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

As anticipated, severe weather was numerous across the Midwest and Great Lakes region. Unfortunately, several tornadoes touchdown and caused damaged which we will find out more information over the next few days. The storms also produced widespread reports of very large hail and destructive winds.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776480963803.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776480984502.png">For the overnight, the severe threat continues from Chicago down into OKC. All threats are possible. Have numerous ways to receive weather alerts. Heavy rain and flooding will be in the cards too.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776481063768.png"><h1>Timing</h1><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/New Baron Video 3-1776481188544.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Saturday, the upper-level low slides into the Northeast, bringing the potential of severe weather into areas like Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776481238900.png">

Jesse Kelley

Numerous Tornadoes Expected Friday in the Midwest & Plains

20260415043540ezgifcomvideotogifconvertergif-1776249384134.gif

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.

JesseKelleyjpeg-1679519197409.jpeg

After a quiet weekend, the next upper level low pressure moves in from Alaska. With the close proximity of the low just hanging off the coast, rain and snow chance will be increasing for Southern Oregon and Northern California!<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/New Baron Video 3-1776454572613.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Heavy rain will be possible for Northern California especially Monday and Tuesday where a few inches will possible. As colder air drops for the Sierra, some snow chances will be possible too. Again this is good news as drought has returned to the state following the historic heatwave in March. As the low moves eastward midweek, more moisture should increase across the Rocky Mountain states. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776454814929.png">In the next week and half, the pattern should stay stormy which means more potential for snow and rain chances for California and the rest of the West. Temperatures will be slightly cooler than normal!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776454908334.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776454930131.png">

Active Week Ahead for the West Coast

1png-1776454320523.png

Kevin Schneider

A021DDE71AA34C50BB5468289EA6B1D7jpeg-1699372868991.jpeg

More record highs fell on Friday mostly in the South with temperatures in the 80s and 90s. More records will fall on Saturday before a strong cold front moves in to cool things down on Sunday.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776481393761.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776481433087.png">Saturday will be a warm afternoon in the South and Mid Atlantic region. The record warmth is fueling severe storms but the cold front will put that to bed again early next week.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776481544790.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776481567253.png"><h3>Fire Danger</h3>With this kind of warmth, fire concerns increase. Hot, dry conditions can quickly dry out soils and vegetation, creating more fuel for fires. Again on Saturday, there is an elevated threat of fire danger from Maryland down to the Gulf Coast.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776481632957.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776481651724.png">

Eastern Heat and Fire Danger Persist

1-1776481567253.png

COLORADO - An estimated 70+ car pileup happened on Colorado's I-70 near the Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnel earlier on Tuesday, April 14th. Light snow was being reported throughout the day. I-70 was closed well into Tuesday evening, but has since been reopened.<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2044230476697674132" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2044230476697674132"></div>A frontal boundary is moving across the Northern Rockies. As a result, widespread winter weather alerts are in place for higher elevations across the Northwest.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/PIC 3-1776437893436.jpg">This system is expected to reach Utah by tonight and much of Colorado by Friday. This next round of snow for Colorado looks to bring snow levels lower, down to the I-25 corridor.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/FORECAST-1776437807033.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Snowfall totals will vary by elevation, but mountainous areas could pick up a foot of snow.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/PIC 2-1776437841942.jpg">The air will feel much cooler over the next few days. Numerous areas are under frost and freeze alerts.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776368815559.png">In true Colorado fashion, Denver's nighttime lows will drop into the 20s and 30s after a mild start on Thursday morning.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776368844993.png">More details on this forecast can be found :50 past the hour on WeatherNation.

Patrick Crawford

Colorado I-70 Pileup on Tuesday, More Snow Late Week

Screenshot20260415131321png-1776280402990.png

UPPER MIDWEST and GREAT LAKES - Three straight days of destructive severe storms moved through Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Wednesday, NWS Kansas City confirmed two EF-0 and EF-1 tornadoes that hit the city of Clinton, MO. Check out the video below of the tornado knocking over a fuel tanks.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/VO_041626_RNC_CLINTON, MO_AWESOME CLOSE UP SHOT OF THE TORNADO VORTICE &amp; KNOCKS OVER LARGE CYLINDERS_FB_MS_E041626-1776367783604.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-16 073701-1776346632507.png"><div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2044202476317093912" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2044202476317093912"></div><h2>Overnight</h2>Storms are expected to continue to weaken as we have lost daytime heating. Some rough storms still remain possible across Arkansas and Tennessee that could produce some damaging winds and hail. An isolated severe storm or two is also possible for New England.<h1>Timing</h1><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/New Baron Video 3-1776392246151.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>With multiple rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms in the same areas, this may lead to an isolated to scattered flooding risk across the Great Lakes region. Be prepared for flooding, especially if you still have some snow on the ground; frozen ground can take longer to absorb flood waters compared to unfrozen ground. Flood alerts continue into Friday with the next round of severe storms in the forecast.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776368095919.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1776368119393.png"><div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2044599476434907195" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2044599476434907195"></div>

Severe Storms Leave a Mark on the Great Lakes

1png-1776392088816.png

SW PLAINS - Portions of Texas and Oklahoma are at risk of severe thunderstorms through Thursday morning. The threat for severe storms is expected to slow into the overnight hours but is still non-zero. Wind reports earlier on Wednesday gusted up to 84 mph in Elk City, Oklahoma.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-15 195038-1776304346569.png">In addition to this significant hail risk, there is also a risk of tornadoes with these supercells.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-15 195124-1776304385162.png">The risk for flooding is fairly minimal in these areas, but models do have a few localized, heavier downpours through the next couple of days in these areas.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-15 132632-1776281196660.png">

Alana Cameron

Overnight Storms Slow for Texas and Oklahoma

Screenshot20260415195038png-1776304308005.png

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

TabanSharifijpeg-1679519287847.jpeg

<h1>Multi-Day Severe Storm Set-Up</h1>We continue to see the busy April pattern from Texas to the Great Lakes. A huge trough will swing through, bringing a severe threat risk on Tuesday and Wednesday. All severe threats will be possible, including damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes. Heavy rainfall will also be embedded in some storms, raising concerns about flooding. Make sure to stay with us for the latest updates and shifts in the forecast.An ENHANCED (level 3 out of 5) risk for severe weather is in place on Tuesday. The outlook even expands a SLIGHT (level 2 out of 5) risk out into the northeast.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-14 072908-1776173358269.jpg">Similarly, on Wednesday, we'll have another outlook where two hot spots for severe weather are highlighted. At this point, however, a SLIGHT (level 2 out of 5) risk for severe weather is issued.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-14 063457-1776162907110.png">Daytime heating will help to spark up thunderstorms on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon. Some storms will remain strong into the evening and nighttime hours, so make sure to have multiple ways to get alerts.In addition to severe storm hazards (wind, hail, and tornadoes), heavy rainfall rates are expected to lead to flash flood potential. It doesn't appear to be a high-end flooding threat, but as the forecast draws closer, we will keep you updated!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-14 073108-1776173482064.jpg">For a deep dive into the north and south sides of this severe threat, visit the following articles on our website! <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/news/upper-midwest-and-great-lakes-enhanced-risks">North Side</a> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.weathernationtv.com/news/dryline-driven-storms-for-texas-and-oklahoma">South Side</a>

Storm Overview: Who All Is At Risk This Week?

anareaoflowpng-1776025462961.png

Spring is in full swing which means it's time to start looking ahead to this year's upcoming hurricane season in the Atlantic! Each year, Colorado State University's Tropical Weather Department releases multiple forecasts for the Atlantic Hurricane Season, including one of the earliest issued among major forecasters.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-09 065207-1775740414924.png"> CSU just released their first forecast for 2026, which is calling for a near normal to slightly below average season with 13 named storms, 6 hurricanes, and 2 major hurricanes. The average season in the Atlantic is just slightly higher than this initial prediction, meaning several impactful storms are still possible. As a reminder, even below average seasons can have major impacts depending on where storms form which is impossible to predict months ahead of time.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-09 065246-1775740421912.png">You've probably heard rumblings about the burgeoning El Ni­­ños, 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 CSU's below average forecast, along with near normal sea surface temperatures, which have been much above average in recent seasons.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-09 065226-1775739587003.png">The confidence in an El Nino developing this summer is quite high, but the remaining question is how strong will the event be? Weak El Ni­­ños typically have a lower impact on the tropics in the Atlantic while strong El Ni­­ños have a more consistent impact. This year's El Ni­­ño is trending toward the strong side, but it's still too early to say for certain.<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2042226020179161097" src="https://x.com/NWSCPC/status/2042226020179161097"></div>Why do El Ni­­ños typically reduce hurricane activity in the Atlantic Basin? The warmer water in the equatorial pacific often leads to a more energetic sub-tropical jet, leading to stronger winds in the upper-atmosphere over the Caribbean. Surface winds in the Caribbean most often comes from the east, known as the trade winds. When these winds lay under strong winds from the opposite (or even the same direction), it leads to strong wind shear which tears hurricanes apart.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-09 063418-1775740706915.png">Even with a slightly below average season, two major hurricanes are expected with many other named storms. Any named storm that hits land can have major to extreme impacts, so stay prepared and stay tuned. WeatherNation will always keep you updated on the latest in the tropics!<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-09 065301-1775741404492.png">

Tracey Anthony

CSU Releases First Hurricane Forecast for 2026

HUrricaneMiltonNOAASatjpg-1775739194572.jpeg

The peak of spring severe weather season is fast approaching and the outlooks are here to prove it! The Storm Prediction Center has outlooks for severe storms through Wednesday of this week.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-10 100804-1775837299426.png"><h1>Outlooks</h1>The SPC has maintained a SLIGHT risk for severe storms through Monday morning in Texas. This is a level 2 out of 5 risk for severe weather. In Minnesota, there is a MARGINAL risk for severe storms along the surface low.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-12 200100-1776045668479.png"><h1>Forecast</h1>Storms have fired up in west Texas and are expected to continue moving into the I-35 corridor through the morning hours. Models anticipate these storms clustering together as the drag through into the morning.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/04-12 rsc hrrr-1776034819721.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video><h1>Rainfall &amp; Flood Threat</h1>Heavy downpours are expected with these thunderstorms. Rainfall totals could surpass 3-5" in some areas that see multiple thunderstorms.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-11 043616-1775903842893.png"><h2>MONDAY</h2>A lot of the same question marks move into Monday, with a bimodal severe threat. The area of greatest concern looks to be up around the Great Lakes, where a higher tornado threat resides.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-12 122005-1776018029088.png">

Weekend Closes With More Storms

Screenshot20260412200100png-1776045674998.png

WeatherNation Meteorologists

headshotspng-1676305264677.png

Welcome home, astronauts! Friday, April 10th, the Orion spacecraft splashed down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego, where the U.S. Navy assisted in the recovery of the crew. The weather thankfully allowed for an efficient recovery, even if the seas were a bit choppy.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/WEB 1-1775822977156.png">The descent of the Orion spacecraft was impressive, entering the atmosphere at around 24,000 mph before slowing down and deploying multiple parachutes.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-10 123205-1775845963897.png">NEW RECORD - At 1:56 PM ET on Monday, April 6, 2026, the Artemis II crew broke the record for the farthest distance anyone has traveled from Earth. The previous record was 248,655 miles during the Apollo 13 mission in 1970. At 7:07 PM ET, they reached their maximum distance of 252,756 miles from Earth. Later that day, the crew experienced a 40-minute communications blackout with mission control in Houston as they passed over the far side of the Moon before reestablishing contact.<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2041225429772882179" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2041225429772882179"></div>LIFTOFF - At 6:35 PM ET on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, NASA launched astronauts on an historic mission to the Moon. This marks the first crewed lunar flyby in more than 50 years, dating back to the Apollo era.<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2039477801787769177" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2039477801787769177"></div>NASA’s Space Launch System sent four astronauts, Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen, aboard the Orion spacecraft on a test flight around the Moon and back. This 10-day mission will demonstrate life support systems and help lay the foundation for future deep space exploration.<h2><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-28 091928-1774711352235.png">Artemis II Flight History</h2><ul><li>Day 1: focused on launch and entering Earth orbit.</li><li>Days 2-4: outbound transit toward the Moon.</li><li>Days 5-6: Orion will fly by the Moon, entering its sphere of influence, where the Moon becomes the dominant gravitational force.</li><li>Days 7-10: return trip to Earth, followed by re-entry and splashdown in the Pacific Ocean, where the U.S. Navy will recover the capsule.</li></ul><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-01 180532-1775088336863.png"><h2>What is the Future of the Artemis Program?</h2>In simple terms, Artemis is the first step in a broader effort to send humans to Mars. Before that, NASA aims to return astronauts to the Moon and establish a sustained presence while testing humanity’s ability to live and work beyond Earth’s orbit. Artemis II, specifically, will send astronauts around the Moon and back.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot 2026-03-28 091131a-1774710738504.jpg">This will be the first mission since 1972 to take humans beyond low Earth orbit, and potentially farther from Earth than any human has traveled before. NASA currently plans a series of Artemis missions, with Artemis IV expected to land astronauts on the Moon.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-01 180027-1775088036041.png">Artemis II marks a major step forward in human space exploration, pushing us farther than we’ve gone in decades, and bringing us one step closer to returning to the Moon… and eventually, reaching Mars.

Artemis II Splashes Down After Journey Around the Moon

Screenshot20260410123045png-1775845866976.png

A series of storms is lining up to impact the West Coast, bringing days of wet and unsettled weather to parts of California and the Rockies. Gusty winds will also accompany the system at times, adding to the overall impact.&nbsp; As of now, isolated severe storms are expected in the Bay Area. In the higher elevations, snowfall is expected. 1-2 feet of snowfall is possible for the Sierra Nevada mountains. Winter weather alerts are already in place.Higher elevations will see a different side of this system, with colder air allowing snow to fall across the mountains. Snow levels are expected to drop enough for accumulating snow in the Sierra Nevada, where totals could become significant. Winter Storm Advisories and Warnings have been issued for portions of the Sierra Nevada and higher terrains in Southern California through tonight for a couple of feet of snowfall in the higher elevations, mostly above 4500 feet. This could create hazardous travel conditions in mountain passes, with slick roads and reduced visibility due to falling snow and wind.&nbsp;<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-12 105814-1776013152826.png">A stronger cold front moves in tonight, and it will drag down some cooler air to support heavy snow chances in the Sierra. Travel could be a little dicey on Interstate 80. Southern California will also get in on the precipitation.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/04-12 cal-1776013168692.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Rainfall totals are expected to build quickly as each wave moves through. Several inches of rain could fall in parts of California and Oregon, with the heaviest amounts likely in coastal areas and higher terrain. Totals may surpass a foot in the high country and at the peaks of the mountains, but the Donner Pass will be a slick one to travel over.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-12 105818-1776013178338.png">The unsettled pattern is expected to continue into early next week, meaning the West Coast will not see much of a break from the active weather anytime soon. As these systems push inland, they may also help trigger additional weather impacts farther east, extending the reach of this stormy stretch beyond the coastline.&nbsp;<h2>Four Corners Moisture</h2>Here is a closer look at the incoming rain, thunderstorms, and snow for the Intermountain West. A few showers and storms may sneak into portions of New Mexico and Arizona, but the majority of the moisture looks to happen in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana. This moisture picks up over the next few afternoons, which is great news for the drought.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-12 110019-1776013226155.png">Drought conditions have intensified to extreme and exceptional levels out west due to a lack of moisture, especially across the northern Four Corners. Any moisture to make it this way will be beneficial to the area.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-11 061335-1775909620203.jpg">However, some of that moisture might come with some strong winds. Montana, Wyoming, Idaho and Utah are all in a marginal risk for severe storms Sunday.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-12 110049-1776013253804.png">

Stormy Pattern Continues for West Coast

Screenshot20260412112450png-1776014695145.png

<h1><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/news/national-climate-202603">SOURCE: NCEI, NOAA</a></h1><h2>Key Takeaways:</h2><ul><li>Warmest March: The contiguous U.S. (CONUS) average temperature was 9.4°F above the 20th-century average, making March 2026 the warmest March in the 132-year record.</li><li>Prolonged warmth: The April 2025–March 2026 period now stands as the warmest 12-month span ever recorded for the CONUS (since 1895).</li><li>Record daily heat: 1,432 counties—over half the CONUS area and one-third of the population—observed their single warmest March day on record (1950–present).</li><li>Record-dry year to date: The January–March period was the driest on record for the CONUS—less than 70% of average—breaking the previous record set in 1910.</li><li>Notable drought footprint: Dry conditions expanded drought to nearly 60 percent of the CONUS—the largest extent of drought since November 2022.</li><li>Cold in Alaska: Alaska had its fourth-coldest March on record (since 1925) and the coldest since 2007.</li></ul><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Notable-Weathe-Climate-US-032026-1775758116333.png"><h3>Temperature</h3>The CONUS average temperature in March was 50.85°F, 9.35°F above the 20th-century average, marking the first time any month’s average has exceeded 9°F above that baseline. Maximum daytime temperatures were especially high, averaging 11.4°F above the March average and 0.9°F above the April long-term average.Much of the country south of the far northern tier, from the Pacific to the Atlantic, experienced much-above-average temperatures. A broad region spanning the central Pacific Coast, Great Basin, Southwest, and parts of the Rockies and southern Plains observed record warmth, highlighting the widespread extent of the month’s exceptional temperatures.Ten states recorded their warmest March on record: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah and Wyoming. Across all of these states, average temperatures exceeded their respective April averages, with California also eclipsing its average May temperature by 0.7°F.At the county level, more than 500 counties—covering over one-quarter of the CONUS and affecting an estimated 79 million people—recorded their warmest March on record, reflecting the broad geographic footprint of the month’s record warmth.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/cty-record_count-mly-tmax-20260301-20260331-1775758164280.png">Hawai‘i’s statewide average temperature was 65.0°F, 1.5°F above the 1991–2020 average, ranking as the fifth-warmest March in the 36-year record. Daytime temperatures were near average, but statewide average minimum temperatures stood out at 59.2°F—the warmest March nighttime temperatures on record (1991–present), more than 1°F above the previous record set in 2006.In contrast, Alaska’s statewide average temperature was 0.6°F, 10.2°F below the 1925–2000 average. While the North Slope remained near average, much of the state experienced much-below-average temperatures, with parts of the southeast interior, southern coast and panhandle recording record-cold conditions. Minimum temperatures were especially notable, ranking as the third-coldest March on record and the coldest since 1972.<h3>Precipitation&nbsp;</h3>The average precipitation total for the CONUS in March was 1.83 inches, 0.68 inch below the 20th-century average, ranking as the eighth-driest March in the 132-year record. Combined with January and February deficits, this period marks the driest first three months of any year on record for the CONUS.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/grid-ranks-prcp-202603-1775758208567.png">March precipitation was much below average across much of the West, Southwest, portions of the Plains, Deep South and Southeast. In contrast, above-average precipitation totals fell across parts of the Northwest and northern Rockies, as well as across the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes region.In total, nine states across the Lower-48 ranked among their 10-driest Marches. California received less than a quarter-inch of precipitation statewide—less than 10% of its 20th-century March average and the lowest March total in the 132-year record. Colorado and New Mexico each tied their second-driest March on record, while North and South Carolina each experienced one of their five-driest Marches. In contrast, Michigan received nearly twice its average March precipitation—its third-highest March total on record.Simultaneously hot and dry conditions affected 12 states, where much-above-average temperatures occurred alongside much-below-average precipitation, with potential impacts on snowpack and water resources in the coming months. California exemplified these extremes, recording both its warmest and driest March on record.Precipitation across Hawai‘i was much above average for the month, with many areas—including large portions of the Big Island, Maui, Moloka‘i and O‘ahu—experiencing their wettest March on record (since 1991). This exceptional wetness was driven by back-to-back Kona low systems mid-month that triggered widespread major flooding and landslides across the island chain.Alaska’s statewide precipitation was much lower than average, especially over portions of the Southwest, the Alaska Peninsula and Aleutians. However, the cold air over mainland Alaska brought above-average snowfall to much of Southeast Alaska, with several locations recording their highest March totals in more than a decade.<h3>Drought</h3>According to the March 31 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" class="ext" href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/DmData/DataTables.aspx">U.S. Drought Monitor report</a>, about 59.9% of the CONUS was in drought, an increase of about 5.0% from the beginning of the month. Drought conditions persisted or intensified across much of the interior West, the Plains, Mississippi Valley, South and Southeast, with notable degradation across the Rockies and central Plains. In contrast, drought contracted or eased across portions of the Midwest, Great Lakes and Northeast.

March 2026: Warmest March on Record for U.S.

202603_tavg_percentilespng-1775758032907.png

Brittany Lockley

BrittanyLockleyjpeg-1679519515040.jpeg

The Masters Tournament in Augusta is expected to see a stretch of unusually calm and favorable weather, setting the stage for a smooth and uninterrupted competition. Forecasts call for dry conditions throughout the entire tournament, which is a rare occurrence for this time of year. If the forecast holds, it would mark the first time in more than a decade that the event avoids any rainfall, eliminating concerns about delays, soft course conditions, or challenging wet play. Instead, golfers will likely compete under steady, predictable weather that keeps the focus on their performance rather than the elements.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-11 062643-1775910415535.jpg"> Temperatures are expected to remain comfortable, with mild afternoons and cool mornings typical of spring in Georgia.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/2026-04-11 06-28-05-1775910553527.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Winds should stay relatively light as well, especially heading into the weekend, which could make for ideal scoring conditions. Without strong gusts to contend with, players may find it easier to control their shots and take advantage of scoring opportunities across Augusta National. Overall, the quiet weather pattern could lead to a more consistent pace of play and potentially lower scores as the tournament unfolds.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/2026-04-11 06-29-37-1775910600720.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>With minimal weather impacts expected, this year’s Masters may ultimately come down to precision and execution. In a tournament often influenced by shifting conditions, the lack of major weather disruptions means the field will be tested purely on skill. Speculators will also be in for a treat with this weather, but not only that look at the prices of the concessions.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-11 063131-1775910706277.jpg">For more information on other spring event forecast, head over to WeatherNation TV.

Masters Forecast: No Rain, No Delays, Just Golf

Screenshot20260411063629jpg-1775910994941.jpeg

Tracey2jpeg-1737574224773.jpeg

<div class="twitter-tweet" style="display: flex; justify-content: center" data-twitt-post-id="2042580858641748114" src="https://x.com/WeatherNation/status/2042580858641748114"></div>Large hail for Kansas last night! Thursday was day one of a multi-day stretch of severe weather across the plains. Storm potential will continue to ramp up as we roll into the weekend and next week. As for today, the threat has been highlighted from the High Plains of New Mexico, east towards the Missouri-Arkansas border. <img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/WEB 2-1775826827038.png"><video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/svrtonight-1775849161793.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>As this area braces for more storms, the threat of flooding will also become likely as the ground becomes saturated.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-10 132624-1775849204067.png">The threat of severe storms expands into the weekend, reaching people from the Southern Plains to the Great Lakes.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-10 132705-1775849245312.png">

Severe Weather Reloads Today

WEB3png-1775824557762.png

A spring storm system is building across the central United States, setting the stage for several days of dangerous weather from the Plains to the Midwest. On the colder side of the low, light snow is falling across the Dakotas. On the warmer side along a stalled boundary, severe weather continues to be likely into Friday!<h1>SEVERE</h1>Severe outlooks are issued for tonight and Friday. The stalled frontal boundary will interact with the warm temperatures across the plains and high moisture from the Gulf leading to the severe weather threat. There is a SLIGHT risk (level 2 out of 5) for portions of Kansas on Thursday afternoon with the risk of significant hail up to 2 inches in diameter and isolated tornadoes. Thursday's storms did have a history of producing large hail up to hen eggs and golf balls.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1775787164558.png"><img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1775787205379.png"><h1>RAINFALL</h1>The biggest threat will likely focus on portions of Kansas, Missouri, and surrounding states, where repeated downpours could lead to flooding issues. Rainfall totals are expected to reach a few inches in some areas, with locally higher amounts possible where storms repeatedly pass over the same locations.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/1-1775787241751.png">&nbsp;For the rest of Thursday, the focus for severe weather will be along the stalled boundary in Kansas and Missouri. Friday, the cold front slides southward a little bit to put Southern Kansas and Northern Oklahoma at play for severe weather. The threats will be similar to Thursday!<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/New Baron Video 3-1775787342988.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Stay tuned to WN for more details.

Severe Storm Threat Builds Across Plains With Flooding Concerns

1png-1775787371664.png

Days of persistent rain have soaked much of Florida, with the latest 24-hour rainfall totals topping 6 inches. A slow-moving system has allowed moisture from the Gulf and the Atlantic to stream into the region, leading to heavy rainfall, localized flooding, and saturated soils.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-09 045003-1775731815689.png">An upper-level low, combined with a boundary exiting the peninsula, and an abundance of moisture, will lead to periods of heavy rain across the Sunshine State for another day. Forecast models continue to show widespread showers and storms across Florida, especially during the afternoons through Friday, especially along the coastline from the Space Coast down to Miami.<video src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/2026-04-09 06-51-41-1775739147329.mp4" controls="true" width="100%"></video>Rainfall totals have quickly added up, with some areas seeing several inches in a short period of time. An additional1-3 inches of rainfall are still possible, with isolated totals over 5 inches possible due to heavy rain bands. The Weather Prediction Center has issued Marginal Risk, a level 1 out of 4,for excessive rainfall and flash flooding.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-09 063457-1775738124993.jpg">This rain arrives at a critical time, as Florida’s drought conditions have worsened in the latest update. Much of the state is now experiencing extreme to exceptional drought (levels 4-5), which has already led to water restrictions.<img src="https://media.weathernationtv.com/app/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot 2026-04-05 171122-1775430689163.png">So while this rain is much-needed for a drought-stricken state, it also raises concerns for flooding, making this a week of both relief and risk across Florida.

Numerous Tornadoes Expected Friday in the Midwest & Plains

Numerous Tornadoes Expected Friday in the Mid

Active Week Ahead for the West Coast

Active Week Ahead for the West Coast

Eastern Heat and Fire Danger Persist

Eastern Heat and Fire Danger Persist

Colorado I-70 Pileup on Tuesday, More Snow Late Week

Colorado I-70 Pileup on Tuesday, More Snow La

Severe Storms Leave a Mark on the Great Lakes

Severe Storms Leave a Mark on the Great Lakes

Overnight Storms Slow for Texas and Oklahoma

Overnight Storms Slow for Texas and Oklahoma

Storm Overview: Who All Is At Risk This Week?

Storm Overview: Who All Is At Risk This Week?

CSU Releases First Hurricane Forecast for 2026

CSU Releases First Hurricane Forecast for 202

Weekend Closes With More Storms

Weekend Closes With More Storms

Artemis II Splashes Down After Journey Around the Moon

Artemis II Splashes Down After Journey Around

Stormy Pattern Continues for West Coast

Stormy Pattern Continues for West Coast

March 2026: Warmest March on Record for U.S.

March 2026: Warmest March on Record for U.S.

Masters Forecast: No Rain, No Delays, Just Golf

Masters Forecast: No Rain, No Delays, Just Go

Severe Weather Reloads Today

Severe Weather Reloads Today

Severe Storm Threat Builds Across Plains With Flooding Concerns

Severe Storm Threat Builds Across Plains With

Florida Rain Lingers One More Day

Florida Rain Lingers One More Day