Tag Archives: LA

Friday, August 27, 2010

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Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

West:
A frontal system and an upper level trough will bring cooler weather, showers and thunderstorms to the Northern Rockies. Monsoonal moisture will produce showers and thunderstorms in the Desert Southwest, and the Central Great Basin. Areas of heavy rain will produce localized flooding. Gusty winds and low humidity will produce Critical Fire Weather and Red Flag Warnings for most of Nevada today.
Midwest:
The Plains will be hot and dry with high temperatures above 90 for many areas. Gusty southerly winds, high temperatures and low humidity will result in Critical Fire Weather and Red Flag Warnings over the Northern Plains for most of the day. The frontal system moving out of the Rockies will bring showers and thunderstorms to the Northern Plains this evening.
South:
Under the influence of high pressure to the north, most of the region will be warm and dry. The stationary front remains in place along the Gulf Coast. Showers and thunderstorms are forecast for coastal areas from Louisiana to the Carolinas.
Northeast:
Under high pressure, the region will be dry with seasonable temperatures. The only precipitation will be a few showers in northern Maine.
(NOAA and media sources)

Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)

No activity. (HQ FEMA) 

Tropical Weather Outlook

Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico: 
Hurricane Danielle is now a dangerous Category 4 tropical cyclone located approximately 545 miles southeast of Bermuda moving northwest near 12 mph. Maximum sustained winds are near 135 mph with hurricane force winds extending out 60 miles from the center and tropical storm winds extending out 200 miles from the center. The center of the storm is forecast to pass east of the island of Bermuda but the Unites States East Coast states will begin to experience strong swells and rip currents by Saturday.

Tropical Storm Earl is currently located approximately 1,430 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands moving west near 17 mph. The storm has maximum sustained winds near 45 mph and is anticipated to strengthen during the next 48 hours and forecast to become Hurricane Earl by Saturday night.

Another vigorous tropical wave is located about 210 miles south-southeast of the Cape Verde Islands. This system is highly anticipated, a near 70 percent chance, to become a tropical depression during the next few days. It is continuing to move west at 15 to 20 mph.

Eastern Pacific
Hurricane Frank is a Category 1 tropical cyclone located 330 miles south-southwest of the southern tip of Baja California moving west-northwest near 10 mph. The storm currently has sustained winds of 80 mph but it is forecast to weaken as it continues north over cooler waters this weekend.

Central and Western Pacific: 
No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC) 

Earthquake Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Wildfire Update

National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Thursday, August 26, 2010: 
Initial attack activity: light (145 new fires), new large fires: 4, large fires contained: 4
Uncontained large fires: 17, U.S. States affected: OR, WA, ID, CA, HI, MT, LA, OK, & WY (NIFC) 

Idaho- Hurd Fire 
The Hurd Fires is located in Valley County, ID and approximately 900 acres are consumed. The fire is now approximately ten percent contained and preparations have been made for evacuations.

California- Post Fire 
The Post Fire is located near Frazier Park, CA in Kern County and approximately 1,300 acres are consumed. An FMAG was approved on August 24, 2010 and the fire is currently estimated to be 76 contained. (HQ FEMA)

Disaster Declaration Activity

Missouri – Severe Storms, Flooding, and Tornadoes from June 12 – July 30
Amendment #1 to FEMA-1934-DR-MO was approved on August 26, 2010. This amendment makes seven additional counties eligible for the Public Assistance Program. (HQ FEMA)

Fema

Monday, August 16, 2010

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Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

Midwest
Showers and thunderstorms will develop ahead of a cold front moving from the Great Lakes to the Mid-Atlantic and the Northeast. Gusty winds up to 40 mph are expected in the Upper Great Lakes in the vicinity of the Lake Superior shoreline of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Showers and thunderstorms are also possible in the Western Plains, spreading east into the Mississippi Valley by Tuesday and some flash flooding is possible.
South
The southern portion of a slow moving cold front is expected to stall over the lower Mississippi Valley and Southern Plains and bring showers and thunderstorms for the next couple of days. Precipitation will intensify as a low pressure center drifts westward along the gulf coast.
Northeast
Rain and thunderstorm activity is expected to continue for the next few days in the Mid-Atlantic Coast, up to the Hudson River Valley, and into western New England. A few stronger storms with locally heavy rain are also possible.
West
The West will remain mostly dry with dry thunderstorms possible in California, Washington and Oregon Mountains. Showers and thunderstorms are possible in the Rockies and High Plains, with a few stronger storms in eastern Wyoming, eastern Colorado, and northeastern New Mexico. Above average temperatures are expected in the Pacific Northwest, Great Basin, and the Desert Southwest, with record highs possible in parts of Washington and Oregon.
(NOAA and media sources)

Mississippi Canyon 252 Update

The well pressure remains stable and well integrity monitoring is ongoing with sonar surveys and visual inspections. Ambient pressure test continues and drilling remains on hold until the testing is complete and discussion with the science team is complete. Approximately 672 miles of coastline is currently affected and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. Approximately 22 percent (52,395 miles of federal waters) of the Gulf Exclusive Economic Zone remains closed to fishing.
(NIC Daily SitRep Update)

Iowa Flooding- Update

In Iowa, the South Skunk River near Oskaloosa, the Des Moines River at Ottumwa and the Skunk River near Augusta, are expected to remain at major flood stage through Thursday. The Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers in central Iowa have now crested and continue to fall. A high pressure system in the region will keep most of the area dry through Tuesday and allow time for the rivers to recede further. FEMA delivered 25 truckloads of water to Ames, Iowa over the weekend and staged an additional 14 truckloads at the local incident command base. The boil water order for Ames, Iowa was lifted after satisfactory water test results and all additional requests were withdrawn. There are no additional requests for FEMA assistance. FEMA liaisons remain deployed to support the state emergency operations center.
(FEMA Region VII)

Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)

No activity. (HQ FEMA)

Tropical Weather Outlook

Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
The remnant of Tropical Depression Five is located over the extreme northern Gulf of Mexico just south of Panama City, Florida. Environmental conditions are forecast to be marginally conducive for development of this system as it moves westward over the northern Gulf of Mexico during the next few days. There is a medium chance, near 50 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone again during the next 48 hours. Locally heavy rainfall and gusty winds are forecast along the northern Gulf Coast from the Florida Panhandle to southern Louisiana through Tuesday.
Eastern Pacific
A broad area of low pressure is located about 325 miles south-southeast of the southern tip of Baja California, Mexico but there is a low chance, about 20 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central Pacific: 
No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours. 
(NOAA, JTWC)

Earthquake Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Wildfire Update

National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Sunday, August 15, 2010: 
Initial attack activity: light (107 new fires), new large fires: 4, large fires contained: 0
Uncontained large fires: 7, U.S. States affected: OK, LA, AR, ID, UT, and MT.
(NIFC)

Disaster Declaration Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Fema

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

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Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

Midwest
Severe thunderstorms with downpours of over an inch of rain are possible as several upper-level disturbances cause widely scattered areas of precipitation along the central and southern Plains. These disturbances will track eastward today bringing the rain and storms into the eastern Plains and middle Mississippi Valley.
South
The remnant of Tropical Depression Five remains disorganized but continues to bring heavy rain to southern portions of Mississippi and southeast Louisiana. Coastal Louisiana may see flooding downpours of up to six inches. A stalling front extending from northwest North Carolina to the Oklahoma-Texas Red River Valley will bring thunderstorm activity, a few brief damaging winds gusts, and over an inch of rainfall.
Northeast
Severe thunderstorms are possible from the mid-Atlantic to the Central Appalachians as the southern portion of a frontal boundary lingers through the day and could bring strong wind gusts and downpours of an inch or more in some areas.
West
The Pacific Northwest may see a few dry thunderstorms from interior Washington to northern California and the fire danger will remain high due to the risk of lightning strikes from these storms. Thunderstorms are possible from Wyoming to Arizona and New Mexico. The Great Basin will see highs near 100, and the Desert Southwest can expect high temperatures from 100 to 120 degrees.
(NOAA and media sources)

Iowa Flooding- Update

The South Skunk River near Oskaloosa, Iowa, the Des Moines River at Ottumwa, Iowa and the Skunk River near Augusta, Iowa are expected to remain at major flood stage levels through Thursday. FEMA delivered 25 truckloads of water to Ames, Iowa and staged 14 truckloads of water at the incident support base. There are no further requests for FEMA assistance.
(FEMA Region VII)

Mississippi Canyon 252 Update

The well pressure remains stable and well integrity monitoring is ongoing with sonar surveys and visual inspections. Ambient pressure test continues and drilling remains on hold until the testing is complete and discussion with the science team is complete. Approximately 673 miles of coastline is affected and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. Approximately 22 percent, or 52,395 miles, of federal waters in the Gulf exclusive economic zone remain closed to fishing.
(NIC Daily SitRep Update)

Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)

No activity. (HQ FEMA)

Tropical Weather Outlook

Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico: 
The remnant of former Tropical Depression Five is located 35 miles southeast of Gulfport, Miss. There is a medium chance, near 30 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone before moving inland over southeastern Miss. Locally heavy rainfall and gusty winds are forecast along portions of the north-central Gulf of Mexico coast through today.
Central, Eastern and Western Pacific:
Tropical cyclone formation is not expected during the next 48 hours.
 (NOAA)

Earthquake Activity

]At 10:49 p.m. EDT on August 17, 2010, a Magnitude 4.3 earthquake occurred 15 miles northeast of Jackson, Wyo., and 60 miles south-southeast of Old Faithful, Wyo., at a depth of 3.1 miles. There were no reports of damages or injuries.
(USGS)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Wildfire Update

National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Monday, August 16, 2010: 
Initial attack activity: Light (140 new fires), new large fires: 2, large fires contained: 1
Uncontained large fires: 9, U.S. States affected: OR, OK, LA, AR, ID, UT, MT & AK.
(NIFC)

Disaster Declaration Activity

Amendment No. 3 to FEMA-1930-DR-IA makes Jasper, Mahaska, and Polk Counties eligible for the Individual Assistance Program (already designated for Public Assistance).
(HQ FEMA)

Fema

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

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Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

 Midwest
Severe thunderstorms are possible from the Dakotas to Upper Michigan, bringing the potential for damaging wind gusts, hail, and tornadoes. Kentucky may see more than an inch of rain but the rest of the region should remain dry.
South
The stalled frontal system draped over the South and the remnant of Tropical Depression Five will continue to bring rain and thunderstorms throughout the South.  Downpours of 1 to 4 inches are possible from Louisiana to Tennessee. The southern Plains will see high temperatures between 95 to 103 degrees.  Heat Advisories remain in effect for southeastern Texas, where high humidity will make the temperatures feel between 105 to 115 degrees.
Northeast
The stalled front along the North Carolina-Virginia line will bring heavy rain across the southern Mid-Atlantic Region with downpours up to 5 inches. Upstate New York to New England will remain dry.
West
Dry thunderstorms are forecast from the Cascades to the northern Rockies creating a possibility for wildfires from lightning strikes. The Four Corners states and parts of Nevada and southeast California may see some redeveloping thunderstorms.
(NOAA and media sources)

Mississippi Canyon 252 Update

The well pressure remains stable and well integrity monitoring is ongoing with sonar surveys and visual inspections. Drill Rig III is conducting Blowout Preventer (BOP) testing. Drill Rig II continues rig maintenance and is preparing to temporarily abandon the well. Approximately 674 miles of coastline is impacted and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. Approximately 22 percent, or 52,395 miles, of federal waters of Gulf Exclusive Economic Zone remain closed to fishing.
(NIC Daily SitRep)

Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)

No activity. (HQ FEMA)

Tropical Weather Outlook

Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico: 
A tropical wave located over Hispaniola and portions of the central Caribbean Sea is producing widespread cloudiness and disorganized shower activity. Development of this disturbance, if any, should be slow to occur over the next 48 hours due to unfavorable environmental conditions. There is a low chance, around 10 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone over the next 48 hours.
Central, Eastern and Western Pacific: 
No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC) 

Earthquake Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Wildfire Update

National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Tuesday, August 17, 2010: 
Initial attack activity: moderate (201 new fires), new large fires: 0, large fires contained: 3
Uncontained large fires: 6, U.S. States affected: OR, OK, LA, AR, ID, UT, MT & AK
(NIFC)

Disaster Declaration Activity

On August 17, 2010, the President approved a major disaster declaration for Missouri (FEMA-1934-DR) as a result of severe storms, flooding, and tornadoes from June 12 to July 31, 2010. The declaration makes 29 counties eligible for the Public Assistance Program and all counties eligible for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Joseph M. Girot was appointed as the Federal Coordinating Officer for this disaster.
(HQ FEMA)

Fema

Thursday, August 12, 2010

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Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

Midwest      
Scattered thunderstorms, some severe, are forecast for the Dakotas, Nebraska, Minnesota and Iowa today. Flash flooding is possible in Minnesota and Iowa. Some rivers in Iowa have seen all-time record flood levels. The Great Lakes region will be mainly dry while the Ohio Valley will see isolated thunderstorm activity. The central and southern Plains will be dry, but the oppressive heat is forecast to continue for another couple of days. Parts of Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri may see high temperatures of over 100 degrees. High temperatures along with high humidity will raise the heat index to over 115 degrees in many locations.
South
Portions of the South will see pockets of heavy rain or scattered thunderstorms. Scattered thunderstorms are forecast across parts of eastern Kentucky, eastern Tennessee, Virginia and North Carolina. Portions of the Gulf Coast will see locally heavy rain due to the remnants of Tropical Depression Five. Localized flooding is possible over parts of southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
Northeast
 Scattered thunderstorms are forecast from Upstate New York to the Chesapeake Bay, but the thunderstorms are not expected to become severe. There is only a slight chance of isolated thunderstorms over most of New England but severe thunderstorms are possible over the mid-Atlantic.
West
 Showers and thunderstorms are forecast from eastern Idaho to Montana and down to northern Wyoming. The higher elevations of Arizona and New Mexico will see less thunderstorm activity than last week. The Desert Southwest will see high temperatures from 105 to 110 degrees.
(NOAA and media sources)

Iowa Flooding

Three to eight inches of rain fell in central Iowa over the past few days and caused flooding in several locations. A nearly stationary frontal system over Iowa brought thunderstorm activity to an area from near Oskaloosa, Iowa in Mahaska County to Sac City, Iowa in Sac County. Several river gauges are at major flood stage with a few gauges forecast to crest at or near record flood stage. Major impacts from these thunderstorms are power outages, emergency crews performing rescues, and numerous road closures. Forty-nine counties issued local emergency declarations. A boil water order was issued for the city of Ames (population 56,000), Story County, due to a water main break. The Region VII Regional Watch remains at Steady State, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CDT but a FEMA liaison is deployed to the state Emergency Operations Center.

Mississippi Canyon 252 Update

The well pressure remains stable and is declining at a rate of 5 lbs per square inch per hour. Drilling operations are on hold until the passage of the remnants of Tropical Depression Five. Approximately 665 miles of coastline are impacted. NOAA reopened 5,144 square miles to finfish harvest but the area closed to all fishing covers 52,395 square miles or approximately 22% of the Gulf of Mexico’s exclusive economic zone.
(NIC Daily SitRep)

Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)

No activity. (HQ FEMA)

Tropical Weather Outlook

Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico: 
The remnants of Tropical Depression Five are now a broad area of low pressure over the northern Gulf of Mexico located just east of southeastern Louisiana. The low is expected to move inland along the north-central Gulf coast by early this morning and there is a low chance, near zero percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours. This low could still produce locally heavy rains and strong gusty winds in squalls to portions of the north-central Gulf coast through this morning. Another low pressure system located 850 miles northeast of the northern Leeward Islands is producing minimal shower activity. Upper level winds are not conducive for development and there is a low chance, near 10 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours. There is also a tropical wave located 200 miles east of the Lesser Antilles but there is a low chance, near 10 percent, of that system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific
An area of low pressure is located 375 miles south of Acapulco, Mexico. Environmental conditions appear conducive for further slow development and this low could become a tropical depression during the next 48 hours. There is a high chance, near 60 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central Pacific: 
Thunderstorm activity located 800 miles south of Honolulu, Hawaii has a low chance, near 10 percent, of becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC) 

Earthquake Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Wildfire Update

National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Wednesday, August 11, 2010: 
Initial attack activity: Light (190 new fires), new large fires: 7, large fires contained: 4
Uncontained large fires: 10, U.S. States affected:  ID, UT, CA, MT, WY, OK, TX, VA, LA, SD & NV.
(NIFC)

Disaster Declaration Activity

Wisconsin received a Presidential disaster declaration (FEMA-1933-DR-WI) on August 11, 2010, for severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding from July 20-24, 2010. Public Assistance was approved for Grant and Milwaukee Counties and all counties are eligible for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The Federal Coordinating Officer for the disaster is Paul J. Ricciuti.

Amendment No. 4 to FEMA-3311-EM-RI amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for emergency protective measures (Category B), limited to direct Federal assistance, at 90 percent of total eligible costs.

Amendment No. 3 to FEMA-1916-DR-MS amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G) at 90 percent of total eligible costs.

Amendment No. 7 to FEMA-1912-DR-KY amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G) at 90 percent of total eligible costs.

Amendment No. 11 to FEMA-1909-DR-TN amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G), including direct Federal assistance, at 90 percent of total eligible costs.

Amendment No. 5 to FEMA-1906-DR-MS amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G), including direct Federal assistance, at 90 percent of total eligible costs.

Amendment No. 6 to FEMA-1894-DR-RI amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G) at 90 percent of total eligible costs.
(HQ FEMA)

Fema

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

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Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

Midwest
Severe thunderstorms with downpours of over an inch of rain are possible as several upper-level disturbances cause widely scattered areas of precipitation along the central and southern Plains. These disturbances will track eastward today bringing the rain and storms into the eastern Plains and middle Mississippi Valley.
South
The remnant of Tropical Depression Five remains disorganized but continues to bring heavy rain to southern portions of Mississippi and southeast Louisiana. Coastal Louisiana may see flooding downpours of up to six inches. A stalling front extending from northwest North Carolina to the Oklahoma-Texas Red River Valley will bring thunderstorm activity, a few brief damaging winds gusts, and over an inch of rainfall.
Northeast
Severe thunderstorms are possible from the mid-Atlantic to the Central Appalachians as the southern portion of a frontal boundary lingers through the day and could bring strong wind gusts and downpours of an inch or more in some areas.
West
The Pacific Northwest may see a few dry thunderstorms from interior Washington to northern California and the fire danger will remain high due to the risk of lightning strikes from these storms. Thunderstorms are possible from Wyoming to Arizona and New Mexico. The Great Basin will see highs near 100, and the Desert Southwest can expect high temperatures from 100 to 120 degrees.
(NOAA and media sources)

Iowa Flooding- Update

The South Skunk River near Oskaloosa, Iowa, the Des Moines River at Ottumwa, Iowa and the Skunk River near Augusta, Iowa are expected to remain at major flood stage levels through Thursday. FEMA delivered 25 truckloads of water to Ames, Iowa and staged 14 truckloads of water at the incident support base. There are no further requests for FEMA assistance.
(FEMA Region VII)

Mississippi Canyon 252 Update

The well pressure remains stable and well integrity monitoring is ongoing with sonar surveys and visual inspections. Ambient pressure test continues and drilling remains on hold until the testing is complete and discussion with the science team is complete. Approximately 673 miles of coastline is affected and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. Approximately 22 percent, or 52,395 miles, of federal waters in the Gulf exclusive economic zone remain closed to fishing.
(NIC Daily SitRep Update)

Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)

No activity. (HQ FEMA)

Tropical Weather Outlook

Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico: 
The remnant of former Tropical Depression Five is located 35 miles southeast of Gulfport, Miss. There is a medium chance, near 30 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone before moving inland over southeastern Miss. Locally heavy rainfall and gusty winds are forecast along portions of the north-central Gulf of Mexico coast through today.
Central, Eastern and Western Pacific:
Tropical cyclone formation is not expected during the next 48 hours.
 (NOAA)

Earthquake Activity

]At 10:49 p.m. EDT on August 17, 2010, a Magnitude 4.3 earthquake occurred 15 miles northeast of Jackson, Wyo., and 60 miles south-southeast of Old Faithful, Wyo., at a depth of 3.1 miles. There were no reports of damages or injuries.
(USGS)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Wildfire Update

National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Monday, August 16, 2010: 
Initial attack activity: Light (140 new fires), new large fires: 2, large fires contained: 1
Uncontained large fires: 9, U.S. States affected: OR, OK, LA, AR, ID, UT, MT & AK.
(NIFC)

Disaster Declaration Activity

Amendment No. 3 to FEMA-1930-DR-IA makes Jasper, Mahaska, and Polk Counties eligible for the Individual Assistance Program (already designated for Public Assistance).
(HQ FEMA)

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

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Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

 Midwest
Severe thunderstorms are possible from the Dakotas to Upper Michigan, bringing the potential for damaging wind gusts, hail, and tornadoes. Kentucky may see more than an inch of rain but the rest of the region should remain dry.
South
The stalled frontal system draped over the South and the remnant of Tropical Depression Five will continue to bring rain and thunderstorms throughout the South.  Downpours of 1 to 4 inches are possible from Louisiana to Tennessee. The southern Plains will see high temperatures between 95 to 103 degrees.  Heat Advisories remain in effect for southeastern Texas, where high humidity will make the temperatures feel between 105 to 115 degrees.
Northeast
The stalled front along the North Carolina-Virginia line will bring heavy rain across the southern Mid-Atlantic Region with downpours up to 5 inches. Upstate New York to New England will remain dry.
West
Dry thunderstorms are forecast from the Cascades to the northern Rockies creating a possibility for wildfires from lightning strikes. The Four Corners states and parts of Nevada and southeast California may see some redeveloping thunderstorms.
(NOAA and media sources)

Mississippi Canyon 252 Update

The well pressure remains stable and well integrity monitoring is ongoing with sonar surveys and visual inspections. Drill Rig III is conducting Blowout Preventer (BOP) testing. Drill Rig II continues rig maintenance and is preparing to temporarily abandon the well. Approximately 674 miles of coastline is impacted and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. Approximately 22 percent, or 52,395 miles, of federal waters of Gulf Exclusive Economic Zone remain closed to fishing.
(NIC Daily SitRep)

Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)

No activity. (HQ FEMA)

Tropical Weather Outlook

Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico: 
A tropical wave located over Hispaniola and portions of the central Caribbean Sea is producing widespread cloudiness and disorganized shower activity. Development of this disturbance, if any, should be slow to occur over the next 48 hours due to unfavorable environmental conditions. There is a low chance, around 10 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone over the next 48 hours.
Central, Eastern and Western Pacific: 
No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC) 

Earthquake Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Wildfire Update

National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Tuesday, August 17, 2010: 
Initial attack activity: moderate (201 new fires), new large fires: 0, large fires contained: 3
Uncontained large fires: 6, U.S. States affected: OR, OK, LA, AR, ID, UT, MT & AK
(NIFC)

Disaster Declaration Activity

On August 17, 2010, the President approved a major disaster declaration for Missouri (FEMA-1934-DR) as a result of severe storms, flooding, and tornadoes from June 12 to July 31, 2010. The declaration makes 29 counties eligible for the Public Assistance Program and all counties eligible for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Joseph M. Girot was appointed as the Federal Coordinating Officer for this disaster.
(HQ FEMA)

Monday, August 16, 2010

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Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

Midwest
Showers and thunderstorms will develop ahead of a cold front moving from the Great Lakes to the Mid-Atlantic and the Northeast. Gusty winds up to 40 mph are expected in the Upper Great Lakes in the vicinity of the Lake Superior shoreline of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Showers and thunderstorms are also possible in the Western Plains, spreading east into the Mississippi Valley by Tuesday and some flash flooding is possible.
South
The southern portion of a slow moving cold front is expected to stall over the lower Mississippi Valley and Southern Plains and bring showers and thunderstorms for the next couple of days. Precipitation will intensify as a low pressure center drifts westward along the gulf coast.
Northeast
Rain and thunderstorm activity is expected to continue for the next few days in the Mid-Atlantic Coast, up to the Hudson River Valley, and into western New England. A few stronger storms with locally heavy rain are also possible.
West
The West will remain mostly dry with dry thunderstorms possible in California, Washington and Oregon Mountains. Showers and thunderstorms are possible in the Rockies and High Plains, with a few stronger storms in eastern Wyoming, eastern Colorado, and northeastern New Mexico. Above average temperatures are expected in the Pacific Northwest, Great Basin, and the Desert Southwest, with record highs possible in parts of Washington and Oregon.
(NOAA and media sources)

Mississippi Canyon 252 Update

The well pressure remains stable and well integrity monitoring is ongoing with sonar surveys and visual inspections. Ambient pressure test continues and drilling remains on hold until the testing is complete and discussion with the science team is complete. Approximately 672 miles of coastline is currently affected and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. Approximately 22 percent (52,395 miles of federal waters) of the Gulf Exclusive Economic Zone remains closed to fishing.
(NIC Daily SitRep Update)

Iowa Flooding- Update

In Iowa, the South Skunk River near Oskaloosa, the Des Moines River at Ottumwa and the Skunk River near Augusta, are expected to remain at major flood stage through Thursday. The Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers in central Iowa have now crested and continue to fall. A high pressure system in the region will keep most of the area dry through Tuesday and allow time for the rivers to recede further. FEMA delivered 25 truckloads of water to Ames, Iowa over the weekend and staged an additional 14 truckloads at the local incident command base. The boil water order for Ames, Iowa was lifted after satisfactory water test results and all additional requests were withdrawn. There are no additional requests for FEMA assistance. FEMA liaisons remain deployed to support the state emergency operations center.
(FEMA Region VII)

Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)

No activity. (HQ FEMA)

Tropical Weather Outlook

Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
The remnant of Tropical Depression Five is located over the extreme northern Gulf of Mexico just south of Panama City, Florida. Environmental conditions are forecast to be marginally conducive for development of this system as it moves westward over the northern Gulf of Mexico during the next few days. There is a medium chance, near 50 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone again during the next 48 hours. Locally heavy rainfall and gusty winds are forecast along the northern Gulf Coast from the Florida Panhandle to southern Louisiana through Tuesday.
Eastern Pacific
A broad area of low pressure is located about 325 miles south-southeast of the southern tip of Baja California, Mexico but there is a low chance, about 20 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central Pacific: 
No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours. 
(NOAA, JTWC)

Earthquake Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Wildfire Update

National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Sunday, August 15, 2010: 
Initial attack activity: light (107 new fires), new large fires: 4, large fires contained: 0
Uncontained large fires: 7, U.S. States affected: OK, LA, AR, ID, UT, and MT.
(NIFC)

Disaster Declaration Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Thursday, August 12, 2010

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Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

Midwest      
Scattered thunderstorms, some severe, are forecast for the Dakotas, Nebraska, Minnesota and Iowa today. Flash flooding is possible in Minnesota and Iowa. Some rivers in Iowa have seen all-time record flood levels. The Great Lakes region will be mainly dry while the Ohio Valley will see isolated thunderstorm activity. The central and southern Plains will be dry, but the oppressive heat is forecast to continue for another couple of days. Parts of Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri may see high temperatures of over 100 degrees. High temperatures along with high humidity will raise the heat index to over 115 degrees in many locations.
South
Portions of the South will see pockets of heavy rain or scattered thunderstorms. Scattered thunderstorms are forecast across parts of eastern Kentucky, eastern Tennessee, Virginia and North Carolina. Portions of the Gulf Coast will see locally heavy rain due to the remnants of Tropical Depression Five. Localized flooding is possible over parts of southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
Northeast
 Scattered thunderstorms are forecast from Upstate New York to the Chesapeake Bay, but the thunderstorms are not expected to become severe. There is only a slight chance of isolated thunderstorms over most of New England but severe thunderstorms are possible over the mid-Atlantic.
West
 Showers and thunderstorms are forecast from eastern Idaho to Montana and down to northern Wyoming. The higher elevations of Arizona and New Mexico will see less thunderstorm activity than last week. The Desert Southwest will see high temperatures from 105 to 110 degrees.
(NOAA and media sources)

Iowa Flooding

Three to eight inches of rain fell in central Iowa over the past few days and caused flooding in several locations. A nearly stationary frontal system over Iowa brought thunderstorm activity to an area from near Oskaloosa, Iowa in Mahaska County to Sac City, Iowa in Sac County. Several river gauges are at major flood stage with a few gauges forecast to crest at or near record flood stage. Major impacts from these thunderstorms are power outages, emergency crews performing rescues, and numerous road closures. Forty-nine counties issued local emergency declarations. A boil water order was issued for the city of Ames (population 56,000), Story County, due to a water main break. The Region VII Regional Watch remains at Steady State, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CDT but a FEMA liaison is deployed to the state Emergency Operations Center.

Mississippi Canyon 252 Update

The well pressure remains stable and is declining at a rate of 5 lbs per square inch per hour. Drilling operations are on hold until the passage of the remnants of Tropical Depression Five. Approximately 665 miles of coastline are impacted. NOAA reopened 5,144 square miles to finfish harvest but the area closed to all fishing covers 52,395 square miles or approximately 22% of the Gulf of Mexico’s exclusive economic zone.
(NIC Daily SitRep)

Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)

No activity. (HQ FEMA)

Tropical Weather Outlook

Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico: 
The remnants of Tropical Depression Five are now a broad area of low pressure over the northern Gulf of Mexico located just east of southeastern Louisiana. The low is expected to move inland along the north-central Gulf coast by early this morning and there is a low chance, near zero percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours. This low could still produce locally heavy rains and strong gusty winds in squalls to portions of the north-central Gulf coast through this morning. Another low pressure system located 850 miles northeast of the northern Leeward Islands is producing minimal shower activity. Upper level winds are not conducive for development and there is a low chance, near 10 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours. There is also a tropical wave located 200 miles east of the Lesser Antilles but there is a low chance, near 10 percent, of that system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific
An area of low pressure is located 375 miles south of Acapulco, Mexico. Environmental conditions appear conducive for further slow development and this low could become a tropical depression during the next 48 hours. There is a high chance, near 60 percent, of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central Pacific: 
Thunderstorm activity located 800 miles south of Honolulu, Hawaii has a low chance, near 10 percent, of becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC) 

Earthquake Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Wildfire Update

National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Wednesday, August 11, 2010: 
Initial attack activity: Light (190 new fires), new large fires: 7, large fires contained: 4
Uncontained large fires: 10, U.S. States affected:  ID, UT, CA, MT, WY, OK, TX, VA, LA, SD & NV.
(NIFC)

Disaster Declaration Activity

Wisconsin received a Presidential disaster declaration (FEMA-1933-DR-WI) on August 11, 2010, for severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding from July 20-24, 2010. Public Assistance was approved for Grant and Milwaukee Counties and all counties are eligible for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The Federal Coordinating Officer for the disaster is Paul J. Ricciuti.

Amendment No. 4 to FEMA-3311-EM-RI amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for emergency protective measures (Category B), limited to direct Federal assistance, at 90 percent of total eligible costs.

Amendment No. 3 to FEMA-1916-DR-MS amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G) at 90 percent of total eligible costs.

Amendment No. 7 to FEMA-1912-DR-KY amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G) at 90 percent of total eligible costs.

Amendment No. 11 to FEMA-1909-DR-TN amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G), including direct Federal assistance, at 90 percent of total eligible costs.

Amendment No. 5 to FEMA-1906-DR-MS amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G), including direct Federal assistance, at 90 percent of total eligible costs.

Amendment No. 6 to FEMA-1894-DR-RI amends the cost-sharing arrangement effective July 29, 2010, to provide Federal funds for all categories of Public Assistance (Categories A-G) at 90 percent of total eligible costs.
(HQ FEMA)

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

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Homeland Security Threat Level: YELLOW (ELEVATED)

Significant National Weather

Midwest
Showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue across the northern and central Plains, upper Midwest valley, and Great Lakes. Some of these storms will have the potential to become severe with damaging winds and hail. Temperatures and humidity are expected to increase across the region.
South
High temperatures and humidity are expected to continue and thunderstorms are possible for portions of the lower Mississippi Valley, Tennessee Valley, and North Carolina.
Northeast
Across the Northeast, scattered thunderstorms are expected throughout the day with strong wind gusts and heavy downpours possible.
West 
Widely scattered thunderstorms are forecast from the Pacific Northwest to the northern Plains. A few scattered thunderstorms could occur across the mountains of the Four Corners states with a few becoming severe across the Northern Rockies.
(NOAA and media sources)

Latest Seasonal Drought Assessment

The latest seasonal drought assessment was just released from the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center. Drought is forecast to continue across western Wyoming, Arizona, northeast California, Nevada, and the leeward sides of the Hawaiian Islands (moderate to exceptional drought levels). An ongoing heat wave, along with below normal rainfall, has created drought conditions in the lower Mississippi and lower Ohio Valleys and is expected to persist and expand into parts of Missouri and Arkansas. Drought also expanded from moderate to severe levels in portions of the eastern U.S. with the Mid-Atlantic seeing the largest increases. On the other extreme, unseasonable wetness and a very active monsoon resulted in the removal of drought across the Rockies and in New Mexico. In the upper Mississippi Valley and Great Lakes region major drought relief occurred during the past two months (from extreme drought to moderate drought levels), and is forecast to continue. La Nina conditions may bring improvement for some areas during the 2010-2011 winter season.
(NOAA)

Mississippi Canyon 252 Update

Situational Update:
Well pressure remains stable, which indicates a successful cement plug. Future plans include the removal of the capping stack and blow out preventer to permanently seal the site. Approximately 669 miles of coastline have been impacted and shoreline cleanup efforts continue. Approximately 76% of the Gulf of Mexico federal waters remain open to commercial fishing.
(NIC Daily SitRep Update)

Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG)

No Activity(HQ FEMA)

Tropical Weather Outlook

Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
A well-defined low pressure area is located about 825 miles east-northeast of the Leeward Islands moving west-northwestward at 10 to 15 mph. There is a high chance, near 70 percent, of this system developing into a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Another weak low pressure system is located over the southeastern Gulf of Mexico about 75 miles southwest of Naples, Florida. This system is becoming better organized and there is a medium chance, near 50 percent, that this system will develop into a tropical or subtropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific
Tropical Depression Estelle is located approximately 420 miles south of Baja California, Mexico moving west near 5 mph. Additional weakening is forecast and it is forecast to be a remnant low by late Tuesday. Another low pressure area about 200 miles west-southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico has a low chance, near 20 percent, of development into a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclones are expected during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)

Earthquake Activity

On August 10, 2010 at 1:23 a.m. EDT offshore near Vanuatu, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake occurred at a reported depth of 41 miles. No damages or injuries were reported but a tsunami was created. The West Coast/Alaskan Tsunami Warning Center issued a report stating no tsunami was expected along the California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, or Alaska coasts.
(USGS)

Preliminary Damage Assessments

No new activity (FEMA HQ)

Wildfire Update

National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Monday, August 9, 2010: 
Initial attack activity: light (152 new fires), new large fires: 1, large fires contained: 6
Uncontained large fires: 10, U.S. States affected:  CA, ID, LA, MT, NV, OR, WA, WY, & NJ.
(NIFC)

Disaster Declaration Activity

No new activity (FEMA HQ)