hands us each and every day. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, finding the latest and greatest in high-tech gardening gear, or simply making your garden a sanctuary for you and your pets, there's lessons we can learn through 2026's theme. You can find the full report on spring 2026 gardening trends on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://gardenmediagroup.com/trends/">Garden Media's website</a>.<h2>Monarch Butterfly Migration:</h2>The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single flap for monarch butterflies as they return to the U.S. after spending the winter in Mexico. This endangered species needs our help as they make their trek back to U.S. soil. We spoke with David Mizejewski with the National Wildlife Federation to learn more about this major migration, and what plants we can plant in our own backyards to help these insects soar back to success.<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DojDFfgJ6yQ" start="0"></iframe></div>You can learn more about the Monarch Butterfly's migration on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Invertebrates/Monarch-Butterfly">the NWF website</a>.<h2>Spring Tree Pollen:</h2>For millions of people across the globe, Spring marks the start of allergy season. For those that suffer from tree allergies, it can be a nightmare as trees come into bloom. The experts at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.davey.com/">Davey Tree Company</a> gave us some insights on what trees are the biggest culprits this season, and how we can protect ourselves from the pollen.<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9pYlXgluRqo" start="0"></iframe></div>Arborists recommend Pacific Dogwood, Oregon White Oak, Hornbeam, Sweetgum, and American Holly trees for those who are sensitive to tree pollen, but still want to plant a tree in their neighborhood. Hayes also recommends sterile, female trees that don't produce fruit as alternatives.<h2>Cherry Blossom Forecast:</h2>What began as a gift of trees from Japan in 1912 has turned into a national tradition as thousands wait for the blooming of the cherry blossoms in the Tidal Basin. This year, the blossoms are expected to reach peak bloom by late March, early April. We sat down with the National Park Service at the National Mall to learn more about these annual blossoms.<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8V6xqwukzO0" start="0"></iframe></div>March 11th marked the first buds on the trees and kicks off Bloom Watch in the park. You can learn more about the Cherry Blossoms, how weather impacts them, and when peak bloom will be this year on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/cherryblossom/bloom-watch.htm">National Park's website.</a><h2>Hummingbird Migration:</h2>Some of Mother Nature's tiniest travelers are making the long journey back home after wintering in warmer weather. Hummingbirds have already begun their trips, but there are some things you can do at home to help them along the way. We spoke with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.hummingbirdsociety.org/">International Hummingbird Society</a> to learn more about this great migration.<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/leQC0l8LxDY" start="0"></iframe></div>As the birds travel some 8,000 miles in some cases, it's important to remember to clean your hummingbird feeders regularly as they need to make frequent stops during their travels.<h2>Death Valley's Super Bloom:</h2>American's hottest National Park is home to one of the biggest super blooms in recent history. Death Valley National Park is going through a "Super Bloom" and and is advising visitors on how to best enjoy this spring season.<div data-youtube-video=""><iframe width="640" height="480" allowfullscreen="false" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZeBr_MCd1Ac" start="0"></iframe></div>The National Park service says this is the biggest bloom since 2016. You can learn more about the Super Bloom, where it stands, and how to best view it on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nps.gov/deva/learn/nature/wildflowers.htm">Death Valley National Park's Super Bloom</a> webpage.

Springing into Spring: Gardening, Migration, Pollen, and More!

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High pressure is calling the shots, once again, out west. That's going to bring searing heat to parts of California and Arizona, but it's helping do something else: soak Seattle and melt snow.<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2034261211601068374" src="https://x.com/NWSSeattle/status/2034261211601068374"></div>A stubborn area of high pressure is going to sit on top of the West Coast for the remainder of the week. That will help pump more tropical moisture up and over it, focusing it along the Pacific Northwest (above). That will bring rounds of rain, sometimes heavy, to areas surrounding Seattle. Rounds of rain will add up to multiple inches of rainfall, even into the Cascades. Flood watches cover the area until Friday.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/1-1773971897567.png">The threat of rain will be persistent, soaking many plans for the rest of the week. Notice that most of this is coming down in the liquid form, with very high snow levels. That could help melt additional snow, leading to runoff issues in some of the area creeks and streams.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/New Baron Video 3-1773972064238.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Flood alerts remain in place this week across portions of the Northwest.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/WEB 1-1773923723817.png">For more on your western regional forecast, tune into WeatherNation :50 past the hour.

Atmospheric River Aims at the Northwest

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St. Patrick's Day is here and Mother Nature is bringing us some chilly weather for the east. Chicago was WAY ahead of us last week, getting in on their St. Patrick's Day festivities by dying the Chicago river green!<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2033181427588575299" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2033181427588575299"></div><h1>The Forecast</h1>After a gnarly system brought rain, snow and even severe weather to the central/eastern U.S., most of us are going to be staying nice and dry in it's wake. Out towards Chicago and Boston specifically, looking bone dry. Even, in some cases, rather chilly for this time of year! Most of these major parades got quite the lucky forecast!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Web1-1773749134699.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Web2-1773749143924.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Web3-1773749375942.png">Make sure you're staying tuned to WeatherNation for all of your top weather headlines from coast to coast!

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Morrill Fire - Largest in Nebraska State History

Morrill Fire - Largest in Nebraska State Hist

Springing into Spring: Gardening, Migration, Pollen, and More!

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