Tracking Late Season Winter Storms; Unusual Early-Season Heat Wave in the Southwest

Heavy snow and high winds continue in the Great Lakes and Northeast. A moderate atmospheric river will continue to bring heavy precipitation to the Pacific Northwest and northern Rockies. A major winter storm will develop across the northern High Plains tonight into Saturday and rapidly strengthen as it moves into the Great Lakes on Sunday. Above-average temperatures expected in the Southwest. Read More >

The NWS is seeking user feedback on experimental Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) grids in the National Digital Forecast Database (NDFD) through September 30, 2020.

NWS currently uses the Heat Index to convey heat risk during summer heat events. While the heat index is useful for sedentary populations, research has proven that the WBGT is a more effective means of assessing heat risk to persons involved in physical activity. The WBGT is a composite parameter that estimates the effects of temperature, humidity, wind, and solar radiation on humans, while the Heat Index only takes into account temperature and humidity.

Based upon engagement with core partners, particularly emergency management officials, the NWS has identified the need to provide WBGT forecasts because it is becoming an increasingly needed parameter by partners in Impact-based Decision Support Services (IDSS) activities. In particular, WBGT is important for those partners who need a numerical (finite) value, rather than a threat index, to determine necessary modifications to their respective activities in the interest of protecting life.To better meet users' needs, NWS will provide gridded forecasts of WBGT in the NDFD on an experimental basis.

View the WBGT forecasts

NWS Product Description Document for the experimental WBGT forecasts

Feedback form and survey

WFO Raleigh heat safety page

Radar