Areas of Extreme Heat and Fire Weather in the Northwest U.S.; Heavy Rain in the West and South-central U.S.

Extreme heat will continue in the interior Northwest into midweek before finally waning. Hot temperatures, dry, gusty winds, and isolated dry thunderstorms will bring critical fire weather. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected across portions of the Great Basin, Rockies, and central/southern Plains. An atmospheric river will bring heavy rain and strong winds to southwest Alaska. Read More >

May 23, 2011
Severe Weather & Tornadoes

A line of strong to severe thunderstorms moved quickly east through the region during the evening hours of May 23. There were widespread reports of wind damage from these storms, with measured wind gusts of 50-60 MPH being quite common, and a few reports coming in with even higher values. Along the squall line, several weak and brief circulations developed. Four tornadoes have been confirmed, along with numerous locations with significant straight-line wind damage.