Wisconsin Weather Update

Wisconsin Weather Update for April 30, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 11:31 AM GMT on April 30, 2008

Good Wednesday morning!

Weather Synopsis
A large area of high pressure now rests rather comfortably across the eastern United States, centered in West Virginia. This system will influence our weather for just one more day, before things get rather loopy again. A large area of low pressure, currently centered in the Rocky Mountains, will make its way eastward, and as it does, two things will happen. The winds will shift direction, coming from the south instead of the north, which will bring us warmer temperatures and return the season of Spring back to Wisconsin. The second thing it will do is, of course, bring us showers and thunderstorms, which will probably start tonight and continue straight through Saturday, with the heaviest rainfall expected tomorrow night and Friday.
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

Today’s Forecast Grade: B+

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Mostly sunny and warmer. Maybe a few clouds by this evening. High of 55 central, getting up to near 60 in southern Wisconsin.

Tonight: Increasing clouds and becoming windy. A stray thundershower is possible. Lows upper 30s central, lower 40s south. Chance of rain 30%.

Tomorrow: Cloudy and windy with showers and thunderstorms, becoming more numerous late in the day. Highs mid- to upper 50s central, near 60 again south. Chance of rain 50% during the day, 80% tomorrow night.

This Weekend:
Friday: Cloudy and windy with showers and thunderstorms likely. Heavy rainfall totals are possible. Highs 59-64. Chance of rain 90%.
Saturday: Cloudy, breezy and cooler with scattered showers and thunderstorms eventually ending. Highs 48-53. Chance of rain 50%.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy, maybe an isolated shower. Highs 53-58. Chance of rain 20%.

Other City Forecasts:

Today and Tomorrow in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Partly cloudy today, storms likely tomorrow, highs upper 50s to near 60.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USMN0503

Today and Tomorrow in Evansville, Indiana: Sunshine today, more clouds tomorrow with storms possible tomorrow night. Highs lower 70s today and upper 70s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USIN0190

Today and Tomorrow in League City and Pearland, Texas: Partly cloudy and breezy, highs upper 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX1029

Today and Tomorrow in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Sunshine, highs lower 70s today and mid- to upper 70s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USSC0155

Today and Tomorrow in Las Vegas, Nevada: Sunshine, breezy, highs lower 80s today and mid- 70s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USNV0040

Today and Tomorrow in Davenport, Florida: Sunshine, a little breezy, highs mid- 80s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/FL/Davenport.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USFL0104

Weather in the News:

At least 140 homes hit by Virginia tornadoes
* At least 200 injured in Suffolk, but no fatalities are reported
* A second tornado struck Colonial Heights, injuring at least 18, an official said
* Video footage shows roofs torn off, cars flipped, trees snapped in half
* A third twister damaged several homes near Lawrenceville
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/weather/04/29/virginia.tornadoes/index.html

...Record snowfall in Green Bay Monday...
Big wet snowflakes were reported for several hours Monday morning at
Green Bay. Total snowfall from the morning event was 1.3 inches
which broke the daily snowfall record of 0.8 inches in 1907.
The additional snowfall brings the seasonal total to 87.4 inches.
Hopefully this will be the last snowfall of the season.

...Today's topic...part 5... severe thunderstorms...
-------------------------------------------------------------------
severe thunderstorms contain multiple dangers that can threaten
your safety and personal property in any part of the country and at
any time of the year. Although these storms can be fairly small and
brief...averaging around 10 to 15 miles in diameter and have an
average lifetime of 20 to 30 minutes...they can cause a tremendous
amount of damage in this short time frame. Some supercell
thunderstorms can have a lifespan of 1 hour or more.

Severe thunderstorms are defined as having one or more of the
following:

...A Tornado

...Peak winds in excess of 58 miles per hour /50 knots/

...Hail at least 3/4 of an inch in diameter /approximately the
size of a penny/

As in any thunderstorm...severe thunderstorms also frequently
contain dangerous lightning.

Wisconsin sees an average of 30 to 40 days a year with
thunderstorms. Here/S the breakdown on short-lived severe weather
events in Wisconsin...

***roughly 52 percent of all severe events in the state are
straight line wind events /wind speeds 58 mph or higher/

***31 percent are hail events with hail-stones that are at
least 3/4 inch in diameter

***7 percent are tornado events

Here are some more interesting facts about severe thunderstorms in
the state of Wisconsin...

...Hail can occur in any County. However...the southern half of
Wisconsin has a greater number of recorded hail events.

...Each Summer there are about 15 severe thunderstorms in Wisconsin
which produce hail 1.5 inches in diameter /ping pong Ball size/ or
larger.

...The largest hailstone in Wisconsin was about 5.7 inches in
diameter. This large hailstone fell on may 22 in 1921 on the
north side of Wausau.

...Severe thunderstorms can occur at any time of the day and at any
time of the year. The peak season for severe thunderstorms is
between April and September and most likely to occur in the late
afternoon or evening hours.

...On Sunday may 31 1998 hurricane-force winds in excess of 100 mph
raked several counties in south-central and southeast Wisconsin.
A peak gust of 128 mph was measured in southern Dodge County. One
person in southern Washington County was crushed to death while
sleeping during the powerful storm when a tree fell on their
home. Hurricane winds start at 74 mph.

...From 1970 to 2007...Wisconsin has had 22 days with documented
straight-line thunderstorm down-burst winds of 100 mph or higher.

...On July 4th in 1977...a powerful thunderstorm system generated
wind gusts of over 100...with some gusts estimated as high as 150
to 155 mph. Severe tree damage occurred over a distance of 166
miles.

...Severe thunderstorm watches and warnings...
it is important to know the difference between a Severe Thunderstorm
Watch and a warning. When a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is issued by
the Storm Prediction Center...it means that severe thunderstorms are
possible in and close to the watch area. When a Severe Thunderstorm
Warning is issued by local National Weather Service offices...it
means that severe thunderstorms are imminent or occurring in your
area.

Always make sure that you know the name of the County in which you
reside. Watches and warnings are issued on a County basis. If
severe thunderstorms are a possibility in your area...monitor NOAA
all hazards weather radio...or local TV or radio stations for the
latest severe thunderstorm watches and warnings in your area.

During any type of thunderstorm...especially severe thunderstorms...
you need to take action to protect yourself. Move to a sturdy
building and stay away from windows. Do not use corded telephones
until the storm has passed your area. In case of an emergency...
use a cell phone. It has been proven safe to use cell phones during
a thunderstorm because they do not have a physical connection to
the outside. Always remember that thunderstorms can and do produce
tornadoes with little or no advance warning. Remember...if you can
hear thunder...you are close enough to be struck by lightning.

For additional severe weather information...up to date forecasts...
and any watches or warnings please visit our web site at...
http://www.Weather.Gov/mkx/ /all lower case/

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Wisconsin Weather Update for April 28, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 11:37 AM GMT on April 28, 2008

Good Monday morning!

Weather Synopsis
Nothing says Happy Monday more than scattered snow showers three days before May 1! A weak area of low pressure centered over Wisconsin this morning is just strong enough to push cold air from north-central Canada into the western Great Lakes region, as well as develop cloud cover and scattered light rain or snow showers today. The system is rather slow-moving, so even though the precipitation just stretches to western Wisconsin this morning, it will probably stick around for most of the day, but should clear up by this evening. After a break in the action tomorrow, we get into another wet trend with showers and thunderstorms becoming probable by Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

NowCast: (Source: National Weather Service)
Fox Cities:
Look for a mix of rain and snow showers across east central Wisconsin during the early morning hours. A dusting of accumulation is possible between 630 am and 8 am...mainly on grassy surfaces.
http://www.wunderground.com/DisplayDisc.asp?DiscussionCode=GRB

Today’s Forecast Grade: C-

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Cloudy and breezy with scattered light rain or snow showers throughout the day. Less than 1" of snow accumulation on grassy areas is expected and the roads should be fine. Cold for this time of the year with a high of only 42, about 20 degrees below normal. Chance of precip 70%, unless it's currently raining or snowing, in which case go ahead and bump that up to 100%.

Tonight: Decreasing clouds, and cold overnight. Lows mid- 20s.

Tomorrow: Morning sunshine with a few afternoon clouds. Still cool but warmer than today with highs upper 40s central, lower 50s south.

Extended:
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, breezy and warmer with an isolated rain shower possible. Highs 56-61. Chance of rain 25%.
Thursday: Mostly cloudy and windy with scattered showers and thunderstorms. Highs 60-65. Chance of rain 60%.
Friday: Cloudy and windy with showers and thunderstorms likely. Highs 61-66. Chance of rain 80%.
Saturday: Mostly cloudy, breezy and a little cooler with scattered showers and thunderstorms. Highs 55-60. Chance of rain 60%.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy and cooler yet with scattered showers possible. Highs 52-57. Chance of rain 40%.

Other City Forecasts:

Today and Tomorrow in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Morning flurries today, otherwise partly cloudy. Highs mid- 40s today and mid- 50s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USMN0503

Today and Tomorrow in Evansville, Indiana: Storms today, partly sunny tomorrow. Highs mid- to upper 50s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USIN0190

Today and Tomorrow in League City and Pearland, Texas: Mostly sunny, highs lower 70s today and upper 70s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX1029

Today and Tomorrow in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Scattered storms and breezy today, mostly sunny tomorrow. Highs low to mid- 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USSC0155

Today and Tomorrow in Las Vegas, Nevada: Sunshine, breezy tomorrow, highs upper 80s today and lower 90s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USNV0040

Today and Tomorrow in Davenport, Florida: Scattered storms and a little breezy today, becoming mostly sunny tomorrow. Highs low to mid- 80s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/FL/Davenport.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USFL0104

Weather in the News:

Public Information Statement
525 PM CST Sat Apr 26 2008
Here are the preliminary results from the NWS survey team in
Columbia County. They surveyed damage inflicted by a tornado that
occurred on Friday April 25 2008 in Columbia County near Wyocena.

There was 1 tornado /preceded by two funnel clouds/
EF1 on the Enhanced Fujita scale
100 mph winds
4.5 miles long (2.2 SW Wyocena to 2.2 E Wyocena
521 PM to 526 PM /estimated/
50-75 yards damage width

3 barns destroyed
4 homes damaged
couple sheds damaged
Camper destroyed and overturned on to edge of a garage
two vehicles damaged
numerous trees uprooted or damaged
two horses injured

This tornado was photographed and video taped by spotters and
citizens.

Lofted debris was found through northeastern Columbia County...
southeast Green Lake County...and southwest Fond Du Lac County.

The parent thunderstorm that generated the tornado near Wyocena
maintained an internal rotation...known as a mesocyclone...as it
moved into southeast Green Lake County just southeast of
Markesan...and then over to Fairwater in Fond Du Lac County and then
to the area between Ripon and Rosendale.

No tornado damage was found in Green Lake County or Fond Du Lac
County. However....spotters noted that there was distinct
cloud-base rotation and maybe a funnel cloud as the thunderstorm
moved through western Fond Du Lac County. In other
words...conditions were very close to having another tornado in
southeast Green Lake County and western Fond Du Lac County.

...Summary of strong winds Saturday across southern Wisconsin...

Location peak wind gust (mph)

Janesville (jvl) 52
New Holstein 52
Beulah station 51
Sheboygan (hs) 50
Fond Du Lac (fld) 49
Sheboygan (sbm) 49
Waukesha 49
Milwaukee (miller park) 48
Port Washington 48
Kenosha (enw) 47
Juneau (unu) 47
Lake Geneva 47
Sullivan (mkx) 46
Cedarburg 46
Milwaukee (north Harbor gap) 46
Sussex 46
Kenosha (harbor) 45
Slinger 45
Milwaukee (mke) 45

Racine (rac) 44
Milwaukee (uwm) 44
Reedsburg 44
Union Grove 43
Oconomowoc 43
Darlington 43
Westfield 42
Burlington (buu) 41
West Bend (etb) 40
Fort Atkinson 40
Monroe (eft) 39
Lone Rock (lnr) 39
Madison (msn) 38
Baraboo-dells (dll) 37
Portage 37
Watertown (ryv) 37
Stoughton 36
Merton 35

...Today's topic is...part 4...tornado statistics...
---------------------------------------------------------------------

In 2007...Wisconsin had 18 documented tornadoes. These tornadoes did
not result in any fatalities...but did result in 4 directly-related
injuries.

There have been 1356 documented tornadoes in Wisconsin since
1844...causing 510 directly-related deaths and at least 3001
directly-related injuries. Data prior to 1950 is incomplete because
in many cases...only large tornadoes were reported and many rural
tornadoes went undetected.

The following are Wisconsin tornado occurrences by month...

1844- j f M a M j j a S o N d total
2007......1 0 18 99 218 391 285 181 124 29 6 6 1356
in 2007...0 0 1 0 2 13 0 0 1 1 0 0 18

30 year normal /1971-2000/ ...21 tornadoes per year in Wisconsin.

The year of 2005 had the greatest state total with 62 tornadoes.
Other yearly Wisconsin totals include...

1980...43 1981...21 1982...16 1983...31 1984...34
1985...16 1986...14 1987...16 1988...35 1989...17
1990...09 1991...10 1992...26 1993...37 1994...35
1995...07 1996...21 1997...14 1998...11 1999...11
2000...18 2001...12 2002...26 2003...14 2004...36
2005...62 2006...13 2007...18

------------------------------------------------------------------
the following are statistics for the average tornado in Wisconsin
from 1950 through January 2008...

Duration....9.8 minutes
length......5.5 miles
Max width...121 yards
intensity...1.1 on the ef-scale

The following are statistics for the average tornado in Wisconsin
from 1982 through January 2008...

Duration...7.1 minutes
length.....3.7 miles
width......118 yards
----------------------------------------------------------------

...Wisconsin's worst tornado...
New Richmond /St. Croix County/ tornado on June 12 1899...
killing 117...injuring 125...and destroying over 300 buildings.

...Other costly Wisconsin tornadoes include...
Oakfield /Fond Du Lac County/ tornado on July 18 1996...injuring
only 12 with damage pegged at 40.4 million dollars /1996
dollars/. It became a F5 tornado east of Oakfield.

Barneveld/Iowa County/ tornado on June 8 1984...killed 9 and
injuring 200 with with damaged pegged at 40 million dollars
/1984 dollars/. This was an F5 tornado.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

...Number of thunderstorm days in Wisconsin...
on average...the number of days per year with thunderstorms ranges
from around 30 along the Lake Michigan shoreline to around 40 over
the southwest third of the state.

...Number of tornado days in Wisconsin...
in the tornado department...southwestern Wisconsin near the
Mississippi River averages about 1 day per year with a tornado. This
average decreases down to 0.7 days per year for the Madison area...
0.6 tornado days per year for Milwaukee area...0.4 days per year
for the Green Bay area...and 0.2 tornado days per year for northern
Wisconsin.

...Number of warnings per year in Wisconsin...
National Weather Service offices that service Wisconsin issue...on
average...only 1 to 2 tornado warnings and 5 to 10 severe
thunderstorm warnings per County per year for the southern counties.
The averages are less for northern Wisconsin counties.

...Number of watches per year in Wisconsin...
the National Weather Service in Wisconsin issues on average about
30 severe thunderstorm watches per year that cover at least some part
of Wisconsin. The number for tornado watches in Wisconsin is about
10 per year.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

The U.S. National averages for the period 1982-2007...
...1090 tornadoes per year
...56 deaths per year
...21 killer tornadoes per year

Year-by-year breakdown for U.S. For 1982-2007 follows...

year tornadoes deaths killer tornadoes
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1982 1047 64 31
1983 812 34 26
1984 907 122 33
1985 684 94 20
1986 713 15 11
1987 656 59 14
1988 698 32 19
1989 856 50 13
1990 1133 53 17
1991 1127 39 15
1992 1297 39 16
1993 1173 33 16
1994 1085 68 23
1995 1234 29 14
1996 1173 25 13
1997 1148 67 22
1998 1417 130 33
1999 1300 95 29
2000 1071 40 14
2001 1216 40 23
2002 941 55 28
2003 1376 54 23
2004 1819 36 20
2005 1264 38 13
2006 1106 67 25
2007 1095 81 26

/total of 1819 in 2004 is an all-time yearly record/

For more information about tornadoes...please refer to:

Http://spc.NOAA.Gov/faq/tornado/pagelist.Htm /all lower case/

For additional severe weather information...up to date forecasts...
and any watches/warnings/advisories please visit:

Http://www.Weather.Gov/Milwaukee /all lower case/

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Tornado Watch for Southern Wisconsin

Posted by: HaleStorm, 7:53 PM GMT on April 25, 2008

After our second wave of thunderstorms late this morning, the sun is out and another round of showers and thunderstorms should be developing later this afternoon and into this evening. Looks like the tornado threat has been increased as well...

URGENT - IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
TORNADO WATCH NUMBER 232
NWS STORM PREDICTION CENTER NORMAN OK
240 PM CDT FRI APR 25 2008

THE NWS STORM PREDICTION CENTER HAS ISSUED A
TORNADO WATCH FOR PORTIONS OF

SOUTHERN INTO CENTRAL WISCONSIN

EFFECTIVE THIS FRIDAY AFTERNOON AND EVENING FROM 240 PM UNTIL 800
PM CDT.

TORNADOES...HAIL TO 2 INCHES IN DIAMETER...THUNDERSTORM WIND
GUSTS TO 70 MPH...AND DANGEROUS LIGHTNING ARE POSSIBLE IN THESE
AREAS.

THE TORNADO WATCH AREA IS APPROXIMATELY ALONG AND 75 STATUTE
MILES EAST AND WEST OF A LINE FROM 35 MILES NORTH OF CAMP DOUGLAS
WISCONSIN TO 20 MILES WEST SOUTHWEST OF JANESVILLE WISCONSIN.
FOR A COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE THE ASSOCIATED WATCH
OUTLINE UPDATE (WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).

REMEMBER...A TORNADO WATCH MEANS CONDITIONS ARE FAVORABLE FOR
TORNADOES AND SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS IN AND CLOSE TO THE WATCH
AREA. PERSONS IN THESE AREAS SHOULD BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR
THREATENING WEATHER CONDITIONS AND LISTEN FOR LATER STATEMENTS
AND POSSIBLE WARNINGS.

OTHER WATCH INFORMATION...CONTINUE...WW 231...

DISCUSSION...THUNDERSTORMS WILL CONTINUE INCREASING/DEVELOPING
ACROSS WW THIS EVENING AHEAD OF STRONG MID/UPPER LEVEL TROUGH AND
ASSOCIATED SURFACE COLD FRONT MOVING INTO THE NRN MS RIVER VALLEY.
SURFACE LOW WILL LIFT NWD INTO NWRN WI THROUGH THE EVENING WITH
TRAILING WARM FRONT SHIFTING NORTH INTO CENTRAL WI. THIS WILL
SUPPORT MARGINAL INSTABILITY WITHIN SUFFICIENT LOW/DEEP LAYER SHEAR
FOR A FEW SUPERCELLS AND SMALL LINES OVER SRN AND CENTRAL WI...WITH
ATTENDANT THREATS OF ISOLATED TORNADOES...LARGE HAIL AND/OR ISOLATED
DAMAGING WINDS.

AVIATION...TORNADOES AND A FEW SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS WITH HAIL
SURFACE AND ALOFT TO 2 INCHES. EXTREME TURBULENCE AND SURFACE
WIND GUSTS TO 60 KNOTS. A FEW CUMULONIMBI WITH MAXIMUM TOPS TO
400. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 23030.

...EVANS

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Wisconsin Weather Update for April 25, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 12:22 PM GMT on April 25, 2008

TGIF!

Weather Synopsis
A strong cold front is currently located across northwestern Wisconsin, eastern Iowa and through Missouri, and moving eastward. We had some scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms move through overnight, and another batch of showers and thunderstorms is currently in eastern Iowa and southern Minnesota and working its way into Wisconsin right now. This means we'll continue to see a break in the action over the next few hours, but by lunchtime, we will probably see showers and thunderstorms redeveloping. The Storm Prediction Center has actually put most of Wisconsin in the "slight risk" category for severe weather today, including a 15% of severe wind and hail, and a 2% chance of a tornado forming. After yesterday's test sirens went off, we're all prepared now to take shelter if needed, right?
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

Important Weather Statement: (Source: National Weather Service)
Southern Wisconsin:
... Flood Watch in effect through this evening...

The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a

* Flood Watch for a portion of south central Wisconsin...
including the following areas... Dane... green... Iowa...
Lafayette... rock and Sauk.

* Through this evening

* periods of thunderstorms will continue to move northeast from
Iowa and bring heavy rains to portions of southern Wisconsin.
Rainfall of an inch or more will be likely today. With several
rivers already running high... and soils saturated from recent
rains... flooding will be possible on area rivers... creeks and streams.

A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for
flooding. You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for
possible flood warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding
should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.
----------------
An area of thunderstorms over southeast Minnesota and eastern Iowa is moving northeast at 35 mph. Through 90o am these thunderstorms will track across south central Wisconsin. Some of these thunderstorms may produce heavy rainfall up to 1 inch in an hour over already saturated ground. Localized flooding and ponding of water may occur. Over southeastern Wisconsin...the area of thunderstorms is expected to arrive between 10 am and noon. A very moist airmass over southeast Wisconsin has lead to the development of fog...with some locally dense fog reducing visibilities to less than 1/2 mile. Rush hour motorists should be alert for rapidly changing visibilities until the fog lifts later this morning.
http://www.wunderground.com/DisplayDisc.asp?DiscussionCode=MKX

Today’s Forecast Grade: C-

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Areas of fog this morning. Cloudy during the morning, then showers and thunderstorms redeveloping by around lunchtime and continuing for much of the afternoon. An individual cell or two could be strong or even reach severe levels this afternoon. Mild for one last day, high of 68 central, lower 70s south. Chance of rain 80%.

Tonight: Showers and thunderstorms diminishing in the evening. It should be cool and quiet overnight. Lows upper 30s. Chance of rain this evening 50%.

Saturday: Mostly cloudy and much cooler with another round of rain showers moving in Saturday night. Rain could mix with light snow overnight. Highs lower 50s. Chance of precip 30%.

Sunday: Scattered rain showers, again perhaps changing over to light snow Sunday night. Windy and very cool, highs only in the mid- to upper 40s. Get the winter coats back out of the closet! Chance of precip 50%.

Next Week:
Monday: Scattered light rain or snow showers east. Still quite cool, and not really in a good way, highs 42-47. Chance of precip 25%.
Tuesday: Partly sunny, a tad warmer, highs 46-51.
Wednesday: Partly sunny and a little warmer, highs 51-56. We might hit 60 again by week's end.

Other City Forecasts:

This Weekend in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Breezy and cooler with scattered showers today. Snow tonight with 1" possible. More light snow possible tomorrow night and Sunday. Highs mid- 40s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USMN0503

This Weekend in Evansville, Indiana: Partly sunny and breezy today, more sunshine tomorrow, then showers on Sunday. Highs lower 80s today, then dropping into the mid- to upper 60s this weekend.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USIN0190

This Weekend in League City and Pearland, Texas: Isolated storms today and tomorrow with storms becoming likely on Sunday. Windy on Sunday as well. Highs lower 80s today and tomorrow and mid- 70s on Sunday.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX1029

This Weekend in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Partly cloudy today, storms possible tomorrow night and Sunday. Highs upper 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USSC0155

This Weekend in Las Vegas, Nevada: Sunshine, highs upper 70s today, then mid- to upper 80s this weekend.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USNV0040

This Weekend in Davenport, Florida: Partly cloudy today, isolated sprinkles this weekend, highs mid- to upper 80s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/FL/Davenport.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USFL0104

Weather in the News:

Storms destroy Texas homes
* At least a dozen Texas homes destroyed or damaged in possible tornadoes
* Baseball-sized hail also reported
* Scrapes and scratches only injuries reported
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/weather/04/24/severe.weather.ap/index.html#cnnSTCText

...Tornado and severe weather awareness week is April 21-25...
...Today's topic is...part 3...tornado basics...
-----------------------------------------------------------------

...Tornadoes in general...
tornadoes are one of the most powerful and violent storms that
nature can produce. They come in all shapes and sizes and can occur
in every state in the country...on any day of the year...and at any
hour of the day. However...one thing that all tornadoes have in
common is that they can be a direct threat to your safety.

...Definition of a tornado...
a tornado by definition is a violently rotating column of air that
extends from the base of a convective cloud down to the ground.
There may or may not be a visible condensation funnel inside the
tornado. In other words...the so-called condensation funnel is not
the tornado.

...for many years it was assumed that most tornadoes develop
downward from the cloud base to the ground. Recent research
and eyewitness reports indicate tornadoes can actually spin
up below the cloud base. In other words...the condensation
funnel...if present at all...does not have to touch the
ground in order to have a tornado. The nearly invisible
tornado may spin up before there is a visible condensation
funnel.

...frequently...dirt and debris violently rotating at the
ground level along with cloud-base rotation above...is a
good confirmation of a tornado.

...Wisconsin tornado statistics...
in Wisconsin the peak tornado season is may through August. Tornadoes
can occur at any time of the day.

...the peak hours of occurrence in Wisconsin are between
2 PM and 10 PM.

...the peak hour for tornado initiation in Wisconsin is
between 6 and 7 PM.

...on average...Wisconsin sees 21 tornadoes a year...based on
the period of 1971-2000.

...on average...Wisconsin has an average of 1 fatality each year
due to tornado-related injuries.

...for the period of 1982-2008...the average Wisconsin tornado
lasted about 7.1 minutes...had a path length of about 3.7
miles...had a path width of about 118 yards...and had an
average Fujita-scale strength of 0.7 /almost F1/.

...Tornado safety tips...
the National Weather Service recommends taking shelter in a permanent
structure/S interior hallway...bathroom...or closet on the lowest
floor. Put as many walls between you and the outside of the
building.

...if available...a basement is the best choice to take cover.
Auditoriums...or other structures with large unsupported
roofs...or areas with windows should be avoided. In last
minute situations a desk may used for cover.

...the southwest corner of the basement is not necessarily the
safest place...because large objects such as cars and trucks
can be deposited into basements. You need something sturdy
overhead...such as an I-beam. Another option in the basement
is to get underneath a heavy desk or table...or The
Staircase.

...if you are caught outside in the open during a tornado...lie
flat and cover your head. If you can...wrap a covering
around exposed portions of your body.

...any debris driven by tornado-strength winds has the potential
to cause serious injury. Damage assessments have discovered
amazing events such as Straw being thrown through a car door.
Debris also tends to collect in ditches and ravines which can
flood due to rain...so be wary of ditches and ravines.

...never drive directly toward or into the vicinity of a
tornado. Any tornado can change direction or speed and put
you directly in its path. Drive at right angles from the
tornado/S path or get out of your vehicle and seek shelter
immediately.

...Highway over-passes are not the safest outdoor place to be.
People have been killed while hiding underneath an over-pass
as a tornado moved overhead. Instead...seek a sturdy shelter
or lie flat on the ground and cover your head with your
arms.

...Mobile homes...
if you live in a Mobile home...you should be especially cautious
during times of possible severe weather. Most Mobile homes are not
safe in severe weather...especially tornadoes.

...the size and construction of Mobile homes makes them
particularly vulnerable to overturning in high winds. Some
protection may be provided against damage by securing them
with cables anchored in Concrete footings.

...you should be aware that when high winds or tornadic activity
are imminent...Mobile homes should be evacuated. The National
Weather Service advises that in these conditions you should
move immediately to a sturdy...permanent structure.

...if no sturdy shelter is available...lie flat on the ground
and cover your head. Act quickly...the majority of tornado-
related deaths occur in Mobile homes. Preparing ahead of
time could save your life.

...Standard homes...
in the home...your best choice for safety is an interior room with
no windows on the lower level of your home...preferably a basement.
If possible get under a sturdy table or work bench.

...if a cellar is not available...take cover in an interior
closet...hallway or bathroom on the lowest level of the
house.

...some people survive a tornado in an empty bathtub with a
mattress over their head for protection. Contrary to popular
myths...do not open doors or windows before taking cover. It
wastes precious time that you need to head for safety.
-------------------------------------------------------------------

For additional severe weather information...up to date forecasts...
and any watches/warnings/advisories please visit:

Http://www.Crh.NOAA.Gov/mkx /all lower case/

For information about tornadoes...please refer to:

Http://spc.NOAA.Gov/faq/tornado/pagelist.Htm /all lower case/

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Wisconsin Weather Update for April 23, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 11:32 AM GMT on April 23, 2008

Good Wednesday morning!

Severe Storm Spotting Training
On Monday evening, I attended "Concepts of Severe Storm Spotting," a 2-hour fast-paced training class from the National Weather Service to teach the public how to safely spot severe storms and call in with appropriate severe weather incidents. The class, for beginners and experts alike, was excellent, a great refresher from when I took the class two years ago, and I learned a few new things too.

Trivia
I took some notes from the presentation regarding interesting trivia facts, etc., and here they are:
--The longest track tornado in the entire United States last year was the EF3 tornado which hit northeastern Wisconsin on June 7. It was 3/4 of a mile wide at its base and was on the ground for 40 miles! Some schools and businesses actually closed down that afternoon in anticipation of this "superstorm."
--This storm also dumped 5.5" diameter hail, which was almost a state record. (5.7" diameter hail hit Wausau in 1921)
--The biggest hailstone on record in the United States is 7" diameter, which hit Aurora, Nebraska on June 22, 2003. That's about volleyball-size!
--Lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from where the bolt originates from in the cloud. If you are hearing thunder rumbling, you are close enough to get struck!
--The best place to view a storm for possible tornadoes is usually just southeast of the storm. Storms tend to move from southwest to northeast and if you're west, north or northeast of the storm, rain shafts will probably obscure your view of the heart of the storm. If you're northeast of the storm, you could be in the direct path of the rain, then small hail, then large hail, then possible tornado!

Channel 5 News at 10pm Monday night ran a storm about the training class. Here's the video story, which includes a brief glimpse of me watching the presentation. =) Click "Valley Residents Train to be Weather Spotters."
http://www.wfrv.com/news/default.aspx
National Weather Service Storm Spotter training materials are online if you want to check them out, or maybe even attend a future class!
http://www.crh.noaa.gov/grb/?n=spotters

Weather Synopsis
High pressure centered over Wisconsin this morning means a great day of weather is in store for us. Beware of an approaching cold front tomorrow though, which could generate showers and thunderstorms through Friday, and will bring in cooler air for this weekend. Heck, we might even see some snow showers Sunday night! Yeah I know, I wish I was kidding too.
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

Today’s Forecast Grade: A

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Mostly sunny and quite pleasant. High of 68 central, near or just above 70 south.

Tonight: Increasing clouds and winds overnight. Lows mid- 40s.

Tomorrow: Becoming cloudy and breezy with showers and thunderstorms developing by the afternoon and continuing through Friday. Highs mid- to upper 60s central, upper 60s to near 70 south. Chance of rain 70%.

This Weekend:
Friday: Cloudy and breezy with showers and thunderstorms likely. Highs 63-68. Chance of rain 80%.
Saturday: Partly sunny and cooler, highs 52-57.
Sunday: Cloudy, breezy and cooler yet with scattered rain showers, which could change to snow showers Sunday night as temps drop into the 30s. Daytime highs 47-52. Chance of precip 50%.

Other City Forecasts:

Today and Tomorrow in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Storms tonight and tomorrow, highs lower 70s today and upper 60s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USMN0503

Today and Tomorrow in Evansville, Indiana: Sunshine today, scattered storms tomorrow, highs lower 80s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USIN0190

Today and Tomorrow in League City and Pearland, Texas: Becoming partly cloudy, highs lower 80s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX1029

Today and Tomorrow in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Isolated showers today, becoming partly cloudy tomorrow. Highs low to mid- 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USSC0155

Today and Tomorrow in Las Vegas, Nevada: Sunshine, breezy, highs lower 80s today and mid- 70s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USNV0040

Today and Tomorrow in Davenport, Florida: Partly cloudy, a little breezy, highs mid- 80s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/FL/Davenport.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USFL0104

Severe Weather Awareness Week

...Tornado and severe weather awareness week is April 21-25...
...Today's topic is...part 2...most common tornado myths...
-----------------------------------------------------------------

There are many myths circulating amongst society about tornadoes...
which in many cases are false and could be life-threatening if
followed closely. Several of these myths are listed below along with
the reasons of why they are false.
-----------------------------------------------------------------

...When traveling by car...seek shelter under an overpass as a
tornado approaches...

seeking shelter under an overpass is more dangerous than
standing in an open field while a tornado is approaching. When a
tornado passes over an overpass...winds are funneled under the
bridge thereby increasing the velocity. The same phenomena can be
experienced by standing between two buildings on a windy day.

The best place to seek shelter while traveling is in a sturdy
building. If no building is available...lie flat on the ground and
cover your head. Tornadoes do not follow terrain features exactly
...So chances are if the tornado comes directly toward your
location...it will pass right over you. Be wary however...debris
tends to collect in lows spots such as culverts and ditches...and
flash flooding may be possible as well.
----------------------------------------------------------------

...Tornadoes never strike the same location twice...

the civil town of Cordell Kansas had a tornado hit on may 20th
three years in a row /1916...1917...1918/. In Guy Arkansas...three
tornadoes hit the same church on the same day.
----------------------------------------------------------------

...Big cities and their tall buildings are protected from
tornadoes...

big cities and their immediate surrounding areas are not
protected from tornadoes. In fact...many cities across the United
States have been hit directly within recent times such as Miami...
Oklahoma City...Houston...Fort Worth...and Nashville. Even Salt Lake
City has been directly hit. Utah only experiences a few tornadoes per
year...but they can strike anywhere.

Since big cities cover a relatively small geographical area...
the chances of a tornado striking that particular area are relatively
small...but not impossible. The myth that tall buildings protect
cities from tornadoes is false since tornadic thunderstorms are
typically 8 to 12 miles in height. A tall building of 500 to 1000
feet in height can not possibly deflect or destroy a tornado.
----------------------------------------------------------------

...Large lakes protect nearby areas from tornadoes...

while cold water and the cool air on top of a Large Lake such
as Lake Michigan can provide for a locally stable environment at
times...chances are a thunderstorm producing a tornado moving toward
a Cold Lake has a large driving force that can easily overcome the
dampening effects of refrigerated air over a Large Lake.

In addition...typical lake breezes found along the Lake Michigan
shore are often shallow and only affect a small portion of the lower
atmosphere. Warm and unstable air above this marine layer/lake breeze
could very well sustain a thunderstorm/S strength. For example... on
March 8 2000...Milwaukee County experienced its earliest tornado on
record at a time when Lake Michigan is climatologically coldest.
------------------------------------------------------------------

...Mountains...ridges...river valleys...and large lakes inhibit
tornado development and/or split storms...

tornadoes are possible in every corner of the United States...
including mountains...ridges...and river valleys. While conditions
aren/T optimal for tornado development on top of mountains or
directly over Lake Michigan...tornadoes have been documented to
visit mountains at the 10 to 14 thousand foot level in the Sierra
Nevada mountains and in Yellowstone National Park. Strong tornadoes
have also been known to cross the Mississippi River and other large
rivers or large lakes.
-----------------------------------------------------------------

...Seeking shelter in the southwest corner of your house will
protect you from being hit by debris...

this myth was devised solely by the misconception that all
tornadoes propagate in a northeast direction. Therefore as the
tornado hits your house...all the debris will be brought with it to
the northeast and away from you. Since tornadoes can move from any
direction...this myth is obviously false.

Debris such as pickup trucks and cars can also be shoved into the
basement by a tornado. Obviously one can be crushed by a vehicle
that is deposited into a basement. One should position themselves
under the I-beam...a heavy work bench...or under The Steps to
increase their chances of survival.

During a Tornado Warning...people will want to seek shelter in an
interior room on the lowest level of the building...away from
windows...and under a steady piece of furniture or staircase.
----------------------------------------------------------------

...To minimize damage to your house...open all the windows prior to
a tornado striking it to equalize the pressure inside and prevent
it from exploding...

while tornadoes do have incredible pressure changes associated
within them...if a tornado strikes your house directly...the winds
and flying debris alone will damage it severely anyway. All homes
have the ability to equalize their pressure inside...since no house
is 100 percent air-tight.

Furthermore...by opening windows you allow no chance of the window
shielding you from debris outside which may cause bodily harm...and
it wastes precious time you need to take cover.
----------------------------------------------------------------

...Tornadoes only occur in the late Spring and Summer across
Wisconsin...

while the optimal time for tornado development occurs during may
through August across Wisconsin...tornadoes may develop at any time
of day and on any day of the year. Since 1950...tornadoes have been
documented in the Badger state during every month of the year except
February. A tornado may yet someday occur in February in Wisconsin.
-----------------------------------------------------------------

...The shape and size of the tornado determines how strong it is...

tornadoes come in all shapes and sizes and one should not depend
on how large they are or their shape to determine strength. The only
way to determine the strength of the tornado is through damage
assessments conducted by the National Weather Service...or by taking
a direct measurement of wind.

During damage assessments...NWS employees look for clues that will
tell them how strong the winds were. The wind estimate /or
measurement/ is then related to the Enhanced-Fujita tornado scale
and a tornado intensity level will be assigned.

Merely by looking at the tornado/S shape does not tell the
whole story. The visible funnel is created by cloud condensation or
dirt and debris. Conditions that create the visible funnel will
change each time a tornado develops...and therefore one can not use
this method reliably.
--------------------------------------------------------------

...Significant property or crop damage is always a result of a
tornado...

tornadoes do produce significant damage...however straight-line
down-burst winds can be just as destructive. Down-burst winds
associated with severe thunderstorms are capable of reaching wind
speeds of 100 to 150 mph...or the equivalent of an EF1 or EF2 or
EF3 tornado. Tornadoes are rated a scale from EF0 to EF5...with EF5
being the strongest.

Significant damage does not always imply a tornado. Several...less
obvious...clues will tell NWS employees whether a tornado or
straight-line winds caused the damage.
---------------------------------------------------------------

...Mobile homes attract tornadoes...

nothing attracts tornadoes. Tornadoes form and travel at their
own leisure. It seems as though Mobile homes attract tornadoes
because they are more susceptible to damage. However...on a pro-
rated basis...higher numbers of fatalities and injuries occur with
Mobile-trailer homes.
---------------------------------------------------------------

...The number of tornadoes per year have been increasing due to more
favorable weather conditions...

the number of documented tornadoes in the U.S. Has increased
since the early 1900s. However...this increase is mostly likely due
to the general increase in the population...more trained storm
spotters...better radar detection technology...and better follow-up
damage surveys. Tornadoes have not become more common due to more
favorable weather conditions.
---------------------------------------------------------------

For information about tornadoes...please refer to...

Http://spc.NOAA.Gov/faq/tornado/index.Html /all lower case/

For information about Wisconsin severe weather...please refer to...

Http://www.Crh.NOAA.Gov/mkx /all lower case/

Updated: 11:34 AM GMT on April 23, 2008

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Wisconsin Weather Update for April 21, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 11:31 AM GMT on April 21, 2008

Good Monday morning!

Weather Synopsis
The friends I used to forecast northern Wisconsin for have just moved back to the Fox Valley, so Wisconsin forecasts going forward will include just central and southern Wisconsin again. Today is looking like another beauty of a day, with mild air ahead of an upcoming cold front keeping us warm and cloud cover which probably won't get here until late in the day. The front is moving very slowly, so showers and thunderstorms are a good bet for tomorrow, but warm air looks to remain in place even after the cold front passes through with high temps not falling back into the 50s until late in the week. The average high for today is 57 central, 59 south.
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

Today’s Forecast Grade: A-

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Mostly sunny for much of the day with increasing clouds late. Mild, high of 71 central, lower 70s south.

Tonight: Mostly cloudy, scattered showers and thunderstorms a possibility overnight, although mostly in western and central Wisconsin. Lows near 50. Chance of rain 25%.

Tomorrow: Showers and thunderstorms a good possibility. The Storm Prediction Center is not expecting anything severe though. Highs mid- 60s central, upper 60s south. Chance of rain 70%.

Extended:
Wednesday: Partly cloudy and remaining mild, highs 66-71.
Thursday: Mostly cloudy, breezy and a little cooler, scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms. Highs 61-66. Chance of rain 50%.
Friday: Partly cloudy and cooler, highs 58-63.
Saturday: Increasing clouds, cool, highs 56-61.
Sunday: Morning showers, cool, highs 54-59. Chance of rain 30%.

Other City Forecasts:

Today and Tomorrow in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Scattered showers and thunderstorms today and tonight, becoming partly cloudy tomorrow. Highs lower 70s today and mid- 60s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USMN0503

Today and Tomorrow in Evansville, Indiana: Partly sunny, isolated storms tomorrow, probably an earthquake or two, highs mid- to upper 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USIN0190

Today and Tomorrow in League City and Pearland, Texas: Partly sunny, isolated storms tomorrow, highs lower 80s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX1029

Today and Tomorrow in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Partly cloudy today, more clouds tomorrow, highs mid- 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USSC0155

Today and Tomorrow in Las Vegas, Nevada: Sunshine, highs mid- 70s today and lower 80s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USNV0040

Today and Tomorrow in Davenport, Florida: Sunshine, highs mid- 80s. It'll almost be that warm here in Wisconsin today. :)
http://www.wunderground.com/US/FL/Davenport.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USFL0104

Weather in the News:

Another quake shakes southern Illinois
* Monday's quake was the 18th since a magnitude 5.2 hit the area Friday morning
* Friday's quake was the strongest to hit in the region in 40 years
* There were no immediate reports of damage in Monday's quake
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/weather/04/21/illinois.quake/index.html

Two tornadoes strike metro D.C.
* First tornado hit St. Charles, Maryland, about 30 miles south of Washington
* Second tornado struck 30 minutes later outside Hyattsville, Maryland
* No injuries were immediately reported
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/weather/04/21/dc.tornadoes/index.html

...Tornado and severe weather awareness week is April 21-25...
...Today/S topic...part 1...basic watch and warning info...
------------------------------------------------------------------

...How to stay on top of the weather...
with Summer quickly approaching the Badger state...you need to be
aware of potentially hazardous weather situations quickly. An
excellent way to keep abreast of rapidly changing Summer weather
conditions is to Purchase a NOAA Weather Radio all hazards receiver
at your favorite electronics store. Make sure your weather radio has
a battery back-up in case you lose commercial power.

Besides NOAA Weather Radio as a source of weather information...
commercial TV and radio stations and cable stations broadcast
critical weather information. Of course...weather information can
be obtained from the internet.
--------------------------------------------------------------------

...The difference between a watch and a warning...
be sure that you understand the difference between a Tornado Watch
and warning. Many people confuse watches and warnings. Now is a
good time to review the difference before severe weather hits.

...Tornado Watch...the Storm Prediction Center issues a watch
to give you advance notice that the development of tornadoes
is possible in your area within the next several hours. This
gives you the time to make preliminary plans for moving to a
safe shelter quickly if a tornado develops.

...Tornado Warning...a Tornado Warning is an urgent announcement
that a tornado has been reported by a person or is imminent
due to Doppler radar information. Take swift...immediate
actions. When a warning is issued..move quickly. Seconds
save lives.

...Severe Thunderstorm Watch...the Storm Prediction Center
issues a Severe Thunderstorm Watch to give you advance
notice that the development of severe storms with powerful
and damaging downburst winds and large hail are possible in
your area within the next several hours. This gives you the
time to make preliminary plans for moving to a safe shelter
quickly if a severe thunderstorm develops.

...Severe Thunderstorm Warning...a Severe Thunderstorm Warning
is an urgent announcement that a severe storm with powerful
and damaging downburst winds has been reported by a person
or is imminent due to Doppler radar information. Take
swift...immediate actions. When a warning is issued..move
quickly. Seconds save lives.
-------------------------------------------------------------------

...Which groups of people should have a safety plan...
institutions such as schools...office buildings...and factories
should have a well-rehearsed plan of action in case of hazardous
weather. This includes having a NOAA Weather Radio all hazards to
monitor the current and future weather conditions...and a person who
watches for severe storms.

In addition...organizers of outdoor events...where large numbers of
people gather...should have a plan of action.

People at home should also have a plan of action...which includes
having an emergency kit that contains water...non-perishable food
...Extra medicine and clothing...flashlights and batteries...and
extra Cash and other personal items.
-------------------------------------------------------------------..

...Words of caution...
during this time of year your safety depends on you being alert and
cautious.

...it is also a good time to make sure that you know what County
you live in. The National Weather Service issues severe
weather watches and warnings on a County basis...or on a
partial-County basis.

...if you Don/T feel safe because the sky or clouds look
threatening...then seek a safe shelter...even if a warning
hasn/T been issued by the National Weather Service.

...the National Weather Service does not issue warnings for
lightning. Lightning is a major hazard with any
thunderstorm. If you can hear thunder...you are close
enough to be struck by lightning.

For additional severe weather information and up to date forecasts
and any watches/warnings/advisories please visit our web site at...

Http://www.Weather.Gov/mkx/ /all lower case/

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Wisconsin Weather Update for April 18, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 12:24 PM GMT on April 18, 2008

TGIF!

Weather Synopsis
Have an umbrella handy for the next two days, as a slow-moving low pressure system currently in Missouri is developing a series of showers and thunderstorms across almost the entire Mississippi River and its surrounding states. The abundant cloud cover and moisture will keep us a little cool today, but temps should moderate nicely by Sunday and early next week.
By the way, did any of you in southern Wisconsin get woken up by an earthquake this morning? A 5.2 earthquake hit southern Illinois at 4:36am this morning. No injuries are reported so far with only a few minor damage reports but it certainly woke a lot of people up! Earthquakes in southern Illinois are definitely unusual but this isn't the first time either. A 5.4 hit southern Illinois in 1968.
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

Today’s Forecast Grade: C

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Scattered showers with isolated thunderstorms. Breezy and cool, highs near 50 north, 54 central, upper 50s south. Chance of rain 80%.

Tonight: Scattered showers continue. Lows near 40 north, mid- 40s central and south. Chance of rain 70%.

Saturday: More scattered showers, gradually ending late in the day. A little warmer, highs mid- 50s north, near 60 central, lower 60s south. Chance of rain 60%.

Sunday: Partly sunny and warmer, highs near 60 north, mid- 60s in central and southern Wisconsin.

Next Week:
Monday: Partly sunny, breezy, showers developing late, highs 64-69. Chance of rain Monday night 50%.
Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms probable, highs 66-71. Chance of rain 60%.
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy with scattered thundershowers becoming more numerous again late, highs 64-69. Chance of rain 50%.

Other City Forecasts:

This Weekend in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Scattered showers today, partly cloudy this weekend, highs mid- 50s today, upper 50s tomorrow, and mid- 60s on Sunday.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USMN0503

This Weekend in Evansville, Indiana: Scattered showers today, isolated showers tomorrow, sunshine on Sunday (thus the name). Highs lower 70s today, dropping into the upper 50s Saturday, then back to around 70 on Sunday. Did you feel a little rumbly this morning?
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USIN0190

This Weekend in League City and Pearland, Texas: Morning storms today, then drying out. Breezy today, highs near 70 today, mid- 70s tomorrow, and lower 80s by Sunday.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX1029

This Weekend in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Sunshine today and Sunday, scattered storms on Saturday. Highs low to mid- 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USSC0155

This Weekend in Las Vegas, Nevada: Sunshine, windy, highs lower 80s today and tomorrow but cooling into the lower 70s on Sunday.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USNV0040

This Weekend in Davenport, Florida: Partly cloudy, highs mostly in the lower 80s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/FL/Davenport.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USFL0104

Weather in the News:

... Earthquake felt in southern Wisconsin...
The U.S. Geological survey /USGS/ is reporting that an earthquake
occurred at 436 am this morning 5 miles NNE of Bellmont Illinois
or 38 miles NNW of Evansville Indiana. With a magnitude of 5.2.
Many people across southern Wisconsin felt the ground shake.
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/04/18/illinois.earthquake/index.html?iref=mpstoryview
http://www.jsonline.com/watch/?watch=1&date=4/18/2008&id=38529

Global Warmth in March Hits Record
(WASHINGTON) — Planet Earth continues to run a fever. Last month was the warmest March on record over land surfaces of the world and the second warmest overall worldwide. For the United States, however, it was just an average March, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported Thursday.
http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1732091,00.html?xid=feed-cnn-topics

...Madison 2007-2008 winter ranked third all time for consecutive days with an official snow depth of 1 inch or more...
The 2007-2008 winter season brought record snowfall to parts of
southern Wisconsin including Madison. Record snowfall at Dane
County regional Airport in Madison...along with near or below normal
temperatures...allowed for a snow depth of 1 inch or more to be
measured 110 consecutive days. This ranks the 2007-2008 winter
season third all time for consecutive days with a official snow
depth of 1 inch or more.

Below is a list of the top ten consecutive days with an official
snow depth of 1 inch or more at Madison...

rank # days beginning date end date
1 118 11/23/1978 3/20/1979
2 116 11/22/1985 3/17/1986
*3* *110* *12/01/2007* *3/19/2008*
4 105 12/10/1961 3/24/1962
5 98 12/06/2000 3/13/2001
6 93 12/11/1970 3/13/1971
t7 91 12/20/1977 3/20/1978
t7 91 11/28/1942 2/26/1943
t7 91 12/11/1909 3/11/1910
t8 89 12/03/1990 3/01/1991
t8 89 12/05/1950 3/03/1951
9 88 12/12/1916 3/09/1917
10 86 12/15/1935 3/09/1936

Official snow depth data for Madison began on January 1 1905.

By comparison...the 2007-2008 winter season at Milwaukee only had 44
consecutive days with a snow depth of 1 inch or more.

...Wisconsin/S 2008 tornado and severe weather awareness week is April 21-25...
Governor Doyle has proclaimed April 21-25 2008 as tornado and
severe weather awareness week in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin emergency management team...and the five NOAA
National Weather Service offices that serve Wisconsin...have
coordinated a variety of activities for the awareness week. Everyone
should educate themselves about the danger of tornadoes and severe
thunderstorms during the awareness week.

A statewide tornado drill is scheduled for Thursday April 24 2008.
This drill is a great opportunity for you and your communities to
review and discuss your emergency plans and warning policies.

----------------------------------------------------------------
...Mock tornado drill...

The drill will start at 1 PM with a mock Tornado Watch for all of
Wisconsin...in effect through 2 PM CDT.

This mock watch will be issued by the Storm Prediction Center
/product ID is wou/ in a message entitled...

test...Tornado Watch outline update for wt 9999...test

each of the 5 NWS offices will issue a mock Tornado Watch
/product ID is wcn/ using a product entitled...

test...watch County notification for watch 9999...test

Between 110 PM CDT and 155 PM CDT...the 5 NWS offices that service
Wisconsin will issue mock tornado warnings...on a staggered basis.
The mock Tornado Warning issuance order will be...

Green Bay NWS office................110-115 PM CDT
Milwaukee/Sullivan NWS office.......120-125 PM CDT
La Crosse NWS office................130-135 PM CDT
Minneapolis/Chanhassen NWS office...140-145 PM CDT
Duluth NWS office...................150-155 PM CDT

The test warnings will be issued using the Standard tornado product
identifier...

Green Bay NWS office................mketorgrb
Milwaukee/Sullivan NWS office.......mketormkx
La Crosse NWS office................mketorarx
Minneapolis/Chanhassen NWS office...msptormpx
Duluth NWS office...................msptordlh

The mock Tornado Watch/warning drill will end at 2 PM CDT.

In addition...the mock Tornado Watch and mock tornado warnings will
be tone-activated on the NOAA Weather Radio all hazards network in
Wisconsin. This tone activation will occur under the required weekly
test /rwt/ product identifier.

Caution...some commercial weather radio units will not generate an
audible tone-alert for the rwt product identifier.

In addition...a variety of public information statements...covering a
variety of tornado and severe weather concepts...will be sent on the
NOAA weather wire computer circuit on each of the five days of the
awareness week. Some of this information will be broadcast on the
NOAA Weather Radio all hazards network.

------------------------------------------------------------------
Should severe weather be possible anywhere in Wisconsin on the day
of the drill...the test watch and warnings will be postponed until
Friday April 25th with the same time schedule. If severe weather is
forecast for Friday...the drill will be canceled.

Some severe weather statistics for Wisconsin can be found at the
following web address...

http://www.crh.noaa.gov/mkx/climate-severe.php /all lower case/

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Wisconsin Weather Update for April 16, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 12:05 PM GMT on April 16, 2008

Good Wednesday morning!

Weather Synopsis
It's going to be a windy one out there today, folks! But unlike the strong winds from a few days ago which brought us cold, northerly air, today's winds ahead of our next storm system will bring mild air from the south. You can expect high temperatures through the 60s with a few spots in southern Wisconsin perhaps even hitting 70! After today, the mild air is going to go away for three days as a slow-moving low pressure system passes through. This system will change the wind direction again, as well as develop scattered rain showers across Wisconsin tomorrow through Saturday, but then things will likely warm up again on Sunday and into next week.
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

Today’s Forecast Grade: B+

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Windy and partly sunny. Becoming a little less windy this afternoon with increasing clouds late. Mild, highs lower 60s north, 66 central, upper 60s south. Maybe a few spots even hit 70 today?

Tonight: Mostly cloudy, maybe an isolated rain shower, lows upper 30s north, mid- 40s central and south. Chance of rain 20%.

Tomorrow: Cloudy and cooler with scattered showers developing. Highs lower 50s north, mid- 50s central and south. Chance of rain 70%.

This Weekend:
Friday: Cloudy and cooler with more scattered showers. Highs 50-55. Chance of rain 80%.
Saturday: Still cloudy, still cool, still showery. Highs 54-59. Chance of rain 50%.
Sunday: Partly sunny and warmer, highs 61-66, and perhaps in the upper 60s to near 70 again to start off next week.

Other City Forecasts:

Today and Tomorrow in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Isolated showers, highs lower 60s today and mid- 50s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USMN0503

Today and Tomorrow in Evansville, Indiana: Sunshine, highs near or just above 70.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USIN0190

Today and Tomorrow in League City and Pearland, Texas: Storms tomorrow night, otherwise partly cloudy, highs lower 70s today and upper 70s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX1029

Today and Tomorrow in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Sunshine, a little breezy today, highs upper 60s today and lower 70s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USSC0155

Today and Tomorrow in Las Vegas, Nevada: Sunshine, a little breezy, highs low to mid- 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USNV0040

Today and Tomorrow in Davenport, Florida: Sunshine, highs mid- 70s today and near 80 tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/FL/Davenport.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USFL0104

Weather in the News:

Science: Scientists Use Lasers to Create Lightning; Using Lightning to Zap Your Enemies Still Pretty Far Off
You think China inducing rain to prevent a washed-out Olympics is impressive? Whatever. Check this out: a group of scientists has just shot a laser into some clouds and triggered lightning.
http://gizmodo.com/379871/scientists-use-lasers-to-create-lightning-using-lightning-to-zap-your-ene mies-still-pretty-far-off
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-04/osoa-lte041008.php

Experts: Expect big Calif. quake by 2037
California faces an almost certain risk of being rocked by a strong earthquake by 2037, scientists said Monday in the first statewide temblor forecast.
http://usatoday.com/news/nation/2008-04-14-california-earthquake-study_N.htm?&imw=Y&csp=MostRead_Wi dget

Updated: 12:06 PM GMT on April 16, 2008

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Wisconsin Weather Update for April 14, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 12:00 PM GMT on April 14, 2008

Good Monday morning!

Weather Synopsis
Finally! A Monday/Wednesday/Friday forecast without a rain/snow storm moving through! A large area of high pressure spreading throughout the Plains states will give Wisconsin several days of sunshine. We'll still see cool temperatures today because of a northerly wind, but as the high pressure system passes us on its journey to the Atlantic Ocean, the winds will shift direction to become from the south and the warmest temperatures of the year so far will be upon us. Joy!
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

Today’s Forecast Grade: B

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Mostly sunny and a little warmer than yesterday but still cool overall. Highs upper 40s north, 49 central, and lower 50s south.

Tonight: Mostly clear, lows upper 20s north, lower 30s central and south.

Tomorrow: Mostly sunny, windy and warmer, highs upper 50s north, upper 50s to near 60 central, and lower 60s south. Here's a phrase not used too often this year, "above-normal." But if you think that's good...

Extended:
Wednesday: Increasing clouds, breezy and mild. Maybe a rain shower late. Highs 64-69 with a few spots in southern Wisconsin probably breaking 70! Chance of rain Wednesday night 30%.
Thursday: Cloudy and cooler with scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms. Highs 57-62. Chance of rain 60%.
Friday: Cloudy with more scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms. Highs 54-59. Chance of rain 50%.
Saturday: Mostly cloudy, maybe an isolated shower. Highs 58-63. Chance of rain 30%.
Sunday: Partly sunny and a little warmer, highs 62-67.

Other City Forecasts:

Today and Tomorrow in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Sunshine, becoming warmer, and windy tomorrow. Highs mid- 50s today and upper 60s tomorrow!
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USMN0503

Today and Tomorrow in Evansville, Indiana: Partly sunny today, more sunshine tomorrow, highs upper 40s today and lower 60s tomorrow. After that though..70s!
Through 7 am...widely scattered light showers or sprinkles will be possible across portions of the area. Areas that receive rain... amounts will range from a trace to a few hundredths of an inch.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USIN0190

Today and Tomorrow in League City and Pearland, Texas: Sunshine, a little breezy, highs lower 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX1029

Today and Tomorrow in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Scattered showers, breezy, highs lower 60s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USSC0155

Today and Tomorrow in Las Vegas, Nevada: Sunshine, becoming windy, highs near 90 today and lower 80s tomorrow (and dropping into the lower 70s on Wednesday!)
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USNV0040

Today and Tomorrow in Davenport, Florida: Isolated showers, otherwise partly sunny today. More sunshine tomorrow. Breezy, highs upper 60s to lower 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/FL/Davenport.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USFL0104

Weather in the News:

More storms sack South, blizzard hits Wisconsin
* Rain, hail, high winds rake Tennessee, southern Kentucky, parts of Alabama
* Homes destroyed in Kentucky; likely tornado damages 56 homes in Tennesse
* Severe weather continues a week of rain, flooding in West Virginia, Tennessee
* Thousands lose power as blizzard hits snow-weary northern Wisconsin
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/weather/04/11/severe.weather.ap/index.html#cnnSTCText

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Wisconsin Weather Update for April 11, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 12:07 PM GMT on April 11, 2008

TGIF!

Weather Synopsis
A beast of a low pressure system, currently centralized in Iowa, is spreading all sorts of wind, rain and snow to the Midwest. You can expect the nasty weather to last through tomorrow, with today's wind and rain changing over to wind and snow tonight and tomorrow, but don't bother shovelling as much warmer, mild air will start flowing our way next week with temperatures hopefully back into the 60s by Wednesday or Thursday.
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

Important Weather Statement: (Source: National Weather Service)
Northern Wisconsin:
... Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 7 am CDT Saturday...
Snow will mix with or change to sleet or rain for awhile today... but
change back to all snow during the middle to late afternoon. The
snow will continue tonight and part of Saturday. Wet snow and
gusty winds may cause power lines and trees to fall down. Only an
inch or so of additional snow is expected through late afternoon
today... but 4 to 6 inches of additional snow are likely tonight
through Saturday morning.

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow and
sleet are expected or occurring. Strong winds are also expected.
This will make travel very hazardous or impossible.
http://www.wunderground.com/DisplayDisc.asp?DiscussionCode=GRB

Fox Cities:
At 606 am Doppler radar indicated showers and thunderstorms from Black Creek to Green Bay to Manitowoc...moving northeast at 40 mph. The storms will be near... Kewaunee around 620 am... Sturgeon Bay around 640 am... Egg Harbor around 700 am... Expect heavy rain and dangerous lightning as the storms go by.
http://www.wunderground.com/DisplayDisc.asp?DiscussionCode=GRB

Southern Wisconsin:
A band of showers and thunderstorms has exited the Sheboygan area and was moving over Lake Michigan. These storms were moving northeast at 45 mph. Look for the stronger storms to produce brief heavy rain and 1/2 inch hail. Watch for ponding of water on roadways early this morning...along with rising rivers and streams. Do not drive through water of unknown depth. In addition fog will reduce visibilities to 1/2 mile or less over portions of southern Wisconsin...especially the far south.
http://www.wunderground.com/DisplayDisc.asp?DiscussionCode=MKX

Today’s Forecast Grade: D

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Rain showers becoming more numerous again later this morning, and changing to all snow north. Still windy, highs upper 30s north, 43 central, mid- to upper 40s south. Chance of precip near 100%.

Tonight: Rain showers changing over to snow showers. You might see an inch or two of snow on the grass when you wake up tomorrow morning, unless you live in Rhinelander where 3-6" is expected by Saturday morning. Windy, lows mid- 20s north, lower 30s central and south. Chance of precip 90%.

Saturday: Snow showers gradually ending later in the day. Total snow accumulations of 6-9" north, 2-3" central, and 1-2" south is expected by Saturday night. Windy but becoming less windy late, highs mid- 30s north, mid- to upper 30s central, upper 30s to near 40 south. Chance of snow 80%.

Sunday: Partly sunny and dry, highs near 40 north, lower 40s central and south.

Next Week:
Monday: Mostly sunny, a little warmer, highs 45-50.
Tuesday: Partly cloudy, breezy and warmer, highs 52-57.
Wednesday: Partly sunny, breezy and warmer yet, highs 57-62. Highs could reach the mid- to upper 60s on Thursday!

Other City Forecasts:

This Weekend in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Rain and snow changing to all snow. Snow ends later on Saturday with 3-5" expected. Partly cloudy on Sunday. Highs mid- 30s today, near 40 tomorrow and mid- 40s on Sunday.
... Winter Weather Advisory in effect until 7 am CDT Saturday...
... Winter Storm Warning is cancelled...

The National Weather Service in Chanhassen has issued a Winter
Weather Advisory... which is in effect until 7 am CDT Saturday. The
Winter Storm Warning has been cancelled.

Drier air spread into south central and east central sections of
Minnesota overnight... including the Twin Cities metropolitan
area... along with slowly rising temperatures. This has aided in
diminishing the precipitation with mainly light rain being
reported from time to time from Twin Cities on southwest through
New Ulm and Fairmont.

Rain... or a mix of rain and snow... will occur this morning from
the Twin Cities on southwest through New Ulm and Fairmont. A
changeover to all snow is expected by this afternoon as colder air
works into the area. The snow will persist through tonight. Snow
accumulations today will be from 2 to 3 inches with another 1 to 2
inches of accumulation tonight.

A Winter Weather Advisory means that periods of snow... sleet... or
freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. Be prepared for
slippery roads and limited visibilities... and use caution while
driving.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USMN0503

This Weekend in Evansville, Indiana: Isolated morning storms today, otherwise mostly cloudy. More showers possible this weekend. Highs upper 60s today, then dropping to the upper 40s to near 50 this weekend.
Scattered showers and thunderstorms continue to move across portions of west Kentucky this morning. In addition...showers and thunderstorms will continue to move northeast out of west Tennessee and affect west Kentucky over the next several hours. This activity could skirt across extreme southern Illinois over the next hour or two...and then eventually move into portions of southwest Indiana. Some of the stronger storms will be capable of brief heavy downpours.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USIN0190

This Weekend in League City and Pearland, Texas: Isolated storms today, sunshine this weekend, highs near 80 today and the low to mid- 70s this weekend.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USTX1029

This Weekend in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Morning fog today, otherwise partly cloudy. Isolated storms on Saturday, mostly cloudy and cooler on Sunday. Highs mid- 70s today, lower 80s tomorrow, and upper 60s on Sunday.
... Dense fog advisory remains in effect until 9 am EDT this morning...
Dense fog will overspread much of southeast South Carolina and
southeast Georgia early this morning. Visibilities of 1/4 mile
can be expected through sunrise and may drop to near zero at
times near bodies of water... swamps... marshes and other low lying
areas. Conditions are expected to rapidly improve by 9 am.

Motorists are urged to use extra caution during the morning
commute. Use low beam headlights when dense fog is encountered and
leave plenty of room between vehicles.

Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio all hazards... TV... or your local
news source for the latest weather information from the National
Weather Service. Additional information is also available on the
internet at www.Erh.NOAA.Gov/chs.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USSC0155

This Weekend in Las Vegas, Nevada: Sunshine all weekend, highs mid- 70s today, near 80 tomorrow, and rising into the upper 80s on Sunday!
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USNV0040

This Weekend in Davenport, Florida: *NEW* Isolated showers Saturday night and Sunday, otherwise partly cloudy, highs upper 80s today and tomorrow and mid- 70s Sunday.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/FL/Davenport.html
http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/local/USFL0104

Weather in the News:

...Record daily maximum rainfall set at Milwaukee...
A record rainfall of 1.66 inch(es) was set at Milwaukee yesterday.
This breaks the old record of 1.58 set in 1879.

Storms pound heartland; 2 die in Oklahoma flooding
* Flooding closes nearly 200 roads in Missouri and schools in Arkansas
* In Texas, a gas field worker's arm was severed during a possible tornado
* Flights at Little Rock National Airport were suspended due to a tornado warning
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/weather/04/11/severe.weather.ap/index.html#cnnSTCText

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Wisconsin Weather Update for April 9, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 1:03 PM GMT on April 09, 2008

Good Wednesday morning!

Testimonial!
I usually don't publish Weather Update testimonials but I couldn't resist this one that came in on Monday.

Thanks for helping me talk Gracie out of wearing shorts to school today. After the weekend she thought that we would continue temps like that. I explained that the weather is not so easy to predict and that today the temps were about 20 degrees cooler than yesterday. She looked at me with a very skeptical face. That’s when I said, “let’s check with Steve.” We checked your weather and she replied, “ok, mom. If Steve says it’s going to be cooler, I believe it!”
-Ann

Weather Synopsis
The rain, sleet and snow showers which moved through Wisconsin yesterday afternoon through the overnight hours has passed, and another cloudy and cool day can be expected across the badger state today. After today's brief glimpse of a weak high pressure system moving through, the next interesting weather system comes in the form of a strong, panhandle-hook low pressure system. This storm's going to soak up a lot of moisture from the Gulf of Mexico before shooting northward tomorrow and Friday. The very good news for the vast majority of us is that the latest models are predicting that the air will be too warm to fall to the ground as snow, but northern Wisconsin may not be quite as lucky.
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

Important Weather Statement: (Source: National Weather Service)
Northern Wisconsin:
... Winter Storm Watch in effect from Thursday evening through Friday evening...
... Snow Advisory is cancelled...

The National Weather Service in Green Bay has issued a Winter
Storm Watch... which is in effect from Thursday evening through
Friday evening. The Snow Advisory has been cancelled.

Snow will end early this morning with little additional
accumulation. Another storm will move towards the Great Lakes
Thursday night and Friday and may bring additional significant
snow to northern Wisconsin.

A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant
snow... sleet... or ice accumulations that may impact travel.
Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.
http://www.wunderground.com/DisplayDisc.asp?DiscussionCode=GRB

Today’s Forecast Grade: B

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Cloudy and cool. Maybe a glimpse of sunshine this afternoon. Highs lower 40s north, 47 central, near 50 south.

Tonight: Mostly cloudy, lows mid- 20s north, lower 30s central and south.

Tomorrow: Rain likely and spreading from south to north during the morning and afternoon. A few rumbles of thunder possible as well. Precip could fall as snow north tomorrow night where a Winter Storm Watch is currently issued. Cooler, highs lower 40s north and central, mid- 40s south. Chance of precip during the day 40% north, 60% central, 80% south. Chance of precip tomorrow night 90%.

This Weekend:
Friday: Rain or snow showers likely. Highs 46-51. Chance of precip 80%.
Saturday: Cloudy and cool with light snow showers gradually ending. Finally. Highs 37-42. Chance of precip 60%.
Sunday: Partly sunny, still pretty cool (not in a good way), highs 39-44. There is good news though, as next week looks drier and warmer!

Other City Forecasts:

Today and Tomorrow in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Partly cloudy today, rain and snow tomorrow, 3-5" of snow tomorrow night and Friday. Highs near 50 today and mid- 40s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USMN0503

Today and Tomorrow in Evansville, Indiana: Showers and thunderstorms likely tonight and tomorrow. Highs lower 60s today and lower 70s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville/KEVV.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USIN0190

Today and Tomorrow in League City and Pearland, Texas: Isolated storms, breezy, highs upper 70s to lower 80s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USTX1029

Today and Tomorrow in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Morning fog, then partly cloudy, highs near 70.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USSC0155

Today and Tomorrow in Las Vegas, Nevada: Partly sunny and breezy today, mostly sunny and less breezy tomorrow, highs upper 60s to lower 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USNV0040

Weather in the News:

... Snow amounts as of 530 am from County sheriffs...

County amount (in)
Florence 6
Forest 4
Waupaca 3-5
Waushara 3-4
Marinette 2-5
Langlade 3
Menominee 3
Oconto 2-3
Lincoln 2
Shawano 2
Vilas 2
Oneida 1-2
Portage 1-2
Marathon 1
Outagamie 1
wood 1
door 1
Winnebago 1
Manitowoc 1/2

Additional reports from spotters

Place amount
lake tomahwak 3
Green Bay NWS 1

Snowfall amounts are estimated due to melting.

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Wisconsin Weather Update for April 7, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 12:48 PM GMT on April 07, 2008

Good Monday morning!

Weather Synopsis
Many of us in northern and central Wisconsin had some scattered light rain or snow showers overnight, courtesy of a low pressure system centered right over northwestern Wisconsin this morning. Northern Wisconsin can expect more scattered light rain or snow showers today with up to 1" of snow accumulation possible, but otherwise look for a cloudy and cooler day across the state. I wish I could say this is just a small bump before warmer air moves back in, but the 7-day weather model maps really aren't agreeing with that statement. And keep an early eye out for Friday, as a strong storm could dump a bunch of very much unwanted snow across our region. Yes, I said snow.
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

NowCast: (Source: National Weather Service)
Northern Wisconsin:
Areas of fog...locally dense...will affect north central and far northeast Wisconsin this morning. Visibilities may be near zero in some locales...so motorists should use extreme caution during the morning commute to work or school. Be sure to drive slowly... keep a safe distance from other vehicles...and use low beam headlights when driving in fog. The fog is the result of a moist air mass moving over snow covered ground. The foggy conditions should improve by mid to late morning as drier air moves into the region in the wake of a cold front.
http://www.wunderground.com/DisplayDisc.asp?DiscussionCode=GRB

Today’s Forecast Grade: B-

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Areas of dense fog with scattered light rain or snow showers north, otherwise mostly cloudy, windy and cooler for the rest of us. Up to 1" of snow possible north. Highs mid- 40s north, 49 central and south. Chance of precip 60% north, 30% central, 15% south.

Tonight: Clouds and stars, lows mid- 20s north, lower 30s central and south.

Tomorrow: Cloudy with rain showers and isolated thunderstorms developing and becoming likely in the later afternoon and evening hours. Highs lower 40s north, mid- 40s central, mid- to upper 40s south. Chance of rain 80%.

Extended:
Wednesday: Becoming partly cloudy, highs 45-50.
Thursday: Cloudy with more rain developing later in the day. Highs 44-49. Chance of rain 50%.
Friday: Cloudy with rain and snow likely. You didn't put away the snowblower for the season yet, did you? Highs 42-47. Chance of precip 80%.
Saturday: Morning light rain or snow showers, then decreasing clouds, highs 44-49.
Sunday: Partly cloudy, highs 49-54.

Other City Forecasts:

Today and Tomorrow in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Rain or snow showers this morning, then more rain/snow late in the day tomorrow. Highs low to mid- 40s.
An area of rain and snow will be moving through parts of west central Wisconsin and east central Minnesota...including parts of the Twin Cities metropolitan area this morning. The snow was falling along and north of a line from Rice Lake Wisconsin on west into Minnesota from Cambridge to Princeton and Buffalo. Further south of this line...some light rain was mixing in with the snow...as temperatures hover in the lower to the middle 30s. Communities in the northern parts of the Twin Cities Metro area on north can expect up to one inch of new snowfall through 9 am.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USMN0503

Today and Tomorrow in Evansville, Indiana: Partly sunny today, storms tomorrow, highs low to mid- 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville/KEVV.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USIN0190

Today and Tomorrow in League City and Pearland, Texas: Morning fog, otherwise partly cloudy, highs near or just above 80.
... Dense fog advisory in effect until 10 am CDT this morning...
Areas of fog... some dense with visibilities of 1/4 of a mile or less... have
developed across southeast Texas. The fog is expected to persist until
around mid morning.
A dense fog advisory means visibilities will frequently be reduced to
1/4 of a mile or less. If driving... slow down... use low beam headlights
and leave plenty of distance between you and the vehicle in front of
you. Be especially cautious in and around school zones this morning.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USTX1029

Today and Tomorrow in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Morning sprinkles, otherwise cloudy today and partly cloudy tomorrow, highs mid- 60s today and near 70 tomorrow.
Through 9 am...patches of light rain and drizzle will drift southwest across portions of southeast South Carolina. Rain amounts will not be much more than a trace.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USSC0155

Today and Tomorrow in Las Vegas, Nevada: Sunshine, highs mid- 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USNV0040

Weather in the News:

...60 degrees in Green Bay...
The temperatures reached 60 degrees early this afternoon for the
first time since octobeer 30th. The average date for
the first 60 degree reading in Green Bay is March 29th.

Severe weather blamed in girl's death
* Two-year-old girl dead after mother lost control of car in Kentucky
* Wind gusts of 60 mph were reported in Jackson, Mississippi
* The storm knocks down power lines in Mississippi and Alabama
* At least one tornado roared through central Arkansas on Thursday evening
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/weather/04/05/severe.weather.ap/index.html#cnnSTCText

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Wisconsin Weather Update for April 4, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 12:28 PM GMT on April 04, 2008

TGIF!

Weather Synopsis
The clouds which generated rain showers across southern Wisconsin and Illinois yesterday are clearing across Wisconsin this morning from northwest to southeast, and we'll be partly cloudy within a matter of hours. A nice afternoon is shaping up with temperatures a few degrees warmer than yesterday, then even warmer air moves in tomorrow ahead of a storm system which will give us some rain on Sunday. Next week looks a little cooler with highs near 50 for much of it.
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

Today’s Forecast Grade: B+

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Some morning clouds but clearing from northwest to southeast. We should be just partly cloudy by lunchtime if not sooner. Highs lower 50s north, 55 central, and low to mid- 50s south where morning cloud cover may keep temperatures down just a tad.

Tonight: Partly cloudy, lows mid- 30s.

Saturday: Increasing clouds, winds, and temperatures. Highs near 60!

Sunday: Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms. Highs upper 50s. Chance of rain 65%.

Next Week:
Monday: Partly cloudy and cooler, highs 48-53.
Tuesday: Windy with rain showers likely, highs 47-52. Chance of rain 60%.
Wednesday: Partly sunny, highs 48-53.

Other City Forecasts:

This Weekend in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Isolated rain showers today and tomorrow. Rain and snow on Sunday. Highs mid- 50s today and tomorrow and mid- 40s on Sunday.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USMN0503

This Weekend in Evansville, Indiana: Scattered showers today, mostly sunny tomorrow, more clouds on Sunday, highs upper 50s today but mid- 60s tomorrow and near 70 on Sunday.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville/KEVV.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USIN0190

This Weekend in League City and Pearland, Texas: Scattered showers and thunderstorms today, partly cloudy this weekend, highs mid- to upper 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USTX1029

This Weekend in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Morning areas of fog. Scattered showers and thunderstorms today, tonight, tomorrow, and tomorrow night. Decreasing clouds on Sunday. Highs mid- 70s.
... Dense fog advisory in effect until 9 am EDT this morning...
Areas of dense fog can be expected through mid morning. Motorists
should be alert for poor visibilities on the morning commute.
Allow for extra travel time. The fog should dissipate after 9 am.

A dense fog advisory means visibilities will frequently be
reduced to less than one quarter mile. If driving... slow
down... use your headlights... and leave plenty of distance ahead of
you.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USSC0155

This Weekend in Las Vegas, Nevada: Sunshine, highs upper 70s to lower 80s. Very nice!
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USNV0040

Weather in the News:

...50 degrees in Green Bay...
The temperatures reached 50 degrees early this afternoon
for the first time since November 14th. The average date on
the first 50 degree reading in Green Bay is March 12th.
With such a Cool Spring so far...we are also behind on the
first 60 degree reading of the season. The average date
of the first 60 degree reading in Green Bay is March 29th.
http://www.crh.noaa.gov/grb/

Tornado leaves Little Rock like 'war zone'
* The storm hit parts of Saline County, about 12 miles west of Little Rock
* More than 50 mobile homes were reported on fire at a large mobile home park
* At least four people were reported injured
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/weather/04/04/arkansas.tornado/index.html

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Wisconsin Weather Update for April 2, 2008.

Posted by: HaleStorm, 1:01 PM GMT on April 02, 2008

Good Wednesday morning!

Weather Synopsis
A large area of high pressure centered over Wisconsin is going to give Wisconsin a very pleasant day today with abundant sunshine and average temperatures, which in this case is close to 50 degrees (something Green Bay has yet to achieve this year!)
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/sfc/ussatsfc.gif

Today’s Forecast Grade: B+

Wisconsin Forecast:
Today: Mostly sunny and pleasantly average for a change, highs mid- 40s north, 48 central, lower 50s south.

Tonight: Increasing clouds, lows mid- 20s north, lower 30s central and south.

Tomorrow: Mostly cloudy with scattered rain showers developing, mostly south. Highs near 50 north, lower 50s central, mid- 50s south. Chance of rain 10% north, 30% central, 50% south.

This Weekend:
Friday: Cloudy with scattered light rain showers or drizzle at times. Highs 50-55. Chance of rain 50%.
Saturday: Cloudy with more scattered rain showers developing later in the day. Highs 47-52. Chance of rain 35%.
Sunday: Windy with rain likely, perhaps briefly changing over to snow before ending. Will probably feel very much like this last Monday. Highs 48-53. Chance of precip 60%.

Other City Forecasts:

Today and Tomorrow in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Light rain or snow today and tonight, decreasing clouds tomorrow, highs lower 40s today and near 50 tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/MN/Minneapolis.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USMN0503

Today and Tomorrow in Evansville, Indiana: Rain tonight and tomorrow, thunderstorms mixed in tomorrow too, highs upper 50s.
... Flash Flood Watch remains in effect from late tonight through Friday afternoon...
* another heavy rain event is on the way. This next weather system
will take shape in the plains and hit the quad state with
several rounds of rain. The first wave of rain will come in from
the southwest overnight Wednesday into Thursday morning. It will
drop around a half inch by sunrise Thursday. Expect another half
to 1 inch of rain during the day Thursday with the greatest
amounts over western Kentucky. Thursday night expect another
wave with heaviest rainfall... averaging between 1 and 3 inches
as a surface low moves up the Ohio Valley along a frontal boundary.

* The cumulative effect of all of this rain... averaging 2 to 4
inches... with higher amounts locally possible... will result in
worsening already ongoing high water and flood conditions and
may result in flash flooding. In addition much of the area just
received an inch or more of rain on already wet grounds... so
most future rains will quickly saturate grounds and run off
almost immediately once a heavy rain develops.

A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop that lead
to flash flooding. Flash flooding is a very dangerous situation...
especially at night when rapidly rising waters are harder to
recognize.

If you plan travel later this week... you should be prepared to
encounter flooded roadways... and find alternate routes to reach
your destination. By all means... if you encounter a barricade...
please make the smart choice... turn around... don't drown.

You should monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action
should flash flood warnings be issued.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/IN/Evansville/KEVV.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USIN0190

Today and Tomorrow in League City and Pearland, Texas: Isolated storms this afternoon, otherwise partly cloudy, highs upper 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/League_City.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USTX0745
http://www.wunderground.com/US/TX/Pearland.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USTX1029

Today and Tomorrow in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Scattered showers and thunderstorms, highs mid- 70s today and upper 60s tomorrow.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/SC/Hilton_Head_Island.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USSC0155

Today and Tomorrow in Las Vegas, Nevada: Sunshine, highs mid- 70s.
http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Henderson.html
http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USNV0040

Weather in the News:

...Green Bay has failed to reach 50 this year...

Through March 31st...the warmest temperature in Green Bay
so far this year is 48 degrees.

Here is the list of years where the temperature failed to
reach 50 degrees during March. The years are: 2008...2001...
1984...1975...1972...1971...1970...1969...1965...1959...1956...
1951...1941...1937...1915...1909...1906...1901...1899...1891...
1890...1888 and 1887.

Except for 1984...these years did not see the first 50 degree
temperature of the season until the first or second week of
April. In 1984...a 50 degree temperature was reported during
February.

Updated: 12:28 PM GMT on April 04, 2008

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About HaleStorm

Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences degree from UW-Madison: 1998. Former broadcast Meteorologist for NewsRadio 1310 WIBA in Madison. NWS Storm Spotter.

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