Burn Bans/Fire
Rusk County bans outdoor burning--
The Rusk County Commissioners Court has decided that all outdoor burning is banned in the area. There are currently 123 counties in the state that are under a provisional ban. For residents that violate the ban there is a fine of up to $500.
Longview News-Journal, Glenn Evans, February 5, 2018
Fire danger today and freezing rain tomorrow; Welcome to West Texas--
Elevated fire weather conditions are expected from Mertzon to San Angelo to Ballinger to Baird today between noon and 6 pm, according to the national Weather Service. However, the forecast for Saturday through Sunday calls for a possibility of freezing drizzle and freezing rain. Temperatures could be at or below freezing for several hours, and wind chill values could be in the single digits.
San Angelo Live, Yantis Green, February 9, 2018
County burn ban continues--
Even with measurable rain forecasted to occur in the coming days, North Texas residents should not expect a lifting of burn bans. The Texas Forest service has designated the Gainesville region with a KBDI of 419 out of 800. The National Weather Service is predicting rain chances ranging from 20 to 50 percent this week.
Gainesville Daily Register, Megan Gray Hatfield, February 12, 2018
Trending dry weather prompts wildfire warnings across Texas, Oklahoma--
North Texas farmers have been keeping their eyes to the sky this past winter season as an intense dry spell has dominated the region. Death Valley in California has seen more rain than that observed in the Panhandle. The U.S. Drought Monitor and Texas State Climatologist have identified that North Texas is suffering the worst from the current drought. The National Weather Service says that these areas growing extremely susceptible to wildfires.
Southwest FarmPress, Logan Hawkes, February 14, 2018
Drought
Monthly Change in Drought Monitor Classification
Extreme drought affecting Texoma farmers--
Several Texoma counties are under extreme drought conditions, according to a report from the U.S. drought monitor. Many farmers in the north Texas region are fearful that the current dry conditions will affect crops. An official with the Texas A&M Ag Extension say that the topsoil has completely dried out. Farmers used to expect that drought would come every 40 or so years, but these conditions are beginning to occur every seven years.
CBS6 KAUZ, Jesse Canales, February 1, 2018
Lubbock dry period to surpass 1920s record--
According to records from the National Weather Service, Lubbock is currently experiencing its third driest period. There has been an 86 days without measurable precipitation. The area is currently under moderate to severe drought.
Daily Toreador, Nathan Needham, February 4, 2018
Texas in severe drought: Lamesa area rainfall is scarce; farmers anxious--
During the passage of Hurricane Harvey, only four percent of Texas was designated as in drought conditions. Currently, portions of the Panhandle have gone more than 90 days without measurable rain. 26 counties within the Panhandle are currently in extreme drought.
Press Reporter, Staff Writer, February 7, 2018
Windmill Country: Welcome rains stave off drought conditions--
Welcomed rains across West Texas this week gave farmers and ranchers’ hope for the upcoming spring and stopped the spread of drought. Drought conditions have been spreading across the Southwest since last winter. The recent rain may have arrived in time to save the winter wheat crop, and cotton farmers now have the needed moisture in time for planting season.
San Angelo Standard-Times, Jerry Lackey, February 24, 2018
Agriculture/Livestock
Texas milk production goes west over the past 30 years--
The Texas dairy industry has seen a shift in location over the last few years. The Panhandle region has been one of the most productive areas for cattle due to rainfall, land availability, and steady feed. Now, the eastern regions of the state are seeing an increase of milk production as of 2017.
Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service, Adam Russell, February 12, 2018
Significant Weather
Rainfall/Flooding
Rain likely paying a visit to San Antonio this week, NWS says--
The National Weather Service is predicting rain chances to increase this week for the San Antonio area. Tuesday begins with a 40 percent chance of showers, followed by an increase to 60 percent on Wednesday. Temperatures are also on the rise with highs expected to reach the upper 60s to lower 70s throughout the week.
My San Antonio, Kelsey Bradshaw, February 5, 2018
Rainy cold front Sunday unlikely to ease Texas drought--
According to the U.S. drought monitor, nearly 90 percent of Texas is experiencing drought conditions. An upcoming cold front into the Central Texas region will bring temperatures close to freezing levels. Ahead of the front, precipitation is expected, but should be light and ineffective to easing the dry and drought conditions.
Austin American-Statesman, Robert Villalpando, February 6, 2018
Rain chances in the forecast for most of the week--
The rest of the work week is expected to be relatively wet for regions throughout southeast Texas. Heavy rain from thunderstorms and the possibility of localized flooding will be the main risks from a Wednesday disturbance. A cold front on Saturday is also expected to bring rain into the region that night and going into Sunday morning.
KBMT, Jeff Gerber, February 19, 2018
Muggy, mostly cloudy with high near 75; rainy weekend ahead--
Most of Central Texas will enjoy spring-like weather this afternoon with high temperatures in the mid-70s, according to the National Weather Service. The Austin metro saw patchy drizzle and fog overnight, and the clouds are expected to stick around for the rest of the day. Southerly winds will bring humid Gulf air to Central Texas, which is expected to increase cloudiness overnight. The next chance for rain will occur Friday as a cold front moves through the area.
Austin American-Statesman, Robert Villalpando, February 15, 2018
After cold front, prepare for rainy weekend, muggy marathon weather--
The cold front this weekend will cause wet and muggy weather for the runners participation in Sunday’s Austin Marathon. Runners will have to dodge puddles along the route and will likely exhaust quicker with the relative humidity around 93 percent. Rain chances on race day could be as high as 40 percent, but a light drizzle is most likely during the race.
Austin American-Statesman,Robert Villalpando, February 15, 2018
After cold front Friday, rainy weekend ahead for Austin Marathoners--
The coming weekend will be a wet one for the Austin area as a cold front makes its way into the region Friday morning. Temperatures will remain in the mid to high 60s with cool north winds. Rain throughout the night on Saturday will make conditions a bit challenging for Austin Marathon runners who will have to dodge puddle and trek through drizzle conditions on Sunday.
Austin American-Statesman, Robert Villalpando, February 16, 2019
Dry for the rest of the day--
The rain has finally passed the Dallas-Fort Worth area and the majority of North Texas will see drier weather and sunshine by midday. Sunday has a chance of showers, but the best chances of rain return Monday through Thursday, with the possibility for thunderstorms. Temperatures will be mild for the foreseeable future with no freezes expected.
KXAS, Staff Writer, February 17, 2018
KLBK Saturday PM weather--
The South Plains and the Rolling Plains received some rain early this morning , with higher amounts falling south of the region. Lubbock officially recorded 0.18 inches of rainfall at the airport for the short rain event. High temperatures will be in the 70s on Monday and 60s on Tuesday in Lubbock, but a cold front moving through the area Wednesday will bring temperatures back into the 50s. There is a slight chance of rain by Friday or Saturday.
KLBK, Chris Whited, February 17, 2018
Rain gauges expected to be busy all week in North Texas--
North Texas has a chance for showers and isolated thunderstorms all week, according to the National Weather Service in Fort Worth. Heavy rain is expected Tuesday in Tarrant County, and from Monday through Thursday, Fort Worth could see more than two inches of precipitation. There is a 60 percent chance of rain on President’s Day with a high temperature near 77. There is potential for strong severe thunderstorms on Tuesday. A cold front will arrive Wednesday and temperatures will drop to the mid 40s with a possibility of upper 30s on Thursday.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Domingo Ramirez Jr., February 18, 2018
Much needed rain on the way for Central Texas this week--
High moisture levels and a series of upper level disturbances will allow for the development of rain chances between Monday and next Sunday. Some of the highest rain chances will be Monday evening as a disturbance moves from Mexico into Texas. Widespread moisture from the Gulf ahead of an advancing cold front on Tuesday will keep showers possible.
FOX7, Chelsea Andrews, February 19, 2018
Lots more rain for the Fort Worth area-- but a warmup is on the way--
Thursday saw a mix of fog, mist, cold temperatures, and thunderstorms. Fort Worth won’t see much sunshine for the next several days, but warm temperatures are on the way. Several days of heavy rainfall have caused flooding and slick streets, leading to numerous accidents and temporary road closures at several points along I-30 and I-35W. The National Weather Service predicts a rapid warmp with high temperatures nearly doubling through Saturday.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Stephen English, February 22, 2018
Cowtown 10K delayed as storms pass through North Texas--
Organizers have delayed the start of the Cowtown 10K race until 8:30 am due to the storms in the area. The 10K and 5K races will start simultaneously, and the kids 5K race is still scheduled to begin at 9:30 am. The forecast called for a potential of hail Saturday morning as the races were set to begin in Fort Worth. The contingency plan called for runners, volunteers, and participants to take shelter in barns and exhibit halls at the Will Rogers Memorial Center, where the race is set to begin.
WFAA, Bradley Blackburn, February 24, 2018
Houston could see minor street flooding, patchy fog during evening storms--
Portions of Southeast Texas will see severe thunderstorms overnight, according to the National Weather Service. The greater Houston area could see light street flooding, strong wind gusts, and small hail. Areas along the coast are expected to see localized rain and patchy sea fog, which could result in low visibility in some areas. The rain and fog is expected to continue through the weekend and possibly into early next week.
Houston Chronicle, Daniela Sternitzky-Di Napoli, February 24, 2018
KSAT Weather: A few showers in SA on Sunday, more on the Coastal Plain--
Another round of showers is expected to fall along the Coastal Plain on Sunday. Some showers may affect the San Antonio metro area, but the majority of the rain is expected to stay southeast of San Antonio. Monday will see dry and sunny skies with a few high clouds, but Tuesday and Wednesday will bring more clouds and rain.
KSAT, Cole Vaughn, February 24,2018
Rain, rain go away: Dreary Sunday forecast includes thunderstorms, possible street flooding--
Isolated showers and occasional heavy rain are expected throughout the day in Houston, according to the National Weather Service. There is an 80 percent chance of rain all day, but less than an inch of accumulated precipitation is expected. Heavy rain could produce minor street flooding in some areas. The rain will subside by the evening, but chances of rain will pick up overnight.
Houston Chronicle, Keri Blakinger, February 25, 2018
Weekend storms bring ‘wavy’ clouds across Central Texas--
This weekend’s storms brought much needed rain to Central Texas along with some unique cloud formations. Undulus Asperatus, or “agitated wave” clouds created the appearance of wave-like motions in the atmosphere. The clouds are created by waves of air in the atmosphere moving horizontally that meet a deck of developing low clouds, which creates the look of waves in the sky.
KXAN, Calily Bien, February 25, 2018
Flood warnings, road closures across SE Texas--
Flood warnings have been issued for near river areas in southeast Texas on Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service. Forecasters are expecting showers and thunderstorms to roll through for most of Tuesday. Rain chances will remain through Thursday night at 30 to 40 percent.
Beaumont Enterprise, Staff Writer, February 27, 2018
Flash Flood Warning issued for Collin, Dallas, Denton, Tarrant counties--
Some parts of the DFW area are experiencing the wettest February on record as nearly 9 inches of rain fell Wednesday. Flash Flood Warnings were issued for Collin, Dallas, Denton, and Tarrant counties until 12:45 am. Rain observers have reported 1 to 2 inches of rain in less than an hour. An isolated tornado may be possible from the storms producing these heavy rains.
WFAA, Greg Fields, February 28, 2018
Warm Weather
Our Weather Will Oscillate Between Mild and Warm--
Lower temperatures are expected for south Texas on Friday as a cool airmass makes its way through the area. As the air exits to the east, a warming trend will be observed for Saturday and Sunday before giving way to another cool down. Temperatures will remain in the upper 60s to low 70s for the remainder of the week through Thursday.
KGNS, Richard Berfer, February 1, 2018
Hands up, y’all! Temperature roller coaster ahead--
The San Antonio area is going to see varying temperature conditions beginning this weekend. Saturday should start in the 40s with some clouds and light rain. After the skies clear, temperature will begin to climb into the 60s by the afternoon. Sunday should prove the groundhog wrong as sunshine and temperatures rise near 80. Monday is when the roller coaster begins as temperatures will dip down to the 60s, then rise up again Tuesday into the 70s.
KSAT, Cole Vaughn, February 2, 2018
Forget the rodent, science says it’ll be an early spring--
Spring temperatures are on the way for the San Antonio area. Skies will be partly cloudy and breezy for Friday. A minor disturbance is in the forecast for Saturday, but a warm up will follow with highs in the low 60s.
Spectrum News, Weather Staff, February 2, 2018
Bat Swarns Tracked by Weather Radar Reveal Earlier Migration as Planet Warms--
Observations of radar in the San Antonio area reveals swarms of bats flying toward breeding cave. After reviewing past radar data, scientists are noticing that the mammals are arriving two weeks earlier than they did two decades ago. The most likely link is that warming climates alter food chains and weather patterns that drive bats into caves.
Inside Climate News, Bob Berwyn, February 6, 2018
Big changes are on the way for the weekend--
The San Antonio area has seen varying weather patterns of the past few days. Friday will see mostly cloudy skies with a high in the low 60s. Saturday will see a turn to more spring like conditions in the mid-70s with mostly cloudy skies, before a cold front passes Saturday evening.
KSAT, Cole Vaughn, February 8, 2018
Another round of crazy weather is headed for the Fort Worth area--
The DFW metroplex can expect to experience a all four seasons in the coming four days. Post-frontal passage, Tuesday will have very dreary weather conditions. Spring and summer conditions will persist on Wednesday and Thursday. With forecasted highs in the upper 70s to low 80s, the region may approach the record 83 degrees. The National Weather Service is predicting a wet and cool weekend beginning Friday.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Stephen English, February 13, 2018
Enjoy the warmer temps while they last!--
The weather for Valentine’s Day will start out foggy and cloudy in North Texas. However, by the afternoon, some areas west of Fort Worth could see sunshine with high temperatures in the 70s. Showers are unlikely in North Texas for Wednesday, so there is no reason to cancel any Valentine’s Day plans. Thursday will see warming temperatures and the next cold front will arrive Friday morning. Temperatures on Friday could be 25 to 35 degrees cooler than on Thursday.
WFAA, Kyle Roberts, February 14, 2018
Spring-like today, back to winter tomorrow--
The DFW metroplex will see a windy and warm day today with highs reaching the low 80s. The record high for today at DFW is 83. Areas east of Dallas will be a little cooler and cloudier. A cold front will move through the area tomorrow and will drop temperatures temperatures nearly 30 degrees. There is a chance for precipitation Friday night into Saturday morning.
KXAS, Staff Writer, February 15, 2018
First Alert Weather days declared for Tuesday, Wednesday due to heavy rainfall chances--
Temperatures reached as high as 80 degrees Thursday afternoon in North Texas, but a strong cold front is expected to move through the area Friday morning. Temperatures will drop into the 40s and 50s in the morning, 30 degrees colder than the previous day. Rain chances are best overnight Friday into Saturday morning. The rain should end by early Saturday afternoon.
KLTV, Mark Scirto, February 18, 2018
Forecast Update: Dense fog lingering in Austin; Saturday temps could hit 75--
Dense fog on Friday lingered into the afternoon in the Austin area. There is a 40 percent chance of rain tonight, and warm southerly winds will keep temperatures above 60 degrees. Saturday in Central Texas will see more rain, but the sun will come out from time to time. The temperature will reach 75 Saturday afternoon and will drop to the mid 40s by the evening.
Austin American-Statesman, Roberto Villalpando, February 23, 2018
KSAT Weather: The sun will shine on Monday, but how long will it stay?--
South Texas was split in terms of weather on Sunday as some enjoyed pleasant, sunny weather while other saw thunderstorms. However, everyone will see sunshine and dry conditions on Monday. Cloudy and rainy weather will return on Tuesday, but most precipitation will be light across the region. A cold front will move through Wednesday, bringing another chance of rain. The rest of the week after the front will be sunny and dry.
KSAT, Cole Vaughn, February 25, 2018
Sunshine returns on Monday--
Sunshine will return this afternoon after a foggy morning in Houston. We will see high temperatures in the upper 60s and low 70s. Rain and warm, humid air will return tomorrow, but after scattered showers on Wednesday night, the remainder of the week will be fairly dry through Saturday.
KTRK, Travis Herzog, February 26, 2018
Spring in Texas mean snakes ending hibernation--
According to experts at Texas A&M University, spring-like temperatures lead snakes out of winter hibernation in Texas and become pests for people and pets. Some veterinarians throughout the state have already observed cases of snakebites on dogs. There are four species of venomous snakes in Texas: coral snake, copperhead, rattlesnake, and cottonmouth which is the most aggressive. The presence of snakes do have the benefit of controlling rodents, lizards, and bugs.
KSWO, Staff Writer, February 27, 2018
Cool Weather
Old Man Winter flexing his muscles this year--
The current cool winter is following two warm winter seasons the last two years. Areas of east Texas have measured up to 19 days in the month of January that were cooler than normal. Forecasters are expecting a much cooler than average winter season throughout East Texas.
KTRE, Brad Hlozek, February 2, 2018
It won’t be Minnesota Super Bowl cold. But chilly temps are Monday--
As the Eagles and Patriots square off in the Super Bowl, a cold airmass will be making its way into the DFW region overnight. Temperatures are expected be near and below freezing. Rain chances enter the forecast for Monday with slight probabilities and higher chances for Tuesday.
WFAA, Ryan Osborne, February 4, 2018
Cold weather causes electric bills to surge--
The extremely cold temperatures experienced in Central Texas had an even greater effect than forcing people to put on heavier jackets. Energy consumption for the region spiked in January. Bluebonnet Electric company reports that frigid weather conditions lead customers to a 21 percent average increase.
Spectrum News, Staff Writer, February 4, 2018
Texas Airports Cancel Flights As Icy Weather Conditions--
Flights at airlines in Dallas were cancelled after cold temperatures left runways and roads icy. A winter storm warning has issued by the National Weather Service for the Houston area on Sunday. The biggest threats from this storm would be gale-force winds along the Texas coast, sleet, and freezing rain.
CBS DFW, Staff Writer, February 6, 2018
Slick Spots Reported Around DFW After Tuesday’s Storms--
North Texas residents can expect slick spots throughout the region after Tuesday night thunderstorms. The thunderstorms were accompanied by lightning and small hail. The biggest concern is the freezing of wet spots after a cold frontal passage.
NBC5, Rick Mitchell, February 7, 2018
Slow down this morning. ‘Weather conditions’ a factor in Hurst fatality crash--
A fatality was reported early Wednesday due to ice road conditions in Hurst, Texas. The driver crashed their pickup in the westbound lanes of Texas 121/183. A release from the Hurst Police Department reports that both speed and weather condition were factors in the crash.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Matthew Martinez, February 7, 2018
Strong cold front arriving in North Texas--
Temperatures on Saturday will start out mild, but a cold front will move through the Dallas-Fort Worth area by the mid-morning hours and temperatures in the afternoon will be in the 30s and 40s. Sunday morning temperatures will be at or below freezing with wind chills in the teens. Some light freezing drizzle will be possible, and bridges and overpasses could be slick.
WFAA, Kyle Roberts, February 9, 2018
More winter weather ahead for Denton County--
The southern end of an Arctic air mass will bring much colder temperatures to Texas this weekend. The colder air will reach Denton on Saturday morning, bringing with it clouds and a chance of light rain. Temperatures will start in the low 50s and will dip into the 30s by the afternoon. Some light precipitation is expected to linger through Sunday morning, but by the afternoon, there will be drier conditions after the front moves through.
Denton Record-Chronicle, Peggy Heinkel-Wolfe, February 9, 2018
Wintry weather moves east of DFW--
Residents in North Texas saw a wintry mix of precipitation on Sunday as sleet and freezing rain moved through the area. The weather conditions made traveling difficult for some when the precipitation accumulated quickly on bridges and over passes. MedStar in Fort Worth has reported that there were 15 responses to crashes on Sunday.
KXAS, Staff Writer, February 10, 2018
Most of Central Texas under a Winter Weather Advisory--
Central Texas experienced a very strong cold front Saturday which dropped temperatures into the 30s and 40s. Northern and western portions of Central Texas will see the coldest temperatures and is currently under a Winter Weather Advisory. As moisture moves in from the south, the biggest concerns are drizzle and freezing drizzle which could make traveling difficult Saturday night and Sunday.
KXXV, Jeff Forgeron, February 10, 2018
Here’s how much temps dropped in just 24 hours across Texas--
After the passage of a cold front, temperatures are continuing to fall in North Texas. On Sunday, there had been a temperature change of 20 to 40 degrees. Around midnight, a weather disturbance will reach the region from the southwest and cause showers, sleet, and or freezing rain.
WFAA, Staff Writer, February 10, 2018
Watch for potential slick spots on North Texas roads overnight--
A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for part of North Texas, including Dallas-Fort Worth until noon on Sunday. Travelers should be aware of slick road conditions overnight into Sunday morning, especially on elevated bridges and overpasses. A few side roads could become icy in regions of heavier precipitation from midnight to noon on Sunday.
WFAA, Kyle Roberts, February 11, 2018
Winter Weather Advisory canceled for Hill Country counties--
Although the Winter Weather Advisory has been cancelled as of 2:45 pm on Sunday, the Williamson County sheriff’s office said it has received reports of ice on bridges over Interstate 35 close to Austin. Officials said the Department of Transportation crews are responding to the icy conditions. The rain from the morning has moved to the northeast of Austin.
Austin American-Statesman, Rachel Rice, February 11, 2018
Dealing with asthma in the cold weather--
Seasons of cold weather are when physicians see some of the largest numbers of patients due to asthma complications. Low temperatures have the effect of tightening airways. Symptoms of asthma illness are chest tightness, coughing, and wheezing. Doctors advise that those who show these symptoms should see a physician immediately.
KTRE, Yocelin Gallardo, February 12, 2018
Chillier air returns to North Texas, bringing rain chances, too--
Thursday afternoon in North Texas was dominated by warm temperatures but will be replaced by colder temperatures on Friday. Rain chances will increase Friday night going into Saturday morning. Saturday will mostly be cool and windy with a high in the 50s.
KXAS, Rick Mitchell, February 15, 2018
Storms Turn To Winter Weather in North Texas--
Strong winds and storms in the North Texas region will transition to temperatures that are below-freezing Tuesday evening. A Winter Weather Advisory will go into effect for the DFW metroplex on Tuesday and remain until Wednesday evening. The greatest risks from these winter weather conditions are rain showers transitioning to freezing rain and ice accumulation, making driving conditions difficult.
Dallas Patch, Payton Potter, February 20, 2018
Freezing weather, ice grips Abilene--
Winter weather conditions in Abilene lead to delays and closures of businesses and schools, along with numerous road accidents. The National Weather Service originally forecasted a warming trend on Thursday which should transition ice to rain and making traveling much safer. Wednesday morning, precipitation transitioned from freezing rain to sleet leading to an Ice Storm Warning issued for Taylor County at 11 a.m. Ice and freezing temperatures aren’t forecasted for the rest of the week, but rain should continue.
Abilene Reporter-News, Brian Bethel, February 21, 2018
Thursday morning weather forecast with Anne Elise Parks--
A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for the northwest parts of North Texas, and freezing rain and sleet is possible on Thursday. Although the Dallas-Fort Worth area is not expected to freeze, it will still see chilly temperatures and cold rain showers.
KTVT, Anne Elise Parks, February 22, 2018
Severe Weather
Storm Spotter Training Program preps locals for 2018 severe weather season--
TV meteorologists Rusty Garrett and Brian Germ made at an appearance at a central Texas Skywarn Storm Spotter training in Waco on Saturday. Frequently throughout the year, the National Weather Service will host these events to teach local residents how to recognize thunderstorm and tornado formations. A second training section will be held in Belton on February 10.
KWTX, Chelsea Edwards, February 3, 2018
Severe weather season is approaching, how can you prepare?--
Central Texas residents are preparing for the severe weather season this spring. The season begins April 1 and usually runs until June with peak activity occurring in May. Some of the biggest threats during the severe season are floods, thunderstorms, hail, and tornadoes. KVUE is urging residents to create severe weather plans in case of weather emergencies.
KVUE, Jason Mikell, February 16, 2018
Widespread rain, some storms return to North Texas--
Probabilities of severe weather have remained in effect for some counties in the North Texas region on Saturday. For areas in the DFW metroplex, there was a reprieve from dreary cloudy conditions when sun broke through on Saturday afternoon. For other regions outside of the metroplex such as in Van Zandt, Delta, and Hopkins counties Tornado watches and Severe Weather Warnings remained in effect through the evening hours.
WFAA, Kyle Roberts, February 19, 2018
Without Warning, North Texas Hit by 3 Damaging EF0 Tornadoes; 3 Injured in Johnson County--
Strong severe weather caught many North Texas residents by surprise early Tuesday morning. There were several EF0 tornadoes that formed in the region including Johnson County. The National Weather Service issued a significant weather advisory, but did not have a tornado or severe thunderstorm warning in effect. Numerous homes were damaged and three people were hospitalized because of the storm system.
The Weather Channel, Sean Breslin, February 20, 2018
Weather Update: Thunderstorms, lightning move through Austin area--
Central Texas saw scattered showers before sunrise Thursday morning, which continued into the afternoon. Thunderstorms and lightning will move into the Austin metro tonight. There is a 60 to 70 percent chance of rain Thursday night into Friday morning, but the heavier rain and thunder increases Friday.
Austin American-Statesman, Roberto Villalpando and Katie Hall, February 22, 2018
Saturday’s severe weather threats: Large hail for Fort Worth, tornadoes to the east--
After a week of steady rainfall and chilly temperatures, severe weather is set to move through North Texas this weekend. According to the National Weather Service in Fort Worth, there is a strong severe weather threat that could produce heavy rainfall and large hail in the DFW area and west of I-35W. The storm system could produce damaging winds and tornadoes to the east. The storms are expected to begin early Saturday and last into the afternoon and early-evening hours.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Stephen English, February 23, 2018
Prepare yourself for severe weather season--
Meteorologists throughout the state are urging Texans to begin prepping early for severe weather season. The National Weather Service has shared three methods for preparing for the upcoming season including puchasing a weather radio, following trusted social media sites, and subscribing to city and county emergency alerts. The peak months for severe activity begin in the spring and continue into the early parts of the summer.
KXAN, Wes Rapaport, February 28, 2018
Other Climate Impacts
Economics/Technology
Big Change in Weather at NBC 5--
Longtime Chief Meteorologist at NBC 5 David Finfrock will be passing on his chief duties to Rick Mitchell after nearly three decades of news service. Finfrock is a 1975 graduate of Texas A&M University who was mentored by Harold Taft. The news station is reporting that Finfrock will remain on the air, though without a definitive schedule, happy to pass the leadership role to Mitchell.
NBC5, Staff Writer, February 1, 2018
Texas gas prices continue to rise--
Gas prices in Texas have continued to rise over the past week averaging at $2.36 for the state. High prices of oil post-Hurricane Harvey last September have allowed for gas prices to reach levels not seen in years. Prices could go even higher during the summer as refinery maintenance and demand increase.
Stephenville Empire-Tribune, February 5, 2018
Texas NBC adds ‘Lightning Truck’--
The KXAS station has added a “Lightning Truck” to its package of weather tools. The vehicle is being named after longtime chief meteorologist David Finfrock. Viewers can catch a glimpse of the vehicle, joining the Texas Thunder Truck in a new promo on the KXAS webpage.
Newscast Studio, Michael Hill, February 8, 2018
More flood relief money coming to Houston--
Texas Governor Greg Abbott continuing his pact to southeast Texas residents and city officials that were affected by Hurricane Harvey. In the coming months, officials will be able to apply for over $1 billion in federal funds for prevention projects to lessen the effects of future storms. Half of this funding is currently available and ready to be disbursed after the approval of applications.
KHOU, Staff Writer, February 13, 2018
Hurricane Harvey 6-months later: Port Aransas still needs help--
Port Aransas is continuing to rebuild after being ground zero for the first landfall of Hurricane Harvey last August. The town’s police station and courthouse have been designated as total losses and are on schedule to be completely demolished. The Mayor of Port Aransas and other city officials hope that residents of Texas that love the town will assist in contributing necessities as they rebuild.
KHOU, Kevin Reece, February 19, 2018
After Hurricane Harvey, Corpus Christi Reevaluates its Flood Maps--
The passage of Hurricane Harvey led many to consider the confidence of exerts in flood control measures in the most populous city in the state. Observed damage from Harvey has prompted officials in Corpus Christi to investigate the city’s flood maps. Officials hope to adapt their flood maps with accurate measurements as the definition of 100-year flood changes with the changing climate.
Texas Standard, Alexandra Hart, February 21, 2018
Texas Launches Harvey Recovery Tracker 6 Months After Storm--
The Commission to Rebuild Texas, a commission developed by the Texas A&M University system, has launched an application that allows for a tracking of incoming and outgoing federal recovery funds from Hurricane Harvey. Texas Governor, Greg Abbott, hopes that the app is a start to achieving federal and state-level transparency. Data from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Texas General Land Office is available in the app.
CBS DFW, Staff Writer, February 27, 2018
Roads/Traffic/Travel
TxDOT releases winter weather road conditions--
Treatment of roads in the Texoma region has begun by the Texas Department of Transportation as the potential for icy conditions is a threat Wednesday morning. As winter weather makes its way into Texoma TxDOT is urging motorists to use reduced speeds and follow all speed limits. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas are the most dangerous when traveling so extra precaution should be taken at these locations.
CBS6, Jake Garcia, February 21, 2018
Recreation/Leisure/Athletics
Texas animal shelter asks for help after heavy rain floods kennels--
Heavy rain in the DFW region caused extensive flooding of an animal shelter. Outdoor kennels at the Erath County Humane Society were left uninhabitable by flooding in Stephensville. The shelter reports that multiple dogs are packed closely together indoors. Donations are currently be accepted by the shelter in hope that dog food and cat litter will be provided as they are low after the storm.
The Dallas Morning News, Dana Branham, February 20, 2018
