FEMA National Situation Update
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
West
Scattered rain is likely over parts of the Northwest through Wednesday as an upper level low moves from the Northwest southward to northern California and northeastward into the Northern Rockies/Northern Intermountain region by Wednesday.
Midwest
The Upper Mississippi Valley southward to the Southern Plains/Rockies will see showers and thunderstorms ahead of a cold front while the Northern Plains to the Upper Great Lakes will see light to moderate rain. Tropical Storm Hermine will bring moderate rain with embedded thunderstorms over the western Gulf Coast into the Southern Plains and parts of the Middle Mississippi Valley through Wednesday.
Northeast
The region should be dry except for some showers from the Great Lakes to northern New England and northern New York. Temperatures in the region will be warmer than average.
South
The risk of heavy showers and thunderstorms increase along the South Texas and Louisiana coasts as tropical moisture begins to work its way northward. Showers and thunderstorms are also expected across the Florida Peninsula and near the Gulf Coast. Parts of west Texas and western Oklahoma, including the Panhandles, should see warmer than average temperatures.
(NOAA and media sources)
On Friday, September 3, 2010, NOAA reopened 3,114 square miles of Gulf waters offshore of the western Florida panhandle to commercial and recreational fishing. Trajectory models show the area is at a low risk for future exposure to oil, and fish caught in the area and tested by NOAA experts have shown no signs of contamination. At its closest point, the area to be reopened is about 55 miles northeast of the Deepwater/BP wellhead. The closed area now covers 39,885 square miles, or about 17 percent of the federal waters in the Gulf, which was 37 percent at its height on June 2. The boundary of the fishery closure has changed 27 times after it was first instituted on May 2. NOAA will continue to evaluate the need for fisheries closures and will continue to re-open closed areas as appropriate. For more information on NOAA Fisheries Closures, visit the NOAA Fisheries Service web site at http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov/index.html
Deepwater Horizon Blow Out Preventer (BOP) Removed from the Gulf of MexicoOn Saturday, September 4, 2010, the damaged Deepwater Horizon Blowout Preventer (BOP) and the Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP) Cap, were removed from the Gulf of Mexico. The removed BOP is considered evidentiary material, and is now under the supervision of the Deepwater Horizon Criminal Investigation Team and FBI Evidence Recovery Team.
(Deepwater Horizon JIC)
An FMAG was approved on September 6 for the Fourmile Canyon Fire that began on September 6, and continuing. (HQ FEMA)
Tropical Weather OutlookAtlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico
Tropical Storm Hermine is located 35 miles west of Corpus Christi, Texas moving north-northwest at 17 mph. The storm has maximum sustained winds of 45 mph with tropical storm force winds extending 105 miles out from the center. Hermine is forecast to weaken further during the next 48 hours and is expected to become a Tropical Depression later today. A tropical storm warning is in effect for the mouth of the Rio Grande northward to Port O’Connor, Texas.
Tropical storm conditions are expected to move north into central southern Texas today. Rainfall accumulations of 4 to 8 inches are expected, with isolated maximum amounts of 12 inches possible, from southern Texas northward through central and northern Texas and over central and eastern Oklahoma. These rains will continue to spread northeastward across southeast Kansas, northwest Arkansas, and Missouri during the next few days. The heavy rainfall could cause life-threatening flash floods.
In addition to Hermine, there are three areas of limited risk in the Atlantic Basin. One system is the remnants of the former tropical storm once named Gaston. The circulation on this system remains poorly defined and there is a low chance, near 10 percent, of it becoming a tropical cyclone again during the next 48 hours.
There is another weak low pressure area located about 350 miles west of the Cape Verde Islands but it also has a low chance, near 10 percent, of becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
And finally, a third area of thunderstorms is associated with a tropical wave just off the African coast but it also has only a 10 percent chance of developing into a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central, Eastern and Western Pacific
No tropical cyclone activity is expected in the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Monday, September 6, 2010:
Initial attack activity was light with 96 new fires, including two new large fires but no large fires contained. There are eight uncontained large fires under full suppression strategy affecting Arkansas, California, Idaho, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Wyoming. (NIFC)
Colorado Wildfire
The Fourmile Canyon Fire in Boulder County, CO began September 6 and has burned over 3,500 acres. The fire is currently uncontained and high winds hindered the firefight overnight. Several structures, including homes, have been destroyed but no injuries are reported. Highway 19 and several roads through Boulder Canyon are closed. The fire is threatening 250 homes and mandatory evacuations were ordered for approximately 1,000 homes in the area. Voluntary evacuation of the Boulder Heights area has also started. Three American Red Cross shelters and one large animal shelter were established.(HQ FEMA)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Friday, September 3, 2010
West
The region will be generally cool and dry under a ridge of high pressure with isolated thunderstorms over portions of Arizona and New Mexico. A strong upper level high pressure system developing over the Desert Southwest will bring a prolonged period of hot weather to Southern California, Nevada, and Arizona. Excessive Heat Warning and Watches are in effect through the weekend.
Midwest
A cold front extends from the Eastern Great Lakes to the Texas and will produce showers and thunderstorms from the Great Lakes to the Lower Mississippi Valley.
Northeast
Coastal areas will see the effects of Hurricane Earl. The low pressure system moving out of the Midwest will move into the region this afternoon and combine with the weather from Hurricane Earl to produce widespread showers and thunderstorms.
South
The front moving out of the Midwest will produce widespread precipitation in the Tennessee Valley and southern Appalachians before dissipating this evening. Rainshowers and thunderstorms forecast for southern Florida and Texas. The Carolinas are feeling the effects of Hurricane Earl as discussed above.
(NOAA and media sources)
No activity. (HQ FEMA)
Tropical Weather OutlookAtlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
Hurricane Earl is a Category 2 storm located 131 miles east-northeast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina moving north-northeast at 18mph. Maximum sustained winds are near 105 mph and hurricane force winds extend out 70 miles from the center and tropical storm force winds extend out 205 miles from the center. Earl is expected to increase forward speed but weaken overall during the next 48 hours and as it approaches southeastern New England tonight.
The storm conditions will follow the watches and warnings as issued by the National Hurricane Center during the next few days. Tropical storm force winds will reach from Virginia toward the Massachusetts coast later today and then to the coast of Maine tonight. Hurricane conditions are expected in Massachusetts tonight and Saturday morning.
Storm surge amounts will reach two to four feet above ground level in North Carolina, the lower Chesapeake Bay and areas of Massachusetts. Within the tropical storm warning areas, storm surges will raise water levels by one to three feet above ground level with large and destructive waves, rip currents and dangerous surf conditions.
Coastal North Carolina will see one or two additional inches of rain today as will the coasts of Virginia and Maine as the storm moves north. Southeast New England will see rainfall totals of one to three inches with isolated amounts up to five inches possible in some areas.
Current watches and warnings for the U.S. East Coast
The hurricane watch north of the North Carolina/Virginia border to Cape Henlopen, Delaware was discontinued. All warnings were discontinued south of Cape Lookout, North Carolina and for the western portion of the Ablemarle Sound.
Hurricane warnings are in effect for Cape Lookout, NC northeastward to the North Carolina/Virginia border as well Westport, MA eastward around Cape Cod to Hull, MA including Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Island.
Tropical storm warnings are in effect north of the North Carolina/Virginia border to Sandy Hook, NJ, the coast of Long Island, NY from Fire Island Inlet around to Port Jefferson Harbor, New Haven, CT to west of Westport, MA including Block Island as well as north of Hull, MA to the Marrimack River and from Stonington, ME eastward to Eastport, ME.
Tropical storm watches are in effect north of the Marrimack River to west of Stonington, ME, the Long Island Coast from west of Fire Island Inlet to west of Port Jefferson Harbor.
See www.nhc.noaa.gov/ for the latest advisories.
(NOAA)
FEMA Preparations for Hurricane Earl
The National Response Coordination Center is operating 24/7 including the Emergency Support Functions, Emergency Management Agency Coordinators, and Movement Coordination Center to support the NRCC operations as directed. FEMA Logistics and MERS staff mobilized commodities and equipment including meals, water, generators, and communications teams, to Incident Support Bases in North Carolina and Massachusetts.
FEMA Region I Regional Response Coordination Center and the MERS Operations Center in Maynard, MA are operating 24/7. Numerous Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMATs) from around the country are deployed throughout the region. A FEMA Urban Search and Rescue team was activated for Region I and additional teams are on alert.
FEMA Region II Regional Response Coordination Center is operating 24/7 with Emergency Support Functions and the Defense Coordinating Element activated. Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMATs), Defense Coordinating Officers, and Federal Coordinating Officers are staffing New York and the Caribbean Area Division and there are no reported shortfalls or unmet needs.
FEMA Region III Regional Response Coordination Center is operating from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Region deployed IMAT teams to Virginia and Maryland and a team for Delaware is identified and on standby.
FEMA Region IV Regional Response Coordination Center is operating from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. including the Emergency Support Functions and Defense Coordinating Element. Commodities are in place at the Incident Support Base in North Carolina. A Federal Coordinating Officer, Regional Incident Management Assistance Team, and a State Liaison Officer are assigned to the North Carolina State Emergency Operations Center.
The Governors of Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, Rhode Island, and Virginia declared states of emergency.
(FEMA HQ, Regions I, II, III, IV)
Additional Tropical Activity in the Atlantic Basin
Tropical Storm Fiona is 285 miles south-southwest of Bermuda moving north at 13 mph. Maximum sustained winds are near 50 mph with tropical storm force winds extending out 105 miles from the center. Fiona is expected to pass near Bermuda later this evening or early Saturday and weaken during the next few days.
The remnants of Gaston are now only a tropical low 1,100 miles west of the Cape Verde Islands with a 20 percent chance of redeveloping into a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Another tropical wave off the west coast of Africa has a low chance, near 10 percent, of becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific
Tropical Depression Ten-E is located 220 miles south of the southern tip of Baja, California moving northwest near eight mph but is forecast to move west-northwest later today. The system has maximum sustained winds near 35 mph but is expected to weaken on Saturday.
Another system over the Gulf of Tehuantepec has a low chance, near 20 percent, of developing into a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours. This storm is nearly stationary so regardless of development, it could produce heavy localized rain for areas of Mexico and Guatemala during the next few days.
Central and Central Pacific:
No tropical cyclones are expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Thursday, September 2, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (98 new fires), new large fires: 5, large fires contained: 4
Uncontained large fires: 12, U.S. States affected: ID, UT, OR, HI, WY, OK, AR, KY, & MT
(NIFC)
Idaho Wildfire
The Hurd Fire is located in Valley County, Idaho, northwest of Cascade, and has now burned 1,380 acres. It is 95% contained and there are no reported injuries or fatalities. FMAG-2853 was approved on Aug 26.
(HQ FEMA)
Kansas
Amendment No. 1 to DR-1932-KS was approved on September 2, 2010 and makes an additional seven counties eligible for the Public Assistance program.
North Carolina
Amendment No. 1 to EM-3314-NC was approved on September 2, 2010 and makes 12 additional counties eligible for the Public Assistance program (Category B), to include direct Federal Assistance.
Massachusetts
On September 2, 2010, the President signed Emergency Declaration EM-3315 for Massachusetts as a result of Hurricane Earl beginning on September 1, 2010, and continuing. The declaration approves emergency protective measures (Category B), including direct Federal assistance. James N. Russo of the FCO Program will coordinate federal operations for this disaster response.
(HQ FEMA)
Thursday, September 2, 2010
West
The region will be generally cool and dry under a ridge of high pressure. A strong upper level high pressure system developing over Southern California will bring a prolonged period of hot weather to the inland areas of southwestern California. The warmest temperatures of this heat wave are generally expected on Thursday and Friday, when triple digit heat will be common across inland areas. Warmer than normal weather conditions are expected to linger into weekend.
Midwest
A cold front extends from the Great Lakes to the Texas Panhandle and will produce showers, thunderstorms, and severe thunderstorms (hail, gusty winds, localized flooding and possible tornados) across the Upper Plains, Great Lakes, and Mississippi and Ohio Valleys.
Northeast
The system moving out of the Midwest will bring precipitation to western Pennsylvania, New York, and New England later today but most of the region will be precipitation free. Some areas of the Mid-Atlantic coast will begin to feel the effects of Hurricane Earl.
South
Under high pressure, the region will be partly cloudy except for showers in Texas and Oklahoma.(NOAA and media sources)
No activity. (HQ FEMA)
Tropical Weather OutlookAtlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
Hurricane Earl is a large, intense Category 4 storm located 355 miles south of Cape Hatteras, NC moving northwest at 18 mph. It has maximum sustained winds of 135 mph with hurricane force winds extending out 90 miles from the center and tropical storm winds extending 230 miles from the center.
Earl will pass near the Outer Banks of North Carolina tonight as a major hurricane, with winds of 111 mph or above. Tropical storm force winds, winds of 39 mph and above, are forecast to begin to reach from Virginia to New Jersey by late Thursday night and early Friday morning.
Storm surge levels of three to five feet above ground level are expected within the hurricane warning area and lower Chesapeake Bay. In the tropical storm warning areas, storm surges will be one to three feet above ground level and the coastal areas will also see large and battering waves.
The eastern part of North Carolina including the Outer Banks will also see two to four inches of rain with up to six inches possible. One to two inches of rain, large swells and dangerous surf are also possible along the immediate Mid-Atlantic coast.
A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Bogue Inlet, NC northeastward to the North Carolina/Virginia border including the Pamlico and Albemarle sounds.
A Hurricane Watch is in effect for north of the North Carolina/Virginia border to Cape Henlopen, DE. In Massachusetts, the Watches include Westport to Plymouth, MA as well as Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
Tropical Storm Warnings in North Carolina and the Mid-Atlantic states include; Cape Fear, NC to west of Bogue Inlet, NC; north of the North Carolina/Virginia border to Sandy Hook, NJ; and the Delaware Bay south of Slaughter Beach and the Chesapeake Bay south of New Point Comfort. In New York, there is a Tropical Storm Warning for the coast of Long Island including Suffolk County and coastal waters surrounding Long Island including Fire Island Inlet northward and eastward to Port Jefferson Harbor.
Tropical Storm watches are in effect from Sandy Hook, NJ up the Atlantic coast to Woods Hole, MA. Included in these watches is Long Island Sound, Block Island and the coast of Long Island from west of Fire Island Inlet around to Port Jefferson Harbor. The watches also extend north of Plymouth, MA to Eastport, ME. See www.nhc.noaa.gov/ for the latest advisories.
(NOAA)
FEMA Preparations for Hurricane Earl
The National Response Coordination Center is operating 24/7 including the Emergency Support Functions. FEMA Logistics is finalizing pre-staging of commodities and equipment including meals, water, generators, and communications teams, to Incident Support Bases in North Carolina and Massachusetts.
FEMA Region I Regional Response Coordination Center and the MERS Operations Center in Maynard, MA are operating 24/7. Numerous Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMATs) from around the country are deployed throughout the region. A FEMA Urban Search and Rescue team was activated in Region I and three additional teams are on alert.
FEMA Region II Regional Response Coordination Center is operating from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Emergency Support Functions and the Defense Coordinating Element is activated until further notice. Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMATs), Defense Coordinating Officers and Federal Coordinating Officer are deployed to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments were completed in Puerto Rico and no federal aid was requested. Personnel deployed to Puerto Rico will support operations in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
FEMA Region III Regional Response Coordination Center is operating from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Region has identified three IMAT teams to deploy as needed.
FEMA Region IV Regional Response Coordination Center is operating 24/7 including the Emergency Support Functions and Defense Coordinating Element. Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMATs) are deployed to North Carolina and the Incident Support Base in North Carolina is finalizing pre-landfall commodity placement. A Federal Coordinating Officer and a State Liaison Officer are assigned to the North Carolina State Emergency Operations Center.
The Governors of Virginia, Maryland, and North Carolina have declared states of emergency.
North Carolina issued mandatory evacuation orders for Dare County, Hyde County and Pine Knoll Shores, Emerald Isle, Bogue Banks, Atlantic Beach and Indian Beach in Carteret County.
(FEMA HQ, Regions I, II, III, IV)
Additional Tropical Activity in the Atlantic:
Tropical Storm Fiona is located 295 miles north of San Juan, Puerto Rico moving northwest near 17 mph. The storm is expected to move northward and is expected pass near Bermuda Saturday morning.
Maximum sustained winds are near 50 mph and extend out 115 miles from the center but it is expected to maintain the same level of strength during the next 48 hours.
Tropical Storm Gaston is located 1, 550 miles east of the Lesser Antilles moving west near 9 mph with maximum sustained near 40 mph. The system is anticipated to slow its forward movement but gradually strengthen during the next 48 hours.
A new tropical wave recently emerged off the west coast of Africa and has a low chance, near 10 percent, of becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific
A low pressure system located 210 miles west-southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico is moving west-northwest at 5 mph. This system has a high chance, near 80 percent, of becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclones are expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Wednesday, September 1, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (85 new fires), new large fires: 3, large fires contained: 5
Uncontained large fires: 15, U.S. States affected: ID, OR, WA, MT, HI, CA, WY, OK, & AR
(NIFC)
Texas
FEMA-1931-DR-TX is amended effective September 1, 2010. Amendment No 4 adds Calhoun County for Public Assistance.
North Carolina
On September 1, 2010, the President signed Emergency Declaration EM-3314 for the State of North Carolina due to the potential impact of Hurricane Earl beginning September 1, 2010 and continuing. The declaration approves Public Assistance for eighteen counties, and Hazard Mitigation statewide. The FCO is Michael Bolch of the National FCO Program.
Illinois
Governor of Illinois requests to amend the incident period for FEMA-1935-DR-IL to include eligible damages events beginning on July 19, 2010, and ending August 7, 2010. The incident period for this declaration is currently July 22 to August 7, 2010. Additionally, the Governor is requesting the Public Assistance program be authorized under FEMA-1935-DR. (HQ FEMA)
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
West
A warm front will cause widespread precipitation through the Pacific Northwest extending into the northern Rocky Mountains. A Winter Weather Advisory was issued for the northern Rocky Mountains through today as up to 3 inches of snow is possible in elevations above 6,500 feet.
Midwest
A cold front will extend from the Great Lakes to the Texas Panhandle and will cause showers and thunderstorms with occasional large hail and gusty winds through the Great Lakes, Mississippi Valley, and the Plains. Severe thunderstorms are also possible in the Northern and Central Plains. Localized heavy rain expected in parts of Middle Mississippi Valley.
Northeast
Under a high pressure ridge, the region will be warm and dry except for a few isolated showers in northern Maine.
South
Under high pressure, most of the region will be partly cloudy except for showers along the Gulf Coast, Texas and Oklahoma. Coastal areas from Florida and to the Carolinas will begin to experience some effects from Hurricane Earl.
(NOAA and media sources)
No activity. (HQ FEMA)
Tropical Weather OutlookAtlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
Hurricane Earl is a large, strong hurricane located 780 miles from Cape Hatteras, NC moving northwest at 16 mph. It has maximum sustained winds of 125 mph with hurricane force winds extending 90 miles from the center and tropical storm force winds extending 200 miles from the center. Earl is a Category 3 storm but fluctuations in strength are likely to occur during the next 48 hours. The storm is expected to pass by the Bahamas today and approach the North Carolina coast by Friday morning.
Hurricane watches are in effect from Cape Fear, NC to Parramore Island, VA. These areas can expect the possibility of hurricane conditions in their area within 48 hours. Hurricane warnings are likely today for some areas of North Carolina, and dangerous surf conditions and rip currents are likely to begin today along the U.S. East Coast.
The storm is currently forecast to move up along the East Coast with the center just off the North Carolina coast. Local officials have ordered evacuations in Ocracoke Island, NC and Hatteras Island, NC. The track may fluctuate over time so areas from Virginia through New England should keep a close eye on the progress of the storm and heed the advice of their local officials and emergency managers.
(NOAA)
FEMA Preparations and Response for Hurricane Earl
The National Response Coordination Center is activated to 24/7 operations and Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMATs) are moving to Region I and Region IV to prepare for possible impact by Hurricane Earl. FEMA Logistics is moving supplies including meals, water, generators and communications teams.
FEMA Region I Regional Response Coordination Center and the MERS Operations Center in Maynard, MA are operating from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Numerous Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMATs) from around the country are deployed throughout the region.
FEMA Region II Regional Response Coordination Center is operating from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Emergency Support Functions and the Defense Coordinating Element is activated until further notice. Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMATs) are deployed to the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico and another IMAT is on alert in New York. Defense Coordinating Officers and two Federal Coordinating Officers were sent to the Caribbean Area Division in advance of the storm. FEMA liaisons are working with local officials out of the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico Emergency Operations Centers.
FEMA Region III Regional Response Coordination Center is operating from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Region has identified three IMAT teams to deploy as needed.
FEMA Region IV Regional Response Coordination Center is operating from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMATs) are deployed to North Carolina and an Incident Support Base is standing up in Ft. Bragg, NC.
(FEMA HQ, Regions I, II, III, IV)
Additional Atlantic Basin Tropical Activity:
Hurricane Earl (discussed above)
Tropical Storm Fiona is located 200 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands moving west-northwest near 14 mph. Maximum sustained winds are near 60 mph with tropical storm force winds extending out 140 miles from the center. Fiona is expected to intensify slightly during the next 24 hours as it makes a gradual turn northwest later today. It is forecast to pass just north of the northernmost Leeward Islands but those islands can expect to see one to three inches of rain with up to five inches of rain possible in some areas.
Another area of low pressure in the Atlantic is located about 800 miles west-southwest of the Cape Verde Islands and appears favorable for development. This system could become a tropical depression at any time and there is now a high chance, near 80 percent, of it becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific
A well defined area of low pressure is located about 250 miles southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico moving northwest at 10 mph. There is a high chance, near 60 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclones are expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
On Aug 31, a magnitude 5.0 earthquake struck Guam at 5:16 p.m. EDT. The earthquake was located 20 miles NNE of Hagatna, Guam. No tsunami was generated and no damages were reported. (USGS)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Monday, August 31, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (188 new fires), new large fires: 1, large fires contained: 7
Uncontained large fires: 26, U.S. States affected: ID, OR, WA, MT, CA, HI, MO & OK
(NIFC)
Washington State Wildfires
The Slide Creek Fire is located in Stevens County, six miles south of Colville, WA. The fire has burned 989 acres and is now 90 percent contained. There are no reported injuries or fatalities. A Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved on Aug 27.
The Highway 8 Complex Fire is located in Klickitat County just north of Lyle, WA. The fire has burned more than two thousand acres and is now 100 percent contained. There are no reported injuries or fatalities.
Idaho Wildfire
The Hurd Fire is located northwest of Cascade, Idaho and has burned 1,331 acres. It is 80% contained and there are no reported injuries or fatalities. FMAG-2853 was approved on Aug 26.
(HQ FEMA)
New Mexico
The Governor has requested a Major Disaster Declaration as a result of severe monsoonal storms and flooding that began July 25, 2010 and continuing. Specifically requested is PA for McKinley, Cibola, Socorro, Mora, and San Juan Counties and Hazard Mitigation statewide. The Governor further requests direct Federal Assistance. (HQ FEMA)
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Northeast
High pressure remains locked over the Northeast, it will be sunny but warm, with temperatures in the 90s with low humidity.
Midwest
A cold front moving through the Midwest will extend from Lake Superior to northern Kansas by this evening. A second round of severe thunderstorms will develop today ahead of the front from the Upper Midwest to the central Plains. The main threat from these storms will be damaging wind gusts, but hail and tornadoes may also be possible. Temperatures are expected to drop significantly as the front passes through the region.
West
Showery rain is expected today across parts of Washington and Oregon, and will transition to scattered thunderstorms in Idaho and Montana. The Northwest will remain cool with temperatures 5 to 20 degrees below average. Highs across the lower elevations will peak in the 60s and 70s.
South
Thunderstorms are expected in the Gulf Coast region and southern Plains with temperatures in the mid to upper 90s across most areas. The weather will remain relatively quiet until Hurricane Earl begins to move toward the coastal Carolinas later in the week.
(NOAA and media sources)
No activity. (HQ FEMA)
Tropical Weather OutlookAtlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
Hurricane Earl is a strong Category Four storm located 190 miles north-northwest of San Juan, Puerto Rico moving west-northwest at 13 mph. The storm has sustained winds near 135 mph with hurricane winds extending out 70 miles from the center and tropical storm winds extending out 200 miles from the center. Earl is expected to continue northwest during the next 48 hours and move over the open Atlantic.
A Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands but conditions should gradually subside. Another few inches of rain is possible across these areas and heavy accumulations over the past two days could cause dangerous mudslides. The U.S. East Coast especially the Carolinas to New England should closely monitor the progress of Earl.
Now is the time to review local evacuation routes, make an emergency plan to keep in touch with family members during an emergency and for those who live further inland and may lose electrical power for an extended period; stock up on supplies and make the necessary preparations to shelter in place. For more information on what you need to do to prepare for an emergency, see www.ready.gov.
FEMA Headquarters
The National Response Coordination Center activated to 24/7 operations today and Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMATs) from FEMA Regions V, IX, and X are deploying to Region I to prepare for possible storm impact in New England.
FEMA Region II
FEMA Region II Region Response Coordination Center is operating from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Emergency Support Functions and the Defense Coordinating Element is activated until further notice. Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMATs), Defense Coordinating Officers and two Federal Coordinating Officers were sent to the Caribbean Area Division in advance of the storm. FEMA liaisons are working with local officials out of the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico Emergency Operations Centers.
Also in the Atlantic
Tropical Storm Fiona is located about 590 miles east of the Leeward Islands moving toward the west-northwest near 24 mph but is expected to slow down and move northwest during the next 48 hours. The storm has maximum sustained winds around 40 mph and is expected to pass near or northeast of the northern Leeward Islands early Wednesday.
Another broad area of low pressure, associated with a tropical wave, is about 400 miles southwest of the Cape Verde Islands. Development, if any, is expected to be slow to occur as this system moves westward at 15 mph. There is a low chance, near 10 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific
A broad area of low pressure is located 400 miles south of Manzanillo, Mexico moving northwest about 10 mph. There is a medium chance, near 30 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclones are expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Monday, August 30, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (115 new fires), new large fires: 5, large fires contained: 5
Uncontained large fires: 26, U.S. States affected: ID, OR, WA, MT, CA, HI, MO & OK
(NIFC)
Washington State
The Slide Creek Fire is located in Stevens County, six miles south of Colville, WA. The fire has burned 989 acres and is now 90 percent contained. There are no reported injuries or fatalities. A Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved on Aug 27.
The Highway 8 Complex Fire is located in Klickitat County just north of Lyle, WA. The fire has burned more than two thousand acres and is now 85 percent contained. There are no reported injuries or fatalities.
Idaho
The Hurd Fire is located northwest of Cascade, Idaho and has burned 1,331 acres. It is 70% contained and there are no reported injuries or fatalities. FMAG-2853 was approved on Aug 26.
(HQ FEMA)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Monday, August 30, 2010
Northeast
High pressure will dominate the region today, with fronts staying very far to the north and west. High temperatures are forecast to be 5 to 15 degrees above average, with highs in the 90s from New York to New England. The dry, hot weather will continue on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Midwest
Scattered thunderstorms are possible today in the mid-Mississippi and lower Ohio Valleys. Severe thunderstorms, accompanied by locally heavy rainfall (1-2-inches), will develop across the Dakotas, Nebraska and western Minnesota. The severe threats include damaging wind gusts, hail and a few tornadoes.
West
With a cold front aligned from the Wyoming-Nebraska border to Southern California, much of the West will be cool today with temperatures 5 to 20 degrees below average with the exception of eastern Colorado. Eastbound upper-level disturbances over the Northwest will continue to generate showers and scattered thunderstorms across Washington, Oregon, northern California, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and northern Utah. A few thunderstorms are also possible across easternmost Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico. Gusty winds will linger over Wyoming and parts of the Four Corners states.
South
While the same high pressure system impacting the Northeast will keep most of the Southeast rain-free today, thunderstorms are possible over South Florida and along the northern Gulf Coast. A disturbance moving northward through the lower Mississippi Valley will trigger additional scattered showers and thunderstorms across Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas and western Tennessee. Temperatures will vary from slightly below average in Mississippi to as much as 10 degrees above average in North Carolina. (NOAA and media sources)
National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Sunday, August 29, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (125 new fires), new large fires: 4, large fires contained: 7
Uncontained large fires: 27, U.S. States affected: ID, OR, WA, MT, CA, HI, WY, NE, TN & OK (NIFC)
Washington State
The Slide Creek Fire is located in Stevens County, six miles south of Colville, WA. The fire has burned 989 acres and is 60 percent contained. Three residences are destroyed and 25-50 structures remain threatened. There are no reported injuries or fatalities but advisory evacuations are in effect. A Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved on Aug 27.
The Highway 8 Complex Fire is located in Klickitat County just north of Lyle, WA. The fire has burned 2,040 acres and is 40 percent contained. There are no reported injuries or fatalities. (HQ FEMA)
Idaho
The Hurd Fire is located northwest of Cascade, Idaho and has burned 1,331 acres. It is 70% contained and there are no reported injuries or fatalities. FMAG-2853 was approved on Aug 26.
Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)
No activity. (FEMA HQ)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
Hurricane Earl is a Category Two storm with maximum sustained winds of 110 mph with higher gusts. It is located about 170 miles east of St. Thomas and 236 miles east of San Juan, Puerto Rico moving west-northwest near 14 mph and is expected to turn northwest on Tuesday. Earl is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane, which is a Category Three or higher, by tonight or early Tuesday.
A Hurricane Warning is now in effect for the U.S. Virgin Islands. A Hurricane Watch and a Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Puerto Rico including the islands of Culebra and Vieques. Earl will pass near or over the northernmost Leeward Islands this morning and near the Virgin Islands this afternoon and evening. This storm is expected to produce total rainfall accumulations of four to eight inches with isolated amounts close to 12 inches. These rains could produce life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.
At FEMA Headquarters in Washington, D.C., the National Response Coordination Center (NRCC) Activation Team members and Emergency Support Function representatives are on alert and watching the activity in the Atlantic. FEMA Logistics has communications equipment and vehicles in place at the Puerto Rico Caribbean Area Division and in the Virgin Islands.
In FEMA Region II (New York, New Jersey and the Caribbean Area Division), the Regional Response Coordination Center is activated to 24/7 operations. Emergency Support Function representatives and the Defense Control Element are also activated. IMAT Team-A is deployed to the U.S. Virgin Islands and IMAT Team-C is deployed to Puerto Rico.
Elsewhere in the Atlantic, Hurricane Danielle is still a weak Category One hurricane located 440 miles south of Cape Race, Newfoundland moving northeast near 17 mph. Current maximum sustained winds are near 75 mph, with higher gusts. As it continues to move over the cold waters of the Atlantic, it will transition into a large extratropical cyclone.
Another low pressure system located about 1050 miles east of the Lesser Antilles is gradually becoming better organized. There is a 90 percent chance of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific
A broad area of disturbed weather situated several hundred miles south of Manzanillo, Mexico remains poorly organized. There is a low chance, 20 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central and Western Pacific:No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours. (NOAA, JTWC)
Earthquake ActivityNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Disaster Declaration ActivityNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Friday, August 27, 2010
West:
A frontal system and an upper level trough will bring cooler weather, showers and thunderstorms to the Northern Rockies. Monsoonal moisture will produce showers and thunderstorms in the Desert Southwest, and the Central Great Basin. Areas of heavy rain will produce localized flooding. Gusty winds and low humidity will produce Critical Fire Weather and Red Flag Warnings for most of Nevada today.
Midwest:
The Plains will be hot and dry with high temperatures above 90 for many areas. Gusty southerly winds, high temperatures and low humidity will result in Critical Fire Weather and Red Flag Warnings over the Northern Plains for most of the day. The frontal system moving out of the Rockies will bring showers and thunderstorms to the Northern Plains this evening.
South:
Under the influence of high pressure to the north, most of the region will be warm and dry. The stationary front remains in place along the Gulf Coast. Showers and thunderstorms are forecast for coastal areas from Louisiana to the Carolinas.
Northeast:
Under high pressure, the region will be dry with seasonable temperatures. The only precipitation will be a few showers in northern Maine.
(NOAA and media sources)
No activity. (HQ FEMA)
Tropical Weather OutlookAtlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
Hurricane Danielle is now a dangerous Category 4 tropical cyclone located approximately 545 miles southeast of Bermuda moving northwest near 12 mph. Maximum sustained winds are near 135 mph with hurricane force winds extending out 60 miles from the center and tropical storm winds extending out 200 miles from the center. The center of the storm is forecast to pass east of the island of Bermuda but the Unites States East Coast states will begin to experience strong swells and rip currents by Saturday.
Tropical Storm Earl is currently located approximately 1,430 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands moving west near 17 mph. The storm has maximum sustained winds near 45 mph and is anticipated to strengthen during the next 48 hours and forecast to become Hurricane Earl by Saturday night.
Another vigorous tropical wave is located about 210 miles south-southeast of the Cape Verde Islands. This system is highly anticipated, a near 70 percent chance, to become a tropical depression during the next few days. It is continuing to move west at 15 to 20 mph.
Eastern Pacific
Hurricane Frank is a Category 1 tropical cyclone located 330 miles south-southwest of the southern tip of Baja California moving west-northwest near 10 mph. The storm currently has sustained winds of 80 mph but it is forecast to weaken as it continues north over cooler waters this weekend.
Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Thursday, August 26, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (145 new fires), new large fires: 4, large fires contained: 4
Uncontained large fires: 17, U.S. States affected: OR, WA, ID, CA, HI, MT, LA, OK, & WY (NIFC)
Idaho- Hurd Fire
The Hurd Fires is located in Valley County, ID and approximately 900 acres are consumed. The fire is now approximately ten percent contained and preparations have been made for evacuations.
California- Post Fire
The Post Fire is located near Frazier Park, CA in Kern County and approximately 1,300 acres are consumed. An FMAG was approved on August 24, 2010 and the fire is currently estimated to be 76 contained. (HQ FEMA)
Missouri – Severe Storms, Flooding, and Tornadoes from June 12 - July 30
Amendment #1 to FEMA-1934-DR-MO was approved on August 26, 2010. This amendment makes seven additional counties eligible for the Public Assistance Program. (HQ FEMA)
Thursday, August 26, 2010
West:
A strong low pressure system will push into the Pacific Northwest. The tight pressure gradient will produce gusty winds in central Washington and Oregon. Winds will gust to 35 mph and Blowing Dust Advisories will be in effect during afternoon and evening hours. Precipitation will be limited to showers and thunderstorms across the higher elevations of the Pacific Northwest and the Southwest. Critical Fire Weather and associated Red Flag warnings are in effect from northern California to western Washington and east to the Dakotas during afternoon and evening hours, due to gusty winds and low humidity. High temperatures will exceed 100 degrees in the Central valley of California and the Desert Southwest.
Midwest:
A large ridge of high pressure will keep the region dry today and tomorrow. The Central Plains will be hot with highs reaching the 90s in most locations.
South:
A stationary front across the Gulf Coast will continue to produce showers and thunderstorms. Fortunately, the heaviest precipitation will remain offshore. The tail end of the cold front will produce rain and rain showers over the Carolinas. (NOAA’s National Weather Service, the Hydrometeorological Prediction Center and media sources)
Northeast:
The region will be generally dry, but a cold front will produce a few showers across parts of northwest Pennsylvania, Upstate New York and New England.
California – Post Fire – near Lebec, Kern County
A FMAG was approved at 8:00 p.m. EDT, Aug 24, 2010 for the Post Fire located near Fraizer Park, Kern County, California. Approximately, 1,500 acres consumed and 0% contained. About 400 residents evacuated from Fraizer Park (Population: 2,800) and 25 structures are threatened. (HQ FEMA)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
Hurricane Danielle
At 5:00 a.m. EDT, the center of Hurricane Danielle was located about 795 miles east of the At 5:00 a.m. EDT, the center of Hurricane Danielle was located 860 miles southeast of Bermuda (795 mi east-northeast of San Juan Puerto Rico). Danielle is moving toward the northwest near 16 mph and this general motion is expected to continue with a gradual decrease in forward speed over the next couple of days. Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 105 mph, with higher gusts. Danielle is a Category Two Hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane wind scale. Some additional strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours and Danielle could become a major hurricane by tonight or Friday. Hurricane force winds extend outward up to 40 miles from the center, and tropical storm force winds extend outward up to 175miles.
Tropical Storm Earl
At 5:00 a.m. EDT, the center of Tropical Storm Earl was located approximately 695 miles west of the southernmost Cape Verde Islands. Earl is moving toward the west-northwest near 16 mph. This motion is expected to continue during the next 48 hours. Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 45 mph, with higher gusts. Additional strengthening is forecast during the next couple of days and Earl is expected to become a hurricane by late Friday or early Saturday. Tropical storm force winds extend outward up to 60 miles from the center.
Eastern Pacific:
Hurricane Frank
At 5:00 a.m. EDT, the center of Hurricane Frank was located about 380 miles south-southeast of the southern tip of Baja California, Mexico. Frank is moving toward the west-northwest near 14 mph and this general motion is expected to continue for the next day or so. A reduction in forward speed is likely to occur on Friday. Maximum sustained winds are near 80 mph, with higher gusts. Frank is a Category One Hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Scale. Some strengthening is forecast today, and a gradual weakening trend is expected to begin on Friday as Frank moves over cooler waters. Hurricane force winds extend outward up to 15 miles from the center and tropical storm force winds extend outward up to 70 miles.
Central Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity is expected through Thursday evening.
Western Pacific:
No activity.(NOAA, NWS, HPC, National Hurricane Center, Central Pacific Hurricane Center, and the Joint Typhoon Warning Center)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Wednesday, August 25, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (158 new fires), new large fires: 4, large fires contained: 1
Uncontained large fires: 20, U.S. States affected: CA, OR, WA, ID, MT, HI &WY (NIFC)
California – Post Fire – near Frazier Park, CA (Kern County)
An FMAG was approved on Aug 24, 2010 for the Post Fire located near Frazier Park, CA in Kern County. The Governor declared a State of Emergency for Kern County on Aug 25, 2010. Approximately 1,000 acres were consumed and about 60% contained. All mandatory evacuations have been lifted. (HQ FEMA)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
West:
Isolated showers and thunderstorms are forecast across the Desert Southwest from Southern California to New Mexico, especially during the evening hours. Record and near record temperatures are expected along the entire West Coast. Inland areas will have temperatures from the 90s to as high as 110 degrees in the inland valleys. Excessive Heat Warnings are in effect for Southern California and the Desert Southwest through this evening. Red Flag Warnings will remain in effect throughout the day in Washington, Oregon and Idaho.
Midwest:
A cold front stretching from the Great Lakes to Texas continues to move across the region. There is limited moisture associated with this front, so only isolated showers and thunderstorms are in the forecast as the front crosses the Ohio Valley. Temperatures behind the front will be much cooler than experienced in recent weeks. Highs will range from the 60s to the lower 80s.
South:
The cold front extending from the Midwest will produce showers and thunderstorms across Texas. The threat will be limited to gusty winds and heavy precipitation. The front across the southeast will produce scattered showers and thunderstorms from the Big Bend area of Florida to North Carolina.
Northeast:
A low-pressure system off the New England Coast will continue to produce precipitation from the Mid-Atlantic to New England. (NOAA’s National Weather Service, the Hydrometeorological Prediction Center and media sources)
California – Post Fire – near Lebec, Kern County
A FMAG was approved at 8:00 p.m. EDT, Aug 24, 2010 for the Post Fire located near Fraizer Park, Kern County, California. Approximately, 1,500 acres consumed and 0% contained. About 400 residents evacuated from Fraizer Park (Population: 2,800) and 25 structures are threatened. (HQ FEMA)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
Hurricane Danielle
At 5:00 a.m. EDT, the center of Hurricane Danielle was located about 795 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands (1,000 miles east of San Juan, Puerto Rico). Danielle is moving toward the west-northwest near 17 mph. A turn toward the northwest with a decrease in forward speed is expected during the next couple of days. The maximum sustained winds have increased to near 85 mph, with higher gusts. Danielle is a Category 1 Hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale. Additional strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours.
Area 1
A broad area of low pressure located about 200 miles west-southwest of the southernmost Cape Verde Islands is accompanied by a large area of cloudiness and showers. Although there has been little change in the organization of the associated shower activity over the past few hours, environmental conditions remain conducive for the formation of a tropical depression during the next couple of days. There is a high chance (90 percent) of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours as it moves west-northwestward near 15 mph.
Area 2
A surface trough over the central Gulf of Mexico is producing disorganized cloudiness and a few thunderstorms. Development, if any, of this system is expected to be slow to occur as it drifts westward or west-southwestward. There is a low chance (10 percent) of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific:
Tropical Storm Frank
At 5:00 a.m. EDT, the center of Tropical Storm Frank was located about 200 miles south-southeast of Manzanillo, Mexico. Frank is moving toward the west-northwest near 9 mph. This general motion is expected to continue through Friday. On this track, Frank will continue to move away from the southwestern coast of Mexico. Maximum sustained winds are near 70 mph, with higher gusts. Some strengthening is possible and Frank could be a hurricane later today.
Central Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity is expected through Thursday evening.
Western Pacific:
No activity.(NOAA, NWS, HPC, National Hurricane Center, Central Pacific Hurricane Center, and the Joint Typhoon Warning Center)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Tuesday, August 24, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (158 new fires), new large fires: 4, large fires contained: 6
Uncontained large fires: 18, U.S. States affected: CA, OR, WA, ID, MT, NV, CO &WY (NIFC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
West:
A large high pressure area over the Central Rockies will keep most of this region free from precipitation today. The tail end of the front will produce scattered showers and thunderstorms across Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico and localized flash flooding is possible in some areas. High temperatures continue across the Southwest and coastal areas from San Francisco to Los Angeles will experience the hottest weather of the year.
Midwest:
Expect isolated showers and thunderstorms along the northern part of a cold front extending from the Great Lakes to the Southern Plains. Air behind the front will be much cooler than the region has experienced lately with temperature highs reaching only into the 70s.
South:
A stationary front will bring little relief to the high temperatures in the Deep South but areas north of the front will enjoy lower humidity. Precipitation will be limited to coastal areas and the Florida Peninsula could receive up to two inches of rain in the next 24 hours. A cold front dropping out of the Midwest will bring cooler temperatures and rain to Oklahoma and the Texas panhandle but areas south of the front will see temperatures climb to near 100 by this afternoon.
Northeast:
Afternoon thunderstorms are forecast for West Virginia, Virginia and southern Maryland and an area of low pressure off the New England coast will produce precipitation from the Mid Atlantic to southern New England.
(NOAA and media sources)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
Hurricane Danielle is currently a Category Two hurricane located about 1,110 miles from the Lesser Antilles moving west-northwest near 20 mph. Maximum sustained winds for this system are currently near 100 mph with hurricane force winds extending outward 30 miles from the center. The storm is expected to reach Category Three, or major hurricane status, with sustained winds above 111 mph, by early Wednesday.
There is another strong tropical wave behind Hurricane Danielle that is located about 100 miles south of the Cape Verde Islands moving west-northwest at 15 mph. Satellite images indicate that this system is well organized, and environmental conditions also appear conducive for development. There is a 90 percent chance that this system will become a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific
Tropical Storm Frank is located about 130 mi south-southwest of Acapulco Mexico moving west-northwest near 9 mph. Frank has maximum sustained winds near 50 mph and is expected to move parallel to the coast of Mexico with some additional strengthening possible Wednesday.
Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity is expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Monday, August 23, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (113 new fires), new large fires: 7, large fires contained: 4
Uncontained large fires: 21, U.S. States affected: CA, OR, WA, ID, MT, NV &WY (NIFC)
Iowa
On Aug 23, 2010, Amendment #4 to FEMA-1930-DR-IA was approved. This amendment makes seven additional counties eligible for the Public Assistance Program.
(HQ FEMA)
Monday, August 23, 2010
Northeast
Rain continues to fall over much of the region today as an upper trough remains in place. Cooler temperatures and locally heavy rainfall are expected across much of New York and New England during the next couple of days. As low pressure develops and strengthens off the coast, gusty winds are also possible for areas along and near the New England Coast.
South
Showers and thunderstorms will produce locally heavy downpours and gusty winds today along and south of a cold front sliding through the eastern Carolinas, southern Georgia, southern Alabama and southern Mississippi. The cold front is bringing slightly lower humidity to northern parts of the south.
Heat Advisories continue today across portions of southern Oklahoma, eastern Texas, southwestern Arkansas and northern Louisiana; Excessive Heat Warnings are in effect for portions of southern Louisiana through this evening.
Midwest
A cold front moving across the Northern Plains will result in scattered showers and thunderstorms this afternoon; wind gusts of 40 mph are possible. Flood Warnings continue along portions of the Mississippi River, though improved weather conditions have allowed for some recession.
West
An upper trough and surface cold front will help to enhance the showers and thunderstorms today across much of the West; locally heavy downpours, gusty winds and small hail are possible, particularly in the Southwest. (NOAA’s National Weather Service, the Hydro meteorological Prediction Center and media sources)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
Tropical Storm Danielle
At 5:00 a.m. EDT, the center of Tropical Storm Danielle was located about 850 mi west of the southernmost Cape Verde Islands. Danielle is moving toward the west-northwest near 14 mph; and this general motion, with an increase in forward speed, is expected to continue through Tuesday. Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 60 mph, with higher gusts. Additional strengthening is forecast and Danielle is likely to become a hurricane within the next 24 hours.
Eastern Pacific
Tropical Storm Frank
At 2:00 a.m. PDT, the center of Tropical Storm Frank was located about 105 mi south-southwest of Puerto Escondido Mexico. Frank is moving toward the west near 8 mph; a turn toward the west-northwest is expected today and on the forecast track, Frank will be moving parallel to the coast of southern Mexico through Tuesday. Maximum sustained winds are near 60 mph, with higher gusts. Some strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours and Frank is expected to become a hurricane by late tonight.
Central Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity is expected through Saturday afternoon (NOAA, NWS, HPC, National Hurricane Center, Central Pacific Hurricane Center, and the Joint Typhoon Warning Center)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Sunday, August 22, 2010:
Initial attack activity: Light (132 new fires)
New large fires: 11
Large fires contained: 0
Uncontained large fires: 25
States Affected: CA, OR, WA, ID, AZ, AK, MT, WY & OK(NIFC)
Oregon
Lower Deschutes Complex Fire (Final)
Located 5 miles north of Maupin, Oregon, the fire is 9,304 acres and 100 percent contained. All evacuations have been lifted.
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Friday, August 20, 2010
Midwest
Strong to severe thunderstorms are forecast from the Northern Plains into the Upper Mississippi Valley from northern Michigan to eastern Kansas. Some thunderstorms may contain large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes. Weather conditions are expected to be dry from the lower Great Lakes down to the Ohio Valley as well as the High Plains. Highs of 100 or more are likely over the southern Plains.
South
Much of the South will see scattered thunderstorms especially in the area from Louisiana to Georgia and parts of the Florida Peninsula. Areas from the southern Plains down through Texas will be dry, along with parts of Kentucky and Tennessee to Virginia and North Carolina. Some locations around the Oklahoma and Texas border will see temperatures around 100 degrees or higher.
Northeast
Most of the region will be dry except for some light showers in extreme northern Maine.
West
The West will be dry. The only exceptions will be over parts of eastern Arizona and New Mexico where isolated thunderstorms will form. Parts of the Desert Southwest will see high temperatures from 105 to 100 degrees.
(NOAA and media sources)
Approximately 676 miles of coastline is currently impacted and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. To date, 22 percent or 52,395 miles of federal waters of Gulf Exclusive Economic Zone remain closed to fishing.
(NIC Daily SitRep Update)
National Fire Activity as of Thursday, August 19, 2010:
Initial attack activity: moderate (268 new fires), new large fires: 4, large fires contained: 2
Uncontained large fires: 5, U.S. States affected: OR, ID, AR, WY, AK, MT, and CA
(NIFC)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
A westward-moving tropical wave over the northwestern Caribbean Sea has a low chance, near 10 percent, of tropical cyclone formation during the next 48 hours. Another large area of disturbed weather extends from the west coast of Africa to several hundred miles southwest of the Cape Verde islands. Environmental conditions appear favorable for slow development of this system as it moves westward at 5 to 10 mph. In the near term, this system has a 20 percent chance of becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific:
Tropical Depression Eight-E is located about 230 miles west of Manzanillo, Mexico with maximum sustained winds of 35 mph. Some slight strengthening is forecast before it moves westward or west-northwestward then weakens over cooler water on Saturday. No coastal warnings or watches are in effect.
Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
Aftershocks continue in the Mariana Islands region, following the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that occurred on August 13, 2010. There were no reports of major damage or injury. (USGS)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Disaster Declaration ActivityThe President signed a major disaster declaration for Illinois for severe storms and flooding from July 22 to August 7, 2010(FEMA-1935-DR). The declaration makes seven counties eligible for the Individual Assistance Program and all counties eligible for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The Federal Coordinating Officer will be Gregory W. Eaton.
(FEMA HQ)
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Midwest
Thunderstorms are forecast from the Northern Plains to the upper Mississippi Valley. A few of these storms will be severe and may include hail, high winds, and lightning. A few storms are also possible in central and southern Michigan.
South
The remnants of Tropical Depression 5 are interacting with a weak frontal boundary and southeast Texas to the Carolinas can expect isolated to scattered thunderstorms. The heaviest rain will be in the southern Louisiana and Mississippi area and flash flooding is possible. Areas of heavy rain can also be expected in eastern Tennessee, southeastern Kentucky and in the Appalachians. Areas in north Texas and Arkansas will see high temperatures approach 100 with very high humidity.
Northeast
Showers and/or thunderstorms are possible over much of New York State later in the day. The rest of the region will experience a dry and sunny day.
West
Scattered thunderstorm activity will continue around the Four Corners area. Stronger storms could contain flooding downpours and strong wind gusts as well as dangerous lightning. The strong wind gusts ahead of these storms may produce local dust storms. A few thunderstorms could also move over eastern Montana into much of central and southern Wyoming. The remainder of the region should be dry. In the Southwest, high temperatures will range from the 100 to 115 degrees. (NOAA and media sources)
The official hurricane season for the Atlantic Basin (Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico) runs from June 1 to November 30. Major hurricanes can occur at any time during this season. According to historical data, most tropical cyclone activity occurs between mid to late August and mid to late October, with the peak of the hurricane season occurring around mid September. As we enter into the peak of the 2010 hurricane season, it is important to review their emergency plans for hurricane associated hazards such as; storm surge, high winds, tornadoes, and flooding. The best way to survive a hurricane and minimize its impact is to be prepared before it strikes. For more information, see the National Hurricane Center’s Hurricane Preparedness website: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/intro.shtml. (NOAA)
Mississippi Canyon 252 UpdateThe well pressure remains stable and well integrity monitoring is ongoing with sonar surveys and visual inspections. Drill Rig III is conducting in–place Blowout Preventer (BOP) testing. Drill Rig II continues rig maintenance and is preparing to temporarily abandon the well. Approximately 680 miles of coastline is impacted by the spill and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. (NIC Daily SitRep Update)
Tropical Weather OutlookAtlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
A tropical wave over the west-central and southwestern Caribbean Sea has a low chance, near 20 percent, of becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central, Eastern and Western Pacific:
Tropical cyclone formation is not expected during the next 48 hours. (NOAA, JTWC)
No significant activity. (USGS)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Wednesday, August 18, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (188 new fires), new large fires: 3, large fires contained: 2 Uncontained large fires: 4, U.S. States affected: OR, WA, ID, UT, AR, OK, MT, and CA. (NIFC)
Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)
FEMA-1931-DR-TX, Amendment #2 closes the incident period for this disaster effective August 14, 2010.
FEMA-1931-DR-TX, Amendment #3 adds 1 county for Public Assistance effective August 19, 2010.
FEMA-3313-EM-TX, Amendment #1 closes the incident period for this disaster effective August 14, 2010. (FEMA HQ)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Midwest
Severe thunderstorms are possible from the Dakotas to Upper Michigan, bringing the potential for damaging wind gusts, hail, and tornadoes. Kentucky may see more than an inch of rain but the rest of the region should remain dry.
South
The stalled frontal system draped over the South and the remnant of Tropical Depression Five will continue to bring rain and thunderstorms throughout the South. Downpours of 1 to 4 inches are possible from Louisiana to Tennessee. The southern Plains will see high temperatures between 95 to 103 degrees. Heat Advisories remain in effect for southeastern Texas, where high humidity will make the temperatures feel between 105 to 115 degrees.
Northeast
The stalled front along the North Carolina-Virginia line will bring heavy rain across the southern Mid-Atlantic Region with downpours up to 5 inches. Upstate New York to New England will remain dry.
West
Dry thunderstorms are forecast from the Cascades to the northern Rockies creating a possibility for wildfires from lightning strikes. The Four Corners states and parts of Nevada and southeast California may see some redeveloping thunderstorms.
(NOAA and media sources)
The well pressure remains stable and well integrity monitoring is ongoing with sonar surveys and visual inspections. Drill Rig III is conducting Blowout Preventer (BOP) testing. Drill Rig II continues rig maintenance and is preparing to temporarily abandon the well. Approximately 674 miles of coastline is impacted and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. Approximately 22 percent, or 52,395 miles, of federal waters of Gulf Exclusive Economic Zone remain closed to fishing.
(NIC Daily SitRep)
No activity. (HQ FEMA)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
A tropical wave located over Hispaniola and portions of the central Caribbean Sea is producing widespread cloudiness and disorganized shower activity. Development of this disturbance, if any, should be slow to occur over the next 48 hours due to unfavorable environmental conditions. There is a low chance, around 10 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone over the next 48 hours.
Central, Eastern and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Tuesday, August 17, 2010:
Initial attack activity: moderate (201 new fires), new large fires: 0, large fires contained: 3
Uncontained large fires: 6, U.S. States affected: OR, OK, LA, AR, ID, UT, MT & AK
(NIFC)
On August 17, 2010, the President approved a major disaster declaration for Missouri (FEMA-1934-DR) as a result of severe storms, flooding, and tornadoes from June 12 to July 31, 2010. The declaration makes 29 counties eligible for the Public Assistance Program and all counties eligible for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Joseph M. Girot was appointed as the Federal Coordinating Officer for this disaster.
(HQ FEMA)
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Midwest
Severe thunderstorms with downpours of over an inch of rain are possible as several upper-level disturbances cause widely scattered areas of precipitation along the central and southern Plains. These disturbances will track eastward today bringing the rain and storms into the eastern Plains and middle Mississippi Valley.
South
The remnant of Tropical Depression Five remains disorganized but continues to bring heavy rain to southern portions of Mississippi and southeast Louisiana. Coastal Louisiana may see flooding downpours of up to six inches. A stalling front extending from northwest North Carolina to the Oklahoma-Texas Red River Valley will bring thunderstorm activity, a few brief damaging winds gusts, and over an inch of rainfall.
Northeast
Severe thunderstorms are possible from the mid-Atlantic to the Central Appalachians as the southern portion of a frontal boundary lingers through the day and could bring strong wind gusts and downpours of an inch or more in some areas.
West
The Pacific Northwest may see a few dry thunderstorms from interior Washington to northern California and the fire danger will remain high due to the risk of lightning strikes from these storms. Thunderstorms are possible from Wyoming to Arizona and New Mexico. The Great Basin will see highs near 100, and the Desert Southwest can expect high temperatures from 100 to 120 degrees.
(NOAA and media sources)
The South Skunk River near Oskaloosa, Iowa, the Des Moines River at Ottumwa, Iowa and the Skunk River near Augusta, Iowa are expected to remain at major flood stage levels through Thursday. FEMA delivered 25 truckloads of water to Ames, Iowa and staged 14 truckloads of water at the incident support base. There are no further requests for FEMA assistance.
(FEMA Region VII)
The well pressure remains stable and well integrity monitoring is ongoing with sonar surveys and visual inspections. Ambient pressure test continues and drilling remains on hold until the testing is complete and discussion with the science team is complete. Approximately 673 miles of coastline is affected and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. Approximately 22 percent, or 52,395 miles, of federal waters in the Gulf exclusive economic zone remain closed to fishing.
(NIC Daily SitRep Update)
Tropical Weather Outlook
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
The remnant of former Tropical Depression Five is located 35 miles southeast of Gulfport, Miss. There is a medium chance, near 30 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone before moving inland over southeastern Miss. Locally heavy rainfall and gusty winds are forecast along portions of the north-central Gulf of Mexico coast through today.
Central, Eastern and Western Pacific:
Tropical cyclone formation is not expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA)
]At 10:49 p.m. EDT on August 17, 2010, a Magnitude 4.3 earthquake occurred 15 miles northeast of Jackson, Wyo., and 60 miles south-southeast of Old Faithful, Wyo., at a depth of 3.1 miles. There were no reports of damages or injuries.
(USGS)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Monday, August 16, 2010:
Initial attack activity: Light (140 new fires), new large fires: 2, large fires contained: 1
Uncontained large fires: 9, U.S. States affected: OR, OK, LA, AR, ID, UT, MT & AK.
(NIFC)
Amendment No. 3 to FEMA-1930-DR-IA makes Jasper, Mahaska, and Polk Counties eligible for the Individual Assistance Program (already designated for Public Assistance).
(HQ FEMA)
Monday, August 16, 2010
Midwest
Showers and thunderstorms will develop ahead of a cold front moving from the Great Lakes to the Mid-Atlantic and the Northeast. Gusty winds up to 40 mph are expected in the Upper Great Lakes in the vicinity of the Lake Superior shoreline of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Showers and thunderstorms are also possible in the Western Plains, spreading east into the Mississippi Valley by Tuesday and some flash flooding is possible.
South
The southern portion of a slow moving cold front is expected to stall over the lower Mississippi Valley and Southern Plains and bring showers and thunderstorms for the next couple of days. Precipitation will intensify as a low pressure center drifts westward along the gulf coast.
Northeast
Rain and thunderstorm activity is expected to continue for the next few days in the Mid-Atlantic Coast, up to the Hudson River Valley, and into western New England. A few stronger storms with locally heavy rain are also possible.
West
The West will remain mostly dry with dry thunderstorms possible in California, Washington and Oregon Mountains. Showers and thunderstorms are possible in the Rockies and High Plains, with a few stronger storms in eastern Wyoming, eastern Colorado, and northeastern New Mexico. Above average temperatures are expected in the Pacific Northwest, Great Basin, and the Desert Southwest, with record highs possible in parts of Washington and Oregon.
(NOAA and media sources)
The well pressure remains stable and well integrity monitoring is ongoing with sonar surveys and visual inspections. Ambient pressure test continues and drilling remains on hold until the testing is complete and discussion with the science team is complete. Approximately 672 miles of coastline is currently affected and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. Approximately 22 percent (52,395 miles of federal waters) of the Gulf Exclusive Economic Zone remains closed to fishing.
(NIC Daily SitRep Update)
In Iowa, the South Skunk River near Oskaloosa, the Des Moines River at Ottumwa and the Skunk River near Augusta, are expected to remain at major flood stage through Thursday. The Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers in central Iowa have now crested and continue to fall. A high pressure system in the region will keep most of the area dry through Tuesday and allow time for the rivers to recede further. FEMA delivered 25 truckloads of water to Ames, Iowa over the weekend and staged an additional 14 truckloads at the local incident command base. The boil water order for Ames, Iowa was lifted after satisfactory water test results and all additional requests were withdrawn. There are no additional requests for FEMA assistance. FEMA liaisons remain deployed to support the state emergency operations center.
(FEMA Region VII)
No activity. (HQ FEMA)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
The remnant of Tropical Depression Five is located over the extreme northern Gulf of Mexico just south of Panama City, Florida. Environmental conditions are forecast to be marginally conducive for development of this system as it moves westward over the northern Gulf of Mexico during the next few days. There is a medium chance, near 50 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone again during the next 48 hours. Locally heavy rainfall and gusty winds are forecast along the northern Gulf Coast from the Florida Panhandle to southern Louisiana through Tuesday.
Eastern Pacific
A broad area of low pressure is located about 325 miles south-southeast of the southern tip of Baja California, Mexico but there is a low chance, about 20 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Sunday, August 15, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (107 new fires), new large fires: 4, large fires contained: 0
Uncontained large fires: 7, U.S. States affected: OK, LA, AR, ID, UT, and MT.
(NIFC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Friday, August 13, 2010
Midwest
Rain and thunderstorms are forecast today over the central U.S. bringing more river flooding to Iowa. By late today, thunderstorms will extend from northern Wisconsin and Minnesota down to northeast Kansas. A few of the storms could become severe, with large hail and gusty winds. Areas from the Great Lakes to the Ohio Valley will remain dry. The Southern Plains will see high temperatures of over 100, with the Ohio Valley seeing high temperatures in the 90s.
The oppressive heat gripping the Mississippi valley and portions of the Midwest will begin to weaken a little over the weekend.
South
The remnants of Tropical Depression Five will bring increased moisture to the region as it moves northward from the Gulf Coast. Heavy rain will move from Louisiana to inland areas over the weekend.
Scattered thunderstorms are forecast from Louisiana eastward to the Carolinas. Louisiana and Mississippi could see locally heavy rain and localized flooding. The recent heat wave in the region will diminish due to clouds and precipitation, but humidity will remain high and may bring heat indices ranging from 110 to 115 degrees.
Northeast
Scattered thunderstorm activity will continue across the mid-Atlantic region while Upstate New York will see less precipitation. Much of New England will remain dry.
West
A cold front is shaping up over the Intermountain West this morning and is expected to make its way into the central plains during the day. Parts of Idaho, Montana and northern Wyoming will see showers and cool temperatures today. Elevations above 7,000 feet in northwestern Montana may see one to three inches of snow. The higher elevations of southeast Arizona and New Mexico will see isolated thunderstorm activity. High temperatures will increase and move across the Southwest over the weekend and will spread up through central California and the Pacific Northwest. The Desert Southwest will see highs up to 110 degrees, with Death Valley seeing highs of 120 degrees. The West Coast will see highs only in the 60s.(NOAA’s National Weather Service, the Hydro meteorological Prediction Center and media sources)
A line of severe storms affected the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C. metro area early Thursday morning, August 12, 2010. A second line of storms moved through the area early in the evening. The storms produced heavy rain, quarter-sized hail, and damaging winds in excess of 60 mph.
The storms caused widespread power outages, flash flooding, downed trees, motorists stranded in high water, and several building collapses due to downed trees crashing through buildings.
The storms caused delays for commuter rail and buses due to power outages (traffic signals not working) and downed trees and debris blocking tracks and roadways. One subway station was closed due to power outage and flooding inside the station. There were over 100,000 without power across the entire region at the height of the storm. As of 1:00 a.m. EDT this morning, 43,000 customers remain without power.
Over the past few days, a nearly stationary frontal system over Iowa brought strong thunderstorms and heavy rain to a large portion of central Iowa from near Oskaloosa (Mahaska County) to Sac City (Sac County). Since August 8, three to eight inches of rain have fallen, causing river and flash flooding in many locations in central Iowa. More rain and additional flooding is forecast through the weekend. The areas of most concern are along the Skunk, Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers. Along these rivers, five river gauges are at major flood stage with four expected to remain at major flood stage over the next 48 hours. A few gauges are expected to crest at or near record flood stage. Agricultural levees along the Skunk and Des Moines Rivers remain at risk due to the continuing heavy rainfall. Two water treatment plants surrounded by levees, one at Ames and the other at Oskaloosa, also remain at risk. Major impacts from these thunderstorms have been power outages, residential flooding, numerous downed trees, and road closures. Five highways have been closed due to flooding and approximately 1,000 customers remain without power (down from 8,000). There is one confirmed storm-related fatality and numerous injuries have been reported. Region VII Regional Watch is at Level III (Monitoring) with extended hours, 6:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. CDT. Two FEMA LNOs have been deployed to the Iowa EOC.
Mississippi Canyon 252 UpdateWell pressure remains stable and is decreasing at a rate of 5 psi per hour. Drilling operations have been on hold until the passage of the remnants of Tropical Depression Five. Approximately 669 miles of coastline is currently oiled in AL, FL, LA, MS, and TX. Shoreline cleanup efforts continue. 52,395 miles of Gulf Exclusive Economic Zone remains closed to fishing. Approximately 78% of the Gulf of Mexico federal waters are open to commercial fishing. (NIC Daily SitRep Update, DHS SLB Deepwater Horizon Response, JIC Ongoing Administration-Wide Response)
Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)No activity. (HQ FEMA)
Tropical Weather OutlookAtlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
Remnants of Tropical Depression Five
At 2:00 a.m. EDT, a broad area of low pressure associated with the remnants of Tropical Depression Five remains located near the coast of southern Mississippi. The low is expected to produce locally heavy rains and occasionally gusty winds in squalls as it moves inland over the next 24 to 48 hours. There is a LOW chance (near 0%) of this system re-developing into a tropical cyclone over the next 48 hours. Localized flooding is possible over southern Louisiana and coastal Mississippi.
Eastern Pacific:
Area of Disturbed Weather (1)
At 2:00 a.m. EDT, shower and thunderstorm activity associated with an area of disturbed weather is located 150 miles west-southwest of Acapulco, Mexico. Although conditions appear favorable for tropical storm formation, land interaction could inhibit development of this system by the weekend. There is still a high chance (70%) of this system becoming a tropical cyclone over the next 48 hours as it moves slowly northwestward.
Central Pacific:
No tropical cyclones are expected through Saturday, August 14, 2010.
Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity affecting United States Territories.(NOAA, NWS, HPC, National Hurricane Center, Central Pacific Hurricane Center, and the Joint Typhoon Warning Center)
At 7:54 a.m. EDT on August 12, 2010, a magnitude 7.1 earthquake occurred 90 miles east of Ambato, Ecuador at a depth of 131 miles. There were no reports of serious injury, or damage and no tsunami was generated.(USGS)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Thursday, August 12, 2010:
Initial attack activity: Light (177 new fires)
New large fires: 1
Large fires contained: 4
Uncontained large fires: 6
States Affected: ID, CA, MT, WY, OK, and TX. (NIFC)
Amendment No. 4 to FEMA-1925-DR-KY for the State of Kentucky was approved on August 12 and adds three counties for Individual Assistance and one county for Public Assistance.
The JFO for FEMA-1901-DR-ND has been approved to close at close of business on August 27, 2010.
The JFO for FEMA-3309-EM-ND has been approved to close at close of business on August 27, 2010.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Midwest
Scattered thunderstorms, some severe, are forecast for the Dakotas, Nebraska, Minnesota and Iowa today. Flash flooding is possible in Minnesota and Iowa. Some rivers in Iowa have seen all-time record flood levels. The Great Lakes region will be mainly dry while the Ohio Valley will see isolated thunderstorm activity. The central and southern Plains will be dry, but the oppressive heat is forecast to continue for another couple of days. Parts of Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri may see high temperatures of over 100 degrees. High temperatures along with high humidity will raise the heat index to over 115 degrees in many locations.
South
Portions of the South will see pockets of heavy rain or scattered thunderstorms. Scattered thunderstorms are forecast across parts of eastern Kentucky, eastern Tennessee, Virginia and North Carolina. Portions of the Gulf Coast will see locally heavy rain due to the remnants of Tropical Depression Five. Localized flooding is possible over parts of southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
Northeast
Scattered thunderstorms are forecast from Upstate New York to the Chesapeake Bay, but the thunderstorms are not expected to become severe. There is only a slight chance of isolated thunderstorms over most of New England but severe thunderstorms are possible over the mid-Atlantic.
West
Showers and thunderstorms are forecast from eastern Idaho to Montana and down to northern Wyoming. The higher elevations of Arizona and New Mexico will see less thunderstorm activity than last week. The Desert Southwest will see high temperatures from 105 to 110 degrees.
(NOAA and media sources)
Three to eight inches of rain fell in central Iowa over the past few days and caused flooding in several locations. A nearly stationary frontal system over Iowa brought thunderstorm activity to an area from near Oskaloosa, Iowa in Mahaska County to Sac City, Iowa in Sac County. Several river gauges are at major flood stage with a few gauges forecast to crest at or near record flood stage. Major impacts from these thunderstorms are power outages, emergency crews performing rescues, and numerous road closures. Forty-nine counties issued local emergency declarations. A boil water order was issued for the city of Ames (population 56,000), Story County, due to a water main break. The Region VII Regional Watch remains at Steady State, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CDT but a FEMA liaison is deployed to the state Emergency Operations Center.
Mississippi Canyon 252 UpdateThe well pressure remains stable and is declining at a rate of 5 lbs per square inch per hour. Drilling operations are on hold until the passage of the remnants of Tropical Depression Five. Approximately 665 miles of coastline are impacted. NOAA reopened 5,144 square miles to finfish harvest but the area closed to all fishing covers 52,395 square miles or approximately 22% of the Gulf of Mexico’s exclusive economic zone.
(NIC Daily SitRep)
Tropical Weather Outlook
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
The remnants of Tropical Depression Five are now a broad area of low pressure over the northern Gulf of Mexico located just east of southeastern Louisiana. The low is expected to move inland along the north-central Gulf coast by early this morning and there is a low chance, near zero percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours. This low could still produce locally heavy rains and strong gusty winds in squalls to portions of the north-central Gulf coast through this morning. Another low pressure system located 850 miles northeast of the northern Leeward Islands is producing minimal shower activity. Upper level winds are not conducive for development and there is a low chance, near 10 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours. There is also a tropical wave located 200 miles east of the Lesser Antilles but there is a low chance, near 10 percent, of that system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific
An area of low pressure is located 375 miles south of Acapulco, Mexico. Environmental conditions appear conducive for further slow development and this low could become a tropical depression during the next 48 hours. There is a high chance, near 60 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central Pacific:
Thunderstorm activity located 800 miles south of Honolulu, Hawaii has a low chance, near 10 percent, of becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Wednesday, August 11, 2010:
Initial attack activity: Light (190 new fires), new large fires: 7, large fires contained: 4
Uncontained large fires: 10, U.S. States affected: ID, UT, CA, MT, WY, OK, TX, VA, LA, SD & NV.
(NIFC)
Wisconsin received a Presidential disaster declaration (FEMA-1933-DR-WI) on August 11, 2010, for severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding from July 20-24, 2010. Public Assistance was approved for Grant and Milwaukee Counties and all counties are eligible for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The Federal Coordinating Officer for the disaster is Paul J. Ricciuti.
Amendment No. 4 to FEMA-3311-EM-RI amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for emergency protective measures (Category B), limited to direct Federal assistance, at 90 percent of total eligible costs.
Amendment No. 3 to FEMA-1916-DR-MS amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G) at 90 percent of total eligible costs.
Amendment No. 7 to FEMA-1912-DR-KY amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G) at 90 percent of total eligible costs.
Amendment No. 11 to FEMA-1909-DR-TN amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G), including direct Federal assistance, at 90 percent of total eligible costs.
Amendment No. 5 to FEMA-1906-DR-MS amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G), including direct Federal assistance, at 90 percent of total eligible costs.
Amendment No. 6 to FEMA-1894-DR-RI amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G) at 90 percent of total eligible costs.
(HQ FEMA)
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Midwest
Showers and thunderstorms are forecast across the Midwest, Great Lakes, and Ohio Valley with a few isolated severe storms possible. High temperatures are expected across the Northern and Central Plains into Thursday.
South
Intense heat continues, but isolated thunderstorms could bring brief relief to portions of Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky and North Carolina. Heavy rains are forecast across portions of the Florida Peninsula.
Northeast
Scattered showers and thunderstorms could bring strong winds and hail to portions of New England today. Showers and thunderstorms will develop southward into the Mid-Atlantic region as cooler air enters into the region but severe weather is not likely. Slightly cooler, drier air will bring welcome relief to northern New York and northern New England, but high temperatures and humidity are expected to continue throughout the rest of the region.
West
Isolated, scattered storms are expected from eastern Washington and Oregon to western Montana. Widespread severe weather is not expected with these storms, although a few could produce locally strong winds. Fire danger will remain high through portions of the Great Basin and a few isolated thunderstorms are possible across the higher terrain of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, and Colorado through Thursday.
(NOAA and media sources)
NOAA’s National Weather Service Forecast Hazards Assessment indicates that excessive heat conditions will continue in the southern United States during the next three to five days. Heat indices of 105-110 degrees will persist in more than 10 states. The heat index is a measure of how hot it feels when the relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature. According to the NWS, heat is actually the number one weather related killer in the United States; ranking higher than floods, lightning, tornadoes, and hurricanes combined. The hazards from excessive heat may include sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke or hyperthermia. Hyperthermia is a condition in which the body absorbs more heat than it can dissipate and is a major threat for children, adults, and pets in enclosed vehicles. With an outside temperature of 80 degrees, temperatures inside a car can rise to 123 degrees in sixty minutes and leaving the windows slightly open does not significantly decrease the heating rate. For more information regarding the products that the NWS Weather Forecast Offices produce to help prepare and plan for excessive heat, as well as details regarding the hazards and effects, please see the National Weather Service article, “Heat: a Major Killer” on their website: http://www.weather.gov/om/heat/index.shtml.
(NOAA)
Well pressure remains stable. Drilling operations are on hold until the passage of Tropical Depression 5.
On August 10, NOAA reopened 5,144 square miles to finfish harvest only. The area closed to all fishing covers 52,395 square miles or approximately 22% of the Gulf of Mexico exclusive economic zone.
(NIC Daily SitRep Update)
No activity. (HQ FEMA)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
Tropical Depression #5 is located approximately 290 miles east-southeast of the mouth of the Mississippi River moving toward the northwest at 10 mph. On the forecast track, the center of the system will approach the north central Gulf of Mexico by Thursday morning. Slow strengthening is expected and the depression is forecast to become a Tropical Storm later today. Total rainfall accumulations of 3 to 5 inches with isolated maximum amounts of 8 inches are possible from southeastern Louisiana to the western Florida Panhandle through Friday morning. A tropical storm warning is in effect for Destin, Florida to Intracoastal City, Louisiana, including Lake Pontchartrain and New Orleans.
Another well-defined low pressure area is located about 750 miles northeast of the Northern Leeward Islands and is marginally conducive for development. There is a high chance, near 70 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours. Finally, there is also a tropical wave located about 625 miles east of the Southern Windward Islands but any development with this system should be slow to occur. There is a low chance, near 10 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific
The remnant low Estelle is located approximately 450 miles south-southwest of the southern tip of Baja California, Mexico moving slowly east-southeastward. Redevelopment of this low is not expected due to strong upper-level winds. Another low pressure area is located about 330 miles west-southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico but as with the other system, development is not likely due to unfavorable upper-level winds. There is a low chance, near 10 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours. A third area of disturbed weather is located several hundred miles south of the Gulf of Tehuantepec moving slowly westward to west-northwest. Some slow development is possible and there is a low chance, near 20 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclones are expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Preliminary Damage AssessmentsNo new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateOn August 10, 2010, the President signed major disaster declaration FEMA-1932-DR to provide assistance to Kansas for damages resulting from severe storms, flooding and tornadoes from June 7 to July 21, 2010. The declaration approves Public Assistance for 34 counties will all counties eligible to apply for the Hazard Mitigation Grants Program. The Federal Coordinating Officer for this disaster is Michael R. Scott.
(HQ FEMA)
On August 10, 2010, the President signed major disaster declaration FEMA-1932-DR to provide assistance to Kansas for damages resulting from severe storms, flooding and tornadoes from June 7 to July 21, 2010. The declaration approves Public Assistance for 34 counties will all counties eligible to apply for the Hazard Mitigation Grants Program. The Federal Coordinating Officer for this disaster is Michael R. Scott.
(HQ FEMA)
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Midwest
Showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue across the northern and central Plains, upper Midwest valley, and Great Lakes. Some of these storms will have the potential to become severe with damaging winds and hail. Temperatures and humidity are expected to increase across the region.
South
High temperatures and humidity are expected to continue and thunderstorms are possible for portions of the lower Mississippi Valley, Tennessee Valley, and North Carolina.
Northeast
Across the Northeast, scattered thunderstorms are expected throughout the day with strong wind gusts and heavy downpours possible.
West
Widely scattered thunderstorms are forecast from the Pacific Northwest to the northern Plains. A few scattered thunderstorms could occur across the mountains of the Four Corners states with a few becoming severe across the Northern Rockies.
(NOAA and media sources)
The latest seasonal drought assessment was just released from the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center. Drought is forecast to continue across western Wyoming, Arizona, northeast California, Nevada, and the leeward sides of the Hawaiian Islands (moderate to exceptional drought levels). An ongoing heat wave, along with below normal rainfall, has created drought conditions in the lower Mississippi and lower Ohio Valleys and is expected to persist and expand into parts of Missouri and Arkansas. Drought also expanded from moderate to severe levels in portions of the eastern U.S. with the Mid-Atlantic seeing the largest increases. On the other extreme, unseasonable wetness and a very active monsoon resulted in the removal of drought across the Rockies and in New Mexico. In the upper Mississippi Valley and Great Lakes region major drought relief occurred during the past two months (from extreme drought to moderate drought levels), and is forecast to continue. La Nina conditions may bring improvement for some areas during the 2010-2011 winter season.
(NOAA)
Situational Update:
Well pressure remains stable, which indicates a successful cement plug. Future plans include the removal of the capping stack and blow out preventer to permanently seal the site. Approximately 669 miles of coastline have been impacted and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. Approximately 76% of the Gulf of Mexico federal waters remain open to commercial fishing.
(NIC Daily SitRep Update)
No Activity(HQ FEMA)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
A well-defined low pressure area is located about 825 miles east-northeast of the Leeward Islands moving west-northwestward at 10 to 15 mph. There is a high chance, near 70 percent, of this system developing into a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Another weak low pressure system is located over the southeastern Gulf of Mexico about 75 miles southwest of Naples, Florida. This system is becoming better organized and there is a medium chance, near 50 percent, that this system will develop into a tropical or subtropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific
Tropical Depression Estelle is located approximately 420 miles south of Baja California, Mexico moving west near 5 mph. Additional weakening is forecast and it is forecast to be a remnant low by late Tuesday. Another low pressure area about 200 miles west-southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico has a low chance, near 20 percent, of development into a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclones are expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
On August 10, 2010 at 1:23 a.m. EDT offshore near Vanuatu, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake occurred at a reported depth of 41 miles. No damages or injuries were reported but a tsunami was created. The West Coast/Alaskan Tsunami Warning Center issued a report stating no tsunami was expected along the California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, or Alaska coasts.
(USGS)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Wildfire UpdateNational Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Monday, August 9, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (152 new fires), new large fires: 1, large fires contained: 6
Uncontained large fires: 10, U.S. States affected: CA, ID, LA, MT, NV, OR, WA, WY, & NJ.
(NIFC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)