Here's the 45-day weather forecast for the New York City metro-area for the period of the last day of July,all of August,and the first 2 weeks of September (July 31-September 13),2016 from accuweather.com
Tonight,July 31-August 1: Becoming cloudy,rainy,stormy,warm and muggy,with a chance for a shower or thunderstorm possible and a low temperature dropping to the upper 60's to lower 70's, overnight.As of 2:15AM,EDT,August 1,it's 69 degrees and raining,with 92% humidity,in White Plains,NY,and it's 71 degrees and cloudy,with 89% humidity,in New York City.
Tomorrow,August 1: August of 2016 begins remaining mostly cloudy,rainy,stormy,dank and soggy,with a chance for some more rain,heavy at times,and a thunderstorm and a high temperature in the upper 70's to lower 80's,the very light,sultry,easterly winds and high humidity levels making it feel even warmer,like it's 85-90 degrees,at times.
Tomorrow night,August 1-2: Remaining mainly cloudy,rainy,stormy,warm and muggy,with a spotty evening shower or thunderstorm possible and a low temperature dropping to around 70 degrees, overnight.
Tuesday,August 2: Remaining seasonably warm and humid for mid-summer and the beginning of August,with intervals of clouds and sunshine and a chance for a stray rain shower and a high temperature in the upper 70's to lower 80's,once again.Remaining rather cloudy and rainy,but turning cooler than recent nights,with a chance for a passing evening rain shower and a low temperature dropping to the middle 60's,overnight.
Wednesday,August 3: Turning partly sunny,warmer and drier than recent days,with a high temperature in the lower and middle 80's,the very light,sultry,southeasterly winds and high humidity levels making it feel even warmer,like it's in the upper 80's to lower 90's,at times.Becoming partly cloudy,but remaining seasonably warm for mid-summer and the beginning of August,with a low temperature dropping to the middle 60's,once again,overnight.
Thursday,August 4: Becoming mostly sunny,very warm and humid with a high temperature in the middle and upper 80's,the very light,sultry,southwesterly winds and high humidity levels making it feel very hot,like it's in the lower and middle 90's,at times.Becoming mainly clear,warm and humid with a low temperature dropping to 65-70 degrees,overnight.
Friday,August 5: Remaining mostly sunny,but turning quite warm to hot and sticky,with a high temperature of 85-90 degrees,the light,sultry,southwesterly winds and high humidity levels making it feel brutally hot,like it's in the upper 90's to lower 100's,at times.Becoming mostly cloudy and stormy,but also turning warmer than recent nights,with a chance for a late-night thunderstorm and a low temperature dropping to the middle 70's,overnight.
Saturday,August 6: Turning mostly cloudy,rainy,stormy,very hot and steamy with occasional rain and a chance for a thunderstorm and a record,or near record high temperature in the lower and middle 90's,the light,sultry, westerly winds and sky-high humidity levels making it feel extremely,brutally, dangerously hot,like it's in the upper 100's to lower 110's,at times.Becoming mainly clear and not as warm with a low temperature dropping to 70-75 degrees,overnight.
Sunday,August 7: Turning mostly sunny,cooler and less humid than recent days,with a high temperature in the middle and upper 80's.Remaining clear,but turning cooler than recent nights,with a low temperature dropping to 65-70 degrees,overnight.
Monday,August 8: Remaining very warm for early August and mid-summer,with plenty of blazing sunshine and a high temperature in the middle 80's.Becoming seasonably warm with increasing cloudiness and a low temperature dropping to the lower and middle 60's,overnight.
Tuesday,August 9: Remaining very warm,but turning cloudy in the morning followed by some afternoon clearing and a high temperature in the middle 80's,once again.Becoming clear,but remaining seasonably warm for early August and mid-summer,with a low temperature dropping to the middle 60's,overnight.
Wednesday,August 10: Remaining seasonably warm with considerable cloudiness and a high temperature of 80-85 degrees.Becoming mainly clear,but remaining seasonably warm with a low temperature dropping to the lower and middle 60's,overnight.
Thursday,August 11: Turning warmer with ample sunshine and a slight chance for a thunderstorm possible and a high temperature of 85-90 degrees,the very light,sultry,northwesterly winds and moderate-to-high humidity levels making it feel even warmer,like it's 90-95 degrees,at times.Becoming clear,but remaining seasonably warm for mid-to-late summer,with a low temperature dropping to 60-65 degrees,overnight.
Friday,August 12: Remaining very warm for early-to-mid August and mid-to-late summer,with brilliant sunshine and a high temperature in the middle 80's.Remaining clear,warm and muggy with a low temperature dropping to the middle 60's,overnight.
Saturday,August 13: Remaining sunny and quite warm to hot for early-to-mid August with a high temperature of 85-90 degrees,the very light,sultry,southwesterly winds and moderate humidity levels making it feel even warmer,like it's 90-95 degrees,at times.Remaining clear,warm and muggy,with a low temperature dropping to 65-70 degrees,overnight.
Sunday,August 14: Remaining sunny,but turning unseasonably very hot and steamy,for mid-August and late summer,with a record,or near record high temperature in the lower and middle 90's,the light, sultry,southwesterly winds and moderate-to-high humidity levels making it feel brutally hot,like it's around 100 degrees,at times.Becoming mostly cloudy,warm and muggy,with a low temperature dropping to around 70 degrees,overnight.
Monday,August 15: Remaining sunny,but turning much cooler and less humid with a high temperature in the middle 80's.Remaining clear and warm with a low temperature dropping to around 70 degrees,once again,overnight.
Tuesday,August 16: Remaining sunny and unseasonably very warm for mid-August and late summer,with a high temperature in the middle and upper 80's,the very light,sultry,easterly winds and high humidity levels making it feel even warmer,like it's 90-95 degrees,at times.Remaining clear and warm with a low temperature dropping to 65-70 degrees,overnight.
Wednesday,August 17: Remaining sunny and unseasonably quite warm to hot for late summer,with a high temperature of 85-90 degrees.Remaining clear and warm for late summer,with a low temperature dropping to 65-70 degrees,once again,overnight.
Thursday,August 18: Remaining quite warm for mid-to-late August and late summer,with ample sunshine and a high temperature in the middle and upper 80's.Remaining mainly clear and warm with a low temperature dropping,for the third straight night,down to 65-70 degrees,overnight.
Friday,August 19: Remaining unseasonably very warm for mid-to-late August,with plenty of clouds and a near record high temperature in the middle and upper 80's.Becoming clear,but remaining very warm for late summer,with a low temperature dropping,for the fourth straight night,down to 65-70 degrees,overnight.
Saturday,August 20: Becoming mostly sunny,but remaining unseasonably very warm to hot for late August and late summer,with a high temperature of 85-90 degrees,the very light,sultry,northeasterly winds and high humidity levels making it feel even warmer,like it's 90-95 degrees,at times.Remaining warm with considerable cloudiness and a low temperature dropping,for the fifth straight night,down to 65-70 degrees,overnight.
Sunday,August 21: Becoming cloudy,rainy,stormy,very warm and humid,with a chance for afternoon showers and thunderstorms and a high temperature in the middle 80's.Remaining cloudy,rainy,warm and humid,with more rain at times and a low temperature dropping,for the sixth straight night,down to 65-70 degrees,overnight.
Monday,August 22: Remaining very warm,but turning less humid,with intervals of clouds and sunshine and a high temperature in the middle 80's,once again.Becoming clear,but remaining very warm for late summer and very late August,with a low temperature dropping to the middle and upper 60's,overnight.
Tuesday,August 23: Not as warm with increasing cloudiness and a high temperature of 80-85 degrees.Becoming mostly cloudy,but remaining warm and dry,with a low temperature dropping to the middle and upper 60's,once again,overnight.
Wednesday,August 24: Remaining very warm,but turning more humid,with a spotty morning thunderstorm followed by some afternoon showers and thunderstorms possible and a high temperature in the lower and middle 80's,the very light,sultry,southeasterly winds and high humidity levels making it feel even warmer,like it's in the upper 80's to lower 90's,at times.Turning cloudy, rainy,stormy,warm and muggy,with a chance for a little rain and a low temperature dropping to 65-70 degrees,overnight.
Thursday,August 25: Remaining cloudy,rainy,unseasonably very warm and humid for late summer and very late August,with periods of rain and a high temperature of 85-90 degrees.Becoming mainly clear,but remaining very warm and humid for very late August,with a low temperature dropping to 65-70 degrees,once again,overnight.
Friday,August 26: Becoming mostly cloudy,very warm and humid,with a high temperature of 80-85 degrees.Becoming partly cloudy,but remaining very warm for very late August,with a low temperature dropping,for the third straight night,down to 65-70 degrees,overnight.
Saturday,August 27: Remaining cloudy,rainy,very warm and muggy for the end of August,with a chance for a little rain and a high temperature in the middle 80's.Becoming partly cloudy,but remaining very warm and humid with a low temperature dropping to the middle and upper 60's, overnight.
Sunday,August 28: Remaining cloudy and rainy,but turning cooler than recent days,with a chance for a little rain and a high temperature in the upper 70's to lower 80's.Turning cooler than recent nights,with low clouds and fog and a low temperature dropping to around 60 degrees,overnight.
Monday,August 29: Remaining cloudy and rainy,but turning even cooler,with a chance for a rain shower and a high temperature of 75-80 degrees.Not as cool,but remaining mostly cloudy and warm with a low temperature dropping to the lower and middle 60's,overnight.
Tuesday,August 30: Remaining seasonably warm for the end of August,and very late summer,with partial sunshine and a high temperature in the upper 70's to lower 80's.Becoming mainly clear,but remaining seasonably warm for very late summer,with a low temperature dropping to 60-65 degrees, overnight.
Wednesday,August 31: August of 2016 ends turning mostly sunny and warmer than recent days with a high temperature in the lower and middle 80's.Becoming cloudy and rainy,with rain at times and a low temperature dropping to the middle 60's,overnight.
Thursday,September 1: September of 2016 begins turning cloudy,rainy and unseasonably quite warm to hot,with considerable cloudiness and a chance for a couple of rain showers and a near record high temperature of 85-90 degrees.Becoming partly cloudy,but remaining warm,with a low temperature dropping to the lower and middle 60's,overnight.
Friday,September 2: Not as warm,with a mix of sunshine and some clouds and a high temperature of 80-85 degrees.Becoming clear to partly cloudy and not as warm as recent nights,with a low temperature dropping to 60-65 degrees,overnight.
Saturday,September 3: Remaining very warm for the beginning of September,with periods of clouds and sunshine and a chance for a rain shower and a high temperature in the lower and middle 80's.Becoming mainly clear and cooler than recent nights,with a low temperature dropping to the upper 50's to lower 60's,overnight.
Sunday,September 4: Becoming sunny and not as warm with a high temperature in the upper 70's to lower 80's.Remaining clear and seasonably warm for very early September and the end of summer, with a low temperature dropping to around 60 degrees,overnight.
Monday,September 5: Labor Day 2016;the unofficial end of one of the hottest,steamiest,rainiest, stormiest summers on record;the summer of 2016,will be turning partly sunny,but remaining seasonably warm for early September,with a high temperature in the upper 70's to lower 80's,once again.Becoming mainly clear,but remaining seasonably mild to warm with a low temperature dropping to 55-60 degrees,overnight.
Tuesday,September 6: Becoming mostly sunny,but remaining seasonably warm for early September, with a high temperature of 75-80 degrees.Remaining mainly clear and seasonably warm with a low temperature dropping to around 60 degrees,overnight.
Wednesday,September 7: Remaining mostly sunny,but turning a bit warmer,with a high temperature in the upper 70's to lower 80's.Remaining mainly clear,but turning warmer than recent nights,with a low temperature dropping to the middle 60's,overnight.
Thursday,September 8: Remaining mostly sunny,but turning very warm for early September and the end of summer,with a high temperature of 80-85 degrees.Remaining mainly clear and warm with a low temperature dropping to the lower and middle 60's,overnight.
Friday,September 9: Remaining mostly sunny and unseasonably very warm for early September,with a near record high temperature in the middle 80's.Becoming partly cloudy,but remaining warm with a low temperature dropping to 60-65 degrees,overnight.
Saturday,September 10: Remaining mostly sunny and unseasonably very warm for the end of summer,with a high temperature in the middle and upper 80's.Becoming mainly clear,but turning cooler than recent nights,with a low temperature plunging to 55-60 degrees,overnight.
Sunday,September 11: The 15-year anniversary of the 9/11-terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and the 4-year anniversary of the 9/11-terrorist attacks on Benghazi,will be remaining very warm for the end of summer,with a mix of sun and some clouds and a high temperature of 80-85 degrees.Turning raw and rather cool for early September and the end of summer,with patchy clouds and a low temperature plunging to the lower and middle 50's,overnight.
Monday,September 12: Turning much cooler than recent days,with brilliant sunshine and a high temperature in the middle 70's.Remaining clear and a bit cool for early-to-mid September,with a low temperature dropping to the middle and upper 50's,overnight.
Tuesday,September 13: Remaining mostly sunny and seasonably warm for early-to-mid September and the end of summer,with a high temperature in the middle and upper 70's.Remaining clear,but turning warmer than recent nights,with a low temperature dropping to 60-65 degrees,overnight.
A place to view interesting weather news of the day mainly from sites like Accuweather.com and Weather.com
Sunday, July 31, 2016
PHOTOS: Heavy storms cause major, deadly flooding in parts of mid-Atlantic Saturday evening
By Brian Lada, Meteorologist
July 31,2016; 8:31PM,EDT
Rain and thunderstorms moved through the mid-Atlantic on Saturday with downpours leading to major flooding in some communities. The flooding turned deadly near Baltimore.
Baltimore was one of the hardest hit areas with radar-estimated rainfall of 4 inches just west of the city.
This led to numerous water rescues which prompted the National Weather Service to issue a flash flood emergency.
At least two people been found dead in the aftermath of the flooding, according to WJZ-TV.
Rain was so heavy in Ellicott City, Maryland, that some roads turned to rivers. A trained spotter reported a rainfall total of 6.50 inches.
A report from the National Weather Service indicates that nearly 6 inches of that rain fell in just two hours. Statistically, there is a less than 0.1 percent chance of that occurring in any given year in this area.
Governor Larry Hogan signed an Executive Order declaring a state of emergency in Howard County on Sunday. Howard County is home to Ellicott City.
"The thunderstorms caused extensive damage to property and infrastructure in the central part of [Maryland], including intense flooding in the historic town of Ellicott City," a press release from the Maryland Emergency Management Agency stated.
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Saturday's thunderstorms also led to power outages across Maryland with Maryland.gov reporting over 13,000 customer outages across the state, many of which being in or just west of Baltimore.
The deluge was not limited to the Baltimore area as flooding also occurred in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
(Twitter photo/@djcrome)
(Twitter photo/@djcrome)
Local businesses suffered severe damage from the flooding in Ellicott City, Maryland. (Twitter photo/@Ian_Jett)
Cars were tossed around like toys in Ellicott City, Maryland. (Twitter photo/@Ian_Jett)
Northeastern US: Double-edged sword downpours to lessen after Monday
By Kristina Pydynowski, Senior Meteorologist
July 31,2016; 8:28PM,EDT
Localized downpours that have been beneficial in some communities, but devastating in others across the northeastern United States will ease after the first day of August.
A slow-moving storm system will continue to produce showers and thunderstorms from the mid-Atlantic to central New England into Monday.
After a dry weekend, rain will also spread northward to Montreal, Canada, and near Bangor, Maine, to start August.
The greatest risk for localized downpours capable of causing flash flooding will exist across the eastern mid-Atlantic, from New York City to Norfolk, Virginia.
The risk will be higher to end the weekend than on Monday in Washington, D.C., and Baltimore.
"The biggest problem with the downpours and thunderstorms in this pattern is that they move very slowly, allowing heavy rain to persist over a given spot for an extended period of time," AccuWeather Meteorologist Brian Thompson said. "That leads to flash flooding."
More than 6 inches of rain triggered devastating and deadly flooding in Ellicott City, Maryland, on Saturday evening.
Ocean County Airport, New Jersey, was inundated with more than 5 inches of rain in as many hours on Sunday morning. Due to similar totals farther to the north in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, the Raritan River was among the waterways in the area that exceeded its banks.
"These slow-moving downpours could potentially impact some of the same areas that have been hit by flash flooding over the weekend," Thompson said.
The one benefit of the downpours is to help green up lawns and water thirsty crops.
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PHOTOS: Heavy storms cause major, deadly flooding in parts of mid-Atlantic Saturday evening
Parts of western New York, north-central Pennsylvania, eastern Long Island and central New England are in the midst of a severe drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
"The heavy rain will be localized with some places picking up several inches of rain and nearby areas seeing almost nothing," Thompson said.
Even where flash flooding does not occur, the downpours will create hazards for motorists by reducing visibility and heightening the risk of vehicles hydroplaning when traveling at highway speeds.
Airline passengers should prepare for possible flight delays.
Those with outdoor plans may have to move indoor for a time. As soon as thunder is heard, the risk of being struck by lightning is present.
The risk of downpours will wane Tuesday into Wednesday as the stubborn storm departs and high pressure builds overhead.
Spotty showers will continue to dampen New England and communities southward to Trenton, New Jersey, on Tuesday, but the incidences of heavy rainfall will be less than previous days. Even fewer communities across New England and the mid-Atlantic will receive rain on Wednesday.
The middle of the week may be the best time for outdoor activities.
Oppressive humidity will also be absent, confined to the midwestern states. Highs on Wednesday from Washington, D.C., northward will generally be in the lower and middle 80s.
The middle of the week will feel more like early August around Boston after clouds and the damp weather early this week hold temperatures to the lower 70s.
Humidity and temperatures will climb once again later in the week across the northeastern U.S. ahead of a cold front set to likely start the new weekend off on a stormy note.
Atlantic tropical drought may end in Caribbean Sea this week
By Kristina Pydynowski, Senior Meteorologist
July 31, 2016; 7:55PM,EDT
The potential for the Atlantic Basin to reactivate will increase as a tropical wave tracks through the Caribbean Sea this week.
While the eastern Pacific Ocean has been busy, the Atlantic Basin has been without a tropical storm since Danielle roamed the Bay of Campeche in late June.
"Weak disturbances have been moving westward from Africa over the past couple of months," according to AccuWeather Hurricane Expert Dan Kottlowski.
"Up to this point, there has been too much dry air and dust from the Sahara Desert for these systems to develop," Kottlowski said, adding that dry air is common during June and July over much of the Atlantic.
However, a tropical wave is currently being monitored to overcome obstacles in its path and end the tropical drought in the Atlantic Basin.
The tropical wave will race from the Leeward Islands and south of the Greater Antilles early this week, reaching the western Caribbean Sea by midweek. The potential for development will progressively increase during this time.
The quick-forward speed of the wave is currently the main inhibitor against it organizing into a tropical depression.
"The wave is moving westward at 20-25 mph," AccuWeather Meteorologist Steve Travis.
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Its forward speed should lessen by midweek, and Travis anticipates the overall environment should become more conducive for the wave to organize into a tropical depression or storm.
The next tropical storm in the Atlantic would acquire the name "Earl."
"Even if the wave fails to develop before reaching central America or Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, it could then organize in the Bay of Campeche later in the week," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Rob Miller said.
Despite initially struggling to become a tropical depression, the wave will continue to spread heavy and gusty showers and thunderstorms across the Caribbean Sea this week.
"The heaviest rain will target Puerto Rico and Hispaniola on Sunday night before expanding into Jamaica on Monday," AccuWeather Meteorologist Eric Leister said.
Localized flash flooding can result, especially in the higher terrain.
The downpours will shift to the northern Central American nations and Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula during the middle and latter part of this week.
The flood risk, gusty winds and surf would increase if the wave becomes more organized and strengthens in the western Caribbean or southwestern Gulf of Mexico.
Residents and visitors to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, Honduras, Guatemala and Belize should continue to check back with AccuWeather for updates on this potential tropical threat.
If the system tracks to the Bay of Campeche, those in eastern mainland Mexico and South Texas could face impacts next weekend.
The remainder of the Atlantic Basin is quiet. The tropical low that was being monitored by AccuWeather meteorologists has weakened to a more disorganized tropical wave.
"[The wave] is encountering an area of dry, dusty air and moderate wind shear, which are acting to limit any further organization," Travis said.
Wind shear refers to the changing of the speed and direction of winds at different layers of the atmosphere. Strong wind shear can prevent a system from developing or even shred apart a tropical storm or hurricane.
Despite the active start to this hurricane season, a lull in activity in July in not uncommon. Tropical activity typically ramps up from August to early September as the waters of the Atlantic Basin reach their warmest.
On average, the second named storm in the Atlantic forms on August 1.
William Smith ·
Works at South Park
Does anyone here have the same problem with accuweather.com
as I do? Each time I go on this web-site,it crashes my computer. I've
been on 5 other web-sites tonight,never had a problem,until I get onto
this crappy site and so far,it's crashed/froze my computer 3 times
tonight already.
Lisa Alsobrook ·
Bring it on. Louisiana needs more rain
Donna Lavoie ·
Not coming to the east coast of So Fla and have a drought too :(
(y)
Typhoon Nida to target China after dumping over 300 mm of rain in Philippines
By Renee Duff, AccuWeather.com Meteorologist
July 31,2016; 7:23PM,EDT
After unloading flooding rain across the Philippines over the weekend, Typhoon Nida will take aim at China early this week.
Tropical Depression 6W formed over the northwestern Pacific Ocean on Friday evening, local time, before strengthening to Tropical Storm Nida on Saturday afternoon. Nida eventually reached typhoon strength on Sunday afternoon.
Nida is known as Carina in the Philippines.
Initially, the western fringe of the system's downpours grazed the Samar and Catanduanes islands of the central Philippines. From Friday into Saturday, Catarman reported 312 mm (12.3 inches) of rain.
Latest satellite imagery of Nida. (Satellite/NOAA)
On Sunday, Nida moved along the northern coast of Luzon while maintaining typhoon-strength and bringing flooding rainfall to northern Luzon.
Over the weekend, Tuguegarao picked up 287 mm (11.3 inches) of rain.
Rain will linger in portions of western Luzon on Monday, but the heaviest of the rain will shift across the South China Sea as Nida tracks towards China.
While the storm is forecast to stay well south of Taiwan, an area of heavy rain is expected to brush southern portions of the country, generally across Taitung and Pingtung counties. Sunday night and Monday will bring the heaviest rain to these areas with isolated flash flooding possible in the mountainous terrain.
After departing Luzon, the storm will then set its sights on China.
Residents of southern China should prepare for impacts from the storm during the early and middle part of the week.
Nida is expected to gain additional strength as it churns across the South China Sea early this week. The storm could become as strong as a Category 2 hurricane before it makes landfall.
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At this time, the storm is expected to make landfall in southern China on Monday night into early on Tuesday, AccuWeather Meteorologist Adam Douty explained.
Rain and winds will increase before the storm moves onshore.
"Southern and central Guangdong and much of Guangxi will have the highest impacts from this storm," he added.
Heavy rainfall will inundate the southern coast of China, which could lead to widespread flooding and life-threatening mudslides. A widespread area of 150-300 mm (6-12 inches) of rain will fall from Guangdong to Guangxi.
Seas will build out ahead of the storm, creating hazards for shipping interests across the South China Sea. Swimmers should be aware of the threat for rough surf and increased rip currents along the southern coast beaches.
Communities along the coast should prepare for damaging wind gusts to typhoon force. Hong Kong and Macau are included within this threat zone.
"Once inland, Nida should rapidly weaken, which will reduce the wind threat," Douty stated. "[However], the heavy rain threat could extend into Guizhou and eastern Yunnan from Wednesday into Thursday."
While there are no immediate tropical threats behind Nida, AccuWeather meteorologists are monitoring an area near the Mariana Islands for potential tropical development early in August.
Content contributed by AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Kristina Pydynowski
POLL: Would you support the use of genetically modified mosquitoes in your neighborhood to combat Zika?
By Katy Galimberti, AccuWeather.com Staff Writer
July 31,2016; 5:33PM,EDT
However, some residents don't want their neighborhoods to be used as testing grounds for a new initiative involving genetically modified mosquitoes.
As the Zika threat unfolded last year, Florida Keys officials ramped up efforts to keep the disease-carrying Aedes aegypti mosquitoes out of their islands. They partnered with Oxitec, a company in the United Kingdom, with a plan to release genetically modified mosquitoes in certain neighborhoods that would wipe away huge chunks of the mosquito population.
Mila de Mier, a realtor and hospitality business owner in Key West, started an online petition against potential trials and has been a vocal representative of residents opposed to initiative. The petition has more than 168,000 signatures, more than double the population of the entire Florida Keys.
De Mier said she and other concerned community members are waiting for more research, especially regarding long-term effects on humans and the environment before she could get behind the trials.
In November, Florida Keys officials will hold a referendum on the subject. The vote is non-binding, but The Key West Citizen reports that the majority of the district's board of commissioners will adhere to the outcome of the vote.
The vote could affect the likelihood of Oxitec trials taking place in other parts of the United States.
"We are the forefront to set up a standard," de Mier told AccuWeather. "At this point, it's almost like a political campaign."
She said Oxitec has been calling residents to lobby for their vote ahead of the referendum.
The initiative has been in the works for five years, Michael Doyle, executive of the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District, said. When dengue fever and Chickyunga emerged as a serious threat, the board started looking at what they could do to keep locals and tourists safe.
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Growing fear over Zika has expedited efforts to start trials, he said.
The Florida Keys rely heavily on tourism, and a widespread mosquito threat could not only hurt locals but also keep tourists from spending their money in the area.
Oxitec claims they can produce male mosquitoes "with the intent of suppressing the population," the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said.
Evaristo Miqueli, a natural resources officer with Broward County Mosquito Control, looks through a microscope at Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, Tuesday, June 28, 2016, in Pembroke Pines, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Scientists infused a new gene into the laboratory-produced mosquitoes that halts the reproductive cycle. Known as a "self-limiting" gene, when a genetically modified mosquito breeds with a female mosquito, 95 percent of the offspring die before reaching adulthood, Oxitec said.
Millions of mosquitoes could be released each week, depending on the size of the pre-existing population.
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes breed only with each other and there is no risk of the gene spreading, Oxitec said.
Male mosquitoes do not bite, but the gene passed onto any offspring is non-toxic and non-allergenic, Oxitec said.
The FDA released a preliminary "Finding of No Significant Impact," which was then submitted to the public for comment. The FDA has been reviewing comments since the period closed in mid-May.
Doyle told AccuWeather that he feels those who are against the trials are reacting on a "gut-level response" without looking at the facts, he said.
Oxitec has been responsible for most of the cost so far. If launched, the funds typically used for chemical repellants would go towards the genetically modified mosquitos.
Severe Weather Alerts - Dobbs Ferry, NY Areal Flood Advisory Areal Flood Advisory in effect until Monday, 12:45 AM EDT. Source: U.S. National Weather Service
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN UPTON NY HAS ISSUED A
* URBAN AND SMALL STREAM FLOOD ADVISORY FOR...
ROCKLAND COUNTY IN SOUTHEASTERN NEW YORK...
SOUTHERN WESTCHESTER COUNTY IN SOUTHEASTERN NEW YORK...
* UNTIL 1245 AM EDT
* AT 943 PM EDT...DOPPLER RADAR INDICATED HEAVY RAIN THAT WILL CAUSE
URBAN AND SMALL STREAM FLOODING IN THE ADVISORY AREA. UP TO ONE
INCH OF RAIN HAS ALREADY FALLEN.
ADDITIONAL RAINFALL OF ONE INCH IS EXPECTED OVER THE AREA.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
EXCESSIVE RUNOFF FROM HEAVY RAINFALL WILL CAUSE FLOODING OF SMALL
CREEKS AND STREAMS...URBAN AREAS...HIGHWAYS...STREETS AND
UNDERPASSES AS WELL AS OTHER DRAINAGE AREAS AND LOW LYING SPOTS.
A FLOOD ADVISORY MEANS RIVER OR STREAM FLOWS ARE ELEVATED...OR
PONDING OF WATER IN URBAN OR OTHER AREAS IS OCCURRING OR IS IMMINENT.
&&
* URBAN AND SMALL STREAM FLOOD ADVISORY FOR...
ROCKLAND COUNTY IN SOUTHEASTERN NEW YORK...
SOUTHERN WESTCHESTER COUNTY IN SOUTHEASTERN NEW YORK...
* UNTIL 1245 AM EDT
* AT 943 PM EDT...DOPPLER RADAR INDICATED HEAVY RAIN THAT WILL CAUSE
URBAN AND SMALL STREAM FLOODING IN THE ADVISORY AREA. UP TO ONE
INCH OF RAIN HAS ALREADY FALLEN.
ADDITIONAL RAINFALL OF ONE INCH IS EXPECTED OVER THE AREA.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
EXCESSIVE RUNOFF FROM HEAVY RAINFALL WILL CAUSE FLOODING OF SMALL
CREEKS AND STREAMS...URBAN AREAS...HIGHWAYS...STREETS AND
UNDERPASSES AS WELL AS OTHER DRAINAGE AREAS AND LOW LYING SPOTS.
A FLOOD ADVISORY MEANS RIVER OR STREAM FLOWS ARE ELEVATED...OR
PONDING OF WATER IN URBAN OR OTHER AREAS IS OCCURRING OR IS IMMINENT.
&&
Northeastern US: Double-edged sword downpours to lessen after Monday
July 31, 2016; 8:28 PM ET
Localized downpours that have been beneficial in some communities, but devastating in others across the northeastern United States will ease after the first day of August.National Temperature and Rainfall Extremes for July 31,2016 from accuweather.com
As of 11PM,EDT/8PM,PDT
Daily U.S. Extremes
past 24 hoursExtreme | Location | |
---|---|---|
High | 120° | Death Valley, CA |
Low | 37° | Stanley, ID |
Precip | 6.98" | Norfolk, VA |
World Weather Hot Spot for July 29-30,2016 from accuweather.com
Ki-Long Yal,Thailand: Extremely heavy rain;received a whopping 9.5 inches of rain on Thursday (July 28,2016)
WeatherWhys for July 29,2016 from accuweather.com
After solar energy reaches its peak, air and water temperatures
continue to increase. Water temperatures take the longest to peak.
Heat Relief Engulfs the Northeast While the Plains Bake
Brian Donegan
Published: July 30,2016
The Northeast will finally enjoy relief from the heat this weekend but the heat will only continue to build in the West right through the weekend.
Expansive high pressure in the upper atmosphere will strictly focus on parts of the West into the weekend, sending heat indices soaring above 100 degrees.
(MORE: Check the Forecast for the Next 10 Days)
A subtle, southward dip in the jet stream (trough of low pressure) will allow these near- or below-average temperatures to continue this weekend across the Northeast.
Additional cloud cover and heavy rain will come with the lower pressure, which will keep temperatures down through Tuesday. Upper 60s are even possible in the mountains of upper New England and eastern New York.
(MORE: Flash Flood Threat in the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast)
Forecast Highs
Washington D.C. and Baltimore both
hit 100 degrees Monday afternoon, tying or setting new daily record
highs. This was the hottest weather they have seen since July 2012. A
break finally arrived on Friday with lower humidity and high
temperatures holding in the upper 80s – near seasonal averages.
Those who attended the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia on Thursday had to deal with a high temperature of 95 degrees in the early afternoon, followed by thunderstorms with heavy rain and wind later.
Through Tuesday, Boston had recorded six consecutive 90-degree days. The streak ended Wednesday when they got stuck at 87 degrees, due to east to southeast winds off the Atlantic Ocean. The longest heat wave on record in Boston is nine days, back in July 1912.
(MORE: Heat is the Deadliest Kind of Weather)
(MORE: Forecast Temperature Maps)
This comes after much of the central U.S. dealt with dangerous conditions last week, with heat indices around 115 degrees in some spots.
Those temperatures are not expected again.
Forecast Highs
Reno, Nevada, tied a daily record high of 103 degrees July 27. Las Vegas also tied a daily record high on July 27 by reaching 115 degrees.
Washington D.C. and Baltimore both reached 100 degrees on July 25, which tied record highs in both cities. Philadelphia got to 97 degrees, breaking the old record high of 96 degrees. Newark, New Jersey, came up just shy of the century mark, topping out at a record-breaking 99 degrees (old record 98 degrees).
Midland, Texas, set a July record for 100-degree-plus days on July 25, and had long eclipsed the previous July record of six days with highs of 105 degrees set in 1995.
July 24's daily record highs included El Paso, Texas (106 degrees; tied), Zanesville, Ohio (97 degrees), Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (95 degrees, tied), and Binghamton, New York (90 degrees).
Except for the Pacific Northwest, all other states in the Lower 48 had at least one location reporting a temperature of 90 degrees or above on July 22.
The heat index at Memphis, Tennessee, reached 114 degrees on July 22, while up in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, it felt like 110 degrees.
Dallas reached 100 degrees on July 22 for the first time this year, and then reached 100 degrees again on July 23.
On July 21 the heat index at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, topped out at an extremely dangerous 116 degrees.
Waco, Texas, recorded its first 100-degree day of the year on July 20. The average date for Waco's first 100-degree day is July 4, so this came over two weeks later than average. Dallas reached 100 degrees on July 22 for the first time this year.
Incidentally, Salt Lake City's daily low temperature of 81 degrees on July 18 was the city's all-time hottest record low in records dating to 1874. It was also the hottest string of nights on record in the Utah capital city.
Published: July 30,2016
The Northeast will finally enjoy relief from the heat this weekend but the heat will only continue to build in the West right through the weekend.
Expansive high pressure in the upper atmosphere will strictly focus on parts of the West into the weekend, sending heat indices soaring above 100 degrees.
(MORE: Check the Forecast for the Next 10 Days)
Heavy Rainfall Brings Northeast Heat Relief
Temperature relief is in store for Philadelphia and New York City on Saturday, with highs actually ending up below average, in the low to mid 80s. Some cities may see a brief warm up on Sunday before cooler air returns.A subtle, southward dip in the jet stream (trough of low pressure) will allow these near- or below-average temperatures to continue this weekend across the Northeast.
Additional cloud cover and heavy rain will come with the lower pressure, which will keep temperatures down through Tuesday. Upper 60s are even possible in the mountains of upper New England and eastern New York.
(MORE: Flash Flood Threat in the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast)
Forecast Highs
Those who attended the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia on Thursday had to deal with a high temperature of 95 degrees in the early afternoon, followed by thunderstorms with heavy rain and wind later.
Through Tuesday, Boston had recorded six consecutive 90-degree days. The streak ended Wednesday when they got stuck at 87 degrees, due to east to southeast winds off the Atlantic Ocean. The longest heat wave on record in Boston is nine days, back in July 1912.
(MORE: Heat is the Deadliest Kind of Weather)
Central States Warming Sunday as Heat Moves Out Of West
A warm up will begin on Sunday in many spots as heat moves east out of the Rockies. Temperatures will climb 10-20 degrees through early week following a mid-summer cool down over the weekend.(MORE: Forecast Temperature Maps)
This comes after much of the central U.S. dealt with dangerous conditions last week, with heat indices around 115 degrees in some spots.
Those temperatures are not expected again.
Forecast Highs
Heat Recap
Reno, Nevada, tied a daily record high on July 28 by reaching 102 degrees. Las Vegas broke their record high of 114 degrees on July 28 by topping out at 115 degrees. Pueblo, Colorado, tied a record high on July 28 at 103 degrees.Reno, Nevada, tied a daily record high of 103 degrees July 27. Las Vegas also tied a daily record high on July 27 by reaching 115 degrees.
Washington D.C. and Baltimore both reached 100 degrees on July 25, which tied record highs in both cities. Philadelphia got to 97 degrees, breaking the old record high of 96 degrees. Newark, New Jersey, came up just shy of the century mark, topping out at a record-breaking 99 degrees (old record 98 degrees).
Midland, Texas, set a July record for 100-degree-plus days on July 25, and had long eclipsed the previous July record of six days with highs of 105 degrees set in 1995.
July 24's daily record highs included El Paso, Texas (106 degrees; tied), Zanesville, Ohio (97 degrees), Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (95 degrees, tied), and Binghamton, New York (90 degrees).
Except for the Pacific Northwest, all other states in the Lower 48 had at least one location reporting a temperature of 90 degrees or above on July 22.
The heat index at Memphis, Tennessee, reached 114 degrees on July 22, while up in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, it felt like 110 degrees.
Dallas reached 100 degrees on July 22 for the first time this year, and then reached 100 degrees again on July 23.
On July 21 the heat index at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, topped out at an extremely dangerous 116 degrees.
Waco, Texas, recorded its first 100-degree day of the year on July 20. The average date for Waco's first 100-degree day is July 4, so this came over two weeks later than average. Dallas reached 100 degrees on July 22 for the first time this year.
Incidentally, Salt Lake City's daily low temperature of 81 degrees on July 18 was the city's all-time hottest record low in records dating to 1874. It was also the hottest string of nights on record in the Utah capital city.
Heat Safety Tips
The hot conditions this week will be particularly dangerous for vulnerable groups such as the sick and the elderly. The National Weather Service offered useful heat safety tips that can be incorporated into a daily routine when extreme heat sets in.- Job sites: Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade as often as possible.
- Indoors: Check up on the elderly, sick and those without air conditioning.
- In vehicles: Never leave children or pets unattended – look before you lock.
- Outdoors: Limit strenuous activities and find shade. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
MORE: Hydrating Foods For Summer
Dave Schwartz, Beloved Meteorologist for The Weather Channel, Succumbs to Cancer
July 31,2016
The
weather community is mourning the loss of Dave Schwartz, who spent more
than 20 years as an on-air meteorologist for The Weather Channel. After
battling cancer for 10 years, Schwartz, 63, passed away Saturday.
A Philadelphia native and graduate of Temple and Mississippi State universities, Schwartz always knew he wanted to be a meteorologist.
“I’ve always been a weather ‘geek’,”
Schwartz said in his weather.com biography. “Skywatching, and watching
The Weather Channel. I built a weather forecasting kit from Radio Shack
my father bought me. The tornado scene from ‘The Wizard of Oz’ really
turned me on.”
Schwartz was known for his friendly
on-air demeanor and often referred to viewers as "my friend" before
giving forecasts. His laidback style and sense of humor quickly made him
a fan favorite at The Weather Channel.
It
is with a heavy heart and great sadness to let you know that Dave
Schwartz has passed away. Dave spent 22 years at The Weather Channel. He
was a fan and staff favorite because he so obviously loved what he did
and had a unique ability to draw viewers into the fascinating world of
weather. His passion for weather was contagious and inspired many to
enter the field of meteorology. His love of weather will never be
forgotten, he will be greatly missed.
Ten years ago, he noticed a yellow tint to his skin and the whites of his eyes
while applying his on-camera makeup. After consulting his doctor, he
was diagnosed with Stage II pancreatic cancer. Schwartz was given one
year to live after undergoing an unsuccessful procedure to remove a
tumor. He refused to give up.
The meteorologist
continued with radiation and chemotherapy treatments, and after a second
surgical procedure, was pronounced cancer free.
Less
than a year later, a routine check-up showed that his cancer had
returned. Yet again, Schwartz found a treatment option that worked for
him.
He beat cancer twice.
In 2015, Schwartz was diagnosed with cancer a third time.
In
February, on World Cancer Day, Schwartz talked about his diagnosis on
air. “I want to let you know the reason why I have lost 35 pounds in the
last 5 months is that I am being treated for cancer… Stomach cancer, of
all things, for a foodie,” Schwartz said.
Despite this reality, Schwartz was determined to expand his message of inspiration and hope.
Schwartz
was remembered by his colleagues not only as the most creative
personality to ever appear on The Weather Channel, but as an incredible
man who made them better people and better broadcasters.
"Everything
was genuine about this wonderful man. He was everybody's friend and
that's what he really wanted to be. He made so many of us laugh, smile,
and wish we were like him. He was so genuine and trustworthy - things
that come from the soul and cannot be taught," said longtime friend and
colleague Jim Cantore. "Dave loved doing the weather on TV and he was
fantastic at it. I'm so thankful he was on our team doing what he loved
till the end of his time."
The family is planning a private memorial service.
Tropical Depression Nine-E Strengthens in the Eastern Pacific Ocean
July 31,2016
Tropical Depression Nine-E has become the latest tropical cyclone to form in what has been a busy stretch in the eastern Pacific basin.
(MORE: Record July in Eastern Pacific Basin)
Once again, this system won't threaten the Mexican Pacific coast, moving toward the west-northwest, but is expected to eventually earn the name "Howard" as a tropical storm.
Here's the latest from the National Hurricane Center:
Current Storm Status
Projected Path
Tropical Depression Nine-E has become the latest tropical cyclone to form in what has been a busy stretch in the eastern Pacific basin.
(MORE: Record July in Eastern Pacific Basin)
Once again, this system won't threaten the Mexican Pacific coast, moving toward the west-northwest, but is expected to eventually earn the name "Howard" as a tropical storm.
Here's the latest from the National Hurricane Center:
- Tropical Depression Nine-E was located about 900 miles west-southwest of the southern tip of Baja California, as of Sunday afternoon.
- The depression is forecast to strengthen into Tropical Storm Howard Sunday night or early Monday.
- This system is no threat to any land areas.
(MORE: Hurricane Season Outlook | Hurricane Central)
Current Storm Status
Projected Path
MORE: Images of Hurricane Eyes
Typhoon Nida Makes Direct Hit on Philippines; Could Impact Hong Kong Next
July 31,2016
Typhoon Nida made landfall in the northern Philippines on Sunday, where it dumped heavy rain and brought strong winds to Luzon Island. In the Philippines, Nida is known as "Carina", according to PAGASA, the Philippine weather bureau.
Nida (Carina) had dumped more than 10 inches of rain on the northern Philippine town of Tuguegarao in the 24 hours ending 8 p.m. local time on Sunday. The Philippines are 12 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Time.
The heavy rains could trigger flooding and mudslides in northern parts of the country.
There were no immediate reports of impacts in the Philippines as of Sunday evening, U.S. time.
(FORECAST: Hong Kong)
The U.S. military's Joint Typhoon Warning Center forecasts the center of Nida to pass near or on either side of Hong Kong on Tuesday, local time. Nida could be the equivalent of a Category 1 or 2 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale at that time.
Current Information and Forecast
Strong, damaging winds are possible near where the center makes landfall.
Life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides will also be a major threat for a much larger area as Nida moves into southeast China.
Parts of China are still recovering from destructive and deadly floods that have already affected the country this summer.
Typhoon Nida made landfall in the northern Philippines on Sunday, where it dumped heavy rain and brought strong winds to Luzon Island. In the Philippines, Nida is known as "Carina", according to PAGASA, the Philippine weather bureau.
Nida will now move on a path toward southeast China where it's likely to impact Hong Kong early this week.
(MORE: Watching Invest 97-L in the Caribbean)Landfall in the Philippines
Satellite image of Nida (Carina) Sunday evening, local time near the northern Philippine's Luzon Island.
(NOAA)
PAGASA said that Nida (Carina) made landfall near Cabutunan Point (northeast Luzon Island) on Sunday afternoon, local time.(NOAA)
Nida (Carina) had dumped more than 10 inches of rain on the northern Philippine town of Tuguegarao in the 24 hours ending 8 p.m. local time on Sunday. The Philippines are 12 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Time.
The heavy rains could trigger flooding and mudslides in northern parts of the country.
There were no immediate reports of impacts in the Philippines as of Sunday evening, U.S. time.
Forecast: Next Target Southeast China
Nida is forecast to gain some strength as it moves on a path toward southeast China, including Hong Kong, early this week. Favorable conditions for strengthening include low vertical wind shear and warm sea-surface temperatures.(FORECAST: Hong Kong)
The U.S. military's Joint Typhoon Warning Center forecasts the center of Nida to pass near or on either side of Hong Kong on Tuesday, local time. Nida could be the equivalent of a Category 1 or 2 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale at that time.
Current Information and Forecast
Life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides will also be a major threat for a much larger area as Nida moves into southeast China.
Parts of China are still recovering from destructive and deadly floods that have already affected the country this summer.
MORE: Typhoon Nepartak Impacts Taiwan, China
Damaging Thunderstorms and Flooding Rain Likely Across the Desert Southwest as Monsoonal Moisture Returns
July 31,2016
Now that we are in the monsoon season across the Southwest, thunderstorms, heavy rain and flash flooding frequently occur, but the weather pattern has been relatively dry much of July. Some big changes are already underway, however, and residents across parts of the Southwest need to be prepared.
Due to a number of factors, moisture has been quickly returning to the Southwest, and that will result in a continued increase in thunderstorm activity over the next several days.
Some thunderstorms are likely to produce strong winds, large hail, heavy rain and flash flooding.
Radar, Watches, and Warnings
Thunderstorms
developed late Friday and Friday evening across the Southwest and
produced dust storms, wind damage and locally heavy rain, especially in
Arizona.
The area with the best chances to see high impact thunderstorms will be across the southern half of Arizona, but thunderstorms will also erupt over parts of southern California, southern Nevada and southern Utah.
In addition to heavy rain, other threats will include large hail, damaging winds and dangerous lightning.
Strong winds could produce dust storms (haboobs) with visibilities down to zero.
(FORECAST: Phoenix | Tucson, Arizona | Las Vegas | Needles, California)
Southwest rainfall forecast through Wednesday
Monsoonal
moisture will continue to be in place across the Southwest into
midweek, so the threat of showers and thunderstorms will continue
through at least Wednesday. Areas that are likely to be affected will
include much of Arizona, southern Utah, southern Colorado and western
New Mexico.
Potential impacts will continue to include locally heavy rain, localized flash flooding, large hail, damaging winds, dust storms and dangerous lightning.
The National Weather Service Forecast Office in Phoenix, Arizona, has issued a checklist for residents and visitors to the area.
This has allowed moisture, coming up from the south and southeast, to surge up into the Southwest U.S.
As we move into the week ahead, monsoonal moisture will be in place, and a series of disturbances will move from east to west across the region. This pattern should last through at least Wednesday.
Rainfall totals across parts of the Southwest, especially in Arizona, could range from 1 to 3 inches (with locally higher amounts possible). Be careful out there, and remember to not drive into flooded roadways.
Computer model guidance is suggesting that moisture will be on the decline later in the week.
MORE: Arizona Dust Storm
Now that we are in the monsoon season across the Southwest, thunderstorms, heavy rain and flash flooding frequently occur, but the weather pattern has been relatively dry much of July. Some big changes are already underway, however, and residents across parts of the Southwest need to be prepared.
Due to a number of factors, moisture has been quickly returning to the Southwest, and that will result in a continued increase in thunderstorm activity over the next several days.
Some thunderstorms are likely to produce strong winds, large hail, heavy rain and flash flooding.
Radar, Watches, and Warnings
- Dust storms, with visibilities near zero occurred in the Arizona counties of La Paz, Pinal, Yuma, Yavapai and in Riverside County, California.
- A wind gust of 89 mph was reported at Gila Bend, Arizona.
- Wind gusts to 70 mph in Phoenix, Arizona, knocked down power lines and over 25, 000 customers were without power for a time, according to Arizona Public Service.
- There was a report of 1.02 inches of rain just north of Scottsdale, Arizona.
Threat of Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain Continues
There was a dramatic increase in moisture on Saturday, and this will continue into Sunday evening, so thunderstorms will be more likely to produce localized heavy rain and flash flooding.The area with the best chances to see high impact thunderstorms will be across the southern half of Arizona, but thunderstorms will also erupt over parts of southern California, southern Nevada and southern Utah.
In addition to heavy rain, other threats will include large hail, damaging winds and dangerous lightning.
Strong winds could produce dust storms (haboobs) with visibilities down to zero.
(FORECAST: Phoenix | Tucson, Arizona | Las Vegas | Needles, California)
Southwest rainfall forecast through Wednesday
Potential impacts will continue to include locally heavy rain, localized flash flooding, large hail, damaging winds, dust storms and dangerous lightning.
The National Weather Service Forecast Office in Phoenix, Arizona, has issued a checklist for residents and visitors to the area.
- Make sure that your vehicle wiper blades are in good shape (no cracks or blades hanging off their holders).
- Have a fully charged cell phone handy.
- Allow extra time to get to your destination.
- Have patience on the road.
- Keep your attention focused and respect other motorists.
Setup for Southwest Rain and Thunderstorms
Monsoonal moisture has been spotty across the Southwest over the past month, due to an expansive ridge of high pressure that has blocked moisture from flowing into the region. Some changes are occurring as the high shrinks and slides eastward.This has allowed moisture, coming up from the south and southeast, to surge up into the Southwest U.S.
Moisture has pushed into the Southwest resulting in increased t-storm activity.
As we move into the week ahead, monsoonal moisture will be in place, and a series of disturbances will move from east to west across the region. This pattern should last through at least Wednesday.
Rainfall totals across parts of the Southwest, especially in Arizona, could range from 1 to 3 inches (with locally higher amounts possible). Be careful out there, and remember to not drive into flooded roadways.
Computer model guidance is suggesting that moisture will be on the decline later in the week.
MORE: Arizona Dust Storm
Invest 97-L Could Develop into a Tropical Depression or Tropical Storm This Week
July 31,2016
An area of disturbed weather that is moving through the eastern Caribbean Sea has the potential to develop into a tropical depression or tropical storm this week.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) said that the system - designated Invest 97-L - has a medium (50 percent) chance of developing during the next two days, and a high (70 percent) chance of developing during the next five days.
This naming convention is used by the NHC to identify features that are being monitored for potential future development into a tropical depression or a tropical storm.
(MORE: What is an Invest?)
Invest 97-L Satellite and Position
The
unsettled weather is currently associated with a tropical wave, which
means it does not have a center of circulation near the ocean's surface
at this time.
Tropical waves are batches of energy and general spin in the atmosphere that develop due to temperature contrasts on either side of Africa's Sahel region. They then move west across the Atlantic Ocean.
Sometimes tropical waves develop into a closed area of surface low pressure with collocated shower and thunderstorm activity. Once this occurs, a tropical depression or storm can develop, and that's what we'll be monitoring Invest 97-L for.
(MORE: What is a Tropical Wave?)
Computer Model Track Forecast For Invest 97-L
Regardless
of development, showers and some gusty winds will continue to affect
the eastern and central Caribbean Islands into Monday. This will include
areas as far west as Hispaniola.
Puerto Rico Radar
A
flash flood watch has been issued for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin
Islands into Monday afternoon. Rainfall amounts of 2-4 inches are
possible in the Antilles through mid-week. Some higher totals are
possible in more mountainous areas.
Forecast Rainfall Associated with 97L
How
well organized Invest 97-L is by the time it reaches the western
Caribbean Sea will dictate what impacts to expect there and possibly in
the Yucatan Peninsula. Much uncertainty remains, however, so stay tuned
for updates.
Technically, the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30. Much of the tropical activity occurs between the second week of August and the second week of October. In late July and early August, we begin to keep an eye on the eastern Atlantic as it begins to show signs of life.
(MORE: Gulf of Mexico Hurricane Drought Likely to Become the Longest in 130 Years)
Meteorologists make frequent references to the "Cape Verde" season, which is essentially a season within the overall hurricane season. Most Cape Verde storms develop from mid-August until late September.
Development of tropical waves into tropical storms or hurricanes is determined by several environmental factors that can range from somewhat favorable to extremely favorable, including:
Tropical systems like to have winds that are roughly the same speed and direction through a depth of the atmosphere for maximum development. Wind shear - changing winds with height - tends to break up tropical systems that are trying to develop, displacing convection away from a center of circulation.
This often occurs when a trough of low pressure aloft is to the west of a tropical weather system, such that west to southwest winds aloft combine with the typical tropical east-northeast trade winds to produce wind shear.
In August and September, a high-pressure ridge aloft, known as the Bermuda-Azores high, often expands and creates a more favorable environment for development. Atlantic systems are often steered toward the western Atlantic, Caribbean Sea and sometimes all the way to the U.S.
Since the area from Africa to the eastern Atlantic looks quite active already and we now have a tropical system of interest, it'll be interesting to see what the rest of the hurricane season will have in store.
MORE: Retired Atlantic Hurricanes and Tropical Storms
An area of disturbed weather that is moving through the eastern Caribbean Sea has the potential to develop into a tropical depression or tropical storm this week.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) said that the system - designated Invest 97-L - has a medium (50 percent) chance of developing during the next two days, and a high (70 percent) chance of developing during the next five days.
This naming convention is used by the NHC to identify features that are being monitored for potential future development into a tropical depression or a tropical storm.
(MORE: What is an Invest?)
Invest 97-L Satellite and Position
Tropical waves are batches of energy and general spin in the atmosphere that develop due to temperature contrasts on either side of Africa's Sahel region. They then move west across the Atlantic Ocean.
Sometimes tropical waves develop into a closed area of surface low pressure with collocated shower and thunderstorm activity. Once this occurs, a tropical depression or storm can develop, and that's what we'll be monitoring Invest 97-L for.
(MORE: What is a Tropical Wave?)
The
NHC said that this system's fast movement was a negative to development
in the near term. The dry air in the region also may be playing a role
in keeping convection rather disorganized.
Once Invest 97-L
reaches the western Caribbean Sea in a few days, it will have a greater
chance to develop into a tropical depression or tropical storm.Computer Model Track Forecast For Invest 97-L
Puerto Rico Radar
Forecast Rainfall Associated with 97L
Technically, the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30. Much of the tropical activity occurs between the second week of August and the second week of October. In late July and early August, we begin to keep an eye on the eastern Atlantic as it begins to show signs of life.
(MORE: Gulf of Mexico Hurricane Drought Likely to Become the Longest in 130 Years)
August and September: More Favorable For Development
Tropical waves that emerge off the African coast often develop around or after passing the Cape Verde Islands.Meteorologists make frequent references to the "Cape Verde" season, which is essentially a season within the overall hurricane season. Most Cape Verde storms develop from mid-August until late September.
Expanding
high pressure ridge creates a more favorable environment for tropical
systems to develop and move westward in the Alantic
There
are so many "mouse traps" (unfavorable conditions) in the Atlantic that
very few of these Cape Verde tropical storms and hurricanes ever make
it all the way to the United States. But there have been some notable
Cape Verde storms that made it to the East Coast of the U.S., such as
the 1938 Hurricane, Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and Hurricane Andrew in 1992.Development of tropical waves into tropical storms or hurricanes is determined by several environmental factors that can range from somewhat favorable to extremely favorable, including:
- Ocean temperatures
- The orientation of ridges (high pressure) and troughs (low pressure) aloft
- A moist environment
Tropical systems like to have winds that are roughly the same speed and direction through a depth of the atmosphere for maximum development. Wind shear - changing winds with height - tends to break up tropical systems that are trying to develop, displacing convection away from a center of circulation.
This often occurs when a trough of low pressure aloft is to the west of a tropical weather system, such that west to southwest winds aloft combine with the typical tropical east-northeast trade winds to produce wind shear.
In August and September, a high-pressure ridge aloft, known as the Bermuda-Azores high, often expands and creates a more favorable environment for development. Atlantic systems are often steered toward the western Atlantic, Caribbean Sea and sometimes all the way to the U.S.
Since the area from Africa to the eastern Atlantic looks quite active already and we now have a tropical system of interest, it'll be interesting to see what the rest of the hurricane season will have in store.
MORE: Retired Atlantic Hurricanes and Tropical Storms
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