LAREDO, Texas — The Rio Grande City Disaster Recovery Center will end operations at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 28. The center, located at the Starr County Court House Annex, 100 N. FM 3167 in Rio Grande City, will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and on the last day of operation Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Fema
West:
A cold front dropping out of Canada will produce thunderstorms in eastern Idaho, southern Montana and northern Wyoming with gusty winds and hail. Isolated thunderstorms are forecast for higher elevations across the West. Red Flag warnings are in effect for much of Oregon and Idaho due to dry lightning, when lightning is observed but little if any precipitation reaches the ground. These lightning strikes could touch off wildfires.
Midwest:
A cold front dropping out of Canada into the northern Midwest will produce severe thunderstorms from the Dakotas to the Great Lakes. The primary threat is gusty winds, but hail and tornadoes are possible. Heavy precipitation is forecast and northern Minnesota could receive as much as 2 inches. The remainder of the region will be dry except for isolated thunderstorms from Missouri to Ohio.
South:
A frontal system draped across the region and moist flow off the Gulf of Mexico will produce widespread precipitation across the region. Showers and scattered thunderstorms will produce gusty winds and localized flash flooding. Severe thunderstorms are expected in Georgia and the Carolinas. Showers and thunderstorms are forecast for the Texas and Louisiana coastlines. South of the front, high temperatures will be in the 90s with high humidity.
Northeast:
Under high pressure, the region will be dry except for possible thunderstorms in parts of the Virginias.
(NOAA and media sources)
Severe thunderstorms passed through the region Sunday, July 25. Numerous trees were blown down knocking out power to thousands of customers. In Washington, D.C., approximately 7,500 customers are without power. In Maryland, approximately 140,000 customers are without power in Montgomery and Prince Georges counties. There are no requests for federal assistance. (FEMA Region III)
The controlled release of water from the Falcon and Amistad reservoirs will keep the Rio Grande River at Rio Grande City, Texas at five feet above flood stage through the week. Voluntary evacuations have been lifted for Hidalgo and Starr counties. All joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are complete. (FEMA Region VI)
The President approved a major disaster declaration for Pike County on July 23. Two Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers are staged at the Joint Field Office in Lexington, Ky. The water sewage treatment plant in Pike County remains inoperable and a Boil Water Advisory remains in effect for 25,000 customers. Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are ongoing. (FEMA Region IV)
Severe storms moved across south – central Iowa July 23-24. Record flooding on the Maquoketa River caused a 100% failure of the Hartwick Dam on Lake Delhi. The Hopkinton city sewer plant flooded but city drinking water was not contaminated. There are no requests for federal assistance. (FEMA Region V, FEMA Region VII)
FEMA is providing personnel to the National Integration Center and additional Logistics and External Affairs support to the Federal On-Scene Coordinator. FEMA leads the Social Services and Small Business Interagency Working Group (Claims and Benefits). Vessels and drill rigs have returned to the scene. The Ram Capping Stack continues to leak minor amounts and is being monitored. Booming, skimming and in situ burning continues as weather permits. The spill has impacted approximately 638 miles of coastline. (NIC Daily Situation Update)
National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Monday, July 26, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (201 new fires), new large fires: 8, large fires contained: 0
Uncontained large fires: 10, U.S. States affected: NV, WY, MT, CA, ID, UT, WY, CO, WA, AK & AZ
(NIFC)
California
FMAG-2849-CA was issued for the Bull Fire in Kern County, Calif. The fire is zero percent contained and has burned more than 4,500 acres. There have been 500 mandatory evacuations and 1,500 voluntary evacuations. The fire has destroyed 35 structures thus far and 150 residences and 5 businesses are at risk.
(FEMA HQ)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
No tropical cyclone activity expected in the next 48 hours
Eastern, Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected in the next 48 hours
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Oklahoma:
The President approved a major disaster declaration for seven counties in Oklahoma (FEMA-1926-DR-OK) on July 26, 2010 for severe storms, tornadoes, straight line winds and flooding that occurred from June 13-15, 2010. The Public Assistance Program is available to the identified seven counties and all counties in the state are now eligible to apply for Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds.
Minnesota
Amendment 1 to FEMA-1921-DR-MN adds seven counties for Public Assistance.
(FEMA HQ)
Midwest
Storms are expected through Friday from North and South Dakota into Minnesota, Iowa and Indiana. Some thunderstorms in the region could be severe, with the main threats being large hail and strong gusty winds. Excessive Heat Warnings are in effect for areas of southeastern Kansas, eastern Oklahoma, and northwestern Arkansas through Friday, July 23. Flood Warnings are in effect for portions of the northern plains and the upper and middle Mississippi Valleys.
Northeast
Rain and thunderstorms will continue over much of Maine as the system that affected the area on Wednesday exits the region. The Mid Atlantic region will be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching the mid-90s and a slight risk of afternoon thundershowers.
South
The region will remain very hot and humid with some relief associated with afternoon showers and thunderstorms. High temperatures will be in the 90s with very high humidity. Heat index values may reach near or above 105 degrees today and Friday.
West
The central and eastern Rocky Mountains will see a chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Some thunderstorms could produce heavy rainfall and cause localized flooding. Desert high temperatures may reach 100 – 110 degrees. (NOAA’s National Weather Service, the Hydrometeorological Prediction Center and media sources)
The games continue as scheduled. A Flash Flood Watch was in effect for portions of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands through this afternoon. Many areas have already received in excess of 4 inches of rain this week
Situational Update:
NWS reports that Flood Warnings continue for the Rio Grande River. The Rio Grande River at Rio Grande City remains at Major Flood Stage, but appears to have crested and is slowly receding. The river will remain at 55.6 ft through midnight, July 22 and is expected to drop one-half a foot by this weekend. Recent rain in the area will keep the Rio Grande at flood stage for the next few days, but should not exacerbate existing flood conditions. Flood operations continue at the Amistad and Falcon reservoirs. Releases from the Falcon Reservoir were 60,000 cfs, and 13,000 cfs at Amistad. Pool elevation for the Falcon Reservoir continues to fall.
Mandatory evacuations continue for the subdivisions of de la Garza, Campo Verde, and Garza in the City of Roma as well as areas in the City of La Grulla (Starr County) and the City of Los Ebanos. Voluntary evacuations continue in the cities of La Joya, and in Penitas and south of the city of Pharr (both in Hidalgo County) due to flooding. Three American Red Cross shelters remain open with 65 occupants.
Flooding is ongoing as a result of severe weather July 17 – 21, 2010. States of Emergency have been declared in 4 counties and 1 independent city. Over 130 homes were flooded with 22 homes suffering major damage. Numerous roads and 21 bridges are affected by flood waters. Isolated power outages occurred in several counties. Five sewage plants were damaged. Approximately 2,400 people are without water. Boil Water Advisories have been issued impacting 25,000 people. One shelter is known to be open in Carter County. The number of occupants at that shelter is unknown
Federal/State Response:
FEMA is providing personnel and equipment support. The oil flow remains secured. The capping stack developed five minor gasket leaks and hydrate formation that will continue to be monitored and evaluated with no acoustic or visual anomalies noted. Well integrity test remains satisfactory. Pressure has been increased to 6,840 (+34) pounds per square inch. No In Situ Burning (ISB) has been conducted or aerial dispersant flights flown on July 21, 2010. More than 821,000 barrels of oil and 1.863 billion cubic feet of gas have been recovered to date. Relief Well Drilling – Drill Rig DIII: Depth is 12,618 feet below sea floor. Drill Rig DII: Depth is 10,743 feet below sea floor.
Coastline impact has increased to approximately 626 miles, impacting AL, FL, LA, MS, and TX. Clean up continues across impacted areas. Due to current weather, small vessels, barges, and Vessels of Opportunity have been instructed to recover equipment, enter decontamination, and seek safe harbor in Alabama and Mississippi. (NIC Daily Situation Update, DHS NOC SLB, Deepwater Horizon Response and FL Situation Report)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
The National Hurricane Center is monitoring two disturbances, 97L and 98L.
97L is a tropical wave located near the southeastern Bahamas. The system is moving westward or west northwestward at 10 to 15 mph. Locally heavy showers and gusty winds associated with this disturbance will spread over the Bahamas and portions of Cuba and southern Florida. There is a medium chance (40%) of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
The second system, 98L, has shower activity associated with a broad low pressure over the Bay of Campeche and is becoming better organized. The system is expected to move westward or northwestward at 10 to 15 mph. There is a medium chance (40%) of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern and Central Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected in the next 48 hours.
Western Pacific:
No systems affecting U.S. interests.(NOAA, NWS, NHC, CPHC JTWC)
A 4.5 magnitude earthquake occurred at 8:45 p.m. EDT near Charlotte Amale in the U.S. Virgin Islands (about 80 miles east of San Juan, Puerto Rico). USGS recorded the tremor at a depth of 73 miles. No injuries or damages were reported and no tsunami was generated.
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Wednesday, July 21, 2010:
• Initial attack activity: Light (157 new fires)
• New large fires: 4
• Large fires contained: 2
• Uncontained large fires: 9
• States Affected: AK, AZ, CA, CO, ID, WA, and, UT(NIFC)
Cowiche Mills Fire Update
The Cowichie Mills Fire, located 10 miles northwest of Yakima, Washington State, started on Sunday, July 18, at approximately 3:30 p.m. PDT; cause unknown. High heat, low humidity, and high winds have driven the fire to spread quickly; currently approximately 6,200 acres have burned with 55% contained. Three residential structures have burned; approximately 150 residential structures remain threatened.
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Midwest
Thunderstorms and perhaps one or two thunderstorm complexes will affect an area from the western Dakotas, Nebraska and northern Kansas to Ohio and Kentucky. Some of these storms could become severe, with damaging wind gusts and downpours of 1 to 3 inches of rain, possibly causing flash flooding. High humidity will continue to affect the region from the Ohio Valley to Nebraska.
Northeast
Thunderstorms are possible throughout the Northeast. Some of the storms could become severe, with damaging wind gusts and downpours of 1 to 3 inches of rain. South-central and southeast Virginia will see high temperatures from the upper 90s to almost 100 degrees – 10 degrees above average.
South
The region will remain dry except for eastern Texas, southern Louisiana, and parts of Tennessee, which may see thunderstorms.
West
Scattered thunderstorms are possible from Montana to Arizona and New Mexico. Some of these storms could become severe in eastern Montana, eastern Wyoming, and northeast Colorado; the primary threat will be damaging wind, large hail, and heavy rainfall. (NOAA’s National Weather Service, the Hydrometeorological Prediction Center and media sources)
Overview
The games continue as scheduled.
Federal/FEMA Response
FEMA Region II is at Level III (24/7) for the duration of the Games. Caribbean Area Division personnel are staffing the Multiagency Coordination Center (MACC) in Puerto Rico.
Flooding on the Rio Grande River, Texas – Update
NWS reports that Flood Warnings continue for the Rio Grande River. The Rio Grande River at Rio Grande City remains at Major Flood Stage, but appears to have crested and is slowly receding. The river: flood elevation was recorded at 55.69 feet, as of 1:15 a.m. EDT on July 21. The Rio Grande River at Laredo and at Columbia Bridge is at Minor Flood Stage, and continues to recede. Flood operations continue at the Amistad and Falcon reservoirs. Releases from the Falcon Reservoir were 60,040 cfs, and 12,360 cfs at Amistad and the pool elevation for the Falcon Reservoir continues to fall. Mandatory evacuations continue for the subdivisions of de la Garza, Campo Verde, and Garza in the City of Roma; some areas in the City of La Grulla (Starr County) and the City of Los Ebanos. Voluntary evacuations continue in the cities of La Joya, and in Penitas and south of the city of Pharr (both in Hidalgo County) due to flooding. (FEMA Region VI, DHS/NOC Steady State Incident Report, TX SOC SITREP, media sources)
FEMA is providing personnel and equipment support. The oil flow remains secured. The capping stack developed five minor gasket leaks and hydrate formation continues to be monitored and evaluated with no acoustic or visual anomalies noted. The well integrity test remains satisfactory and pressure has increased. Coastline impact has increased to approximately 630.7 miles, impacting AL, FL, LA, MS, and TX. Clean up crews in Alabama covered more than 40 miles of shoreline on July 19 – the largest effort to date in a single operational period. Tar balls were removed from Perdido Pass and the beach between Wrecking Ball and Laguna Key. A decontamination team is being stood up in Louisiana. Clean up crews in Mississippi responded to light impact on Cat and Ship Islands.(NIC Daily Situation Update, DHS NOC SLB, Deepwater Horizon Response and FL Situation Report)
The fire started on Sunday, July 18, at approximately 3:30 p.m. PDT; cause unknown. High heat, low humidity, and high winds have driven the fire to spread quickly; currently approximately 6,200 acres have burned with 35% contained. Three residential structures have burned; approximately 150 residential structures remain threatened.
No activity.(FEMA HQ)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
A tropical wave located near the eastern Dominican Republic and extending northward over the Atlantic Ocean for a few hundred miles is moving west northwestward at 10 mph. There is a high chance (70%) of this system becoming a tropical depression or a tropical storm during the next 48 hours. Gusty winds and locally heavy rainfall associated with this system are likely to affect the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Haiti, eastern Cuba, Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos Islands during the 48 hours. The heavy rains could cause life-threatening flash floods and mudslides in mountainous areas.
Eastern and Central Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected in the next 48 hours.
Western Pacific:
No systems affecting U.S. interests.(NOAA, NWS, NHC, CPHC JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Tuesday, July 20, 2010:
States Affected: CA, WA, CO, MT, ID, AZ & AK. (NIFC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Midwest
A front stalled from Nebraska to the Ohio River Valley will bring high humidity and thunderstorm complexes. Some of the thunderstorms could become severe, with damaging wind gusts, hail, and rainfall possibly reaching 3 to 4 inches. Flash flooding is possible in Iowa and Illinois. Missouri will see highs in the 90s with Kansas seeing highs of up to 100 degrees – 15 degrees above average.
Northeast
A cold front moving into New York, Pennsylvania, and western New England will bring thunderstorms, some possibly becoming severe, with damaging wind gusts, hail, and local downpours of 1 to 2 inches possible. New York City to Norfolk, Virginia, will see highs in the low to mid 90s with high humidity.
South
An upper-level disturbance lingering over the South will bring scattered thunderstorms from southeast Texas to Tennessee and North Carolina. Downpours could reach several inches of rain in a few areas, but the likelihood of these thunderstorms becoming severe will be low. The region will remain very humid with highs in the 90s. Northern Texas and the Oklahoma Panhandle could see highs of over 100 degrees.
West
Isolated thunderstorms are forecast from Montana to Arizona and New Mexico. The likelihood of these storms becoming severe will be low, but rainfall could locally reach a half inch in eastern Montana and northeast Wyoming. The Southwest will continue to see temperatures 5 to 15 degrees above average with highs in the 90s and low 100s in the lower elevations of Colorado, New Mexico and Utah, and reaching 100 to 125 degrees in the Desert Southwest. The Central Valley of California and inland areas of southern California will see highs of over 100 degrees. (NOAA’s National Weather Service, the Hydrometeorological Prediction Center and media sources)
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Climactic Data Center (NCDC), the combined global land and ocean surface temperature made last month the warmest June on record, and was the warmest April-June and year-to-date (January-June) periods on record. NCDC conducts a monthly state of the climate global analysis that provides a snapshot of the climate system around the globe. According to June’s report, this was the fourth consecutive month that the combined global land and ocean surface temperature was the warmest on record for that month. NCDC’s monthly analysis is based on records going back to 1880. For more information please see the full NOAA report at: www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2010/20100715_globalstats.html or the full NCDC monthly analysis is available at: www.ncdc.noaa.gov/sotc/?report=global
Overview
The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico will host the XXI Central American and Caribbean (CACG) Games from July 17 – August 1, 2010. Opening ceremonies commenced Jul y18 at 5:30 p.m. EDT. Athletic events will proceed as originally scheduled. Approximately 5,000 athletes from 32 countries will be competing in 47 sporting events scheduled in multiple venues. CACG officials expect up to 100,000 visitors for the Games.Temporary Flight Restrictions have been established for the opening and closing CACG ceremonies.
Federal/FEMA Response
FEMA Region II is at Level III (24/7) for the duration of the Games. Caribbean Area Division personnel will staff the Multiagency Coordination Center (MACC) in Puerto Rico.
Situational Update:
The situation is currently stable with low-laying areas down-river from Falcon Dam in Major Flood stage. Outflows of Falcon Reservoir are holding steady at 60,000 CFS and will remain at this rate for several days. The Rio Grande River at Rio Grande City remains at Major Flood Stage, but appears to have crested and is slowly receding. The river was at 56.27 feet at 11:15 p.m. EDT on July 18. The Rio Grande River at Laredo has is at Moderate Flood Stage, and at Columbia Bridge at Minor Flood Stage, and continues to recede.
The pool at the Falcon reservoir has reached 309.28 feet MSL (above record stage) as of 3:15 a.m. EDT on July 18. Flood operations continue at the Amistad and Falcon reservoirs. Releases from the dams are expected to continue for the next several days. Mandatory evacuations continue for the subdivisions in the City of Roma and in the City of Los Ebanos (Hidalgo County) and lower elevation neighborhoods near Falcon Lake. Voluntary evacuations continue in the cities of La Joya, Penitas and La Gruella. Five American Red Cross shelters remain open with 102 occupants. The Hidalgo area has four shelters on standby incase the river rises. The shelters in Laredo were scheduled to be closed on July 18, and the shelters in Rio Bravo are scheduled to be closed July 19. The Texas SOC remains at Level II (Escalated Response Conditions).
Federal/FEMA Response:
FEMA Region VI RRCC is at Watch/Steady State and monitoring the situation. (FEMA Region VI, DHS/NOC Steady State Incident Report, TX SOC SITREP, media sources)
Severe thunderstorms are forecast to continue due to a stalled front extending from Nebraska to the Ohio River Valley. Severe thunderstorms that occurred in the Midwest between July 17-18 caused 13 tornadoes, strong winds, and golf ball-sized hail. No significant damages or fatalities were reported and there were only minor injuries. Flood Warnings remain in effect for portions of Illinois, Kansas, Missouri and southeast Nebraska. Excessive Heat Warnings remain in effect for portions of Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.(NOAA/North Central River Forecast Center)
As the result of severe weather and flooding in Kentucky, the Kentucky EOC is activated at Level I (EOC standard with hot standby mode and the ECI in 24 hour operations). Region IV RRCC is at Watch/Steady State and will continue to monitor this event. A local state of emergency was declared for Pike and Shelby Counties and additional counties may be added. Over 200 homes may be eligible for assistance due to residential flooding. There were two confirmed fatalities. The National Guard is preparing to send assets to Pike County to assist in security missions. The Mountain Water District Water Plant’s raw water intake is out of service and may take several days to repair. Several communities will be without water for up to a week, impacting from 3,500 to 4,000 customers. Water is being delivered to Pike County for distribution. Three shelters and a special needs shelter are open, with an unknown number of occupants. No Federal assistance has been requested.
Federal/State Response:
FEMA is providing personnel and equipment support. Florida EOC is at Level I (Full Activation); Louisiana and Alabama EOCs remain at Level III (Partially Activated); the Mississippi EOC is at Level IV (Normal Operations), Texas EOC is at Level II (Escalated Response Conditions).
Situational Update:
The National Incident Command confirms no oil is flowing from the well. The well integrity remains satisfactory. Pressure has increased to 6,782 pounds per square inch on the three ram capping stack – an increase of 1-2 PSI per hour. Seismic testing results show no anomalies were detected. Two seismic runs and several acoustic passes were scheduled for July 18.
Booming and skimming operations continue as weather permits. One in situ burn was conducted on July 18, but no sub-sea or aerial dispersants were used. More than 827 thousand barrels of oil and 1.8653 million cubic feet of gas have been recovered to date.
Relief Well Drilling – Drill Rig DIII: Depth is 12,618 feet below sea floor. Drill Rig DII: Depth is 10,743 feet below sea floor.
Landfall & Impacts:
Coastline impact has increased to approximately 616 miles, impacting AL, FL, LA, MS, and TX. Mobile Incident Command Post (ICP) remains in Port St. Joe, Florida to help speed any potential response efforts along the Florida Panhandle. 83,927 square miles (35%) of Gulf Federal waters are closed to fishing. (NIC Daily Situation Update, DHS NOC SLB, Deepwater Horizon Response and FL Situation Report)
FMAG 2828-FM-WA was approved on Jul y18, 2010 for the Cowiche Mills Fire in unincorporated land west of Yakima south of Cowiche and north of Tampico, in Yakima County, Washington. Approximately 7,000 acres have been burned and the fire is zero percent contained. 150 primary residences in the Yakima County subdivisions of Summit View, Summit Extension, Marble, and Tillman (total population 1,500), are threatened. Voluntary evacuations are in place, and 600 residents have evacuated. (FEMA HQ)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
A tropical wave in the vicinity of the Leeward Islands is moving west-northwestward at 10 to 15 mph. Any development of this disturbance will be slow to occur and there is a low chance (20%) of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours. This system could bring gusty winds and locally heavy rainfall to the Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Haiti and the Turks and Caicos Islands over the next 48 hours.
Another tropical wave over the central Caribbean Sea, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands, is moving westward at 10 to 15 mph. Some slow development of this system is possible and there is a low chance (20%) of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Eastern and Central Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected in the next 48 hours.
Western Pacific:
No systems affecting U.S. interests. (NOAA, NWS, NHC, CPHC JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Sunday, July 18, 2010:
Initial attack activity: Light (142 new fires)
New large fires: 3
Large fires contained: 1
Uncontained large fires: 10
States affected: WA, CA, AK, CO, MT and UT (NIFC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Midwest
Thunderstorm complexes continue today from the Central Plains to the Ohio Valley. Severe thunderstorms are likely from western South Dakota, Nebraska and Kansas to Ohio. Damaging wind gusts, hail and tornadoes are possible and rainfall could reach five inches in some areas, with flash flooding possible. Temperatures will reach highs in the 90s in the lower Ohio Valley and Missouri, to over 100 degrees in Kansas.
Northeast
Thunderstorms are forecast from the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley to Upstate New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland and West Virginia. Some of these storms could become severe, with damaging wind gusts, hail and over one inches of rainfall possible. There is a minimal threat of thunderstorms and showers from New England to Virginia. Humidity will remain very high in the southern Mid-Atlantic and temperatures will reach highs in the 90s from Connecticut to Virginia.
South
Scattered thunderstorms are forecast from southeast Texas and Louisiana to the Carolinas. The possibility of these storms becoming severe will be minimal but rainfall could reach over an inch. The Southern Plains to Arkansas will remain dry. High humidity will continue for the entire region with high temperatures in the 90s. The Oklahoma Panhandle will see temperatures reaching 100 degrees.
West
Thunderstorms are possible from Montana to Arizona and New Mexico, with Montana and Wyoming seeing the highest chance of thunderstorms. Some of the storms in eastern Wyoming could become severe with large hail. The Great Basin and far West will remain dry. The Central Valley of California and the lower elevations of Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico, will see high temperatures of over 100 degrees. The Desert Southwest will see high temperatures between 100 to 125 degrees.
(NOAA’s National Weather Service, the Hydrometeorological Prediction Center and media sources)
Situational Update:
The situation is currently stable with low-laying areas down-river from Falcon Dam in Major Flood stage. Outflows of Falcon Reservoir are holding steady at 60,000 CFS and will remain at this rate for several days. The Rio Grande River at Rio Grande City remains at Major Flood Stage, but appears to have crested and is slowly receding. The river was at 55.85 feet at 1:15 a.m. EDT on July 20. The Rio Grande River at Laredo and at Columbia Bridge is at Minor Flood Stage, and continues to recede.
Flood operations continue at the Amistad and Falcon reservoirs. Releases from the dams are expected to continue for the next several days. Mandatory evacuations continue for the City of Roma and the City of Los Ebanos (Hidalgo County) and lower elevation neighborhoods near Falcon Lake. Voluntary evacuations continue in the cities of La Joya, Penitas (Hidalgo County) and La Gruella (Starr County).
FEMA is providing personnel and equipment support. Seepage and undetermined anomalies have been detected near the capped wellhead. There remains no oil flowing from the well and the well integrity test remains satisfactory. Booming and skimming operations continue as weather permits. More than 827 thousand barrels of oil and 1.8653 million cubic feet of gas have been recovered to date. Coastline impact has increased to approximately 622 miles, impacting AL, FL, LA, MS, and TX.
The Cowiche Mills Fire fire went from 3,000 acres to 7,000 acres burned in five hours. Approximately 8,000 acres have been burned and the fire is zero percent contained. 150 primary residences in the Yakima County subdivisions of Summit View, Summit Extension, Marble, and Tillman (total population 1,500), are threatened. Three homes have been burned. Voluntary evacuations are in place, and 600 residents have evacuated
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
A tropical wave over Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands is becoming better organized and there is a medium chance (30%) of this system becoming a tropical cyclone over the next 48 hours. The system is moving west-northwestward at 5 to 10 mph. This system could bring gusty winds of 30 to 40 mph and locally heavy rainfall to the Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Turks and Caicos Islands, and the Bahamas over the next 48 hours. Parts of the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico have already reported rainfall totals of over 5 inches. Additional rainfall could cause localized flooding and mud slides especially in mountainous areas.
Eastern and Central Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected in the next 48 hours.
Western Pacific:
No systems affecting U.S. interests. (NOAA, NWS, NHC, CPHC JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Monday, July 19, 2010:
Initial attack activity: Light (148 new fires)
New large fires: 5
Large fires contained: 4
Uncontained large fires: 9
States affected: WA, CA, CO, WY, MT, ID and AK (NIFC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
Midwest
Scattered thunderstorms are possible from the Southern Plains up to the Ohio Valley, and there is a slight risk of severe thunderstorms across parts of the Central High Plains. Severe thunderstorms in Nebraska could cause continued flooding along portions of the Missouri River. A pacific disturbance will bring another round of precipitation to the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest toward the end of the weekend.
Temperatures in the 90s will be widespread from the Plains through the Middle Mississippi Valley to the Lower Great Lakes.
Northeast
Strong to severe thunderstorm activity is possible from Northern New England down through Upstate New York and into West Virginia.
High temperatures in the Middle Atlantic region will be in the low to middle 90s; however, elevated humidity levels could bring heat indices to near 100 degrees. A Heat Advisory is in effect for Washington DC and surrounding communities in Maryland and Virginia through tonight.
West
Sweltering conditions are forecast from the Desert Southwest eastward. Highs will range from 115 to 120 degrees across the deserts of California and Arizona. Excessive Heat Warnings are in effect for most of the Mohave Desert through Saturday.
Temperatures along the front range of the Rockies will reach the upper 90s, and highs of 100 degrees are expected in cities like Reno, Boise and Salt Lake City. Along the immediate West Coast and western Washington, temperatures will stay in the seasonally normal range. Some monsoonal moisture will rise northward from the Gulf of California, bringing slightly more humidity than normal to the region. Scattered shower and thunderstorm activity is possible from Arizona into the four corners region of Arizona, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico through Saturday.
South
There is an increased chance for scattered showers and thunderstorms across much of the South, particularly from Arkansas to the Carolinas and down to the Gulf Coast. Temperatures will be in the 90s across the region with the exception of the southern Appalachians and coastal areas.
The recent heat wave, coupled with below normal rainfall, has resulted in drought development across the Mid Atlantic, southern Appalachians, lower Mississippi Valley and portions of northern Texas. Rainfall on July 9, brought some improvement to the Mid Atlantic, and additional improvement is forecast. Development of drought conditions is likely in Arizona and New Mexico during this period. A dry climate is expected to persist across western Wyoming, northeast California, Nevada and the leeward side of the Hawaiian Islands. While no relief is expected in the Mississippi Valley and Texas during the latter half of July, improvement is expected in October. The upper Mississippi Valley and Great Lakes has seen major drought improvement since the beginning of July, which is expected to continue. (NOAA, NWS, SPC)
Numerous wildfires were sparked by lightning strikes across San Diego and Riverside Counties during the late afternoon on Thursday, July 15. All fires in San Diego County have been contained. Local resources are working to contain fire activity in Riverside County.
The Cactus Fire, near Sage, CA, has burned 375 acres of heavy brush and is 10% contained. Mandatory evacuations are in effect in the area of Cactus Valley until further notice.
The Saddle Fire, also near Sage, has burned 70 acres of heavy brush and is 80% contained. Full containment is expected by 2:00 p.m. PDT July 16. Mandatory evacuations occurred at the onset of the fire, and were lifted at 8:30 p.m. last night. One outbuilding was damaged.
The Skinner Fire, located near Temecula, has burned 711 acres of vegetation and is 15% contained. Full containment is expected this morning. Some road closures are in effect.
A shelter for residents of the Sage, Anza, Pinion, Temecula and Hemet areas of Riverside County is located at Hemet High School. Media reports three fire fighters slightly injured. No requests for Federal Assistance anticipated at this time.
Situational Update:
The Rio Grande River remains at major flood stage at Rio Grande City, Texas but is now at moderate flood levels and continues to recede in Laredo, Texas and near the International Columbia Bridge. Flood operations are expected to continue at the Amistad and Falcon reservoirs. (FEMA Region VI)
The Wapsipinicon River near Dewitt, IA remains slightly above Major Flood Stage. The river is forecast to drop below flood stage by midday Saturday. The Des Moines River at Ottumwa, Iowa has fallen to Moderate Flood Stage and continues to recede. The river was at higher levels due to releases from the Saylorville and Red Rock Reservoirs. Agricultural areas both upstream and downstream of Ottumwa near the river may continue to experience flooding. (NOAA/North Central River Forecast Center)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico:
A tropical wave is producing a large area of disorganized area of clouds and showers over the central and southwestern Caribbean Sea. Development of this system will be slow to occur as it moves westward. Heavy rains associated with this system will spread over portions of Central America during the next day or two. There is a low chance (10%) of this system becoming a tropical cyclone in the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific:
Tropical Depression Six-E is located approximately 430 miles south of the southern tip of Baja California, Mexico moving west northwestward at about 8 mph. A gradual turn toward the west is expected over the next couple of days. No change in strength is expected over the next couple of days. Maximum sustained winds are 30 mph with higher gusts.
An area of disturbed weather has formed a few hundred miles west-southwest of Costa Rica. Upper-level winds are expected to increase and development of this system, if any should be slow to occur as it moves little during the next couple of days. There is a low chance (10) of this system becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected in the next 48 hours. (NOAA, NWS, NHC, CPHC JTWC)
The USGS reports that a magnitude 3.6 earthquake occurred at 5:04 AM EDT in the Washington, DC area approximately 10 miles northwest of Rockville, MD and 20 miles northwest of Washington, DC at a depth of 3.1 miles. The earthquake was felt over a large area along the I-270 corridor and west of I-95. Shaking was generally reported as light to weak.
No damage or injuries were reported.(USGS)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Thursday, July 15, 2010:
Initial attack activity was light with 115 new fires. There is one new Large Fire and one large fire was contained. Currently, there are eight Uncontained Large Fires affecting the states of WA, AK, NM, CA, CO, and NC. (NIFC)
The President signed Major Disaster Declaration FEMA-1924-DR-NE for the State of Nebraska for severe storms, flooding and tornadoes that occurred June 1, 2010 and continuing. The declaration provides for Public Assistance for 54 counties and Hazard Mitigation statewide.
Midwest
More shower and thunderstorm activity is expected today, particularly from Michigan to Kansas and from Michigan into northern Illinois. Some thunderstorms may be severe and contain damaging winds and tornadoes in the Central Plains, Middle Mississippi Valley, and Great Lakes regions. Heat Advisories and Excessive Heat Warnings are expected to continue today with Heat indices reaching 100-105 degrees in the Central Plains and Middle Mississippi Valley. The Southern Plains through the lower Great Lakes should improve on Friday; however, precipitation will continue during the next couple of days.
Northeast
Weather conditions will improve along the East Coast as drier air moves into the region. High temperatures will reach the middle to upper 80s over parts of upstate New York and New England and greater than 90 degrees from Pennsylvania southward.
South
Northern sections of the region will be dry; however, scattered thunderstorms are expected along the Southeast Coast and Florida. Most of the South will see the temperatures in the 80s. Highs from northeast Texas to the Mississippi Valley may approach 100 degrees. The high temperatures combined with high humidity levels will create heat indices of 105-115 degrees.
West
High temperatures may approach 115 degrees across the Desert Southwest, and highs above 100 degrees will extend through the Central Valley of California and up to southern Oregon. The Interior West and Great Basin areas will see highs well into the 90s. Scattered thunderstorms may occur in the higher elevations of Arizona, New Mexico and southern Colorado.
(NOAA and media sources)
The Rio Grande River remains at major flood stage at Rio Grande City, Texas but is now at moderate flood levels and continues to recede in Laredo, Texas and near the International Columbia Bridge. Flood operations are expected to continue at the Amistad and Falcon reservoirs.
(FEMA Region VI)
Showers and thunderstorms are expected in north-central Missouri and northeastern Iowa today and could result in continued flooding along the Des Moines River basin. The Des Moines River at Ottumwa, Iowa remains at major flood stage due to the high releases from the Saylorville and Red Rock Reservoirs. The Wapsipinicon River near Dewitt, Iowa is at major flood stage.
(NOAA)
FEMA is providing personnel to the National Integration Center and additional Logistics and External Affairs support to the Federal On-Scene Coordinator. FEMA leads the Social Services and Small Business Interagency Working Group (Claims and Benefits). The three ram capping stack is in place on the flange and integrity testing continues on the new system. The spill has impacted approximately 573 miles of coastline and the Gulf of Mexico exclusive economic zone closed to commercial and recreational fishing remains at approximately 34% or 81,181 square miles. Booming, skimming and in situ burning operations continue as weather permits.
(NIC Situation Report)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical activity is expected within the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific:
Tropical Depression Six-E is located approximately 345 miles southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico moving west-northwest at about 12 mph with maximum sustained winds around 35 mph. This general motion and some slight strengthening is expected to continue over the next day or so followed by a turn to the west on Saturday.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Wednesday, July 14, 2010:
Initial attack activity was light with 134 new fires and five new large fires. No large fires were contained. There are currently seven uncontained large fires in WA, AK, NM, CA, CO, and NC.
(NIFC)
The President signed major disaster declaration FEMA-1923-DR for Wyoming as a result of flooding from June 4-18, 2010. The declaration makes the Public Assistance Program available for Fremont County and the portions of the Wind River Indian Reservation and makes all counties eligible for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The Federal Coordinating Officer for this disaster response will be Steven S. Ward.
(FEMA HQ)
Northeast
A strong upper level disturbance is moving across the central Appalachians and Mid-Atlantic region. Showers and thunderstorms are forecast from New England to Virginia. The thunderstorms will contain some heavy downpours and some of the storms could produce damaging wind gusts in southeast Virginia.
South
Scattered thunderstorms are forecast for the South from Arkansas to the Carolinas, Georgia and Florida. The thunderstorms may bring damaging wind gusts and localized heavy rain. The Southern Plains, Lower and Mid Mississippi Valley region will be humid and hot. Heat advisories are in effect for most of the region. An excessive heat warning is in effect for eastern Oklahoma and the Fort Smith area of Arkansas.
West
Gusty winds will continue over eastern Montana. Temperatures will be slightly above average across the southern half of the region with highs ranging from 90 to near 100 degrees over the lower elevations of Colorado and New Mexico and between 100 to 125 degrees in the Desert Southwest. An Excessive Heat Watch is in effect for southeast California. An Excessive Heat Watch/ Excessive Heat Warning is in effect for portions of Arizona. The West will be dry but scattered showers and thunderstorms may occur across the Four Corners states.
Midwest
Severe thunderstorms are forecast for Minnesota, Wisconsin, Upper Michigan, Iowa, northwest Illinois and Nebraska, with the possibility of tornadoes, damaging wind gusts and hail. Heavy rainfall is possible, especially over northern Minnesota. Due to the high humidity, heat advisories are in effect across portions of Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky.
(NOAA)
The Rio Grande River remains at record flood levels at the International Columbia Bridge, and at major flood stage in Laredo and Rio Grande City, Texas. Flood operations are expected to continue at the Amistad and Falcon reservoirs for the next two weeks. The International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) increased floodwater release output into the Rio Grande that will further impact Rio Grande City, Texas. The water level rise from the planned release will not be a flash flood, but a fast river rise.
(FEMA Region VI)
FEMA is providing personnel to the National Integration Center and additional Logistics and External Affairs support to the Federal On-Scene Coordinator. FEMA leads the Social Services and Small Business Interagency Working Group (Claims and Benefits). The three ram capping stack is in place on the flange with the main valve open and freely flowing oil. Booming, skimming and in situ burning continues as weather permits. The spill has impacted approximately 553 miles of coastline and the Gulf of Mexico exclusive economic zone closed to commercial and recreational fishing remains approximately 34% or 81,181 square miles.
(NIC Daily Situation Update)
No activity. (FEMA HQ)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and Central and Western Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected in the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific:
A small area of low pressure located a few hundred miles southwest of Zihuatanejo, Mexico is conducive for development over the next couple of days. It is moving west northwestward at about 10 mph and the National Hurricane Center predicts this area has a 50 percent chance of becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Tuesday, July 13, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (146 new fires), new large fires: 2, large fires contained: 2
Uncontained large fires: 5, U.S. States affected: WA, AK, NM, CA, CO, and NC
(NIFC)
FEMA-1907-DR-North Dakota, Amendment #3, is effective July 13, 2010. This declaration is amended to include five counties for Public Assistance.
(FEMA HQ)
Northeast
Thunderstorms will increase across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Some of the thunderstorms in the Mid-Atlantic could contain damaging wind gusts and small hail. Downpours will quickly produce localized rainfall over 1 inch.
South
Thunderstorms are forecast from Arkansas and the Tennessee Valley into the Southeast. Rainfall could top 4 inches in some areas, causing flash flooding. Some of the thunderstorms may be severe with damaging wind gusts and small hail, especially across the Carolinas, north Georgia, north Alabama and northeast Mississippi. Highs will range from 5 degrees or so above average bringing near 100 degree temperatures to portions of Texas.
West
Gusty winds and an elevated fire danger will linger across Montana and Wyoming Tuesday due to a stationary cold front. The west will be mainly dry with only a few thunderstorms possible across the Four Corner states and in the mountains of central and Southern California. Temperatures will vary from between 5 and 15 degrees below average in the Northwest to between 5 and 10 degrees above average in Colorado and New Mexico. Near-average heat with highs between 100 and 120 is forecast for the Desert Southwest.
Midwest
Two fronts will influence the weather across the Midwest Tuesday. A weakening front in the Ohio Valley will continue to produce thunderstorms; these storms are capable of bringing several inches of rain in a short time, producing flash flooding. A few of the storms could be severe with strong wind gusts. Severe thunderstorms with damaging wind gusts, large hail and tornadoes will develop from the Dakotas and northern Nebraska into Minnesota and northwest Iowa bringing the possibility of flash flooding. Michigan to the central Plains will be dry today. Highs will range from 5 to 10 degrees above average for western Kansas bringing near 100 degree temperatures.
(NOAA and media sources)
The Rio Grande River reached record flood levels at 11 feet above flood stage at the international Columbia Bridge area and remains at major flood stage levels in Laredo and Rio Grande City, Texas. Rivers and reservoirs are showing a steady decrease of water levels and hot and dry conditions are expected next week. Flood operations are expected to continue at the Amistad and Falcon reservoirs for the next two weeks. FEMA Region VI Regional Response Coordination Center continues to be active at Level III (7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. CDT). The Region is coordinating with the National Weather Service and the Texas Division of Emergency Management. There have been no requests for Federal assistance.
(FEMA Region VI)
Water continues to recede along the Des Moines, Iowa, Wapsipinicon, and Skunk Rivers in Iowa, the Illinois River in Illinois, and the Mississippi River in Iowa, Illinois and Missouri. The Des Moines River is at major flood stage in Ottumwa, Iowa and it will remain at that level for at least a week due to releases from the Saylorville and Red Rock Reservoirs.
(NOAA)
FEMA is providing personnel to the National Integration Center and additional Logistics and External Affairs support to the Federal On-Scene Coordinator. FEMA leads the Social Services and Small Business Interagency Working Group (Claims and Benefits). Booming, skimming and in situ burning continues as weather permits. The spill has impacted approximately 553 miles of coastline and the Gulf of Mexico exclusive economic zone closed to commercial and recreational fishing remains approximately 34%. or 81,181 square miles.
(NIC Daily Situation Update)
No activity.(FEMA HQ)
Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and Western and Central Pacific:
No tropical cyclone activity expected in the next 48 hours.
Eastern Pacific:
There are showers and thunderstorms associated with a broad area of low pressure a few hundred miles southwest of the gulf of Tehuantepec.
Although these storms diminished over the last few hours, upper-level winds are marginally conducive for further development and there is a 30 percent chance of it becoming a tropical cyclone during the next 48 hours. During the next couple of days the system is expected to move west-northwestward at about 10 mph.
(NOAA, JTWC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)
National Preparedness Level: 2
National Fire Activity as of Monday, July 12, 2010:
Initial attack activity: light (168 new fires), new large fires: 3, Large fires contained: 2
Uncontained large fires: 5, U.S. States affected: WA, AK, NM, CO, and ID
(NIFC)
No new activity (FEMA HQ)