Hazardous wildfire fumes deteriorating atmospheric conditions across the U.S., exacerbated by escalating temperatures and fire worries.
Headline: Severe Weather and Wildfires Affect Multiple Regions Across the U.S. and Canada
Sub-headline: Flash flood warnings issued, wildfires continue to burn, and severe storms threaten several areas
As the week progresses, various parts of North America are experiencing a mix of extreme weather conditions and wildfire activity.
Wildfires Persist in the West
The Dragon Bravo Fire in the Grand Canyon National Park has scorched over 112,000 acres and remains only 9% contained as of Saturday morning. Similarly, the Monroe Canyon Fire in Utah has burned more than 55,000 acres and is only 5% contained. No air quality alerts are currently in effect for areas affected by these wildfires.
Storms Cause Damage in the East
Heavy storms in the Nebo area have produced scattered wind damage, with downed trees on roads and homes. Three people were rescued and 25 others were evacuated from a campground near Nebo, North Carolina. In the Carolinas, between 1 and 4 inches of rain fell, causing localized flooding. Meanwhile, no injuries were reported in a neighborhood in Craven, South Carolina, where several trees were knocked down on homes.
Severe Weather Threat in the South and West
Severe thunderstorms with damaging winds and large hail are expected overnight into Sunday in the Texas Panhandle, with storms moving southeast at about 25 mph, potentially reaching northwestern Hartley County by late evening. These storms could produce hurricane-force wind gusts and heavy rainfall that may result in localized flash flooding. The Oklahoma Panhandle and southwestern Kansas are also expecting an increase in severe storms early Sunday morning.
In South Central Texas, severe storm chances exist mainly overnight into Sunday, with the highest severe threat remaining in West Texas. Unfortunately, insufficient information is available for the Southeast and Southern Appalachians regarding severe weather or flash flooding risk on Saturday.
Improving Conditions in Hawaii and Elsewhere
Conditions are expected to improve by late Sunday for the Hawaiian Islands. Dry weather and wind gusts between 35 and 50 mph will persist through the weekend in parts of Hawaii, specifically the leeward portions of all Hawaiian Islands and interior sections of the Big Island.
Elsewhere in the World
More than 700 wildfires are burning in Canada, with 216 labeled as "out of control" and 277 labeled as "monitored but out of control." Illinois has become the first state to require student mental health screenings.
Fire Weather Alerts
Fire weather alerts are up for parts of Utah and Colorado for relative humidity less than 10% and wind gusts between 25 and 35 mph. Rainfall rates of 2 inches per hour are possible with the heaviest downpours.
Flash Flood Risk Shifts to the Southeast
Heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected on Saturday and should continue into the evening. The risk for flash flooding has shifted to parts of the Southeast, including Alabama, the Carolinas, and northern Florida.
An extreme heat warning is in effect for Phoenix and Tucson for high temperatures reaching between 110 and 115 this weekend through Tuesday. An extreme heat watch is also in effect for these same areas for high temperatures possibly reaching up to 115 towards the end of next week.
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- Severe weather conditions this week have raised concerns about climate change and its ongoing effects on the environment, with a mix of wildfires, heavy storms, and flash floods impacting multiple regions across North America.
- The rapid spread of wildfires in the West, such as the Dragon Bravo Fire and Monroe Canyon Fire, points to the need for further study in environmental science, particularly regarding wildfire behavior and management.
- The health risks associated with these extreme weather events are a stark reminder of the interconnections between weather, environment, and human health, emphasizing the importance of climate-change research and initiatives to protect people and their communities.
