First Alert Weather Extra

Heat & Storms: Your 4th of July Weekend Forecast | July 2, 2026

Thu, 2 Jul 2026 21:08:20 +0000

As we approach the 4th of July holiday weekend, above normal summer heat and daily chances for rain will continue for East Texas. High temperatures for Friday through the weekend will be in the 90s, with a heat index in the upper 90s and triple digits. Isolated afternoon showers and thunderstorms will be possible each day into early next week, though Sunday through Tuesday, the chance for rain will be slightly higher. Severe weather is not currently in the forecast; however, wind gusts in the 30 to 40 mph range will be possible. It is also important to remember that lightning alone is dangerous. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors. By the middle of next week, temperatures climb into the upper 90s and the chances for rain will taper off for a few days as high pressure strengthens overhead.

Today in weather history... On this day in 1843, During a thunderstorm in Charleston, SC, a two-foot-long alligator reportedly fell with the rain. The creature was apparently unharmed, aside from having a look of "wonder and bewilderment." It is possible that a nearby waterspout sucked the gator up. The daily weather history segments come to us courtesy of the Southeast Regional Climate Center.

Drought Monitor Update... There were no significant changes for East Texas in this week's update to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

Also on today's show, we have an update on continued severe weather and a heat wave across the country, including New York City hitting 100° this afternoon. Finally, today's satellite imagery of the day showing wildfires continuing to burn in the west, courtesy of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

First Week of July Brings Above Normal Heat and Afternoon Storm Chances | July 1, 2026

Wed, 1 Jul 2026 20:55:01 +0000

A warmer than normal first week of July is upon us as high temperatures continue to climb into the mid and upper 90s each afternoon. The normal high temperature for early July is 93°, and we're forecasting highs warmer than that through the end of next week. A "normal" temperature, by the way, is based on a 30 year average that is updated every 10 years. Our current "normal" temperatures are based on the averages from 1991 through 2020. As for the rain in the forecast, low-end chances will remain in the forecast each afternoon through the 4th of July. These showers and thunderstorms will be diurnal, meaning they develop during the afternoon and die off during the evenings. Severe weather is unlikely, though thunderstorms this time of year can develop quickly, and wind gusts in the 30 to 40 mph range will be possible. Also, remember that lightning is deadly; so, when thunder roars, go indoors. The chance for rain will be higher on Sunday, July 5, and Monday, July 6. For those traveling on Sunday, showers and thunderstorms could create some disruptions. Into next week, the forecast is mostly the same; hot each afternoon with low chances for rain and otherwise mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies.

Today in weather history... On this day in 2024, Hurricane Beryl battered the Windward Islands. The storm made landfall on Carriacou, Grenada, where it was estimated that up to 99% of structures were damaged or destroyed. Late in the evening, Beryl intensified to the Atlantic's earliest Category 5. The daily weather history segments come to us courtesy of the Southeast Regional Climate Center.

Today's Wednesday Weather Word is "inverna." An inverna is a southeast wind of Lake Maggiore, Italy. This definition comes from the American Meteorological Society's Glossary of Meteorology.

Also on today's show, we have an update on continued severe weather across the country. Finally, today's satellite imagery of the day showing thunderstorm outflows over the Great Lakes, courtesy of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

Afternoon Storms in the Forecast, But Chances Remain Low | June 30, 2026

Wed, 1 Jul 2026 15:46:47 +0000

A low chance for rain returns to our East Texas forecast tomorrow, and low-end chances will remain through the weekend and next week. The forecast is mostly unchanged from yesterday, only minor adjustments to daily highs/lows and some changes to rain chances as well. For the foreseeable future, high temperatures will be in the mid to upper 90s with a heat index in the triple digits. Afternoon showers and isolated thunderstorms will be possible each day, but Sunday, July 5, and Monday, July 6, stand out as days with a higher chance. Severe weather is not in our forecast; however, it is not uncommon this time of year for thunderstorms to produce winds in the 30-40 mpg range and occasionally some hail. Overnight lows look to remain in the upper 70s and low 80s through the 7 to 10 day forecast. While the rest of the week doesn't look to be as windy as yesterday or the weekend, wind gusts each afternoon will be in the 10 to 15 mph range, and that may increase next week.

Today in weather history... On this day in 2024... Just two days after becoming a tropical depression, Hurricane Beryl rapidly intensified to Category 4 intensity. The storm beat out 2005's Dennis as the earliest Category 4 hurricane in a season in the Atlantic Ocean. The daily weather history segments come to us courtesy of the Southeast Regional Climate Center.

Other topics in today's First Alert Weather Extra include an updated long-range tropical weather outlook, the July climate outlook, and an update on severe weather across other parts of the U.S. We'll close the show with today's satellite imagery of the day showing the sunrise over smokey skies from western wildfires, courtesy of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

Dangerous Heat and a Chance of Rain for July 4th | June 29, 2026

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 21:09:17 +0000

Above normal summer heat will persist through the rest of the week with limited chances for rain. High temperatures will be in the mid to upper 90s each day this week, and the heat index will be in the triple digits. Heat Alerts from the National Weather Service are possible. Windy conditions that carried over from the weekend into today will lighten some over the next couple of days. South winds are in the forecast through the weekend, possibly gusting up to 15 mph at times. Low-end chances for rain are in the forecast beginning Wednesday and continue into next week. For Independence Day, we're forecasting mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with highs in the upper 90s, and a chance for a few showers or an isolated thunderstorm.

Today in weather history... On this day in 2023, a powerful derecho tore through the Central Plains and Midwest. The MCS produced widespread swaths of damaging winds of 80+ mph, with some locations in MO, IA, and IL measuring gusts up to 100 mph. Eight tornadoes – including an EF2 – were confirmed. The daily weather history segments come to us courtesy of the Southeast Regional Climate Center.

Also on today's show, we have an update on continued severe weather across the country, as well as our weekly forecast accuracy report. Finally, today's satellite imagery of the day, courtesy of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

Rain Chances End, Heat Builds Into the Weekend | June 24, 2026

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 20:43:13 +0000

After a series of evenings with a chance for showers and thunderstorms, our chances for rain are coming to an end. There will be a very low chance for a stray shower or storm tonight, mainly northeast of a line from Mt. Pleasant to Marshall. Temperatures tonight will drop into the mid and upper 70s under mostly clear to partly cloudy skies. The rest of the week looks mostly sunny and dry, with highs in the mid 90s. This weekend, highs will climb into the upper 90s, and that's where they'll stay through next week. Morning clouds with afternoon sunshine will be the forecast through the middle of next week. There are some indications rain could return to East Texas around the 4th of July. At this time, we'll keep a low chance for rain in our forecast beginning July 2nd and continuing through the 4th.

Today in weather history... On this day 1975, Eastern Air Lines Flight 66 crashed while on approach to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, killing 113 of the 124 people on board. The crash was determined to be caused by wind shear caused by a microburst. The daily weather history segments come to us courtesy of the Southeast Regional Climate Center.

Also on today's show, we'll get an update on severe weather that continues outside of East Texas, and our weekly Wednesday Weather Word is "bush." Finally, today's satellite imagery of the day, courtesy of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

Overnight Storms Bring Flooding Threat; Heat Builds Into Next Week | June 23, 2026

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 20:44:37 +0000

Once again, a few showers and isolated thunderstorms will be possible this evening and overnight. The risk for severe weather is low but winds up to 60 mph and hail up to the size of quarters are possible with any stronger storms that can develop. Flooding/flash flooding will be the primary hazard with the rain tonight. Last night's/this morning's rain resulted in flooding for areas near I-30 and the Red River; this will again be possible. Temperatures overnight will drop into the low 70s for areas that receive the rain; everyone else will be in the mid to upper 70s overnight. By daybreak Wednesday, the chance for rain will be ending, and the forecast then looks dry through the end of the week. High temperatures will remain in the 90s, nearing 100-degrees by early next week. Our next chance for rain may not arrive until 4th of July weekend - your first alert to the chance. That said, we're still about 10 days away from the 4th, and things are likely to chance between now and then.

Weather headlines:

-an extreme heatwave continues overseas

-severe storms and flooding remain a threat across parts of the Plains, Midwest, and South

Also on today's show, the Climate Prediction Center released an updated long-range tropical weather outlook today. Finally, today's satellite imagery of the day, courtesy of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

Isolated Storms Tonight, Then Dry And Hot Pattern Settles In | June 22, 2026

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 20:36:09 +0000

A few showers and isolated thunderstorms will be possible this evening and overnight. The risk for severe weather is low; however, winds up to 60 mph and pocket change size hail are possible. The chance for rain will fall as we approach sunrise Tuesday morning, but there could still be some shower/storm activity during the Tuesday morning commute. Once the rain ends Tuesday morning, the forecast looks dry for the next week. The only exception to that will be if storms in Oklahoma Tuesday night could make it to East Texas very late Tuesday or early Wednesday morning. By midweek, a ridge of high pressure will build overhead, almost guaranteeing dry conditions and highs in the mid to upper 90s by the weekend. Highs could reach the triple digits by early next week, and the heat index will be in the 100s without question. Heat alerts from the National Weather Service are likely given the forecast heat index values around 105° by early next week. Remember to be safe in the heat!

On this day in weather history... In 2007, Canada's first (and only) official F5 struck the town of Elie, Manitoba. The twister's path was erratic and contained several loops. Several homes were destroyed, including one that was completely swept away. Amazingly, no one was injured or killed. The daily weather history segments come to us courtesy of the Southeast Regional Climate Center.

Also on today's show, our weekly review of last week's forecast accuracy and updates on severe weather across the country. Finally, today's satellite imagery of the day, courtesy of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

Scattered to widespread showers and thunderstorms Friday and Saturday | June 18, 2026

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 21:07:42 +0000

After having only seen a few scattered showers make their way into East Texas from Tropical Storm Arthur, the storm has now weakened and has dissipated. Tonight, we'll see partly to mostly cloudy skies with temperatures dropping into the 70s. Friday and Saturday will bring a higher chance for rain as scattered to widespread showers and thunderstorms appear likely on both days. The risk for severe weather is low-end, primarily due to a strong wind threat. Additionally, flooding will be a concern. Two things to remember tomorrow and this weekend: 1. When thunder roars, go indoors. If you find yourself outdoors and a thunderstorm moves into the area, please take shelter even if it is now severe. Lightning is especially dangerous this time of year when we let our guard down to be outside. 2. Turn around, don't drown. Please do not attempt to cross any flooded roadways this weekend and be prepared for flash flooding near waterways. The chance for rain will drop off for Sunday but increases once again by the middle of next week. High temperatures are expected to remain in the upper 80s and low to mid 90s for the foreseeable future, morning lows in the 70s.

On this day in weather history... In 1939, an estimated F4 tore a 25-mile path through the Twin Cities' northern suburbs. Many homes were leveled in the hard-hit towns of Anoka and Champlin. Four of the 9 fatalities came from a car that was thrown 300 yds. Monetary damage was in the millions. The daily weather history segments come to us courtesy of the Southeast Regional Climate Center.

Also on today's show, this week's drought monitor, an update on a plan to end an ocean monitoring service, and details on the aftermath of continued severe weather across the country. Finally, today's satellite imagery of the day, courtesy of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

Arthur Weakens Tonight; Storm Chances Return Friday-Saturday | June 17, 2026

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:41:08 +0000

Shortly before 10 a.m. CT today, the National Hurricane Center announced Tropical Storm Arthur had formed near the Texas coast. Arthur will be a short-lived tropical storm, expected to weaken tonight into a tropical depression. While we will have a chance for a few showers from Arthur this evening and tomorrow, impacts for East Texas will be minimal. By Friday and Saturday, our attention shifts to a chance for showers and thunderstorms that will be dependent on moisture returning to the atmosphere overhead. A lack of moisture return would result in lower chances for rain; a high amount of moisture return could mean higher chances for rain Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, the chance for rain drops off and the wind is expected to pick up, possibly gusting to 25 mph. As for temperatures over the next week to 10 days, highs will remain in the 90s for the foreseeable future, with overnight lows in the 70s.

On this day in weather history... In 1946, he third-deadliest tornado in Canadian history struck southwestern Ontario from Windsor to Tecumseh. The estimated F4 (possibly F5) leveled numerous homes and other structures along a 15-mile track. 17 people were killed and hundreds were injured. The daily weather history segments come to us courtesy of the Southeast Regional Climate Center.

Also on today's show, information on a new bill in Congress that aims to grow the U.S. Hurricane Hunter fleet. Additionally, storms in the Midwest derailed a train near Monmouth, IL today. Finally, today's satellite imagery of the day, courtesy of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

Potential Tropical Cyclone One: Arthur Ahead & What It Means for East Texas | June 16, 2026

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 21:38:22 +0000

Earlier today, the National Hurricane Center began issuing advisories for "Potential Tropical Cyclone One," which is expected to become Tropical Storm Arthur by Wednesday morning. The NHC is predicting this system will move northeast along the Texas coast tomorrow and move inland over Louisiana on Thursday. Flooding from heavy rain will be the primary threat, though there is a low-end severe weather risk. For East Texas, tropical weather hazards and impacts will be minimal. We'll have low chances for rain on Wednesday and Thursday. By Friday, the chance for rain in East Texas will rise ahead of a storm system expected to arrive from the northwest. At this time, there is no severe weather risk from the Storm Prediction Center; however, some guidance suggests at least a low-end risk for Friday. As for temperatures over the next 7 to 10 days, highs look to remain in the upper 80s and 90s, and morning lows will be in the 70s.

On this day in weather history... In 1944, Four intense tornadoes struck in extreme southeast South Dakota and northwest Iowa. Two of the tornadoes in Iowa were violent F4s, destroying or completely sweeping away several farmsteads and rural homes. Five people were injured. The daily weather history segments come to us courtesy of the Southeast Regional Climate Center.

Also on today's show, we'll look at flooding across the state as Texas continues to receive heavy rain ahead of a potential tropical storm. Additionally, a new long-range tropical weather outlook was released today. Other segments today include comparing weather at the airport vs. in-town yesterday and last week's forecast accuracy. Finally, today's satellite imagery of the day, courtesy of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

Cold Front Monday Brings Relief, and an El Niño Update | June 11, 2026

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 21:41:09 +0000

After a dry, but once again hot, afternoon, the chance for rain will return to East Texas tomorrow. While the chance for rain is low (20%), showers and any isolated thunderstorms could prove to be disruptive for any outdoor activities (such as the Great Texas Balloon Race taking place in Longview this week). Saturday will also have a low chance for rain, but the chance for showers and thunderstorms increases Sunday into next week with our next cold front. High temperatures will remain in the mid 90s or so through the end of the week and into the weekend. On Monday, a cold front will drop highs into the 80s for Monday and Tuesday before we climb back into the 90s by next Wednesday. Our highest chances for rain over the next seven days will come ahead of the front on Sunday, and then with and behind the front on Monday and Tuesday. At this time, there is no risk for severe weather from the Storm Prediction Center.

On this day in weather history... In 1915, an estimated F4 tornado, nearly 1 mile wide, moved through the area of Mullinville, Kansas. Thanks to the high visibility and time of day, no one was hurt or killed. The daily weather history segments come to us courtesy of the Southeast Regional Climate Center.

Also on today's show, an update on our El Niño status and what that means for the summer and winter ahead. Additionally, a new drought monitor was released today, and we have a weather word since one was not included yesterday. Finally, we'll look at thunderstorms moving across the country today's satellite imagery of the day, courtesy of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

NHC monitoring an area in the Gulf for potential tropical development late this week | June 10, 2026

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 20:44:14 +0000

A few showers and an isolated thunderstorm or two will remain possible through the early evening hours before the sun goes down. Overnight, temperatures will drop into the 70s as we see mostly clear skies turn mostly cloudy by daybreak Thursday. Tomorrow afternoon will be partly cloudy to mostly sunny, and highs will be in the mid 90s. Low chances for rain remain in the forecast for Friday and Saturday as the above normal summer heat persists into the weekend. On Sunday, our chance for showers and thunderstorms will increase ahead of a cold front on Monday. The chance for rain will remain elevated through Monday and Tuesday. At this time, there is no risk for severe weather in the forecast through the wetter period expected this weekend into early next week. After the passing of the cold front on Monday, highs will run near to below normal for a couple of days before we climb back into the mid 90s by the end of next week.

On this day in weather history... In 1752, according to legend, Benjamin Franklin's infamous kite experiment took place when he attached a key to a kite string, attempting to conduct lightning during a storm. Also, on this day in 1938, an estimated F5 struck Clyde, Texas. These daily weather history statements come to us courtesy of the Southeast Regional Climate Center.

Also on today's show, an update on potential tropical activity in the Gulf, and Colorado State University has released an updated Atlantic hurricane season outlook. Finally, we'll look at a smoke plume in Nebraska in today's satellite imagery of the day, courtesy of the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere.

Chances for rain increase for the weekend ahead of a cold front next week | June 9, 2026

Tue, 9 Jun 2026 20:42:42 +0000

Low chances for rain remain in the forecast for tomorrow as highs are expected to be in the low to mid 90s. Thursday still looks dry before more rain is in the forecast for Friday and the weekend. The chances for rain Sunday into next week have increased as a cold front is still expected to move into East Texas on Monday. High temperatures will generally run above normal through the end of this week. After the cold front arrives next week, there will be at least a couple day where highs are near normal. We also have an update on the long-range tropical weather outlook through the end of the month.

On this day in weather history, a F4 devastated Worcester, MA; it remains New England's worst tornado.

Plus, updates on national weather stories including storms in the Midwest and wildfires in the West. Lastly, we'll look at our satellite image of the day.

Above Normal Summer Heat Persists through the end of the Week | June 8, 2026

Mon, 8 Jun 2026 21:04:16 +0000

A few showers and thunderstorms will be possible Tuesday and Wednesday, then Thursday looks dry. A higher chance for showers and storms is in the forecast for the weekend and early next week as the upper-level pattern shifts. A cold front looks to arrive in East Texas on Monday, dropping highs back into the low 90s. A period of unsettled weather with daily chances for rain may take hold next week.

On this day in weather history, the first ever motion picture recording of a tornado was captured in 1951.

Plus, updates on national weather stories including flooding in the Midwest and Deep South, to the drought emergency in Colorado. Lastly, we'll cover our weekly forecast accuracy and take a look at some satellite images of the day.

More Storms Thursday and This Weekend, High Pressure Returns Next Week | June 3, 2026

Wed, 3 Jun 2026 21:45:38 +0000

East Texas will experience a break from the above normal heat the rest of the week, with highs staying near to below normal through the weekend. Scattered showers and storms are expected once again on Thursday. The chances for rain continue into the weekend, with the highest chance for showers and storms being Saturday. The pattern shifts next week when high pressure builds overhead. This system will suppress rain chances while pushing temperatures back into the mid 90s - above our normal for this time of year.

Today in history... June 3, 1965, astronaut Edward H. White made history during the Gemini 4 spaceflight by becoming the first American to walk in space.

This week's weather word is "zephyr" - which is a soft, gentle breeze.

Finally, satellites observed clouds forming over the Houston area Tuesday afternoon as roadways induced convection outlining local infrastructure.

Storms Tonight, Cooler Tomorrow, Heat Returns Next Week | June 2, 2026

Tue, 2 Jun 2026 21:06:42 +0000

Scattered showers and thunderstorms will continue across East Texas before coming to an end by midnight night. A backdoor cold front will bring cooler and near-normal temperatures to the area for the rest of the week. While we will have a daily chance for rain over the next 7 to 10 days, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday look to be the wettest days of the forecast. High pressure will return by the middle of next week, mostly bringing an end to the rain and driving highs back into the mid 90s.

On this day in 1995, two large tornadoes struck cities in West Texas. They were observed by research teams that collected data on the storms.

The long-range forecasts from the Climate Prediction Center place East Texas in an area to experience near-normal temperatures and trending wetter than normal in the 8-14 day range. The latest long-range tropical weather outlook shows outlines and area of possible development off the west coast of Mexico for mid-June.

Meteorological Summer Begins: East Texas Rain Chances, Hurricane Season, and the Week Ahead

Mon, 1 Jun 2026 21:07:54 +0000

On this episode of First Alert Weather Extra, meteorologist Andrew Tate returns with a full look at the East Texas forecast as meteorological summer and Atlantic hurricane season officially begin on June 1.

The show starts with the seven-day forecast, including a hot Tuesday with highs in the mid-90s and a 50% chance for scattered showers and thunderstorms. While a few storms could produce small hail or briefly stronger conditions, there is currently no severe weather risk expected for East Texas. Rain chances continue through the end of the week and into the weekend, with many areas expected to pick up at least a half-inch of rain over the next seven days.

Andrew also explains the upper-level weather pattern driving the forecast, including how high pressure, sometimes called a “heat dome,” is keeping temperatures hot before shifting east and allowing storm chances to increase later in the week. The long-range outlook shows near-normal to slightly warmer conditions ahead, with wetter-than-normal trends continuing for East Texas.

The episode also marks the start of Atlantic hurricane season, with an update on the tropics and a reminder that even in a quieter season, it only takes one storm to create major impacts. Andrew also shares a weather history segment on a violent F4 tornado near Bakersfield Valley, Texas, highlights an international dust storm in China, and closes with the latest First Alert forecast accuracy report and satellite image of the day.

Rainy Pattern Continues With Scattered Showers and Storms Thru Memorial Day

Thu, 21 May 2026 14:30:53 +0000

On this episode of First Alert Weather Extra, meteorologist Andrew Tate returns with a detailed look at the ongoing rainy pattern across East Texas. Rain and thunderstorm chances are expected to continue through the end of the week, into Memorial Day weekend, and possibly through much of next week.

Andrew breaks down the day-by-day forecast, including a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms Thursday, lower rain chances Friday, then renewed scattered showers and storms Saturday, Sunday, and Memorial Day Monday. While the Storm Prediction Center does not currently have East Texas under a severe weather risk, Andrew explains why isolated stronger storms and periods of heavy rain still need to be monitored.

The episode also focuses on the growing flooding concern, with the Weather Prediction Center placing East Texas under a medium risk for flooding Thursday and additional flooding risks possible over the weekend. Andrew highlights the latest seven-day rainfall forecast, showing parts of East Texas could see 4 to 7 inches of rain over the next week.

You’ll also hear the latest long-range outlook from the Climate Prediction Center, which keeps East Texas leaning wetter than normal into early June, along with continued chances for heavy rain and possible flooding. Plus, Andrew looks back at the devastating May 20, 2013 Moore, Oklahoma EF5 tornado, shares astronomy and national weather stories, introduces the Weather Word Wednesday term “torbanada,” and features satellite imagery of von Kármán vortices and a major line of storms stretching from Mexico to Canada.

If you’re looking for a clear, local breakdown of East Texas rain chances, Memorial Day weekend weather, flooding potential, and the extended forecast, this episode has you covered.

Likely Dry This Weekend Before Daily Chances For Rain Next Week Through Memorial Day

Wed, 20 May 2026 22:06:47 +0000

On this episode of First Alert Weather Extra, meteorologist Andrew Tate wraps up a quiet week across East Texas and looks ahead to a much wetter pattern developing next week. While the weekend is expected to stay mostly dry, warm, and breezy, rain chances increase by Monday and continue through much of the week, with the highest chances for showers and thunderstorms currently focused on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Andrew breaks down the latest seven-day forecast, expected rainfall totals, and why 2 to 3 inches of rain could be possible across parts of East Texas over the next week. He also explains why the Storm Prediction Center does not currently have East Texas under a severe weather risk, while still noting that flooding concerns may need to be monitored as daily rain chances continue.

The episode also takes a deeper look at the long-range weather pattern heading toward Memorial Day, including moisture from the Pacific and Gulf of Mexico, a developing storm system over the Rockies and Southern Plains, and a continued signal for wetter-than-normal conditions in East Texas. Andrew also reviews the latest drought monitor, explains how upcoming rain could help drought conditions, and discusses the first National Hurricane Center tropical outlook of the 2026 season.

Also featured: a weather history segment on the May 15, 2013 Granbury and Cleburne tornadoes, an update on a new Guadalupe River flood warning system following deadly Central Texas flooding, a science story about a newly identified dinosaur species, and two standout satellite images of the day, including wildfires sparked by lightning in the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles and stunning von Kármán vortices near the Canary Islands.

Chance for storms tonight and tomorrow, another chance for Sunday (Mother's Day)

Thu, 7 May 2026 14:56:26 +0000

On this episode of First Alert Weather Extra, meteorologist Andrew Tate previews the next round of unsettled weather across East Texas, including a low storm chance tonight, a First Alert Weather Day on Wednesday, and another possible round of rain on Mother’s Day Sunday.

Andrew explains where storms could develop along the I-30 corridor, why Wednesday afternoon and evening carry the better chance for stronger thunderstorms, and what the main threats look like right now, including damaging winds, large hail, and a low tornado risk. He also walks through the latest seven-day forecast, expected rainfall totals, and what to expect from Thursday into the weekend as rain chances gradually decrease before rising again on Sunday.

The episode also takes a broader look at the weather pattern driving East Texas conditions, including northwest flow, Pacific moisture, a cold front, and how these features may keep rain in the forecast into next week before drier weather potentially returns. In addition, Andrew shares a weather history segment on the May 5–6, 1930 tornado outbreak, highlights a fascinating space-weather-adjacent science story about a distant icy world beyond Pluto, and features two satellite images of the day showing a major North American storm system and a dust storm over Illinois.

Listeners also get an important programming note: because Wednesday is expected to be an active weather day, there will be no new episode on Wednesday, with First Alert Weather Extra returning on Thursday.

If you want a clear, local forecast covering East Texas storm timing, Wednesday severe weather risk, Mother’s Day rain chances, and the extended outlook, this episode has you covered.

More Storms Possible on Wednesday With Rain Chances Continuing Into the Weekend

Thu, 7 May 2026 14:44:02 +0000

On this episode of First Alert Weather Extra, meteorologist Andrew Tate previews the next round of active weather for East Texas, with a focus on a First Alert Weather Day on Wednesday and additional rain chances heading into the Mother’s Day weekend. He explains why Tuesday looks mostly quiet for most areas, why storm chances increase by Wednesday afternoon and evening, and where a few stronger storms could develop, especially near the I-30 corridor and across parts of the region.

Andrew walks through the latest seven-day forecast, futurecast timing, expected rainfall totals, and the uncertainty surrounding storm development later this week. He also highlights how forecast trends may shift over the next few days, especially for Mother’s Day Sunday, where rain chances could increase.

Beyond the daily forecast, this episode also explores the larger weather pattern shaping the week ahead, including northwest flow, a developing storm system, and the possibility of warmer temperatures and changing rain chances into mid-May. Andrew also discusses ongoing drought conditions in East Texas, shares a national report on how drought is impacting farmers in Virginia, and reviews the station’s latest forecast accuracy report.

The episode also includes a weather history spotlight on the May 3–4, 1999 Great Plains tornado outbreak, including the first-ever tornado emergency, plus a look at the featured satellite image of the day.

If you want a detailed local forecast covering East Texas storm chances, Wednesday severe weather risk, Mother’s Day rain potential, and drought conditions, this episode has you covered.

Tracking Severe Thunderstorms in East Texas

Fri, 1 May 2026 22:06:30 +0000

On this episode of First Alert Weather Extra, meteorologist Andrew Tate provides a live First Alert Weather Day update as severe thunderstorms move across East Texas. The focus is on active severe thunderstorm warnings, a hail threat impacting areas including Smith, Cherokee, and Rusk counties, and what viewers can expect as storms continue through the evening.

Andrew breaks down the latest radar trends, including storms near Athens, Bullard, Mount Selman, Mixon, and northern Cherokee County, and explains why large hail is the primary concern while the tornado risk remains very low. He also looks ahead to the rest of the week, highlighting the transition from isolated severe weather concerns to a greater threat of heavy rain and flooding on Thursday and Friday.

The episode also includes a detailed look at the seven-day forecast, rainfall totals, and the long-range outlook into next week, along with a Today in Weather History segment about the devastating April 29, 2017 East Texas tornado outbreak. Plus, Andrew recaps severe weather impacts in North Texas, including the EF3 tornado near Mineral Wells, and wraps up with the show’s Weather Word Wednesday and satellite image of the day.

If you’re looking for a local, detailed forecast covering East Texas hail threats, severe thunderstorm timing, flood risk, and the week ahead, this episode delivers the full breakdown.

Strong to Severe Thunderstorms Possible Tonight

Fri, 1 May 2026 21:56:28 +0000

On this episode of First Alert Weather Extra, meteorologist Andrew Tate delivers a special First Alert Weather Day update as severe thunderstorms approach East Texas. He breaks down the latest live radar trends, explains the tornado watch now in effect, and walks viewers through the expected timing of storms from Dallas-Fort Worth into East Texas through the evening and overnight hours.

This episode focuses on the biggest threats, including very large hail, damaging winds, an isolated tornado risk, and the potential for heavy rain and flooding later in the week. Andrew also explains the weather setup behind the storm threat, including the impact of a cold front and dry line, and shows how the risk evolves from Tuesday night into Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.

You’ll also get an updated look at the seven-day forecast, projected rainfall totals, and the longer-range outlook heading into next week. Plus, the episode includes a weather history segment on the 2011 Super Outbreak, a look at severe weather damage across other parts of the country, and the show’s featured satellite image of the day.

Showers and Thunderstorms Possible Each Day This Week

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 21:40:06 +0000

On this episode of First Alert Weather Extra, meteorologist Andrew Tate takes a deep dive into a stormy week ahead across East Texas. With First Alert Weather Days in place from Monday night through Friday, Andrew explains when and where strong to severe thunderstorms, large hail, damaging winds, isolated tornadoes, and flooding are most likely.

He walks through the latest seven-day forecast, breaks down the setup involving a cold front and dry line, and explains why the threat changes from day to day. You’ll also hear which time periods look most active for communities including Tyler, Longview, Lufkin, and Nacogdoches, along with updated rainfall expectations and why flooding could become a bigger concern later in the week.

The episode also includes a look at the long-range forecast, a recap of severe weather impacts across Texas and the Midwest, a weather history spotlight on the April 2011 Super Outbreak, and the weekly forecast accuracy report.