Erin Strengthens to a Hurricane; Heavy Rainfall Possible in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, the Upper Midwest, South Texas

Hurricane Erin may bring isolated flash and urban flooding, landslides or mudslides, and possible tropical storm conditions to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands this weekend. Scattered thunderstorms and heavy rainfall may bring areas of flooding this weekend over the Upper Midwest. A tropical disturbance will bring locally heavy rain and mainly urban flash flooding to far southern Texas. Read More >

Winter Weather Awareness Day

November 17th is Winter Weather Awareness Day in northeast Kansas. This day is set aside to prepare for the cold, snow, and ice expected during the winter season in Kansas. It is a day to promote safety preparedness for the potentially hazardous weather that winter brings each year.

The winter season can bring rapidly changing weather conditions, which often catches people off guard and, thus, unprepared for the hazards associated with winter weather. Precipitation can begin as rain and quickly change to snow or freezing rain. As you travel, make sure to obtain the latest weather forecast and road conditions before heading out. Traveling even short distances in winter weather can mean dramatically different weather conditions.

Learn your risk and how to reduce that risk. Hint: It is driving in ice and snow.

Did you know in Kansas there have been approximately 300 vehicle related deaths in the past 20 years where snow or ice played some role? It's clear that the greatest weather related risk to you and your family in Kansas is driving in ice and snow!

So how can you reduce this risk? The takeaway point is to slow down, wear a seatbelt, and pay attention in driving in ice and snow! Further resources and safety information are included below.