WBRC Weather

The Tropical Storm That Developed Over Land

As I watch Hermine push towards Oklahoma this afternoon I'm reminded about an interesting event that unfolded in the Central United states back in 2007. First off, I want to bring back a bit of weather 101. We know that the warm waters of the Gulf and Atlantic provide the necessary energy for tropical cyclones. Therefore, tropical cyclones weaken rapidly as they move inland.

An event unfolded back in 2007 that proves there is still much to be learned regarding the science of meteorology. Tropical Storm Erin surprisingly re-intensified over central Oklahoma on August 19 causing widespread damage to the region. Seven people drowned because of the flooding associated with this re-intensification. Furthermore, the storm spawned several tornadoes throughout the region. Other than the deadly Galveston Hurricane of 1900, Erin became only the second tropical system-on record-to bring tropical storm force winds to that particular area. Winds in Watonga, Oklahoma topped 80 mph at one point.

Some great studies were carried out on this event thanks to a highly dense network of surface observation stations in that area; such a network is know as a mesonet. It is believed that anticedent rainfall helped to create the tropically moist environment conducive to redevelopment. While it is unlikely that such a re-strengthening will take place with Hermine, I'm sure some meteorologists in Oklahoma have Erin on their minds today.

Wes Wyatt

Fox 6 Meteorologist

wwyatt@wbrc.com

Twitter: weswyattweather

Hot Temperatures

Thanks to some of my Facebook friends for temperature updates this afternoon.

Clouds Across Birmingham Today

                   

Here Comes the Heat

Temperatures will climb into the triple digits across much of the Fox 6 Viewing Area for Thursday.  Without a doubt, this will be the hottest day so far this Summer.  We may even break a few records - especially for Anniston.  High pressure will keep us mainly dry with only a few isolated showers and storms expected.  A cool front is still set to move through the region by Saturday.  This front will bring rain and storms to the area, but no widespread severe weather is expected.  Slightly milder air is expected by the weekend.  If you have plans for the weekend - Sunday is going to be the best day for anything outdoors. James-Paul Dice Fox 6 Chief Meteorologist james.dice@wbrc.com

8-14 Day Climate Outlook

The normal high this time of year is right at 90 degrees F.  If you're wondering about the next several weeks. the Climate Prediction Center is indicating below average temperatures and above average precipitation.  While the three month outlook is still indicating a rather hot and dry Summer.  The next few weeks may be a little rainy.  I have included the graphical outlook for the CPC for your reading pleasure. James-Paul Dice Fox 6 Chief Meteorologist james.dice@wbrc.com

Hello Summer! It arrives Monday, June 21st!

It's already felt like Summer for over a month, but Summer officially arrives on the calendar tomorrow (Monday) at 6:28am.  Tonight is the shortest night of the year and tomorrow is the longest day.  Unfortunately, the longest day is on a Monday - how's that for bad timing.  That's a little meteorological humor. The Northern Hemisphere will now be receiving more radiation from the sun because of the 23 1/2 degree tilt on its axis as the Earth. 

24 HOUR OIL FORECAST

Ring of Fire

If you're a Johnny Cash fan - you know the song "Ring of Fire".  In meteorology, we have our own version of the ring of fire.  It usually happens during the Summertime in North America.  A typical thunderstorm pattern in summer in North America is what meteorologists informally call the "ring of fire" or the "rim of the ridge." Those names come from the subsidence and lack of showers and thunderstorms in the middle of a hot ridge of high pressure at the surface. James-Paul Dice Fox 6 Chief Meteorologist james.dice@wbrc.com

NOAA HURRICANE FORECAST

The National Hurricane Center has just released its 2010 outlook. http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2010/20100527_hurricaneoutlook.html

Near Normal Temperatures This Week

Looks like the heat will take a break this week with near normal temperatures for the next several days.   Expect the moisture to return by late week.  This will mean a good chance of rain for Friday and a few scattered showers over the weekend.  Fortunately, it does not look as if we are going to see any severe weather. James-Paul Dice Fox 6 Chief Meteorologist james.dice@wbrc.com