Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

Midwest:
Rain will form over portions of the Central Plains and move into the Great Lakes, Ohio Valley and the Central Appalachians by Wednesday evening. Some patches of freezing rain will evolve over portions of Kansas to Michigan. Snowfall is forecast from the Central and Northern Plains to the Upper Mississippi Valley through Wednesday. The heaviest snow is expected across central Nebraska and western Kansas.

Northeast:
A strong high pressure system will keep New England cold and dry through mid week. The remainder of the East Coast, Southeast and Mid Atlantic will also stay dry through mid-day on Wednesday.

South:
A developing strong storm over the Southern Plains will move northeastward to the southern edge of Lake Michigan by Wednesday night. Showers and thunderstorms are expected over portions of the central and eastern Gulf Coast and as far north as the Tennessee Valley, where already elevated river levels will exacerbate flooding and flash flooding concerns through Wednesday. There is a slight risk of severe weather associated with these thunderstorms.

West:
A storm system will produce widespread rain and higher elevation snow across the Northwest coast and the Cascades. Locally heavy mountain snow is expected over portions of the Central/Northern Rockies and Northern Plains, moving into the Upper Great Lakes by Wednesday night. (National Weather Service, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and various media sources)

Louisiana Severe Weather of March 5 – Final

There were reports of six tornado touch downs Mar 5 across southern Louisiana. The most significant impact was from a reported EF-2 tornado that touched down in Rayne, La. (Acadia Parish). One confirmed fatality and 12 injuries were reported. Mandatory evacuations were ordered due to broken gas lines; residents were allowed to check on their homes Monday, March 7. The American Red Cross reported one shelter open with 15 occupants on March 6. Twenty to thirty people were received at the Rayne Fire Station reception Center. One hundred to 150 homes are reported damaged, as well as roof and window damage to Rayne High School. Local damage assessments are underway.

Volcanic Activity

Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii
The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) monitoring network continues to detect activity within the Kilauea Volcano. Summit and east rift zone seismic tremor levels remain significantly elevated, and the fissure eruption that started on Saturday, March 5 at the east rift zone continued intermittently on Monday. The deflation of the floor of the Pu’u’O’o Crater is slowing. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has closed the Chain of Craters Road, numerous trails, and the Kulanaokuaiki campground until further notice. The Kilauea Volcano has been active since 1983 and this activity is viewed as a continuation of that eruption. No request for FEMA assistance. Current Volcano Alert Level: WARNING; Aviation Color Code: RED. (USGS HVO)

Earthquake Activity

Oregon
Seven earthquakes ranging in magnitude from 3.9 to 5.0 have occurred off the coast of Oregon, approximately 340 miles west southwest of Portland, Ore., since Saturday, March 6. A Magnitude 5.0 earthquake occurred at 8:26 p.m. EST March 7 at a depth of 11.1 miles in the same general location. This quake is the largest of the seven over the past three days. No tsunami was generated. (PTWC, WCATC, USGS)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are underway in the following states: New York, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Louisiana and Washington.

Wildfire Update

New Mexico
A Fire Management Assistance Grant was approved for the Quail Ridge Fire, Grant County, N.M. on March 8, 2011. Te fire is twenty-five percent contained and approximately 1,000 acres of state and private land has burned since the fire started on March 7. The fire is threatening power lines, a water treatment plant and 640 homes in and around the south end of Silver City, N.M. (population 40,000). Voluntary and mandatory evacuations are in effect for approximately 200 people. One shelter is open at the Silver City Convention Center. As of Monday night 32 to 37 homes were damaged or destroyed. Five additional large fires are burning uncontrolled in New Mexico. (FEMA Region VI)

Disaster Declaration Activity

Massachusetts
On March 7, 2011, the President signed Major Disaster Declaration FEMA-1959-DR-MA for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for a Severe Winter Storm and Snow Storm that occurred January 11-12, 2011. Public Assistance (assistance for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities) was approved for six counties for debris removal and emergency protective measures; assistance for emergency protective measures, including snow assistance, for five counties for a period of 48 hours and for one county for a period of 72 hours. All counties in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are eligible to apply for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant program.

New York
Effective March 7, 2011, Amendment #1 to FEMA-1957-DR-NY adds Bronx and Queens counties for emergency protective measures (Category B), including snow assistance, under the Public Assistance program for any continuous 48-hour period during or proximate to the incident period (December 26-27, 2010 for Severe Winter Storm and Snow Storm). (FEMA HQ)

Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

Midwest:
A rain and snow mix is forecast from the Central Plains to the Great Lakes with possible snow accumulations of two to four inches across portions of eastern Colorado and into south-central Nebraska.  Flood Watches and Warnings remain in effect from the Middle Mississippi Valley into the Ohio Valley, as above average temperatures increase the rate of snow melt. 
Northeast:
A strong storm over southern New England will move northeastward into the Canadian Maritimes later Monday night. Moderate to heavy rain will develop along the coast of Maine moving into southeastern Canada by Monday afternoon. Flood Watches and Warnings are in effect for much of the Northeast following this weekend’s heavy rain. Mild temperatures combined with heavy rains will lead to rises on rivers and streams, which could result in flooding.
South:
Under high pressure, conditions will remain sunny and dry from the Southern Plains to the Carolinas. A freeze warning remains in effect because of unseasonably cold temperatures in portions of northern Georgia. Temperatures of 28 to 32 degrees will impact the area for most of the early morning hours.
West:
A large area of low pressure will extend from north-central California into the Central Rockies, producing isolated thunderstorms and a wintery mix with heavier snow accumulations in the higher elevations. Strong winds of up to 35 mph, with higher gust are forecast across northern Nevada. Some of these wind gusts could exceed 60 mph. (National Weather Service, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and various media sources)

Oil Platform Fire in Gulf of Mexico – Mar 6

On Mar 6, the U.S. Coast Guard National Command Center reported a fire onboard an oil production platform in the Gulf of Mexico, 50 miles south of Grand Isle, La. The two workers assigned to the platform escaped in a life capsule and were rescued by a USCG helicopter.  Both workers are reported to be unharmed. The platform, owned by Arena Energy, is located in approximately 200 feet of water. A USCG aircraft has confirmed the fire is out and no oil sheen is visible.  (FEMA RVI, NWS) 

Levee Breach in Daviess County Indiana – Mar 6

On Mar 6, the National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for western Daviess County because of a levee failure west of Capehart, Ind. A local official stated that a levee was breached on the East Fork of the White River in an area that is largely agricultural. The levee breach was approximately 20 feet wide. There have been no reports of injuries or any nearby communities being impacted.  (FEMA RV, NWS) 

Louisiana Severe Weather on Mar 5

There were preliminary reports of six tornado touch downs Mar 5 across southern Louisiana. The most significant impact was from a reported EF-2 tornado that touched down in Rayne, La. (Acadia Parish). There was one unconfirmed fatality and 11 injuries reported. Approximately 100 homes remain barricaded and 40 of the 60 that have been inspected were deemed uninhabitable. The Rayne High School sustained some roof and window damage. The local authorities in Rayne, LA have allowed the approximately 1,500 residents that were previously evacuated to return home.

The Governor did declare a State of Emergency on Mar 5, for severe weather in South Louisiana and it will remain in effect until Apr 3.  During the Governor’s visit to survey the impacted areas on Mar 6, he stated “More will be known about Federal assistance when teams from the State and Federal government assess the damage”.(NWS, NOAA, FEMA Region VI) 

Severe Weather in Hawaii – Mar 4

On Mar 4, a line of strong thunderstorms causing downed trees, power lines, and landslides on Kauai and Oahu. The major brunt of this storm system was felt on Oahu. Strong thunderstorms dropped up to five inches of rain over parts of Oahu with wind gusts of more than 50 mph.

In Oahu County, approximately 300 customers remain without power (down from 14,000). Shortly after the storm, most of the power restoration efforts completely stopped, as utility workers went on strike.

There have been no reports of any significant damage across the remaining Hawaiian Islands.(FEMA RIX, NWS) 

Preparations for Midwest Spring Flooding

Current Situation/Outlook:
A large portion of the Midwest extending from northeastern Montana through western Wisconsin and along the Mississippi River south to St. Louis, Mo., is at risk of moderate to major flooding this spring.
(NWS,NOA)

Volcano Activity

Hawaii
On Mar 6, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory monitoring network detected increased activity within the Kilauea Volcano at 1:42 p.m. HST.  Then at 5:15 p.m. HST, an HVO geologist flying over Kīlauea’s middle east zone reported an eruption in Napau Crater. This eruption is now known to be located between Napau Crater and Pu’u ‘O’o.

The Kilauea Volcano has been active since 1983 and this activity is viewed as a continuation of that eruption. HVO’s Scientist in Chief has stated that this event is remarkably similar to a 1997 eruption in and near Napau Crater, which lasted less than 24 hours.
No request for FEMA assistance and none is expected. (USGS,  Region IX) 

Earthquake Activity

Oregon
A magnitude 4.8 and 4.9 earthquake occurred around 4:35 p.m. EST, approximately 200 miles west-northwest of Brandon, Ore., at a depth of 6.3 to 6.8 miles. There have been no reports of damages or injury and no tsunami was generated.

California
A magnitude 4.5 earthquake occurred at 8:46 a.m. EST, offshore of northern California approximately 70 miles west-southwest of Eureka, Calif., at a depth of 1.6 miles. There have been no reports of damages or injury and no tsunami was generated.

International – Solomon Islands
A magnitude 6.6 earthquake occurred at 7:09 p.m. EST, in the Solomon Islands approximately 80 miles west of Kira Kira, Solomon Island, at a depth of 18.6 miles. There have been no reports of damages or injury and no tsunami was generated.(PTWC, WCATC, USGS) 

Preliminary Damage Assessments

Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are underway in the following states: New York, Wisconsin and Washington.

Wildfire Update

No significant activity. (FEMA Region IV) 

Disaster Declaration Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

West:
A low pressure system off the Pacific Northwest will generate rain along coastal Washington and Oregon with heavy snow possible in the Olympia and Cascades Mountain ranges. This system will also produce an additional five to 10 inches of new snow from the Northern Rockies into the Central Plains.

Midwest:
A slow-moving frontal system extending from the Gulf Coast to the Great Lakes will produce extensive precipitation, including severe weather, as it moves across the region. Showers with embedded thunderstorms will produce 1 1/2 to three inches of additional precipitation in the Middle Mississippi Valley. This additional precipitation will exacerbate ongoing flooding conditions that currently exist in the low lying areas. Possible flash floods are forecast for the Ohio Valley with severe thunderstorms along the Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arkansas borders. On the northern edge of this frontal system Wisconsin and Iowa could receive several inches of additional snow.

South:
Isolated rain and severe thunderstorms will extend from the Southern Plains to the Great Lakes over the course of the day. This low pressure system will potentially produce another one to three inches of rain as it moves eastward across the Tennessee and Ohio Valleys.

Northeast:
Today, most of the region will remain sunny and dry. (National Weather Service, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and various media sources) 

Midwest Flooding

Additional, river flooding is possible over the weekend as a new system moves across the region.

Earthquake Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

International – Update on New Zealand Earthquake 
Background
A magnitude 6.3 earthquake occurred on Feb. 21, 2011, near Christchurch New Zealand. The cities of Christchurch central business distsrict and Lyttelton suffered considerable damage with a number of collapsed and seriously damaged buildings.

Current Situation
The multinational response effort continues. There are 163 (+3) confirmed fatalities, 70 people rescued and approximately 200 people are still missing. Urban Search and Rescue operations have transitioned to the recovery phase. New Zealand has not requested any additional international assistance. (USGS,USAID, NZ Ministry of Civil Defense and Emergency Management)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are underway in the following states: New York, Wisconsin and Washington.

Wildfire Update

Florida – Iron Horse Fire (Volusia and Brevard counties)
The Iron Horse Fire began on Feb. 28, 2011. Approximately 16,700 acres have burned and the fire is currently 25 percent contained. Interstate 95 is currently open in both directions. There have not been any requests for FEMA assistance. (FEMA Region IV)

Texas – Wildfires
Over the past seven days, four Fire Management Assistance Grants were approved. All of the fires are at least 90 percent contained and all evacuation orders have been lifted. No additional requests for FEMA assistance have been submitted. (NIFC, NWS, ARC, Texas Forest Service)

Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

West:
The Pacific Northwest will receive moderate rainfall and heavy mountain snow in the Rockies to the Central Plains. Light rain is forecast to fall along the Pacific coast to Southern California until Friday. An additional 12 inches of snow is forecast this morning at elevations above 6,000 feet with gusts up to 40 mph in the Sierras. Rain is forecast in elevations below 7,000 feet in the Southwest region.

Midwest:
Rain turning to snow is forecast from the Northern and Central Plains to the Northern Great Lakes regions as it flows along the U.S. and Canadian border. Precipitation is expected to increase in intensity across the Midwest and Mississippi River Valley with scattered showers and thunderstorms expected tonight. Temperatures in this region will continue to range from the single digits above and below zero over North Dakota and Minnesota to the 20s and 30s from Nebraska to Illinois and Indiana.

South:
A low pressure system in the Gulf of Mexico will produce light rain across Alabama and Louisiana this evening. High pressure continues to bring sunshine and above average temperatures to much of the region. An additional two inches of precipitation is forecast in the Ohio and Tennessee valleys. A slight risk of severe thunderstorms is forecast for the Southern Plains Saturday.

Northeast:
A strong area of high pressure will bring clear and cool conditions to the region. The system mentioned above will bring precipitation to Northeast by Friday.
(National Weather Service, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and various media sources)

Midwest Flooding

Another storm system is forecast to bring heavy rain, freezing rain, and possible snow to portions of Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio this weekend. Additional, river flooding is possible as the system moves through the region.

International – Update on New Zealand Earthquake

Background
A magnitude 6.3 earthquake occurred on February 21, 2011, near Christchurch New Zealand. The cities of Christchurch central business district and Lyttelton suffered considerable damage with a number of collapsed and seriously damaged buildings.

Current Situation

• The multinational response effort is ongoing.
• USAID/DART USAR continued search operations in an 18-story building in Christchurch.
• The U.S. Urban Search and Rescue team searched the remaining priority sites and only unstable buildings remain unsearched.
• Structural engineers continue to work to prioritize structures that will require controlled demolition.
• There are 160 (+5) confirmed fatalities, 70 people rescued and over 200 people are still missing.
• Of the 200 homes evacuated in Sumner, all but 20 have been able to be reoccupied.
• Three welfare centers are open with between 150 and 200 occupants.
• Lyttelton Port is operating at reduced capacity but main supply routes to the city sustained no damage.
• The main sewage plant is operational, but at a reduced capacity.
• Roads are open and undergoing repair and trash collection and postal services have resumed.
• New Zealand has not requested further international assistance.

(USGS,USAID, NZ Ministry of Civil Defense and Emergency Management)

Earthquake Activity

No significant activity. (USGS)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are underway in the following states: Illinois, Oklahoma, Wisconsin and Washington.

Wildfire Update

Florida Wildfire Activity – Update
Iron Horse Fire (Volusia and Brevard counties)
The fire has burned since Feb. 28, 2011. Sixteen thousand acres have burned, and the fire is 25 percent contained. Interstate 95 is currently open but will close and re-open as needed.

Texas Wildfire Activity- Update
Gusty winds and low relative humidity across much of western Texas have caused wind driven wildfires. Five Fire Management Assistance Grants were requested. Four FMAGs were approved and the FMAG request for Quinn Ranch Fire (Howard County) was denied. The Texas Forest Service reports 137,904 acres have burned in 89 separate fires during the past seven days. All evacuation orders have been lifted.

Disaster Declaration Activity

On March 2, 2011, the State of Missouri requested a Major Disaster Declaration as a result of severe winter storm during the period of Jan. 31, 2011, to Feb. 5, 2011. The Governor is specifically requesting Public Assistance, including snow assistance for 62 counties; Public Assistance for two counties; and Hazard mitigation for the entire state. The Governor is also requesting an additional 24 hours of snow assistance for seven counties. (FEMA HQ)

Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

West: 
A frontal system extending southward from a deep low off the coast of Washington will produce moderate rainfall, heavy mountain snow and gusty winds along the entire West Coast and inland to the Northern and Central Rockies. Moderate to heavy snowfall will also affect the higher terrain from the Sierras and the Siskiyous in California to the Cascades and Olympic mountains in Washington and Oregon. Over a foot of snow will fall near the higher elevations in the Sierras with winds expected to gust over 80 mph along the ridge tops.
Midwest:
High pressure will remain in place across the Northern Plains. Temperatures in this region will range from the below zero over North Dakota and Minnesota to the 30s from Nebraska to Indiana. Morning fog and some freezing drizzle are possible from South Dakota to northern Kansas.
South: 
High pressure will bring sunshine, a few clouds, and warm temperatures to much of the region.
Temperatures will reach into the 60s and 70s from Oklahoma and much of Texas to the Carolinas, Georgia and Florida.
Northeast:
A cold front will move through the region producing scattered snow showers across northern New York and New England. Lake effect snow is expected to develop along the southeastern shores of Lake Ontario. (National Weather Service, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and various media sources) 

Severe Weather Outbreak – Update

Severe thunderstorms from Feb. 27-28, 2011, produced heavy rains, hail, high winds and tornadoes

Midwest Flooding

Widespread moderate to major flooding is occurring on rivers across the region

Florida Wildfire Activity

The Iron Horse Fire (Volusia and Brevard counties) started Feb. 28, 2011.  Sixteen thousand acres have burned.  The fires are 25 percent contained.  Two shelters are open in Brevard County with 30 occupants, and one shelter open in Volusia County with an unknown number of occupants.  Voluntary evacuations are in place for Volusia County where one home was destroyed. Interstate 95 and U.S. 1 North are closed near the Brevard and Volusia county line.  (FEMA Region IV) 

Texas Wildfire Activity- Update

Gusty winds and low relative humidity across much of western Texas have caused wind driven wildfires.  Five Fire Management Assistance Grants were requested.  Four FMAGs were approved and the FMAG request for Quinn Ranch Fire (Howard County) was denied.

Earthquake Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

International – Update on New Zealand Earthquake

Background
A magnitude 6.3 earthquake occurred on Feb. 21, 2011, near Christchurch New Zealand. The cities of Christchurch central business district and Lyttelton suffered considerable damage with a number of collapsed and seriously damaged buildings.

Current Situation

• The multinational response effort is ongoing.
• USAID/DART USAR accessed previously unsearched portions of an 18-story building in Christchurch.
• The US USAR team completed secondary searches of three additional sites and deployed two structural engineers.
• There are 155 (+1) confirmed fatalities, 70 people rescued and 240 people are still missing.
• Of the 200 homes evacuated in Sumner, all but 20 have been able to be reoccupied.
• Three welfare centers are open with between 150-200 occupants.
• Power has been restored to 85 percent of homes and businesses and will reach 95percent soon.
• Sixty-six percent of water is back on across Christchurch, but a boil water advisory is in effect.
• New Zealand has not requested further international assistance. (USGS,USAID, NZ Ministry of Civil Defense and Emergency Management)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are underway in the following states: Illinois, Oklahoma, Indiana and Wisconsin.

Disaster Declaration Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

West:
A low pressure system in the Pacific is producing onshore flow over the Pacific Northwest. Precipitation will spread eastward across the Northern Rockies and into the Northern Plains. Lower elevations in Washington and western Oregon will pick up an inch or more of rain and higher elevations will get a foot of new snow. A high avalanche threat continues in the Olympic and Cascade ranges. Tonight and tomorrow, a large Pacific storm will bring rain to the entire West Coast. The Sierras could pick up an additional one to two feet of snow.

Midwest:
The region will be generally dry. Precipitation will be limited to snow associated with the system in the Pacific Northwest spreading across the Northern Plains. A dry cold front will drop southward into the Plains. Behind the front, temperatures will be as much as 10 to 40 degrees below average. The dry air and cold temperatures will remain in place through midweek. Despite the break in precipitation, moderate to major flooding is occurring on rivers across Illinois, Indiana and Ohio.

South:
High pressure is building over the region. A marginal fire weather threat may develop this afternoon across the Texas Panhandle, western Oklahoma and eastern New Mexico. The front that brought heavy precipitation and severe weather to the entire East Coast has moved offshore except where it crosses the Florida Peninsula. Rainfall totals there will be limited to half an inch. Gusty northwest winds over the Outer Banks of North Carolina will gradually diminish as the front moves further offshore.

Northeast:
High pressure is building over the region. Coastal areas of Maine will see winds gusting as high as 30 to 40 mph this morning. Northwest winds will gradually diminish later in the day across New England and the eastern Mid-Atlantic. Tonight and tomorrow, a cold front will produce a few snow showers from northern New York to Maine.
(National Weather Service, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and various media sources).

Severe Weather Outbreak

Severe thunderstorms from Feb. 27-28, 2011, produced heavy rains, hail, high winds and tornadoes.

Midwest Flooding

Widespread moderate to major flooding is occurring on rivers across Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. There are no unmet needs and there are no requests for FEMA Federal assistance.(Region V, NOAA)

International – Update on New Zealand Earthquake

Background
A magnitude 6.3 earthquake occurred on Feb. 21, 2011, near Christchurch, New Zealand. The cities of Christchurch central business district and Lyttelton suffered considerable damage with a number of collapsed and seriously damaged buildings.

Current Situation

• The multinational response effort is ongoing
• USAID/DART USAR searched Christchurch Cathedral and a 16-story building; secondary searches of 8 city blocks in Christchurch were also performed and secondary, building-by-building searches are nearly complete
• There are 154(+7) confirmed fatalities, 70 people rescued and 240 people are reported missing
• Of the 200 homes evacuated in Sumner, all but 20 have been able to be reoccupied
• Three welfare centers are open with over 300 occupants
• Power has been restored to 85 percent of homes and businesses and will reach 95 percent soon.
• Sixty-six percent of water is back on across Christchurch; boil water advisory is in effect.
• New Zealand has not requested further international assistance.

(USGS,USAID, NZ Ministry of Civil Defense and Emergency Management)

Earthquake Activity

United States
A 4.5 magnitude earthquake occurred at 9:19 p.m. EST, on Febr. 28, 2011, 75 miles north northwest of San Francisco, Calif. at a depth of 1.6 miles. There were no reports of damage or injury.
(FEMA HQ)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are underway in the following states: Illinois, Oklahoma, Indiana and Wisconsin.

Wildfire Update

Gusty winds and low relative humidity across much of western Texas have caused wind driven wildfires. Five Fire Management Assistance Grants were requested. Four FMAGs were approved and the FMAG request for Quinn Ranch Fire (Howard County) was denied.

Disaster Declaration Activity

Illinois Request
On Feb. 28, 2011, the State of Illinois requested a Major Disaster Declaration as a result of a severe winter storm and snowstorm that occurred during the period of Jan. 31 to Feb. 11, 2011. The Governor is specifically requesting public Assistance for 60 counties, snow assistance for 43 counties, and Hazard Mitigation statewide.

North Dakota Request
On Feb. 28, 2011, the State of North Dakota requested an Emergency Declaration due to hydrologic conditions indicating a strong potential for severe spring flooding in the Devil’s Lake, James, Missouri, Red River of the North and Souris River basins beginning on Feb. 14, 2011, and continuing. The Governor is specifically requesting Public Assistance (Category B), including direct Federal Assistance for the Spirit Lake Nation, and the Turtle Mountain Band of the Chippewa Indian reservation, and 17 counties.
(FEMA HQ)

Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

South:
A frontal system extending from the Mid-Atlantic to the Gulf Coast will produce extensive precipitation, including severe weather, as it moves across the region.  Rainfall totals could be as much as an inch in some areas. The heaviest rain will fall across Tennessee, the southern Appalachians and North Carolina.  The front will produce severe thunderstorms with gusty winds, large hail and even tornadoes.

Northeast:
The system moving out of the Midwest will produce extensive precipitation, including severe weather, as it moves across the region.  Areas from northern New York to New England will receive a wintry mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain. Snow accumulations in northern Maine could reach 10 inches. Except for snow in the higher elevations of the Appalachians, the Mid Atlantic will receive rain. As much as one to two inches are possible from West Virginia to southern New England. With the ground already saturated, localized flooding and flash flooding is possible.  Expect severe thunderstorms in the Mid-Atlantic to produce gusty winds, large hail and even tornadoes. 

Midwest:
High pressure will build over much of the region today. However, precipitation over the Mid-Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee valleys could drop more than an inch of rain.  This additional precipitation will exacerbate ongoing flooding and flash flooding is possible.  On the northern edge of the precipitation a wintry mix will extend from Missouri to the Great Lakes. Some areas will pick up several inches of snow.

West:
A cold front will produce precipitation in the Pacific Northwest, northern California, and eastward to the northern Rockies.  Snow levels will range from near sea level in western Washington to 2,000 feet along the Oregon-California border.  The Cascades will receive a foot of new snow. Elsewhere, lower elevations will get an inch or more of rain and the Northern Rockies could receive a foot of snow.  Gusty winds as high as 70 mph are forecast for parts of Washington, Oregon, Montana and Wyoming. (National Weather Service, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and various media sources) 

Severe Weather Outbreak

Midwest Tornado Activity
Severe thunderstorms with lightning, strong winds, hail and unconfirmed isolated tornadoes are impacting the Midwest.  There are reports of wind gusts up to 87 mph causing trees to be uprooted and downed power lines.

Midwest Flooding

Widespread minor and some moderate flooding continue on rivers across Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. Flooding is occurring in low lying agricultural areas and is not affecting structures. Heavy rains and severe thunderstorms will increase the risk of major flooding to area rivers.Moderate flooding is forecast within the next 48 hours for the Illinois River at Havana, Illinois.  Low lying agriculture areas and areas not protected by levees will be impacted. Moderate and near major flooding is forecast within the next 48 hours for the Blanchard River at Findlay, Ohio. (Region V, NOAA) 

Texas Wildfire Activity

Gusty winds and low relative humidity across much of western Texas have caused wind driven wildfires.  Five Fire Management Assistance Grants were requested.  Four FMAGs were approved and the FMAG request for Quinn Ranch Fire (Howard County) was denied.

Drier Conditions Projected to Accelerate Dust Storms in the Southwest

Drier conditions projected to result from climate change in the Southwest will likely reduce perennial vegetation cover and result in increased dust storm activity in the future, according to the U.S. Geological Survey and the University of California, Los Angeles.
A research team examined climate, vegetation and soil measurements collected over a 20-year period in Arches and Canyonlands National Parks in southeastern Utah. Long-term data indicated that perennial vegetation in grasslands and some shrublands declined with temperature increases. The study then used these soil and vegetation measurements in a model to project future wind erosion.

The findings strongly suggest that sustained drought conditions across the Southwest will accelerate loss of grasses and some shrubs and increase the likelihood of dust production on disturbed soil surfaces in the future. However, the community of cyanobacteria, mosses and lichens that hold the soil together in many semiarid and arid environments—biological soil crusts—prevented wind erosion from occurring at most sites despite reductions in perennial vegetation.

Dust carried by the wind has received recent attention because of its far-reaching effects, including the loss of nutrients and water-holding capacity from source landscapes, declines in agricultural productivity, and health and safety concerns. Dust is also a contributing factor in speeding up the melting of snow, which affects the timing and magnitude of runoff into streams and rivers.

Peak wind speeds in the Southwest during the study period generated high rates of sediment transport. Dust storms have been detected by USGS field instrumentation and satellite images.
(Excerpt from USGS; http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/article.asp?ID=2709)

Earthquake Activity

United States
A 4.7 magnitude earthquake occurred at 12:00 a.m. EST, Feb. 28, 2011, 36 miles north of Little Rock, Ark., at a depth of 4.8 miles. Magnitude 3.8 and 3.6 aftershocks occurred at 12:18 a.m. and at 3:46 a.m. EST, Feb. 28, 2011, 37 miles north of Little Rock at a depth of 2.6 miles. These earthquakes are part of continuing aftershocks in central Arkansas, but are not related to the New Madrid seismic zone.

International
A 5.8 magnitude earthquake occurred at 8:29 p.m. EST on Feb. 27, 2011, 23 miles south of Concepcion, Bio-Bio, Chile, at a depth of 12.4 miles. There were no reports of damage or injury and no tsunami was generated. (USGS)

International – Update on New Zealand Earthquake
Background 
A magnitude 6.3 earthquake occurred on Feb. 21, 2011, near Christchurch New Zealand. The cities of Christchurch CBD and Lyttelton suffered considerable damage with a number of collapsed and seriously damaged buildings.

Current Situation

• The multinational response effort is ongoing.
• The Urban Search and Rescue team from Los Angeles (USTF-2) searched one commercial block, six residential blocks and four buildings.
• USAR remains active in search and rescue mode, and a second wave of building searches are prioritized.
• Planning is underway for gradual controlled demolition of unstable buildings.
• There are 147(+34) confirmed fatalities, 70 people rescued and less than 200 people reported missing.
• There are two (-3) shelters open with more than 400 occupants.
• Power has been restored to 82 percent of households and will reach 95 percent soon.
• Thirty-six percent of the city remains without water service.
• New Zealand has not requested further international assistance. (USGS,USAID, NZ Ministry of Civil Defense and Emergency Management)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are underway in the following states: Illinois, Oklahoma, Indiana, Wisconsin and Missouri.

Disaster Declaration Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

West:
Heavy rain and snow are expected to slowly drift southward from the southern Cascades and the Central Great Basin into the Sierras and the desert southwest.  The heaviest precipitation amounts are expected to fall in the mountainous terrain and along the coast.  Strong winds and low relative humidity have produced increased fire danger areas across portions of north central New Mexico. Critical Fire areas are expected to expand into southern New Mexico this afternoon.

Midwest:
Snow, sleet and freezing rain are expected from the Middle Mississippi Valley to the southern Great Lakes before moving off the coast of New England.  An arctic air mass moving across the Northern Plains will keep wind chills between 20 and 40 below zero overnight.  The risk of localized flooding from ice jams is expected to continue through the end of the week in portions of Nebraska and Iowa.

Northeast: 
Heavy rains will continue across portions of the Ohio River valley and northern Mid-Atlantic States through this evening.  Heavy to moderate snow is forecast for New England through early Saturday. Strong winds with gusts as high as 60 mph are expected by this afternoon across portions of the Mid Atlantic.  A few small pockets of freezing rain will develop over parts of interior New England this morning.  High pressure Saturday will produce cooler, drier air across the region.  Localized ice jam flooding is also possible in parts of the Northeast this weekend as a result of heavy rainfall and mild temperatures.

South:
Severe storms are expected from the Tennessee Valley to the Gulf Coast early this morning before moving off the central Atlantic Coast late this afternoon.  Strong thunderstorms with potentially damaging winds and tornadoes are possible this morning from Lower Mississippi Valley eastward into the southern Appalachians. Windy and dry conditions are expected to persist over portions of western Texas over the next few days. The strong winds and low relative humidity have produced increased fire danger.  Red Flag Warnings are in effect through this afternoon for portions of western Texas. (National Weather Service, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and various media sources) 

Severe Weather – Lower Mississippi & Tennessee Valleys

Feb. 24 – 25, 2011
A line of severe thunderstorms began to move northward from the Lower Mississippi Valley to Tennessee Valley overnight. The storms will continue to produce thunderstorms and strong winds in the Tennessee Valley this morning. 

Earthquake Activity

At 7:12 p.m. EST, Feb. 24, a magnitude 3.6 earthquake occurred approximately 22 miles ESE from Honolulu, Hawaii, and 38 miles southeast of Wahiawa, Oahu, Hawaii, at a depth of 11.8 miles. The earthquake was widely felt, but there were no reports of damage or injury and no tsunami was generated.  (USGS )

International – Update on New Zealand Earthquake
Background
A magnitude 6.3 earthquake occurred on Feb. 21, 2011, near Christchurch New Zealand. The cities of Christchurch and Lyttelton suffered considerable damage with a number of collapsed and seriously damaged buildings. Numerous aftershocks continue.

Current Situation
A National State of Emergency was declared on Feb. 23. There are 113 confirmed fatalities and 164 serious injuries. Two hundred people are reported missing. Approximately 70 people have been rescued. Urban Search and Rescue teams from Australia, Japan, Taiwan and the United Kingdom are assisting in Search and Rescue. USAID deployed a Disaster Assistance Response Team, which includes one USAR Team from Los Angeles County (USTF-2) to assist in Search and Rescue. Virginia TF-1 (USTF-1) is on standby. Power, telecommunications and essential services continue to be disrupted.

Excessive liquefaction has produced additional difficulties for restoration. Seventy-five percent of electricity distribution has been restored with full restoration expected to take a number of weeks. An air bridge was used to evacuate approximately 1,140 people from Christchurch to surrounding areas. The Christchurch hospital is operational and, as of 8:30 p.m. EST Feb. 24, is treating 594 patients.

The Army is establishing two water purification plants (Lyttelton and New Brighton Pier). Approximately 50 percent of the city remains without service and more than 40 water tankers have deployed to deliver drinking water across the city. Five shelters are open with 458 occupants. The flow of essential supplies is expected to begin moving at local air and sea ports Friday (Saturday local). All state highways and state highway bridges have been inspected; minor damage has been reported in some areas. Eighteen bridges and 25 distributor roads remain impassable. Rail service between Christchurch and Lyttelton is suspended with all other lines operational. (USGS,USAID, NZ Ministry of Civil Defense and Emergency Management )

Preliminary Damage Assessments

Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are underway in the following states: Illinois, Oklahoma, Indiana, Wisconsin and Missouri.

Disaster Declaration Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

West:
Winter storm warnings are spread across the region as a low pressure system moves over the Pacific Northwest along the West Coast from southern Washington to central California.  Snow is forecast from Washington to portions of northern California today to include areas at sea level and will spread southward to Sierra Nevada by Friday.  Rain will develop in the lower elevations of central California and will continue into Friday.  Cold air associated with the system will bring snow levels down to sea level as far south as Northern California through Friday.  A cold Canadian high pressure system will drop temperatures almost 45 degrees below normal and produce scattered light snow in the Northern and Central Plains today and continue into the Northern High Plains through this evening.  Snow will also develop over parts of the Great Basin to the Central Rockies through Friday.

Midwest:
Showers and thunderstorms over the Ohio Valley will change from light to moderate rain by this evening.  Severe thunderstorms and river flooding are possible along the Tennessee and Ohio Valleys.  Snow is forecast over parts of the Middle Mississippi and western Ohio valleys this evening.  Snow will also develop over the Great Lakes today and will end this evening, but will begin again Friday morning as a new system pushes northward into parts of the Lower Great Lakes and northern New England.  Freezing rain is forecast over portions of Kansas today.

Northeast:
Under a ridge of high pressure, New England and much of the Mid-Atlantic will be dry and cold.  Rain is forecast over the Mid-Atlantic.  A few small pockets of freezing rain will develop over parts of Interior New England by Friday morning.

South:
Moisture from the Gulf Coast will move into the Ohio and Tennessee valleys producing moderate rain and thunderstorms by this morning.  Severe thunderstorms are possible from the Southern Plains to the Lower Ohio and Tennessee valleys through this evening.  Moderate rain and thunderstorms are forecast for the Southern Plains and will move eastward into the Central Gulf Coast by this evening.  (National Weather Service, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and various media sources) 

Midwest Winter Storms (Final)

A winter storm moved through the Upper Midwest and Northern portions of the Ohio Valley Feb. 21, 2011, causing widespread power outages in Michigan and Ohio.  Records snowfalls were recorded in Wisconsin and Minnesota.

Earthquake Activity

No significant earthquake activity reported in the United States or its territories during the last 24 hours. (USGS )

International – Update on New Zealand Earthquake
A 6.3 magnitude earthquake occurred on Feb. 21, 2011, near Christchurch New Zealand. Forty aftershocks between magnitude four and six have occurred and more aftershocks are expected.

• National State of Emergency was Declared
• Sixty percent of electricity distribution has been restored; restoration is ongoing but extensive liquefaction is slowing progress.
• Eighty percent of the city is without water service; water tankers are being used to deliver drinking water.
• Heavy congestion in all telecommunications networks.
• Christchurch hospital is operational.
• Five welfare centres (shelters) are open across the city; 900 people have registered for shelters.
• Numerous roads and bridges are impassable.
• Rail service between Christchurch and Lyttelton suspended; all other lines operational.
• The Christchurch Airport has re-opened.
• Lyttelton Port operations have been suspended.
• Intercity Coach (bus) Services are operational.
• Confirmed 98 fatalities and more than 400 injuries.
• Three hundred people are missing and reports continue to be collected.
• Urban Search and Rescue Teams from Australia, Japan, Taiwan and the United Kingdom are assisting in Search and Rescue.
• USAID deployed a Disaster Assistance Response Team which includes one USAR Team from Los Angeles County (USTF-2) to assist in Search and Rescue. Virginia TF-1 (USTF-1) is on standby. (USGS,USAID, NZ Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management )

Preliminary Damage Assessments

• The State of Indiana requested Public Assistance PDAs for 65 counties due to a winter storm that occurred from Jan. 31 to Feb. 3, 2011. Joint PDAs are scheduled to begin the week of Feb. 22, 2011.
• The State of Illinois requested Public Assistance PDAs for 73 counties due to a winter storm that occurred during the week of Jan. 31, 2011. Joint PDAs are scheduled to begin the week of Feb. 22, 2011.
• The State of Missouri requested Public Assistance PDAs for 64 counties due to severe winter storms that occurred Jan. 31, 2011. PDAs began Feb. 14, 2011. PDAs in five counties are ongoing and 59 have been completed.

Disaster Declaration Activity

New Mexico Request

• On Feb. 23, 2011, the Governor of New Mexico requested a Major Disaster Declaration as a result of a Severe Winter Storm that occurred Feb. 1-11, 2011.  Specifically, the governor has requested Public Assistance for nine counties and five Tribal jurisdictions and Hazard Mitigation statewide.  (FEMA HQ)
  

Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

West:
A low pressure system continues moving across the Pacific Northwest producing snow from near sea level along the coast through the Rockies to the Northern Plains.  This system has created numerous watches and warning extending from the Northern Rockies to the Northern Plains.  New snow accumulations will reach three inches near the coast with an additional 10 inches in the higher elevations of the Rockies and Northern Plains.   Northern California will receive rain with snow in the northern Sierras while the remainder of the region remains dry.
Midwest:
A complex frontal system will produce a band of precipitation across the Northern Plains and the Great Lakes southward into the Southern Plains.  This system will generate snow in the Upper Mississippi Valley and Great Lakes.  This system will also produce scattered showers and thunderstorms from the Central Gulf region up into the Ohio Valley late in the evening.
The potential exists Thursday for severe thunderstorm activity extending from the Southern Plains to the Ohio Valley
South:
The frontal system discussed above will produce rain and thunderstorms across Texas, Oklahoma and the Central Gulf Coast.
Northeast:
Under a high pressure ridge New England and much of the Mid-Atlantic will be dry and cold.
Precipitation will be limited to the Central Appalachians early morning.(National Weather Service, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and various media sources)

Midwest Winter Storms

A winter storm moved through the Upper Midwest and Northern portions of the Ohio Valley Feb. 21, 2011, causing widespread power outages in Michigan and Ohio.  Records snowfalls were recorded in Wisconsin and Minnesota.

Earthquake Activity

No significant earthquake activity reported in the United States and territories during the last 24 hours.(USGS )

International – Update on New Zealand Earthquake 

• A 6.3 magnitude earthquake occurred on Feb. 21, 2011, near Christchurch New Zealand.
• Significant structural damage
• Some water, sewer, and gas lines are ruptured
• Power is out for much of the city.
• No widespread damage to key water, phone, or electrical infrastructure.
• At least 80 fatalities and hundreds of injuries.
• As many as 100 people may be trapped in the rubble.
• USAR Teams from Australia, Japan, Taiwan and the United Kingdom are assisting in Search and Rescue.
• USAID is deploying a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) which includes one USAR Team from Los Angeles County to assist in Search and Rescue. (USGS,USAID )

Preliminary Damage Assessments

Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are underway in the following states:  Illinois, Indiana, New Mexico and Missouri.

Disaster Declaration Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)