tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-281390522024-03-07T17:51:06.615-05:00News 14 Carolina - Weather BlogNews 14 Carolinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11574754544329478438noreply@blogger.comBlogger1029125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-80504402867036902662012-02-17T15:39:00.000-05:002012-02-17T15:39:24.887-05:00Something Wicked this Way Comes?We're nearly two months into winter and the common theme playing out has been warmer than average temperatures with a lack of any significant storm systems. We're in for a change this weekend!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgO5Xtp_lTRAE8CS4WxLmduEKHtgZsFcMec54nUWkeETyVcAZ4K9gz4jXZj4VfP8CPh-1X-7_dL-X34DVUyv_o_FjJse7BtKVLXYenM29lbJkL7YsyRRIG848OfTRFAw9ibmXT4Q/s1600/raintotalsblog.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgO5Xtp_lTRAE8CS4WxLmduEKHtgZsFcMec54nUWkeETyVcAZ4K9gz4jXZj4VfP8CPh-1X-7_dL-X34DVUyv_o_FjJse7BtKVLXYenM29lbJkL7YsyRRIG848OfTRFAw9ibmXT4Q/s320/raintotalsblog.bmp" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div><br />
Heavy rain will pick up in earnest late Saturday into Sunday. It's likely central and eastern North Carolina will receive a generous 1" to 1.5" of rain. This'll help make a dent in the ongoing drought for the state as we're closing in on three inches below average in Raleigh for the year and more than three inches below average for 2012 at Wilmington. Currently, moderate drought conditions have set up in central North Carolina with sliver of the Cape Fear region in severe drought.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS4JZ2hwihZWy6nKQXULlanJopSWTzUwlw_uof-yRnjWmvLYcBkjl13HwYdDNvJtNojaruBZWlhBdvS2pNu5sPoPjfs3wIdFcbjjH1yLW_7SCHK93nKJMlfDHaZ-GXAKv57LMYOQ/s1600/droughtmapblog.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS4JZ2hwihZWy6nKQXULlanJopSWTzUwlw_uof-yRnjWmvLYcBkjl13HwYdDNvJtNojaruBZWlhBdvS2pNu5sPoPjfs3wIdFcbjjH1yLW_7SCHK93nKJMlfDHaZ-GXAKv57LMYOQ/s320/droughtmapblog.bmp" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our weekend storm is a complex system that'll have origins along the Gulf Coast heading up and off the coast of North Carolina by Sunday bringing our bout with heavy rain. It's when cold air begins spilling in behind a departing low where a transition from rain to snow is expected. The rain to snow transition would happen Sunday evening lasting into Sunday night. Snowfall totals appear to be greatest from the Piedmont and areas north of the Triangle where an inch of snow (or more if you buy into models) may fall. (Outside of the viewing area, just wait until you see the final totals from Eastern KY and West Virginia!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaELFnVAa4JH7xR1Q6g99FxaYUWBF4TcSniE7jHZvmhZB41O6h0Z6Hg29oQx-P3P5Gxw9WNIdQpkCeSByzJRaIEDx0AGDS73_NqPVzTScWiQe3wtUAicL8tlV9lCdLUI7HidmBpg/s1600/gfsmodelblog.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaELFnVAa4JH7xR1Q6g99FxaYUWBF4TcSniE7jHZvmhZB41O6h0Z6Hg29oQx-P3P5Gxw9WNIdQpkCeSByzJRaIEDx0AGDS73_NqPVzTScWiQe3wtUAicL8tlV9lCdLUI7HidmBpg/s320/gfsmodelblog.bmp" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What you need to be aware of is the idea we'll have a change from rain to snow on Sunday evening. While snow totals do not appear to be great, one thing is working in our favor to limit the snow from sticking around. Ground temperatures have been mild- thanks to warmer than average temperatures this winter and the lack of any significant cold air within the last couple of days. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1aVHg5WRrvJlZs45cpB4vpfwLeZ7Vl9mX-HVpSsFT5yN7td2_i9fwl83uYtRGdhMs2hUgHh5CNZxkD2FmEo21VT0KmvGdmA9_YK1BsVtqnTvGHaf3I7qXLEHcjPv0w0WST0_zxw/s1600/rpmcarolinassnow.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1aVHg5WRrvJlZs45cpB4vpfwLeZ7Vl9mX-HVpSsFT5yN7td2_i9fwl83uYtRGdhMs2hUgHh5CNZxkD2FmEo21VT0KmvGdmA9_YK1BsVtqnTvGHaf3I7qXLEHcjPv0w0WST0_zxw/s320/rpmcarolinassnow.bmp" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With all that said, drivers Sunday night into Monday morning should exercise caution when driving on bridges and elevated roads. Temperatures drop rapidly Sunday night and we may not have a lot of time to dry out, leading to tricky travel by Monday morning.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There are a lot of moving parts to the forecast... Rain with a change to snow is looking likely, accumulations for central and eastern NC appear to be limited, but may close in on an inch. So, we've been waiting for our first round of wintry weather.... Are you getting excited?</div>Joshua McKinneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637777601172384545noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-21485144267062542492012-02-05T18:25:00.002-05:002012-02-05T19:14:12.014-05:00Floating the Friendly Sky...<blockquote class="tr_bq"><div>"It was the one thing in all the world that Prince Littleboy most wanted,- his own red balloon, floating up there in the sky, dangling its long golden cord. The grey cloud had been hiding it all the time." - The Little Red Balloon, by Caroline Hofman.</div></blockquote><br />
Michelle Parks, a loyal viewer from Midland, NC posted this picture to our Weather on the Ones Facebook page on the afternoon of Thursday, February 2, 2012.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SvadRqnvLogXZJvJDZU71a-TW407U79ktwtKrt8zpa1DCrqw1ZQI09Yc7vPCs6WwxrakvYkqKyTD34iS4W8bwau1aJS5VMa6nrZxClgg7Txx1niWaHae_IBV4zVH9Y7NkMHOig/s1600/balloon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SvadRqnvLogXZJvJDZU71a-TW407U79ktwtKrt8zpa1DCrqw1ZQI09Yc7vPCs6WwxrakvYkqKyTD34iS4W8bwau1aJS5VMa6nrZxClgg7Txx1niWaHae_IBV4zVH9Y7NkMHOig/s320/balloon.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
Michelle has found remnants from celebrations on her property in the past. Energetic balloons from parties and weddings turned loose by the hands of those who will remember the night for company kept and stories made rather than the moment they set adrift a character whose eventual demise was a lifeless wobble over a random backyard east of Charlotte.<br />
<br />
Being a Thursday, we're usually locked in a nomadic zone where we're close enough to the weekend to be joyous, but those precious days of rest are just beyond our reach to get too excited. With our weekly routines well established, a little red balloon can release us from our pattern as its red shimmer beckons our attention It conjures up images and feelings of summer days gone by. Admit it, we all share a common story. We were the proud owners of a balloon only to bravely let it go with the confidence we'd catch it in time before it floats away. It's a daring game of cat and mouse as our prize possession waived its string in our face like a hypnotists watch and before we could close our fingers the balloon was free, floating away, leaving our spirits dashed just like Prince Littleboy in the classic 1918 children's book.<br />
<br />
Michelle tracked and captured this balloon in one fell swoop. Reading the attached card, pictured above, she was taken by surprise and wanted to tell us about it. We're so thankful she did!</div><div><br />
The card enlightened Michelle to the owners and the significance of the balloon. This wasn't just an ordinary red balloon, this was a well traveled balloon belonging to an elementary school down the road; down the road 317 miles as the crow flies in Boaz, Alabama. "I was thrilled to find the balloon", Michelle said on our Facebook page, "When I found out it had been released less than 24 hours earlier it seemed absolutely incredible."<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqu4oduXo8ARvYwT8UB-iZW7if5V8gytVnWdeUlqfOK_1DbITxQOSa4Lgd0gRgYHbFfJvLnkuumPhB_hU1_vF-IQ3i553oDH3c4hhZhWwbjp3qxaVLPWFiLa69Hl4Bkbajn6R3WQ/s1600/BalloonJourney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqu4oduXo8ARvYwT8UB-iZW7if5V8gytVnWdeUlqfOK_1DbITxQOSa4Lgd0gRgYHbFfJvLnkuumPhB_hU1_vF-IQ3i553oDH3c4hhZhWwbjp3qxaVLPWFiLa69Hl4Bkbajn6R3WQ/s320/BalloonJourney.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
A day earlier and two states away, Principal Beth Scott, of Boaz Elementary School, wanted to celebrate the kickoff to 'read bowl' month with an event geared towards engaging students while keeping them excited. An event where each child launches a balloon is drenched in symbolism for parents and teachers who are preparing kids for their future. It was too good to pass up and a brilliant idea. Principal Scott recalls, "The weather was horrible. It rained all day until about 2:05pm. The release was scheduled for 2:15, so it worked out just in time for us to do this."<br />
<br />
The cloudy and wet Wednesday of the release reached a crescendo when each balloon was sent on its own unique journey into the elements; where they would go, no one would know- at least for now. Students, parents, and teachers had high hopes every balloon would reach a destination safely and someone would be kind enough to respond. With help from the Boaz High School Art Department, once a balloon is reported students will map its location on canvas. The completed art project will become a permanent display at the elementary school.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBARhu8pXdEo27ekQ2WKfwg2UzDTr_Josi3xiq19GLpzhNsKWJo2xdTzBqntATMWxl74fzoCrAIx4Cg9BqpiJxtSexNbfKONFTDn9IlvfnHQBuZq0RdnI7zlJX3E1umdKyTqbUGQ/s1600/balloonrelease1.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBARhu8pXdEo27ekQ2WKfwg2UzDTr_Josi3xiq19GLpzhNsKWJo2xdTzBqntATMWxl74fzoCrAIx4Cg9BqpiJxtSexNbfKONFTDn9IlvfnHQBuZq0RdnI7zlJX3E1umdKyTqbUGQ/s320/balloonrelease1.bmp" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
On a warm, winter afternoon in North Carolina, an excited Michelle Parks contacted the principal to let her know our little red balloon had reached its final destination in Midland, NC. From the hands of children, through the clouds, rain and many miles flown one Tar Heel state resident has completed a circle. Bringing joy to a group of students in Alabama. Encouraging kids to read was the main reason for the balloon launch, but the lessons the students will learn from this project include kindness, a little luck and science (mainly Meteorology).</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1vyG-EqYbPGxCuK5FYbPM4Xj3_ZQpRKQ6lPqsX-MBTPC9f9a9F8Ldt5OWPP_8KtNuRLwHF8IYoIvg-QLsGsmkvlljF9V9tpk8ujY5drZ_R73NoC6HDpD_XxtbiTv02n1iyUryQ/s1600/feb1wxmap.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1vyG-EqYbPGxCuK5FYbPM4Xj3_ZQpRKQ6lPqsX-MBTPC9f9a9F8Ldt5OWPP_8KtNuRLwHF8IYoIvg-QLsGsmkvlljF9V9tpk8ujY5drZ_R73NoC6HDpD_XxtbiTv02n1iyUryQ/s320/feb1wxmap.bmp" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>The weather on Wednesday set up perfectly for a balloon to track towards North Carolina. At the surface high pressure was off the Atlantic Coast giving Alabama southwest winds. These winds shifted to west-southwest over northern Georgia and eventually the ridge flattened out over North Carolina where winds were mainly out of the west.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiq-rkbsxydLwXA74ZNJ2tRWKgeKWbZpMdwoEl8_xHpNueUWhYQj7Q3oLMaKBpnLE6ol5RhgnMPWKkFzRPrKAgHiDp_nNLaBsEBH-Qe-75Ze7SVaxzXD5oAe6Vmca84wwN4SqTtg/s1600/500mb.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiq-rkbsxydLwXA74ZNJ2tRWKgeKWbZpMdwoEl8_xHpNueUWhYQj7Q3oLMaKBpnLE6ol5RhgnMPWKkFzRPrKAgHiDp_nNLaBsEBH-Qe-75Ze7SVaxzXD5oAe6Vmca84wwN4SqTtg/s320/500mb.gif" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The chart above shows readings taken at 18-thousand to 22-thousand feet above the ground! We're mainly focusing in on the wind barbs, or the red lines with red triangles over Georgia and North Carolina. Winds at this height were measured at 50 knots (58mph) from the southwest. It's reasonable to believe this balloon may have reached this altitude for several hours before losing enough helium to descend lower in the atmosphere- where winds are not as strong.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidaFp4KW6lHSXCNWmH-nj_gjLjs5YMKMF6704OZtfaPOdmCdPv7xT0mcdfTkfIqo8SO993bZsg2sTOgpY79kL7gS52M7VLcwVo08Y35lRie9dCefAdTDqHrL2rRSAdkreB-Bo6lg/s1600/skewt.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidaFp4KW6lHSXCNWmH-nj_gjLjs5YMKMF6704OZtfaPOdmCdPv7xT0mcdfTkfIqo8SO993bZsg2sTOgpY79kL7gS52M7VLcwVo08Y35lRie9dCefAdTDqHrL2rRSAdkreB-Bo6lg/s320/skewt.gif" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Typically, a small balloon filled with helium can rise as high as 3-5 miles above the ground! The fate of the balloon is usually a structural failure (pop to you and me). At such high altitude air pressure decreases, distorting the balloon. Also, the air is much colder up there (-20 to -40 degrees, or colder, on a winter day) causing cracks in the balloon and an eventual pop. It was unusually warm on Wednesday and Thursday, the skew-t chart above indicates profiles at 18-thousand to 25-thousand feet were between 0 to -10 degrees C. The relative warmth at altitude and wind direction helped keep this balloon aloft for more than 300 miles. Now, if you look at the balloon, pictured above, there is some color fade which would lead me to believe it was bouncing around in some pretty cold air aloft, but it wasn't enough to cause it to crack or pop and fall from the sky. The result was probably some helium loss and an eventual downward drift to a level where winds were not as strong. Simply put, a gradual decline to Midland where Michelle eventually found it.</div><div><br />
In closing, there are a couple things to ponder. First, I used 317 miles as a way to show the distance between Midland and Boaz, but the balloon logged many more miles. The balloon not only had horizontal distance (a straight line is not how it truly travels), but also vertical distance (the ascent and decent isn't taken into account). Finally, at least two more balloons have been reported. Principal Scott has received a call from Bessemer City, NC and a call from South Carolina.<br />
<br />
It's a pretty neat story and it's cool to think this all started as an idea in Boaz, AL! The lessons we can take are those of interconnectedness, kindness and our dependence on each other. Learning never stops and we can contribute in ways we'll never truly know unless we try.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://bes.boazk12.org/apps/news/show_news.jsp?REC_ID=233220&id=0" target="_blank">Boaz Elementary School: Read Across BES Month</a></div><div><br />
<a href="http://charlotte.news14.com/content/top_stories/653401/reading-project-starts-with-balloons-in-alabama--ends-in-midland--nc" target="_blank">As seen on News 14 Carolina- Kate Gaier reporting</a><br />
<br />
</div></div>Joshua McKinneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637777601172384545noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-17816163421161053992012-01-30T09:18:00.008-05:002012-01-30T09:38:47.296-05:00What's ahead for February?It has been a mild winter, so far, and that mild winter will continue into the first day of February. Highs are likely to reach near 70 in much of central and eastern North Carolina Wednesday. However, there are now signs we could be in for a pattern change to colder weather beginning around this weekend or next week.<br /><br />With the coming pattern change, computer models have had a difficult time with the forecast for the weekend. At this time, it appears we could be in for a dreary weekend with a cool rain. That forecast is subject to change though as we hope computer models will come into better agreement for the weekend forecast over the coming days.<br /><br />Beyond this upcoming weekend, the Climate Prediction Center's 8 to 14 day outlook calls for below normal temperatures for much of the eastern United States including the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Carolinas</span> --<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 372px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703429544230833458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6YbOWivEmshLLy0WlBXcdntu6ISBLiCMJdWkbrvqXaeRMC_j_2J1sPMroP3nFLmW5JeyWbqTGSAbRYj49CBOGePr0BJh4r1QxQwxhl9KK1YSBmhRyBUeGF0oOu6d0hJvSnTZNQ/s400/814temp_new.gif" /><br />While we expect colder weather as we get closer to the middle of February (around 2/5 - 2/12), it is uncertain how long that cold weather will stay. The Climate Prediction Center still shows the month of February warmer than normal on average. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsrR0mYHWYqgD0P16IgTIzoZRvKDCOaVBSkAzzY3mNBG_6Og2EkibYdtle5FA-QhWy5UENcJoc0dcZj08OrWd8SzmYmJGpjXGQU0bY15nLviQQYIA1Dh6Ifn5gv7mT5O0ir_yPZw/s1600/off14_temp.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 372px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703429546428476642" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsrR0mYHWYqgD0P16IgTIzoZRvKDCOaVBSkAzzY3mNBG_6Og2EkibYdtle5FA-QhWy5UENcJoc0dcZj08OrWd8SzmYmJGpjXGQU0bY15nLviQQYIA1Dh6Ifn5gv7mT5O0ir_yPZw/s400/off14_temp.gif" /></a> With no measurable snowfall yet this winter in our part of North Carolina, I still get asked, "Will it snow this winter?" As I post this Monday morning (1/30), there is no snow in our 7-day forecast. Beyond that, it is still too early to speculate on any snow chances for February. Keep in mind, snow can still fall in our part of North <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Carolina</span> into March. We'll just have to wait to see what the next several weeks bring.<br /><br />Stay tuned to News 14 Carolina and Weather on the Ones for the latest on your local forecast!<br /><br />Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-85796717988267914152012-01-25T09:41:00.002-05:002012-01-25T10:09:29.799-05:0012 Years Ago: Record Snow in the Triangle<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGe12NOIm_M7Fcc8LX1JQCjc5R2rF5KzxsXvYDvjqLwzegKQ3Pn2LbU4hpcLjFljbxLDJK76WElOU-JX8wQk5esze4MWnTatfyg6RH1drCHULRI422jgWAZke6dYPZpAlnMs_jPw/s1600/accum_20000125.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 209px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701580028517662130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGe12NOIm_M7Fcc8LX1JQCjc5R2rF5KzxsXvYDvjqLwzegKQ3Pn2LbU4hpcLjFljbxLDJK76WElOU-JX8wQk5esze4MWnTatfyg6RH1drCHULRI422jgWAZke6dYPZpAlnMs_jPw/s400/accum_20000125.gif" /></a><br />If you were in North Carolina January 25, 2000, you probably remember the day well. A snow storm blanketed much of central North Carolina with over a foot of snow. Nearly 2 feet of snow fell in parts of the Triangle. The official snowfall from the night of January 24 through January 25 at the Raleigh-Durham Airport was 20.3". That is the all time record snowfall from one storm for Raleigh-Durham. <br /><br />The heavy snow in January 2000 was a surprise to many. Computer models did not do a good job forecasting the storm even 24 hours before the snow began. Many local forecasts were only calling for a few inches of snow the morning of January 24. Forecast totals increased through the day but did not come close to the 20" actual snowfall.<br /><br />Over the last twelve years, a lot of research has been done on my that storm was not well forecast. Much of that research has been done locally at North Carolina State University. That research has improved the computer models we use to forecast today.<br /><br /><a href="http://www4.ncsu.edu/~nwsfo/storage/cases/20000125/">Click here to read more about the January 2000 storm.</a><br /><br />Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-76223793991011994722012-01-20T10:07:00.002-05:002012-01-20T10:13:09.411-05:00Up and Down WeekendHang on... we're in for a roller coaster ride when it comes to temperatures this weekend. We'll start mild and end up chilly. Milder air will build into the state late tonight as a warm front lifts to the north. That will bring temperatures well into the 60s Saturday. Some areas in southeastern North Carolina could easily hit 70. <br /><br />A few showers will spread into the state with the warm front tonight. We'll look for a break from any rain through most of Saturday morning with the exception of a few sprinkles or an isolated shower. Nore widespread rain will arrive by Saturday afternoon and night. That more widespread rain will come ahead of a cold front that will move through the state late Saturday.<br /><br />Much cooler air will wedge its way into central North Carolina behind the cold front Sunday. That will keep temperatures in the 40s all day in the Triangle along with clouds and drizzle. Highs will struggle to make it to the low 50s in the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sandhills</span> and should reach the upper 50s near the coast.<br /><br />Milder weather will return Monday when highs again will soar well into the 60s with some spots hitting 70 in southeastern North Carolina.<br /><br />Be sure to stay tuned to News 14 Carolina for updates on the forecast through the weekend.<br /><br />Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-47900160601976801442012-01-17T09:20:00.005-05:002012-01-17T09:33:58.938-05:00What's Ahead for the Rest of January?Our up and down temperature roller coaster continues this week in North Carolina, but it appears we may be going up more than coming down through the rest of this month. Just check out the 6 to 10 day and 8 to 14 day temperature outlook from the Climate Prediction Center --<br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 372px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698605947598675522" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkK9kZTBtEvhdWSRgxuuXcQ4_33EcrARc0Mc6mZ1SMB5fn-F8Zt_qzAL5Hd3FcQPCCRsHCFlNqqOubLqliig7FQ-50DJDONhmt_pcm0_D2X1P-D-r74lEx5y13NK01dz0PuUpDFA/s400/610temp_new.gif" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0WoCHVVoX3fPIjhG0FEU95ak0Jdtdm9I5Bj9Q-Umo08ffW8EGdrAGE_7V2uHFOVxf2hq5zTUWXwHxRGXSyLDgzOPJP0Rf65eMb2WZiR8oY2hr-fezF7SQaZhX7O2RLp3oJlRmCg/s1600/814temp_new.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 372px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698606020428834162" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0WoCHVVoX3fPIjhG0FEU95ak0Jdtdm9I5Bj9Q-Umo08ffW8EGdrAGE_7V2uHFOVxf2hq5zTUWXwHxRGXSyLDgzOPJP0Rf65eMb2WZiR8oY2hr-fezF7SQaZhX7O2RLp3oJlRmCg/s400/814temp_new.gif" /></a> Both show temperatures above normal for much of the U.S. including here in the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Carolinas</span>.<br /><br />In the short term, it will be a bit chilly the middle of this week. I am not expecting bitter cold but lows should drop to the 20s Thursday morning.<br /><br />Temperatures will then be on the rise by the weekend with highs in the 60s. Most all indications are the warm up will continue into next week. We may be asking, "has spring arrived?" through the first half of next week. An early look at the forecast for next week shows some spots making it to at least 70 by around Tuesday or Wednesday.<br /><br />We likely won't stay that warm though for the rest of winter. There are some <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">indications</span> we will turn colder around the last day or two of January or the first few days of February.<br /><br />For those asking about snow, I don't see any chances for our part of North Carolina over the next week or two. It is still much to early to speculate on any snow chances for February or March. Stay tuned!<br /><br />Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist<br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-12091091237221299572012-01-12T08:47:00.006-05:002012-01-12T09:11:11.642-05:00Chilly This Weekend, But Will It Last?We are about to move into what is typically the coldest time of the year for North Carolina (mid to late January). Right on cue, colder air will spread into the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Carolinas</span> for Friday and the weekend. Temperatures will return to near and below normal levels for a few days. However, there are signs that this cold snap will not last long.<br /><br />Most of central and eastern North Carolina can expect highs in the mid 40s to near 50 this weekend with lows in the mid 20s to near 30, but highs will return to the 50s with some spots approaching 60 by Tuesday. The above normal temperatures may continue beyond the middle of the week. The latest 6 to 10 day and 8 to 14 day forecasts from the Climate Prediction Center both show above normal temperatures across the southeast --<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 372px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696741849840568466" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw_UjWCrIZzqXSMSQq1LbRCe_ij-mlkbkEzpA1NUM2DlZ4jGK24-pk4nl9eMYPLBUuDrxFPRKFo7jwCsaOsgBEUHwl5FMjjB5Jz1-GUF2yXI0FCYViTjU4zMqGBLPBsCvr8ncFyA/s400/610temp_new.gif" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpldsD01wDa1oRWhkmS1husBIeQq5qco93iAFdK5FB_FvcwY2JMUz-GEJFPAkY-RmhcPKH596SMNEfCxphTyoa-qfQ4ZFib4SafCsSKIvXmovs9Twryf6zwxVMpFbFJ_RzoWSig/s1600/814temp_new.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 372px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696741853125827730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpldsD01wDa1oRWhkmS1husBIeQq5qco93iAFdK5FB_FvcwY2JMUz-GEJFPAkY-RmhcPKH596SMNEfCxphTyoa-qfQ4ZFib4SafCsSKIvXmovs9Twryf6zwxVMpFbFJ_RzoWSig/s400/814temp_new.gif" /></a><br /><br /><div><span>Overall, I don't see any significant changes to the weather pattern so far this winter - mostly mild with short cold snaps on occasion.<br /><br />After above normal snowfall last winter, many people are still asking about snow for this winter. While a snow forecast more than a day or two ahead is never a guarantee in our part of North Carolina, I don't see any snow chances over the next one to two weeks. There's still plenty of time for snow to pop up in the forecast. We still must get through February and early March, but our current weather pattern will have to change for much of a snow chance around here this winter.<br /><br />Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a></span><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div></div>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-75177141302837788922012-01-09T10:00:00.007-05:002012-01-09T10:24:05.196-05:00Heavier Rain for WednesdayOccasional light showers will continue across our area today, but heavier rain is our forecast for the middle of this week. A storm system that is producing much needed rainfall across Texas today will eventually spread that rain across the Carolinas Wednesday.<br /><br />Around 0.1" of rain or less is expected today, but at least 1.0" of rain is expected Wednesday across most of North Carolina. That will be welcome rain especially for the moderate drought areas of southeastern North Carolina.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:0;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:0;"></span><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 297px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695652901271063874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzTNLFNrJ7xunauGMjt7DyGO8p5IbezcW9glgpZzRewH2nKjkBY3cxL_S-e6Psf-MXjOD4Rrfawqc6rpRd0GrCfyN_FOgcRi8TVkbWoEbTzRPl6ZDkg6X4PU10jhELW-XaSA559A/s400/NCDrought.png" /><br />We'll have to watch for the threat for a few embedded thunderstorms with the rain Wednesday afternoon and evening. While it appears to be a low risk, severe storms cannot be ruled out. We'll keep you posted with our latest forecasts on News 14 Carolina. Stay tuned!<br /><br />Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-3775938314547862372012-01-06T09:13:00.006-05:002012-01-06T09:27:24.416-05:00Mild This Weekend; Cold Next Weekend?If you haven't caught our forecast yet today, the 60s will return this afternoon and tomorrow. In fact, much of our area may be within just a few degrees of 70 on Saturday! This comes just a few days after the coldest weather so far this season. Those highs in the 30s from Tuesday will seem like a distant memory this weekend.<br /><br />While our temperatures should remain near to above normal most of next week, it will not remain this mild all month. It is January after all. As I briefly mentioned in yesterday's posts, there are now signs another blast of cold air will makes its way into the eastern U.S. around the middle of this month. That will likely bring below normal temperatures back to North Carolina next weekend. Based on this morning's model data, I would think we should begin to feel that cold blast around next Saturday and Sunday (January 14-15).<br /><br />You can see the Climate Prediction Center has outlined much of the southeast including the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Carolinas</span> for below normal temperatures in the current 6 to 10 day outlook --<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 372px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694523813183618498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsV8xgD8B-9fzcp5rsq75FRkl13adOqvLPsfBKJXM23PSYqLEm1R6JcpdAyNQ5wbm45JAVKBPml0buU7hPXMoQRBGZRd-4T21r7NdrcX-I-6k5cDsrgGLBFQ34M3OdATQ03yVaGw/s400/610temp_new.gif" /><br />For more on the specifics in our forecast over the coming days, be sure to check in for our latest Weather on the Ones updates on News 14 Carolina.</p><br /><p>Hope you have a great weekend!</p><span>Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRinger14">www.twitter.com/LeeRinger14</a></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><p><span style="font-size:0;"></span><br /></p>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-83851343592376262582012-01-05T09:24:00.002-05:002012-01-05T09:54:58.343-05:00Will It Snow This Winter?Will it snow this winter? That is a question I have heard a lot over the last couple of months. It is also a question that cannot be answered just yet...<br /><br />This time last winter we had all seen snow at least once. That included the day after Christmas snowfall when just over a foot of snow fell near Wilson. The last two winters have featured above normal snowfall for most of our area, but we are not able to use that to make any forecasts for the current winter.<br /><br />So far, we have mostly been in a mild weather pattern this winter and have yet to see any measurable snow. In a mild winter, we can still have cold snaps just like earlier this week. To produce snow, that cold air just has to phase up with a moisture source. That did not happen this week, but that does not mean it will not happen later. This winter season is young after all. There are a few examples of big snows in North Carolina as late as March.<br /><br />It is pretty much impossible to forecast snowfall more than a few days ahead in our area. I can say with some certainty that there is no snow expected over the next week. Our temperatures will be climbing back to above normal levels for this time of year over the next few days. There are some early signs that we could be in for another cold blast around the middle of this month. It is just much too early to speculate whether or not that will phase up with any moisture to produce snow.<br /><br />Again this winter season is still young, so stay tuned!<br /><br />Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-66825946470134882352012-01-03T09:46:00.003-05:002012-01-03T09:52:38.771-05:00Arctic Blast Will Be Short LivedThe last two winters were cold ones for the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Carolinas</span>. If you recall, when we had a blast of Arctic air the last couple of winters, the cold air stuck around for a while. That is a different story for our current cold snap. <br /><br />Just take a look at the 6 to 10 day temperature outlook from the Climate Prediction Center...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5gmsg7A2dRu41qh2jzFv5KXlLdqcAdzm_zNx3CV8rrm-7og6uYp2cFtNknZjOoPQrVtcjMDwY9rPa78lo-IZyIBxMgNOdbQq_YFq-h6cbvQXscHIPCd4lLDbueYAKuNmKPiwDyg/s1600/610temp_new.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 372px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693417268177978786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5gmsg7A2dRu41qh2jzFv5KXlLdqcAdzm_zNx3CV8rrm-7og6uYp2cFtNknZjOoPQrVtcjMDwY9rPa78lo-IZyIBxMgNOdbQq_YFq-h6cbvQXscHIPCd4lLDbueYAKuNmKPiwDyg/s400/610temp_new.gif" /></a><br /><br /><div>Above normal temperatures are forecast to return to much of the country in that outlook. The warm up here in the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Carolinas</span> should be a fairly big warm up by the weekend. We'll see the coldest temperatures of our current Arctic blast <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Wednesday</span> morning when lows may drop to the upper teens in some areas. Highs Wednesday will climb to the 40s, but those highs should return to near 60 by Friday and the low to mid 60s Saturday. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>In addition to the milder weather, dry weather is on our forecast the next several days. A few rain showers will be possible by late Saturday night and Sunday. The forecast does become uncertain into next week as models are not in agreement on rain chances for the first few days of the week. Stay tuned for updates in our Weather on the Ones forecast.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Lee Ringer</div><br /><div>News 14 Carolina Meteorologist</div><br /><div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a></div><br /><div></div>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-48284292172266691552011-11-22T12:44:00.000-05:002011-11-22T12:44:39.830-05:00USAID FRONTLINES: From Famine to Feast in Brazil<a href="http://www.usaid.gov/press/frontlines/fl_nov11/FL_nov11_50_BRAZIL.html">USAID FRONTLINES: From Famine to Feast in Brazil</a><br /><br />I thought in this time of gratitude that you would enjoy reading a story of a nation's turnaround to abundance from famine.....<br />Have a safe and bountiful holiday . <br />Pati DarakPati Darakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01221516811181429939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-41597380119919979922011-08-26T17:47:00.003-04:002011-08-26T18:01:04.826-04:00Hurricane Irene - Friday PM UpdateWhat to expect Friday night - Saturday morning:
<br />
<br /><strong>Crystal Coast (Morehead City-Atlantic Beach-Emerald Isle)</strong>
<br />
<br />
<br /><ul>
<br />
<br /><li>Hurricane force winds possible after midnight and into Saturday morning</li>
<br />
<br /><li>6-10" of rain possible with localized higher amounts</li>
<br />
<br /><li>Storm surge up to 10 feet possible resulting in a worst case of 4-6feet inudation about sea level in the surge zone</li></ul>
<br />
<br /><p><strong>Inland from the Crystal Coast (New Bern - Havelock - Newport)</strong></p>
<br />
<br /><ul>
<br />
<br /><li>Hurricane force wind gusts possible after midnight and into Saturday morning</li>
<br />
<br /><li>6-8" of rain possible leading to some flooding</li></ul>
<br />
<br /><p><strong>Onslow County (Jacksonville)</strong></p>
<br />
<br /><ul>
<br />
<br /><li>Hurricane force wind gusts</li>
<br />
<br /><li>4-6 foot storm surge along the coast</li>
<br />
<br /><li>6-8" of rain possible</li></ul>
<br />
<br /><p><strong>Cape Fear region and coast (Wilmington - Wrightsville Beach - Brunswick Co.)</strong></p>
<br />
<br /><ul>
<br />
<br /><li>Tropical storm force winds will continue into the early morning with a hurricane force gust not out of the question along the coastal areas</li>
<br />
<br /><li>4-6 foot storm surge along the coast</li>
<br />
<br /><li>5-8" of rain possible</li></ul>
<br />
<br /><p><strong>I-95 corridor (Johnston County - Wilson - Goldsboro)</strong></p>
<br />
<br /><ul>
<br />
<br /><li>Wind gusts up to 60mph possible</li>
<br />
<br /><li>3-6" of rain with localized higher amounts possible</li></ul>
<br />
<br /><p><strong>Triangle and Sandhills (Raleigh -Durham - Chapel Hill - Fayetteville)</strong></p>
<br />
<br /><ul>
<br />
<br /><li>Wind gusts up to 40 to 50 mph possible</li>
<br />
<br /><li>1-2" of rain with some higher amounts in the eastern parts of this area and lower amounts to the west</li></ul>
<br />
<br /><p>Stay tuned to News 14 Carolina for the latest updates through the night and day</p>
<br />
<br /><p></p>
<br />
<br /><p><span style="font-size:+0;">Lee Ringer</span></p>
<br />
<br /><p><span style="font-size:+0;">News 14 Carolina Meteorologist </span></p>
<br />
<br /><p><span style="font-size:+0;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a> </span></p>
<br />
<br /><p><span style="font-size:+0;"><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a></span></p>
<br />
<br /><p><span style="font-size:+0;"></span></p>
<br />Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-15640912327000351392011-08-24T12:38:00.002-04:002011-08-24T13:01:22.917-04:00Hurricane Irene - Wednesday Update<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644463118851220194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ4zWX9M3rdrSoIW0h6pSvSTPDdxUNRCCMaLEtF2Lj4TvljGQQbFfS4ISiunubQHJDCiuhMcafGaRk_1ogERQl6Jy6E8v_-041WrmUWWQGoDAIc_zDa7VO-aNikSruNFryA8Fv7g/s400/IreneSat.jpg" />Hurricane Irene strengthened into a category 3 hurricane Wednesday morning and appears to be tracking toward the U.S. East Coast. The storm should take a more northwest and eventually more northerly turn steering the storm just east of Florida and toward North Carolina's Outer Banks. The latest forecast track has shifted to the east compared to earlier in the week.
<br />
<br />Here's a look at some of the latest computer model forecasts from Wednesday --
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxs64Rhh1E61hfQcNt9mcHoz_g8xTrMRzauTqZqq4WSkil91-cgVQ61wsJj2Pqxy7RQCX9WQdSFFK6ozBFslmvUUefFXxGtkVYCO-x3gCidenpKLe4jd6HjJfm-0yHN-RAdXk4eQ/s1600/IreneModels.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 342px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644463129153246626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxs64Rhh1E61hfQcNt9mcHoz_g8xTrMRzauTqZqq4WSkil91-cgVQ61wsJj2Pqxy7RQCX9WQdSFFK6ozBFslmvUUefFXxGtkVYCO-x3gCidenpKLe4jd6HjJfm-0yHN-RAdXk4eQ/s400/IreneModels.png" /></a> There are now several models showing Irene's center passing just east of the Outer Banks. Keep in mind Irene is a large storm and even if the storm's center passes just east of the Outer Banks much of coastal North Carolina will still be impacted by the storm. Tropical storm force winds (40mph+) extend up to 200 miles from the storm's center.
<br />
<br />A track directly over the Outer Banks as a strong category 2 or category 3 storm would not only bring damaging winds and flooding rains to that area, but it would create overwash from the ocean and sounds. A track just to the east may not be quite as devastating but would still produce hurricane force winds (75mph+) along the Outer Banks along with heavy rain and some overwash. Gusts up to 100mph cannot be ruled out especially near Hatteras.
<br />
<br />Based on the latest forecast track, here's what we expect for other areas in North Carolina:
<br />
<br /><strong>Crystal Coast (Atlantic Beach, Emerald Isle, Morehead City)</strong>
<br />
<br /><ul>
<br /><li>Outer rain bands from Irene arrive Friday. Rain, which could be heavy at times, will continue Friday night and into Saturday. </li>
<br /><li>Tropical storm force winds are possible Friday night and Saturday. Wind gusts up to 60 to 65mph possible. Could see a higher gust at Cape Lookout.</li></ul>
<br /><p></p>
<br /><p><strong>Wilmington, Jacksonville, and the Cape Fear Coast (Topsail Beach, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Oak Island, Holden Beach, Ocean Isle)</strong></p>
<br /><ul>
<br /><li>Outer rain bands from Irene arrive Friday. Rain will continue Friday night into Saturday. Heavy downpours are possible at times.</li>
<br /><li>Tropical storm force winds are possible Friday night and Saturday. Gusts up to 50mph possible.
<br /></li></ul><strong>Wilson and Goldsboro</strong>
<br />
<br /><ul>
<br /><li>Scattered showers and a few storms are possible Friday afternoon and Saturday.</li>
<br /><li>Sustained winds 10-25mph expected with on occasional gust up to 30 or 35mph possible Saturday.</li></ul>
<br /><p><strong>Triangle and Sandhills (Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill and Fayetteville)</strong></p>
<br /><ul>
<br /><li>Minimal impacts from Irene</li>
<br /><li>Scattered showers and storms are possible Friday afternoon with some rain possible Saturday. However, some locations may see very little if any rain.</li>
<br /><li>Sustained winds: 10-20mph with an occasional higher gust.
<br />
<br />
<br /></li></ul>Irene will quickly move away from the North Carolina coast late Saturday night and early Sunday. The storm will quickly accelerate up the east coast and could track over or near Long Island, New York as a hurricane Sunday.
<br />
<br />All of the expected mentioned in this post could change if there is a change in the forecast track. A jog just a little to the west or to the east could change the expected impact in your area. Stay tuned to News 14 Carolina and Weather on the Ones for the latest information.
<br />
<br />Lee Ringer
<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist
<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a>
<br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a>
<br />
<br />Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-88472156522544710712011-08-22T09:34:00.006-04:002011-08-22T09:53:19.879-04:00Hurricane Irene -- Monday AM Update<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643673513024635618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNkhnXcIL4zD0OhOI7P0CpOZtgeQ8_KddVbCntaMPsOaqCSQdBR-LmOloDtpT3K9GzSEbNRKNCKvs5F1VNOvVO5ZOQjN0-_loNo_B9B7TUTx6khc5q4V7WnQkj9y8gJqYCNEBtg/s400/IreneSat.jpg" />
<br />Hurricane Irene is strengthening this morning as it pulls away from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Puerto</span> Rico. It appears the storm will brush past the Dominican Republic and Haiti over the next day. As the center of the storm tracks just to the north of Hispaniola, it will not likely be impacted by the mountainous terrain of that island. Often when storms track directly over Hispaniola, they weaken. This is not likely to happen with Irene. With the storm staying just north of the island, it is expected to maintain its strength or continue to strengthen.
<br />
<br />As the storm tracks over the Bahamas and just east of Florida, conditions may be favorable for rapid strengthening from mid to late week. This morning's forecast from the National Hurricane Center has Irene as a strong category 2 storm by the end of the week. That is a conservative forecast, and Irene could certainly be stronger. Coastal residents should always prepare for a storm that is at least one category stronger than forecast.
<br />
<br />It is still much too early to make a call on an exact location for landfall for the storm in the southeastern US. A look at the computer models posted below shows uncertainty from Florida to here in North Carolina.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN06BUnJqLGB9OnAA7G8hDFuO68nr962Q0xq5Z-RosC834QMXJ8N3eZAQQgT2y4OT5nEQ6ljzODwH8hwqPaawm1WjzQc3jwNm1gNfEEFdjHnmf5z_Fmyr_nsrMEOl5br4qs0UjkQ/s1600/IreneModels.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 342px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643673517038884066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN06BUnJqLGB9OnAA7G8hDFuO68nr962Q0xq5Z-RosC834QMXJ8N3eZAQQgT2y4OT5nEQ6ljzODwH8hwqPaawm1WjzQc3jwNm1gNfEEFdjHnmf5z_Fmyr_nsrMEOl5br4qs0UjkQ/s400/IreneModels.png" /></a>
<br />
<br /><div>It does appear the storm could make landfall somewhere from Florida to the Outer Banks. Even if Irene makes landfall around Georgia or southern South Carolina, the remnants of the storm could still track over North Carolina this weekend.
<br />
<br />A lot could and likely will change with Irene's forecast over the coming days. There is still plenty of time to monitor the latest forecasts. Everyone in the Carolinas should have their preparedness plan and be ready to act later this week if necessary.
<br />
<br />Stay tuned to News 14 Carolina and news14.com for updates. You can tune in for our tropical updates at :21 and :51 after the hour.
<br />
<br />
<br />Lee Ringer
<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist
<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a></div>
<br /><div><span style="font-size:0;"><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRinger14"><span style="font-size:100%;">www.twitter.com/LeeRinger14</span></a> </span></div>
<br />
<br /><div><span style="font-size:0;">
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div></span>
<br />Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-19424045844141760422011-08-18T09:25:00.007-04:002011-08-18T09:37:14.150-04:00Trouble Brewing in the Tropics?<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 326px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642186815453039458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrC_OX2GbRUBJbbHZbgo7HEw37GfuYj6RRAf6GcfLLiHOdDlWVOLbPZ3lbPXiKMlY7CLWuzXNKcga88JtPh1y1M1PUB57uZlv8C526Zc1NbZNlH-wz0cqgfAvhp2lnsNmvwd-tNg/s400/NHCOutlook.gif" />
<br />We're watching two areas in the the tropics today. The first disturbance located in the Caribbean south of Cuba is becoming better organized this morning and could become our next tropical depression or tropical storm later today or tomorrow. Most models take that system toward Central America.
<br />
<br />The disturbance that is of more interest to our area is way out in the Atlantic - just under 900 miles west of the Cape Verde Islands. While we don't expect any development of that disturbance today, conditions should become favorable for <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">development</span> as it moves to the west over the coming days. Some computer models, including the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">GFS</span> shown below, forecast this becoming a tropical system and tracking toward the U.S. by late next week.
<br />
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcyDOswqbwX_dYUwlR5JzBObNTnzBLNqKpyC_NTv_nChpTkyALJ-Ohw8Rv7ds_JE4kwJFaq3MSrzDlOjDdN0UmDw_7oZu1Qpp8LU7aURHzHQuk1MnEXCfoXgeAuj4dZCMZOR9uw/s1600/GFSHurricane.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642186818537808242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcyDOswqbwX_dYUwlR5JzBObNTnzBLNqKpyC_NTv_nChpTkyALJ-Ohw8Rv7ds_JE4kwJFaq3MSrzDlOjDdN0UmDw_7oZu1Qpp8LU7aURHzHQuk1MnEXCfoXgeAuj4dZCMZOR9uw/s400/GFSHurricane.gif" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br /><div>We should note this is just one run of one computer model, but the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">GFS</span> has been fairly <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">consistent</span> over the last couple of days showing this storm approaching the U.S. As expected, with this more than a week away, it has not been <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">consistent</span> with exactly where the storm would go. A lot will likely change with its forecast over the coming days. No one should take this forecast and say a hurricane will definitely threaten the U.S. next week. It is just a note to pay attention to the tropics over the coming days.</div>
<br />
<br /><div>We'll keep you posted with our tropical updates at :21 after the hour. Stay tuned to News 14 Carolina.</div>
<br />
<br /><div>Lee Ringer
<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist
<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a>
<br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><div></div>
<br />Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-73359960528139361982011-08-10T09:39:00.004-04:002011-08-10T09:49:30.194-04:00A Break from the Heat?It has been a very hot summer in the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Carolinas</span> including several days at or above 100. There are now signs we'll get a break from the extreme heat into much of next week. The extended outlook for the next 6 to 10 days from the Climate Prediction Center has near to below normal temperatures for most of the east coast including North Carolina.
<br />
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOT-aDAMlvr3zwhC3Bul0gjw-XbS-6MHtXODUMgs2W6_Zb_8NlqmbASOO4d4nPvXuINZ-fLIVSWW527Olo8H_w2z3YkPc12bSCSN4r6GInkN4LpfaLwrYk-rn2H0lbsPMXjHscmQ/s1600/610temp_new.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 372px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639221716769620562" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOT-aDAMlvr3zwhC3Bul0gjw-XbS-6MHtXODUMgs2W6_Zb_8NlqmbASOO4d4nPvXuINZ-fLIVSWW527Olo8H_w2z3YkPc12bSCSN4r6GInkN4LpfaLwrYk-rn2H0lbsPMXjHscmQ/s400/610temp_new.gif" /></a>
<br />
<br /><div><span>We average highs in the upper 80s to near 90 through mid-August. At an early glance, I would anticipate highs in the mid and upper 80s for much of next week with morning lows in the 60s. That sure beats the upper 90s to near 100! Of course, errors in forecasting grow with time, so this long range forecast is not a guarantee. It is nice to say for now that we may get through next week with highs below 90!
<br />
<br />The news isn't so good for the central U.S. where the summer has been even hotter than here. The above normal temperatures will likely continue there next week. Much of Texas including Dallas should continue their streak of 100+ degree days.
<br />
<br />
<br />Lee Ringer </span></div>
<br /><div><span>News 14 Carolina Meteorologist
<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a>
<br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a>
<br /></div></span>
<br />Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-66610376896253405802011-08-05T09:14:00.003-04:002011-08-05T09:19:33.417-04:00Will Emily Redevelop?<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 326px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637359975817898914" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQS4g7fS2bZ1GA_Vc2LvD9H_swB9iTKjsfmM6zt04YpLqkzunv_QQQF_rRJYdg7Rt0Dxa1Co0muewAYGNmChosoi3xcXw60gihMTlCFXwJ4fu1BO64Bk3ddd92MiOXIXixpTLvpg/s400/EmilyOutlook.gif" />Tropical Storm Emily fell apart Thursday afternoon as it was tracking over Haiti. What remains of the system is just a disorganized area of low pressure that is tracking toward the Bahamas. While we don't expect the storm to redevelop today, some redevelopment is possible Saturday. The National Hurricane Center says there is a 60% chance it could become a tropical depression or tropical storm again.<br /><br />Even if Emily redevelops, the storm is expected to stay offshore...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jXCd-JBMxJAL3JyAjKhJqf5xHzry-j9kSCcpu3qie7rtgKDDVCcc0kz1Jkcfy9OelGZhjB0hpZ9beG3Qi9w001wL31FJWdnujIuBvsGlup4wI8ILY6PTWCiRgk8WGyQYz_cHOg/s1600/EmilyModels.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 392px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637359974142407234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jXCd-JBMxJAL3JyAjKhJqf5xHzry-j9kSCcpu3qie7rtgKDDVCcc0kz1Jkcfy9OelGZhjB0hpZ9beG3Qi9w001wL31FJWdnujIuBvsGlup4wI8ILY6PTWCiRgk8WGyQYz_cHOg/s400/EmilyModels.png" /></a> The only impacts in North Carolina would be the danger of rip currents at our beaches. Scattered afternoon storms are still possible this weekend, but those are unrelated to what is now the remnants of Emily.<br /><br />For the latest on the tropics, tune in for our tropical updates at :21 after the hour on News 14 Carolina.<br /><br />Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-53099860850044682142011-08-04T10:03:00.005-04:002011-08-04T10:37:43.683-04:00Tropical Storm Emily - Thursday AM Update<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4A2CPbdwn2v_1yZb8JWAftSvWcI29hIkJvX_-qBkECaQN_Dnp5sNg7D0u7FfoV6ViRGOqLmv7ZuDFZCyF_BngvebgR_49ObDoNG_lqJa1_BB673eNtSoMjNy3e4QVMABo5aUfcg/s1600/EmilyTrack.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637001341856598002" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4A2CPbdwn2v_1yZb8JWAftSvWcI29hIkJvX_-qBkECaQN_Dnp5sNg7D0u7FfoV6ViRGOqLmv7ZuDFZCyF_BngvebgR_49ObDoNG_lqJa1_BB673eNtSoMjNy3e4QVMABo5aUfcg/s400/EmilyTrack.gif" /></a> Not a lot has changed with the thinking on the forecast for Tropical Storm Emily. As of this morning, the storm was just on the south side of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Emily has been nearly stationary for a while but is expected to move to the west-northwest to the northwest later today. That will take the storm across parts of Haiti and eastern Cuba tonight through early tomorrow. It could weaken some as it interacts with land and some wind shear.<br /><br /><br /><div>Emily should track over the Bahamas into the weekend where conditions will be favorable for strengthening. The storm is then expected to turn to the north and eventually to the northeast Sunday. </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvKtAP-625dnywgj55OQIgW0S-UkQQjj52XvWcDqVqbcFkem3Y_a-8_4mKQXRcL0HvhiP41_cSF2JJclqRM_uT7P1Tqe-2QjkU-eMuQO2CZvYvbiHCLIizTEJP7Wn1uVLOBNhSyA/s1600/EmilyModels.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 394px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637001336647899122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvKtAP-625dnywgj55OQIgW0S-UkQQjj52XvWcDqVqbcFkem3Y_a-8_4mKQXRcL0HvhiP41_cSF2JJclqRM_uT7P1Tqe-2QjkU-eMuQO2CZvYvbiHCLIizTEJP7Wn1uVLOBNhSyA/s400/EmilyModels.png" /></a> A few models still show the storm tracking toward the Gulf of Mexico, but that appears to be an unlikely scenario at this time. Emily could become a category 1 hurricane as it tracks just of the Carolina coast. On this track, it will stay far enough offshore that even locations along the immediate coast will not see rain from the storm. Scattered afternoon thunderstorms are possible this weekend, but are not related to Emily. The only impact from the storm in North Carolina may be from rough surf and dangerous rip currents.<br /></div><br /><br /><div>We still must watch Emily carefully, if the storm were to track just a little closer to the coast, the forecast could still change significantly. Stay tuned to our tropical updates at :21 and :51 after the hour on News 14 Carolina for the latest.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-83360053264047742842011-08-03T09:30:00.004-04:002011-08-03T10:01:35.509-04:00Tropical Storm Emily - Wednesday AM Update<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636621618994070674" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ZF4FyBtdRuDsjk9D1B4JL8oQF-u-fg5a9BLlliyZhynUcwK3BCzu3MqJ-wMG3kRVesFLoR-FZc3T_mATjxNJYW4DLPd-N3rtlX9rHVqs9iy5DCRMJy639JUpWUjvAi5jYj7vMw/s400/EmilyTrack.gif" /><br />There have not been any big changes in Tropical Storm Emily since Tuesday evening. As of the 8am update from the National Hurricane Center, the storm still has sustained winds around 50mph and is expected to pass near or over the Dominican Republic and Haiti late today and tonight. Hispaniola is a mountainous island, which should weaken the storm. There are some cases where a storm falls apart all together, but most models do not show that happening at this time.<br /><br />It will be important to monitor how well Emily stays together after passing over Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Once it emerges over the Bahamas late Thursday and Friday, conditions will be favorable for strengthening. In fact, several models now show Emily becoming a hurricane off the southeast coast this weekend. The next tricky part of the forecast becomes the track Emily takes and how close it comes to the coast.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpsOjJ5iCkwZXU85e-n_i50_GazuQGHMhGaV5K_pbKbgEsp_hfAsEKYQwO9sY4D0_3zjqjjCpxpzhwt63JTG1iYwBA9kpg8Kt_4fhqhA4ojSq0cg_gG7xfAgrFlmnzjAwCtyJ7sQ/s1600/EmilyModels.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 369px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636621626672608754" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpsOjJ5iCkwZXU85e-n_i50_GazuQGHMhGaV5K_pbKbgEsp_hfAsEKYQwO9sY4D0_3zjqjjCpxpzhwt63JTG1iYwBA9kpg8Kt_4fhqhA4ojSq0cg_gG7xfAgrFlmnzjAwCtyJ7sQ/s400/EmilyModels.png" /></a> Most models now turn Emily to the northeast Sunday taking it off the Carolina coast, but not all of the models agree just how far offshore the storm will track. At this time, I do not anticipate any impacts from Emily in central North Carolina including the Triangle and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sandhills</span>. Impacts along the coast will all depend on the exact track. A track close to the coast would bring rain and wind. If the storm stays farther offshore, the only impacts would be rough surf and rip currents. As with any tropical system, the track and intensity forecast could change over the coming days changing the forecast impacts on our area. If you have beach plans this weekend, I would not cancel them yet, just stay alert to the latest forecast.<br /><br />Scattered afternoon storms unrelated to Emily are still possible this weekend.<br /><br />Be sure to stay tuned to News 14 Carolina for the latest forecast. We'll have tropical updates at :21 and :51 after the hour through the week.<br /><br />Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist<br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-37326571300891683422011-08-02T09:00:00.003-04:002011-08-02T09:10:24.198-04:00Tracking Emily - Tuesday Morning Update<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636242923250026418" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSA5wukggXnqE2rINg9-bthquVoz6l9_rdqqvIWGfvyXef4oFrBFAWxbB59wPDNG6bi452rkncHlfYsHts1TobEqvyyyD8aRQmybHVW7m2q38QiE6UHFNeF_7duvQgtA2F7WCN_A/s400/EmilyTrack.gif" /><br /><br />Tropical Storm Emily formed Monday evening and, so far, has <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">maintained</span> its strength as a minimal tropical storm with sustained winds of 40mph. It will likely be tough for the storm to strengthen all that much over the next couple of days. It may encounter shear and dry air that could limit strengthening today, and then it will track over or close to the Dominican Republic and Haiti. The island of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Hispaniola</span> is a mountainous region that sometimes rips apart tropical systems. Emily will likely at least weaken as it tracks over or close to Haiti and the Dominican Republic. <br /><br />The official forecast track from the National Hurricane Center brings Emily over the Bahamas around the end of the week where it could strengthen as it tracks close to the southeast coast of the U.S. this weekend.<br /><br />It's important to note there is uncertainty with the track and intensity forecast late this week and this weekend. While most models keep the storm just off the southeast coast, a few others actually take the system into the Gulf of Mexico.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuGNAZKewwHnApaKD_7HcyFvbFsvsskAT6Xvu3E1XM78yofSUodFVVw0mvVcrFxhkPBIr_9LDL7aQHwLYz0KtZkk6tFNg-X8FjCIFdOAfwrCCzaYiEmY5TvNfRNPfodvfq2CMVfg/s1600/EmilyModels.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 379px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636242928219698226" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuGNAZKewwHnApaKD_7HcyFvbFsvsskAT6Xvu3E1XM78yofSUodFVVw0mvVcrFxhkPBIr_9LDL7aQHwLYz0KtZkk6tFNg-X8FjCIFdOAfwrCCzaYiEmY5TvNfRNPfodvfq2CMVfg/s400/EmilyModels.png" /></a><br /><br /><div><br />There are even a couple models that weaken Emily all together. It is much too early to make a call if Emily will threaten North Carolina. Everyone from the Florida Gulf coast to the coast of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Carolinas</span> should watch for the latest updates on Emily. Here in North Carolina, tune in for our tropical updates at :21 after the hour for the latest forecast.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist</div><br /><div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><div></div>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-19483214948975902052011-07-18T08:56:00.007-04:002011-07-18T09:04:32.640-04:00Tracking Bret<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5630675770212688946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw4OMgLeqplzCY_GkIv4Y4ylgENFNjeYsR8jEiI65gAIk1TJh5Mtdv4oSPqMf-G43j0Ol8sQWYdegCYrdG68THbZtCoBO_R21QB2xGfQNmdkcxdiCOABz0sjMgmj5RxCVDFRWm7A/s400/BretSat.jpg" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk5an68d-uruPOtEqaQukuIwn5ZufuQtfqMxnm9pNFDA2bZDsg1gz4l4Kjq3n5_XptmAbzjQSSU4oCxDHC1v5ajDHCjVUXM3xP9YKWvy0aW9sLLVoZOUTY7UXRiWidYT9xGIhZaw/s1600/NHCBret.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5630675776754432290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk5an68d-uruPOtEqaQukuIwn5ZufuQtfqMxnm9pNFDA2bZDsg1gz4l4Kjq3n5_XptmAbzjQSSU4oCxDHC1v5ajDHCjVUXM3xP9YKWvy0aW9sLLVoZOUTY7UXRiWidYT9xGIhZaw/s400/NHCBret.gif" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Tropical Storm Bret developed this weekend near the Bahamas, but it is not expected to be a threat to the east coast. The storm will track off the Carolina coast through Wednesday when it should take a more easterly turn. This will take the storm into the cooler waters of the northern Atlantic where Bret will weaken late in the week.<br /></div><br /><div>At this point, coastal North Carolina could use the soaking rains from a weak tropical system to help alleviate extreme drought conditions. Unfortunately, Bret will stay far enough offshore that no rain is expected from the storm along the coast. The storm will kick up rough surf and create dangerous rip currents for beach goers through midweek.<br /></div><br /><div>For the latest forecast on Bret and more on the tropics, be sure to tune in for our tropical updates at :21 after the hour.<br /></div><br /><div>Lee Ringer<br />News 14 Carolina Meteorologist<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-14627226019853278892011-07-15T09:14:00.008-04:002011-07-15T09:31:43.919-04:00Enjoy the Weekend Weather; Extreme Heat Returns Next WeekToday is off to the great start with the coolest morning in a month! The low dropped to 60 at the Raleigh -Durham Airport this morning - just 2 degrees away from the record low for the date. Wilmington tied the record low with 64. This comes just days after record highs.<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Unfortunately</span>, the cooler summer weather won't stick around for too long. A heat wave will be building across the central U.S. from this weekend through early next week and will then build east around mid to late next week.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 372px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629567010127946082" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiXAayU4N05qkPqrR2HYkpx7EK4tOzualP22crytiTqzQ7e83NCVgjFybjunWx1N4GKOs8FFBIjGogxJwjKQo03RRFcs0jS5THJvfPrqYQFPMxjDAV82Yx-9xV4xUKY2ntWoq-A/s400/HeatBlog1.gif" /><br />Some computer model forecasts show Wednesday through Friday next week could be just as hot or even hotter that the middle of this week when Raleigh hit 100 on Tuesday and Wilmington hit 102 on Wednesday. The heat index peaked between 105 and 109 both days in much of our area. The long range heat index forecast for next Thursday (July 21) shows the heat index could get as high as 110 to 115! </p><br /><br /><br /><p><br /></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX_l933L9bBz1OnpWkIJK7jeHzMBqU9JFd55MhZzfYSnRTCWokzH3Ilnpq6RSgB3_SlkyZHUtiJJj4xgb1zaIjG5fyOrI5kV1Msstqqaadq8YvN7Bi7_gZoe-O4FECOcgS7_7kOg/s1600/HeatBlog2.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629567016350278066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX_l933L9bBz1OnpWkIJK7jeHzMBqU9JFd55MhZzfYSnRTCWokzH3Ilnpq6RSgB3_SlkyZHUtiJJj4xgb1zaIjG5fyOrI5kV1Msstqqaadq8YvN7Bi7_gZoe-O4FECOcgS7_7kOg/s400/HeatBlog2.gif" /></a><br /><br /><span>Keep in mind this is still several days away, but there are clear indications that the oppressive heat and humidity will return next week. Exactly how hot is still somewhat uncertain at this point. We'll keep you posted through the weekend and next week with our latest Weather on the Ones forecasts. Stay tuned to News 14 Carolina.</span><br /><span></span><br /><span>Lee Ringer<br />Meteorologist<br />News 14 Carolina<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.facebook.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14">www.twitter.com/LeeRingerNews14</a><br /><br /></span><span></span>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-74882845047424463472011-06-16T09:07:00.003-04:002011-06-16T10:16:08.391-04:00Your Guide to Stormfest 2011 - RaleighIf you're a weather enthusiast, don't miss Stormfest 2011 Saturday, June 18 from 9am until 5pm at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh. This free event is a great opportunity for adults and children to learn more about the hurricane season and the recent severe weather in North Carolina. News 14 Carolina's Weather on the Ones team will be there along with other groups including the National Weather Service, Red Cross, SKYWARN, American Radio Emergency Services, State Medical Assistance Team, Urban Search and Rescue, State Veterinary Emergency Response, Wake County Emergency Management, Highway Patrol, National Guard, NC Baptist Men, WakeMed, Rex Healthcare, and local fire departments.<br /><br />Stop by the News 14 Carolina/Weather on the Ones booth to pick up our severe weather safety guide plus other freebies we have to give away!<br /><br />You may also be interested in talks that will be given through the day at Stormfest. Here's a schedule of events --<br /><br />9:45am - Story time for kids - Windows on the World room<br /><br /><br />10:30am - Ask the Experts panel discussion with Lee Ringer and other local meteorologists - main auditorium<br /><br />11:00am - What You Need to Know about Family Prepareness with the Red Cross - Windows on the World room<br /><br />11:30am - Weather Whys for Kids with Pati Darak - Blue classroom (3rd floor)<br /><br />12noon - Storm Chasing - Vortex II project with NC State University - Windows on the World room<br /><br />12:30pm - North Carolina hurricane history with author Jay Barnes - main auditorium<br /><br />1:15pm - Weather Whys for Kids with Joshua McKinney - Blue classroom (3rd floor)<br /><br />2:30pm - Ask the Experts panel discussion with Gary Stephenson and other local meteorologists - main auditorium<br /><br />3:30pm - What You Need to Know about Family Preparedness with the Red Cross - Windows on the World roomLee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28139052.post-43945039935493374682011-05-06T08:47:00.003-04:002011-05-06T09:09:39.100-04:00Stormfest 2011 - Wilmington<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgld_Ldg6P8p0vo2BTl-5KVRONp5Z8mjzMeY6qcOPfYyr7fkw6MDSYzpy_bm7EVZ37rWCOzEAqosi1eFEbA4Vzh3REH2gMU2iHQi4sWa0oaCoBbOz9_2deZeVdvkFsScN03nhO5dg/s1600/logo_stormfest_2011.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 354px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 93px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603584047436082226" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgld_Ldg6P8p0vo2BTl-5KVRONp5Z8mjzMeY6qcOPfYyr7fkw6MDSYzpy_bm7EVZ37rWCOzEAqosi1eFEbA4Vzh3REH2gMU2iHQi4sWa0oaCoBbOz9_2deZeVdvkFsScN03nhO5dg/s400/logo_stormfest_2011.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>We're hoping to see you this Saturday at Wilmington's Stormfest 2011! Stormfest will be held from 10am until 4pm at the Cape Fear Museum. Admission to the museum is free for this special event! Stop by anytime from 10am until 4pm to learn more about our recent active severe weather season and the upcoming hurricane season. Chief meteorologist Gary Stephenson and meteorologist Lee Ringer will be on hand. Stop by our booth to pick up our new weather safety guide along with other freebies from News 14 Carolina and Time Warner Cable.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Other Stormfest participants include the Wilmington National Weather Service Office, the American Red Cross, New Hanover County Emergency Management, Pender County Emergency Management, the New Hanover County Library, the US Coast Guard, and other local TV stations.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Here are just some of the special events taking place during Stormfest:</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>10:30am to Noon - SkyWarn Storm Spotter Training with Josh Weiss of the Wilmington National Weather Service</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Noon to 1:00pm - Ask the Expert: Meteorologists - Ask your weather questions to a panel of local TV meteorologists including News 14 Carolina's chief meteorologist Gary Stephenson</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>1pm to 2pm - Ask the Expert: Emergency Managers </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>2pm to 3pm - Hurricane Hazel: What if it Happened Today?</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Door prizes will be given away through the day! </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Parking for Stormfest is available at the Cape Fear Musuem. Additional parking is available at Jengo's Playhouse on the corner of Princess and 9th Street, at Norris, Kuske, and Tunstall Consulting Engineering on 9th Street, and at W.K. Dickson.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Raleigh's Stormfest will be head Saturday, June 18 at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. More details to come...</div><br /><div></div>Lee Ringerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07193468620120459662noreply@blogger.com2