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Mold spores are naturally present in the air at harmless concentrations, but with added moisture can grow to levels that spur allergies and asthma in susceptible individuals.  After heavy rains or when leaks or flooding dampen homes, dormant mold spores can grow explosively and release enough new spores to sicken people. Viewer Tip: It is [...]

March 18-22 is the National Weather Service’s Flood Safety Awareness Week. Flooding occurs from coast to coast at all times of the year – and there are many factors that contribute to flooding events. Snowmelt Flooding: When snow begins to melt, flooding can occur if the amount of snowmelt exceeds the capacity for soils and [...]

Are you ready for the kinds of severe weather that could impact the area where you live? National Severe Weather Preparedness Week takes place from March 3-9, 2013. This is a great time for you and your family to “Be a Force of Nature” by learning the importance of planning for severe weather events and [...]

South Carolina observes Severe Weather Awareness Week from March 3-9, 2013. This is a great time to make sure you and your family are prepared for the kinds of severe weather you might experience in your area. South Carolina’s most common natural hazards are thunderstorms, hurricanes and floods. One of the worst natural hazards to [...]

Pennsylvania observes Severe Weather Awareness Week from March 4-8, 2013. This is a great time to make sure you and your family are prepared for the kinds of severe weather you might experience in your area. Some common Pennsylvania natural hazards are thunderstorms and lightning, floods, winter storms and extreme cold. One of the worst [...]

High winds can damage homes and buildings, especially when tree branches, stones and gravel, patio furniture, roofing tiles and other objects are blown around. Homes that sit at the edge of open areas, such as fields or golf courses, can be especially vulnerable because they are more exposed to full-force winds. Homes that stick up [...]

According to AAA, more than 43 million Americans will journey 50 miles or more from home over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend – and 90 percent will travel by car.  Increased traveling distance and unpredictable weather can result in hazardous driving conditions at this time of year. Here, get tips for safe and efficient travel, whether [...]

Winds, heavy rain and snow related to Hurricane Sandy took a toll on many communities along the East Coast.  Many communities are still without power and, as flood waters recede, many home and business owners will be facing cleanup activities. Viewer Tip: When the water goes down, keep these tips in mind to assess damage [...]

Did you know that studies have shown that the air inside our homes can be more polluted that the air outside? Indoor air pollutants come from a variety of sources, including building materials and decorating products, as well as activities such as cooking, cleaning, heating, and cooling. Indoor air pollution can trigger health problems for [...]

According to NOAA, high winds, heavy rains and snowfall related to Hurricane Sandy will impact 50 to 60 million people in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern United States.  Stay safe with these tips for weathering the storm. Image at right: Rainfall forecast for Hurricane Sandy as of 8:00 a.m., Sunday, October 28, 2012. Evacuations: If you [...]

In 2011, the United States saw a record 14 weather and climate disasters that caused one billion dollars or more in damages – from flooding in the Upper Midwest to tornadoes in the Southeast and wildfires in the West. And 2012 has been no stranger to extreme weather and climate conditions either, with massive wildfires, [...]

A major threat tropical storms and hurricanes bring to land is flooding, which results from intense rainfall from the storms. The intensity of rainfall does not directly relate to the wind speed of the storm – some intense flooding events occur during weaker storms that slowly drift or stall over one area. The Centers for [...]

Hurricane Isaac is bringing high risk for rip currents along some beaches. Rip currents are channels of fast-moving water that may pull swimmers away from the shore. While the speed of rip currents varies, some have exceeded five miles per hour, which is faster than an Olympic swimmer can swim! When people swimming at beaches [...]

In a typical year, more fires are reported on Independence Day than any other day – fireworks account for two out of five of those fires. In 2010, fireworks ignited an estimated 15,500 fires, many of which were outdoor grass and brush fires. These fires can spread quickly, especially in areas that are experiencing dry [...]

Many homes and buildings are adjacent to woodlands and parks, which provide beautiful views and peaceful settings.  But wildfire risk can be especially high in this “wildland-urban interface,” where the built environment blends with natural landscapes. Viewer Tip: You can protect your home from wildfire by reducing the amount of flammable material between your home and a natural area. An [...]

NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center estimates that about 1300 tornadoes occur in the United States each year, give or take a few hundred. Some storms are brief and weak, while others are extremely destructive, threatening life and property. Once the storms are over, home and business owners may face additional health and safety risks as they [...]

November 13-19 is the National Geographic Society’s Geography Awareness Week.  This year’s theme is “The Adventure in Your Community.”  Geography is all around us and varies from region to region in the United States.  Did you know that geography and weather are very closely linked? Explore some of the connections below. (Click on images or [...]

With drought causing wildfires in the west and southwest, researchers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center certified to conduct prescribed burns suggest these safety tips for your home. Viewer Tip: Studies of wildfires suggest wind-borne embers reaching a roof or other flammable material on your house are the biggest threat. Removing leaf litter and [...]

Recent flooding, wildfires and earthquakes provide good reminders of the importance of being prepared for natural disasters and other emergencies. According to NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center, there have been 10 billion-dollar weather disasters so far in 2011, including flooding from Hurricane Irene; drought, heat waves and wildfires in the Southern Plains and Southwest; and [...]

Although thunderstorms impact relatively small areas when compared to winter storms or hurricanes, they are still dangerous.  Thunderstorms can be accompanied by hail, strong winds and flash flooding. Every thunderstorm is accompanied by lightning. Viewer Tip: In 2011, there have been 13 lightning fatalities* in the United States – all of them have occurred outdoors. [...]