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  • Sturgeon Moon arrives this weekend with planetary conjunction soon after

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    Our next full moon, popularly called the Sturgeon Moon, will rise in the night sky the evening of Friday, August 8th, across the U.S.

    What You Need To Know

    • August’s full moon is often called the Sturgeon Moon
    • It is also called the Corn Moon
    • Venus, Neptune and the moon will be close to each other in the sky days after the full moon


    The full moon this month, our eighth of the year, will rise after sunset Friday evening across the east coast of the U.S. and fully peak overnight. 

    According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the full moon is called the Sturgeon Moon because it occurs around the time the sturgeon fish were most easily caught by Native Americans around the Great Lakes. It is also called the Corn Moon and Harvest Moon by other Native American tribes. 

    The best viewing will be after sunset on Friday. To find the best time to view in your area, check out the moonrise calculator. Be sure to find a place with unobstructed horizon views for the best sights.

    Smoke from ongoing Canadian wildfires could make the rising full moon appear more orange.

    Potential cloud coverage across the U.S. Friday night. (weathermodels.com)

    A celestial gathering

    The full moon won’t be the only celestial event going on early in August. On August 12th, a few days after the Sturgeon Moon, the planets Venus and Neptune will share the sky in proximity with the moon.

    The beautiful twilight sky (Nov 28, 2019) after sunset with the planets conjuction of Moon (with earth shine), Venus and Jupiter. (Getty)

    This event, called a planetary conjunction, will be a good one for night sky watchers. Venus will be easily seen with the naked eye, but you will need a telescope or binoculars to see Neptune as well. 

    The next full moon will be the Harvest Moon, which occurs on September 7th, 2025. This is a special full moon as it will appear closest to the autumnal equinox.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

     

     

     

     

     

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    Meteorologist Ian Cassette

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  • NOAA updates its Atlantic hurricane season forecast

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    The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is entering its most active period in the upcoming months, and NOAA has updated its annual hurricane season outlook. NOAA’s latest forecast is still calling for above normal activity this season.

    What You Need To Know

    • NOAA still predicts above normal activity this hurricane season

    • The forecast calls for 13 to 18 named storms, 5 to 9 hurricanes and 2 to 5 major hurricanes

    • So far, there have been four named storms in the Atlantic this season


    NOAA’s updated outlook predicts a 50% chance of an above normal season, a 35% chance of a near normal season and a 15% chance of a below normal season. 

    NOAA forecasts a likely range of 13 to 18 named storms, of which 5 to 9 could become hurricanes, including 2 to 5 major hurricanes, which are a Category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.

    These are similar numbers to NOAA’s original outlook released in May, but they have been slightly reduced.

    Remember, predictions of the season’s activity are not predictions of exactly how many storms will make landfall in a particular place. Individual storms make impacts, regardless of how active (or not) a season is.

    NOAA researchers cite a handful of different factors for this year’s forecast, including warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, ENSO neutral conditions and an active West African Monsoon. “Many of the factors we identified ahead of the season are still at play, and conditions are largely tracking along with our May predictions.”

    The National Hurricane Center continues to urge advanced preparations for coastal communities before a storm hits.

    NOAA’s National Weather Service Director Ken Graham says, “No two storms are alike; every storm presents unique, life-threatening hazards that can impact people in both coastal and inland communities. Have a plan in place, and know the actions you should take before, during and after the wide range of hazards that the hurricane season can bring.” 

    Here is the list of names being used for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, last used in 2019. Dexter is the only new name on the list after Dorian was retired for causing extensive death and destruction in the Bahamas, Southeast U.S. and eastern Canada.

    So far, there have been four named storms this hurricane season.


    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.


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    Meteorologist Reid Lybarger

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  • Dexter turns post-tropical in the northern Atlantic

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    Dexter stayed over the open Atlantic.

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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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  • Colorado State University updates Atlantic hurricane season forecast

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    Researchers at Colorado State University updated their 2025 Atlantic hurricane season forecast Wednesday morning, and are still calling for above normal activity. The initial forecast released in early April also predicted above normal activity.

    What You Need To Know

    • Colorado State University is forecasting slightly above normal activity

    • The forecast calls for 16 named storms, 8 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes; slightly reduced numbers from initial forecasts

    • The next couple months are typically when the peak of tropical activity occurs


    The updated forecast calls for 16 named storms, including the 4 that have already formed. Of those 16 storms, 8 are expected to become hurricanes and 3 are expected to reach major hurricane strength. These are the same numbers from CSU’s last update back in July.

    This is a slight reduction from CSU’s original forecast released in April, which called for 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes and 4 major hurricanes.

    Despite the above-normal forecast, CSU notes lower-than-normal confidence with this outlook. Although sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Atlantic have warmed above normal over the past few weeks, there is some uncertainty.

    Researchers say, “the primary reason for the uncertainty in the outlook is the high observed Caribbean shear over the past several weeks. Typically, high levels of Caribbean shear in June–July are associated with less active hurricane seasons.”

    The ENSO phase is neutral right now, and strong trade winds over the central tropical Pacific for the next few weeks will likely reduce the potential for a transition to El Niño conditions compared to what was previously thought. The tropics are typically more active during El Niño years. 

    Here is the list of names being used for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, last used in 2019. Dexter is the only new name on the list after Dorian was retired for causing extensive death and destruction in the Bahamas, Southeast U.S. and eastern Canada.


    The CSU forecast matches NOAA’s hurricane season forecast, which also calls for above normal activity. You can track the latest activity in the tropics here.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Reid Lybarger

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  • Colorado State University updates Atlantic hurricane season forecast

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    Researchers at Colorado State University updated their 2025 Atlantic hurricane season forecast Wednesday morning, and are still calling for above normal activity. The initial forecast released in early April also predicted above normal activity.

    What You Need To Know

    • Colorado State University is forecasting slightly above normal activity

    • The forecast calls for 16 named storms, 8 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes; slightly reduced numbers from initial forecasts

    • The next couple months are typically when the peak of tropical activity occurs


    The updated forecast calls for 16 named storms, including the 4 that have already formed. Of those 16 storms, 8 are expected to become hurricanes and 3 are expected to reach major hurricane strength. These are the same numbers from CSU’s last update back in July.

    This is a slight reduction from CSU’s original forecast released in April, which called for 17 named storms, 9 hurricanes and 4 major hurricanes.

    Despite the above-normal forecast, CSU notes lower-than-normal confidence with this outlook. Although sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Atlantic have warmed above normal over the past few weeks, there is some uncertainty.

    Researchers say, “the primary reason for the uncertainty in the outlook is the high observed Caribbean shear over the past several weeks. Typically, high levels of Caribbean shear in June–July are associated with less active hurricane seasons.”

    The ENSO phase is neutral right now, and strong trade winds over the central tropical Pacific for the next few weeks will likely reduce the potential for a transition to El Niño conditions compared to what was previously thought. The tropics are typically more active during El Niño years. 

    Here is the list of names being used for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, last used in 2019. Dexter is the only new name on the list after Dorian was retired for causing extensive death and destruction in the Bahamas, Southeast U.S. and eastern Canada.


    The CSU forecast matches NOAA’s hurricane season forecast, which also calls for above normal activity. You can track the latest activity in the tropics here.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Reid Lybarger

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  • How lightning can help your garden grow

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    The classic summer thunderstorm is doing more for your lawn and garden than you might realize. That extra bit of green and growth after a storm isn’t just because it rained.

    There is a science behind why that is the case, and I’m here to explain it. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Lightning plays a big role in the nitrogen cycle

    • Nitrates are considered a “super fertilizer” that helps plants green up faster

    • Most plants receive usable nitrogen through bacteria in soil


    Understanding what the nitrogen cycle does is important to know before diving into lightning’s role in the cycle. Simply put, plants need nutrients to grow. 

    About 78% of Earth’s atmosphere is made up of “free” nitrogen (N2) gas. All living things need nitrogen to build amino acids, essential proteins, as well as DNA and RNA. 

    Nitrogen in its “free” form cannot be used by living things. That is where the nitrogen cycle comes in. For nitrogen to be used, it must be changed into different states like nitrates (NO3), nitrites (NO2), and ammonium (NH3). 

    Nitrogen is mostly brought into the living world by way of bacteria in the soil, which convert atmospheric nitrogen into the nitrates. Once in any of those usable states, plants can take up these molecules and grow. 

    Lightning’s role in the nitrogen cycle

    While most of the free nitrogen is converted through bacteria, lightning also plays a meaningful role. 

    During a storm, the explosive heat of lightning tears the nitrogen and oxygen molecules in the air apart. The free molecules then recombine, forming nitrogen oxides, which fall down to earth in the rain. 

    Given that most rain doesn’t carry many nutrients, nitrogen oxide-filled raindrops can bring abundant free fertilizer to your yard and garden during a storm. A storm or two may not make a big difference, but multiple rounds of storms over the course of a week or two can bring lush green and vivid colors to your garden.

    So when you hear cracks of thunder outside, just know that your plants are thankful!

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Ian Cassette

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  • How lightning can help your garden grow

    [ad_1]

    The classic summer thunderstorm is doing more for your lawn and garden than you might realize. That extra bit of green and growth after a storm isn’t just because it rained.

    There is a science behind why that is the case, and I’m here to explain it. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Lightning plays a big role in the nitrogen cycle

    • Nitrates are considered a “super fertilizer” that helps plants green up faster

    • Most plants receive usable nitrogen through bacteria in soil


    Understanding what the nitrogen cycle does is important to know before diving into lightning’s role in the cycle. Simply put, plants need nutrients to grow. 

    About 78% of Earth’s atmosphere is made up of “free” nitrogen (N2) gas. All living things need nitrogen to build amino acids, essential proteins, as well as DNA and RNA. 

    Nitrogen in its “free” form cannot be used by living things. That is where the nitrogen cycle comes in. For nitrogen to be used, it must be changed into different states like nitrates (NO3), nitrites (NO2), and ammonium (NH3). 

    Nitrogen is mostly brought into the living world by way of bacteria in the soil, which convert atmospheric nitrogen into the nitrates. Once in any of those usable states, plants can take up these molecules and grow. 

    Lightning’s role in the nitrogen cycle

    While most of the free nitrogen is converted through bacteria, lightning also plays a meaningful role. 

    During a storm, the explosive heat of lightning tears the nitrogen and oxygen molecules in the air apart. The free molecules then recombine, forming nitrogen oxides, which fall down to earth in the rain. 

    Given that most rain doesn’t carry many nutrients, nitrogen oxide-filled raindrops can bring abundant free fertilizer to your yard and garden during a storm. A storm or two may not make a big difference, but multiple rounds of storms over the course of a week or two can bring lush green and vivid colors to your garden.

    So when you hear cracks of thunder outside, just know that your plants are thankful!

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Ian Cassette

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  • How to stay safe during extreme heat

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    Now that summer is here, dangerous heat and humidity will be more common over the next couple months.

    If you’re experiencing extreme heat, it’s important to recognize the signs of heat illnesses and know how to stay safe.

    What You Need To Know

    • High humidity makes extreme heat more dangerous for your body

    • You should limit outdoor activity if you’re under a Heat Advisory or Extreme Heat Warning

    • Everyone is susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke during the summer


    There are many symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and it’s important to recognize the signs before going outside. 

    If you or someone you know is ever experiencing any of these symptoms, focus on immediate cooling and hydration.

    There are other factors that can affect your body in the heat, including if the heat is dry or humid. When humidity is high, your sweat can’t evaporate quickly, preventing your body from cooling down.

    Some other factors that can affect you:

    • Age
    • Obesity
    • Dehydration
    • Heart disease
    • Sunburn
    • Medications or illness

    The highest risk groups are the elderly, young children, pets and people with chronic diseases or mental illness.

    Heat safety tips

    Once you know your risks, know what actions to take to stay safe and prevent heat illness.

    • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water and electrolytes
    • Stay cool: Spend time in air-conditioned buildings and limit outdoor activity
    • If you have to spend time outside, try to schedule outdoor events early or later in the day when it’s cooler and seek shade
    • Wear and reapply sunscreen, and wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing
    • Check on others, including friends, family and neighbors, especially the most vulnerable
    • Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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  • The Perseid meteor shower begins, lasts through late August

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    The Perseid meteor shower is always a highly-anticipated astronomical event. However, this year, the viewing may be more difficult than in years past.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Perseid meteor shower has up to 75 meteors per hour

    • The best time for viewing will fall in the pre-dawn hours

    • A full moon may get in the way of peak viewing

    The Perseid meteor shower starts Thursday, July 17 and lasts through Aug. 24. While you can spot meteors zooming across the sky any time after dark, your best opportunity will be in the few hours before sunrise.

    As the night goes on, the constellation Perseus — where the meteors appear to originate­ — will rise higher in the northeast sky. However, you can look anywhere overhead, not just in that direction.

    Meteors will be visible through the duration of the event, but its peak is on Tuesday, Aug. 12. If you’re lucky enough to have a clear sky, you may see 50 to 75 meteors every hour. 

    The Perseids produce long, bright trails, making it one of the more visual annual showers.

    In this long exposure photo, a streak appears in the sky during the annual Perseid meteor shower in 2016. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

    In this long exposure photo, a streak appears in the sky during the annual Perseid meteor shower in 2016. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

    We see the Perseids in the late summer as the Earth passes through the dust and debris that Comet Swift-Tuttle leaves behind. The “shooting stars” actually come from grains that are about the size of Grape Nuts, according to Sky & Telescope, that burn in the atmosphere as they zip by at over 130,000 miles per hour.

    The nuggets of Grape Nuts cereal are a good approximation of the cometary dust grains that create meteor showers.

    The nuggets of Grape Nuts cereal are a good approximation of the cometary dust grains that create meteor showers. (Courtesy of Sky & Telescope)

    There is one fly in the ointment for this year’s Perseid viewing. The next full moon on the morning of Saturday, Aug. 9, is expected to be one of the brightest of the year. This will severly limit the number of meteors seen in the day or two leading up to and following the full moon.

    This would closely coincide with the peak on Tuesday, Aug. 12. 

    No matter what, you’ve got plenty of time to see this premier celestial event for the next several weeks. 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

    Source link

  • The Perseid meteor shower begins, lasts through late August

    [ad_1]

    The Perseid meteor shower is always a highly-anticipated astronomical event. However, this year, the viewing may be more difficult than in years past.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Perseid meteor shower has up to 75 meteors per hour

    • The best time for viewing will fall in the pre-dawn hours

    • A full moon may get in the way of peak viewing

    The Perseid meteor shower starts Thursday, July 17 and lasts through Aug. 24. While you can spot meteors zooming across the sky any time after dark, your best opportunity will be in the few hours before sunrise.

    As the night goes on, the constellation Perseus — where the meteors appear to originate­ — will rise higher in the northeast sky. However, you can look anywhere overhead, not just in that direction.

    Meteors will be visible through the duration of the event, but its peak is on Tuesday, Aug. 12. If you’re lucky enough to have a clear sky, you may see 50 to 75 meteors every hour. 

    The Perseids produce long, bright trails, making it one of the more visual annual showers.

    In this long exposure photo, a streak appears in the sky during the annual Perseid meteor shower in 2016. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

    In this long exposure photo, a streak appears in the sky during the annual Perseid meteor shower in 2016. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

    We see the Perseids in the late summer as the Earth passes through the dust and debris that Comet Swift-Tuttle leaves behind. The “shooting stars” actually come from grains that are about the size of Grape Nuts, according to Sky & Telescope, that burn in the atmosphere as they zip by at over 130,000 miles per hour.

    The nuggets of Grape Nuts cereal are a good approximation of the cometary dust grains that create meteor showers.

    The nuggets of Grape Nuts cereal are a good approximation of the cometary dust grains that create meteor showers. (Courtesy of Sky & Telescope)

    There is one fly in the ointment for this year’s Perseid viewing. The next full moon on the morning of Saturday, Aug. 9, is expected to be one of the brightest of the year. This will severly limit the number of meteors seen in the day or two leading up to and following the full moon.

    This would closely coincide with the peak on Tuesday, Aug. 12. 

    No matter what, you’ve got plenty of time to see this premier celestial event for the next several weeks. 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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  • How the weather could impact tonight’s MLB Home Run Derby

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    When you think of a baseball player hitting a home run, there are lots of variables that come into play. Who is the batter? Who is the pitcher? What stadium are they playing at? But what about the weather? 

    Wind, rain and snow may come to mind first, but temperature and humidity can influence how far a baseball travels and be a deciding factor in if the ball makes it out of the park.

    What You Need To Know

    • The temperature can influence how far a baseball travels

    • Warm and humid air is less dense than cold and dry air

    • Lower density allows the baseball to travel further

    Warm air is less dense than cold air. Air expands when it’s heated, so the molecules are more spread out. This means there is less air for the ball to travel through, giving it less resistance. 

    Now factoring in humidity, warmer air can hold more moisture. Water vapor is light compared to nitrogen and oxygen molecules, so humid air is less dense than dry air at the same temperature.

    When it’s hot and humid, the air is lighter, and the baseball can travel further.

    A 2023 study claims that “a 1° C increase in the daily high temperature on the day of a baseball game played in a stadium without a dome increases the number of home runs in that game by 1.96%.” A bigger difference in home runs was observed for games played during the early afternoon versus night games because of the larger difference in temperature.

    How about cold air? Cold air is more dense than warm air, so the ball has to travel through more air. Molecules move closer together when the air contracts as temperature lowers. 

    If it’s cold and dry out, the drier air will have fewer water vapor molecules, so the nitrogen and oxygen comprising the air will be heavier than the humid air would be. 

    Ideally, outdoor games in hot and humid climates are most favorable for seeing your favorite team or player hit a home run.

    Tonight’s MLB Home Run Derby is in Atlanta, and the forecast calls for no rain and temperatures near 90 degrees with heat index values in the mid-90s. Get ready to watch the ball fly! 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Reid Lybarger

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  • Thursday brings July’s full moon, the ‘Buck Moon’

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    This month’s “Buck Moon” also happens when the moon will be at its closest to Earth for the year.

    What You Need To Know

    • July’s full moon is commonly called the “Buck Moon,” but sometimes goes by “Thunder Moon”

    • It will peak Thursday afternoon but look largest around sunset

    • The moon will appear low in the sky because it’s the full moon closest to the summer solstice


    Full moons’ nicknames typically relate to something from that time of year. July’s full moon is called the “Buck Moon” because this is when bucks’ (male deer) new antlers have grown more sizeable after starting late in the spring.

    An American Whitetail deer buck. (AP Photo/Dr. Scott M. Lieberman)

    Other names include the “Thunder Moon,” as this time of year typically sees a threat for thunderstorms.

    The moon will be at its fullest at 4:36 p.m. EDT, but it’ll still be essentially full when it rises Thursday evening and will appear low in the sky. This happens because it’s the full moon closest to the summer solstice, when the sun is at its highest in the daytime sky, and the moon tracks a correspondingly low path through the night.

    The moon will look even lower than normal because of a phenomenon known as a ‘Major Lunar Standstill,’ when the sun’s gravity drags the moon’s tilted orbit into its most extreme inclination relative to Earth’s celestial equator. This occurs every 18.6 years.

    Here’s the cloud cover forecast for Wednesday evening through Friday evening across the country.


    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

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  • Thursday brings July’s full moon, the ‘Buck Moon’

    [ad_1]

    This month’s “Buck Moon” also happens when the moon will be at its closest to Earth for the year.

    What You Need To Know

    • July’s full moon is commonly called the “Buck Moon,” but sometimes goes by “Thunder Moon”

    • It will peak Thursday afternoon but look largest around sunset

    • The moon will appear low in the sky because it’s the full moon closest to the summer solstice


    Full moons’ nicknames typically relate to something from that time of year. July’s full moon is called the “Buck Moon” because this is when bucks’ (male deer) new antlers have grown more sizeable after starting late in the spring.

    An American Whitetail deer buck. (AP Photo/Dr. Scott M. Lieberman)

    Other names include the “Thunder Moon,” as this time of year typically sees a threat for thunderstorms.

    The moon will be at its fullest at 4:36 p.m. EDT, but it’ll still be essentially full when it rises Thursday evening and will appear low in the sky. This happens because it’s the full moon closest to the summer solstice, when the sun is at its highest in the daytime sky, and the moon tracks a correspondingly low path through the night.

    The moon will look even lower than normal because of a phenomenon known as a ‘Major Lunar Standstill,’ when the sun’s gravity drags the moon’s tilted orbit into its most extreme inclination relative to Earth’s celestial equator. This occurs every 18.6 years.

    Here’s the cloud cover forecast for Wednesday evening through Friday evening across the country.


    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

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  • 5 simple ways to run your A/C less this summer

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    Help your air conditioner help you stay cool this summer. Check out these things that you can do today to take some pressure off your A/C and save you some money on your electric bill.

    What You Need To Know

    • Your ceiling fan should spin a certain way to create a breeze

    • Limit the amount of sunlight coming into your home

    • Raise the thermostat, especially when you’re away

    • Maintain your air conditioning system



    Look at your ceiling fans

    Turn on your ceiling fans and see which way they’re spinning. Having them go counterclockwise circulates the air around the room, creating a small breeze that’ll help keep you cool.

    This can especially become helpful if you have a second floor, since warm air rises and you might need a little extra “oomph” to keep things cool there.

    (Spectrum News/Justin Gehrts)

    Open up

    Don’t close doors to rooms or walk-in closets. Keeping them open lets air circulate. One exception to this rule is the bathroom while showering, beyond obviously wanting privacy. You don’t want your air conditioner working hard to counteract the warm, humid air, so close that door while you’re in there and turn on the ceiling vent fan.

    Block the sun

    Okay, you can’t completely blot out the sun’s light to keep it from heating up your house. But you can close your blinds or curtains. Bright sunlight shining through the windows adds unwanted heat… well, maybe not unwanted by everyone.

    Turn the dial

    Stop us if you’ve heard this one before: Turn up your thermostat a few degrees. There’s a good reason it’s repeated so often. Every degree of cooling increases energy usage by as much as 8%!

    (Photo by Olivia Levada)

    Try upping it by a degree or two at first and gradually increase it as you get more used to the higher setting. Remember to use fans to your advantage.

    If you’d rather not set your thermostat higher all the time, try doing it when you’re going to be away for a while. Just don’t crank it really low for your return; a colder setting doesn’t make your home cool any faster.

    Keep it clean

    Replace the indoor air filter as necessary (usually every couple of months), since a dirty filter reduces air flow and makes your A/C work harder than it needs to.

    (Spectrum News)

    You also need to keep the actual air conditioning unit that’s outdoors clean. Remove leaves and other debris, then hose off the dust, dirt and other stuff that’s gotten stuck in there.

    Extra credit

    Want to go above and beyond the five simple tips above? Here are three bonus ideas.

    • Seal air leaks around windows. Many kids have heard “we’re not cooling the outside!” as they hold the front door open for longer than necessary. Your house might already be doing that without being as obvious. Closing those leaks keeps warm air out and cool air in.
    • Get an A/C inspection. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Having a professional check on your air conditioner each year can save you a lot of trouble… and sweating, if it conks out in the middle of the summer.
    • Plant shade trees. These are most effective on the south and west sides of your house, since that’s where the strongest afternoon sunshine comes from. This can be pricey up front, but is certainly beneficial. If you DIY it, be sure to get underground utilities marked.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Justin Gehrts

    Source link

  • 5 simple ways to run your A/C less this summer

    [ad_1]

    Help your air conditioner help you stay cool this summer. Check out these things that you can do today to take some pressure off your A/C and save you some money on your electric bill.

    What You Need To Know

    • Your ceiling fan should spin a certain way to create a breeze

    • Limit the amount of sunlight coming into your home

    • Raise the thermostat, especially when you’re away

    • Maintain your air conditioning system



    Look at your ceiling fans

    Turn on your ceiling fans and see which way they’re spinning. Having them go counterclockwise circulates the air around the room, creating a small breeze that’ll help keep you cool.

    This can especially become helpful if you have a second floor, since warm air rises and you might need a little extra “oomph” to keep things cool there.

    (Spectrum News/Justin Gehrts)

    Open up

    Don’t close doors to rooms or walk-in closets. Keeping them open lets air circulate. One exception to this rule is the bathroom while showering, beyond obviously wanting privacy. You don’t want your air conditioner working hard to counteract the warm, humid air, so close that door while you’re in there and turn on the ceiling vent fan.

    Block the sun

    Okay, you can’t completely blot out the sun’s light to keep it from heating up your house. But you can close your blinds or curtains. Bright sunlight shining through the windows adds unwanted heat… well, maybe not unwanted by everyone.

    Turn the dial

    Stop us if you’ve heard this one before: Turn up your thermostat a few degrees. There’s a good reason it’s repeated so often. Every degree of cooling increases energy usage by as much as 8%!

    (Photo by Olivia Levada)

    Try upping it by a degree or two at first and gradually increase it as you get more used to the higher setting. Remember to use fans to your advantage.

    If you’d rather not set your thermostat higher all the time, try doing it when you’re going to be away for a while. Just don’t crank it really low for your return; a colder setting doesn’t make your home cool any faster.

    Keep it clean

    Replace the indoor air filter as necessary (usually every couple of months), since a dirty filter reduces air flow and makes your A/C work harder than it needs to.

    (Spectrum News)

    You also need to keep the actual air conditioning unit that’s outdoors clean. Remove leaves and other debris, then hose off the dust, dirt and other stuff that’s gotten stuck in there.

    Extra credit

    Want to go above and beyond the five simple tips above? Here are three bonus ideas.

    • Seal air leaks around windows. Many kids have heard “we’re not cooling the outside!” as they hold the front door open for longer than necessary. Your house might already be doing that without being as obvious. Closing those leaks keeps warm air out and cool air in.
    • Get an A/C inspection. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Having a professional check on your air conditioner each year can save you a lot of trouble… and sweating, if it conks out in the middle of the summer.
    • Plant shade trees. These are most effective on the south and west sides of your house, since that’s where the strongest afternoon sunshine comes from. This can be pricey up front, but is certainly beneficial. If you DIY it, be sure to get underground utilities marked.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Justin Gehrts

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  • 5 simple ways to run your A/C less this summer

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    Help your air conditioner help you stay cool this summer. Check out these things that you can do today to take some pressure off your A/C and save you some money on your electric bill.

    What You Need To Know

    • Your ceiling fan should spin a certain way to create a breeze

    • Limit the amount of sunlight coming into your home

    • Raise the thermostat, especially when you’re away

    • Maintain your air conditioning system



    Look at your ceiling fans

    Turn on your ceiling fans and see which way they’re spinning. Having them go counterclockwise circulates the air around the room, creating a small breeze that’ll help keep you cool.

    This can especially become helpful if you have a second floor, since warm air rises and you might need a little extra “oomph” to keep things cool there.

    (Spectrum News/Justin Gehrts)

    Open up

    Don’t close doors to rooms or walk-in closets. Keeping them open lets air circulate. One exception to this rule is the bathroom while showering, beyond obviously wanting privacy. You don’t want your air conditioner working hard to counteract the warm, humid air, so close that door while you’re in there and turn on the ceiling vent fan.

    Block the sun

    Okay, you can’t completely blot out the sun’s light to keep it from heating up your house. But you can close your blinds or curtains. Bright sunlight shining through the windows adds unwanted heat… well, maybe not unwanted by everyone.

    Turn the dial

    Stop us if you’ve heard this one before: Turn up your thermostat a few degrees. There’s a good reason it’s repeated so often. Every degree of cooling increases energy usage by as much as 8%!

    (Photo by Olivia Levada)

    Try upping it by a degree or two at first and gradually increase it as you get more used to the higher setting. Remember to use fans to your advantage.

    If you’d rather not set your thermostat higher all the time, try doing it when you’re going to be away for a while. Just don’t crank it really low for your return; a colder setting doesn’t make your home cool any faster.

    Keep it clean

    Replace the indoor air filter as necessary (usually every couple of months), since a dirty filter reduces air flow and makes your A/C work harder than it needs to.

    (Spectrum News)

    You also need to keep the actual air conditioning unit that’s outdoors clean. Remove leaves and other debris, then hose off the dust, dirt and other stuff that’s gotten stuck in there.

    Extra credit

    Want to go above and beyond the five simple tips above? Here are three bonus ideas.

    • Seal air leaks around windows. Many kids have heard “we’re not cooling the outside!” as they hold the front door open for longer than necessary. Your house might already be doing that without being as obvious. Closing those leaks keeps warm air out and cool air in.
    • Get an A/C inspection. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Having a professional check on your air conditioner each year can save you a lot of trouble… and sweating, if it conks out in the middle of the summer.
    • Plant shade trees. These are most effective on the south and west sides of your house, since that’s where the strongest afternoon sunshine comes from. This can be pricey up front, but is certainly beneficial. If you DIY it, be sure to get underground utilities marked.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Justin Gehrts

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  • Chantal brought heavy rain and significant flooding to the Carolinas

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    Chantal has become post-tropical as continues to move through the Mid-Atlantic. It’s expected to dissipate later Monday with some additional rainfall and flooding potential across parts of eastern Virginia, Maryland, Delaware and Pennsylvania.

    What You Need To Know

    • Tropical Storm Chantal made landfall near Litchfield Beach, South Carolina on July 6

    • It brought heavy rainfall and significant flooding to parts of North Carolina

    • It was the first storm to make landfall in the U.S. in 2025


    Chantal began as Tropical Depression Three, forming off the coast of northeast Florida. It became Tropical Storm Chantal one day later, on July 5.

    It made landfall just one day after forming, moving inland near Litchfield Beach, South Carolina, as a tropical storm with winds of 60 mph on July 6. Chantal was the first storm to make landfall in the U.S. during the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season.

    The highest winds reported were in Myrtle Beach at the Springmaid Pier, with gusts up to 56 mph. An EF0 tornado also touched down in Wilmington, N.C., causing minor home damage and extensive tree damage.

    Heavy rainfall and flash flooding were the biggest impacts from Chantal. Radar-estimated rainfall totals up 9 to 12 inches were recorded in parts of North Carolina between Raleigh and Greensboro, causing significant flooding around Chapel Hill and nearby rivers.

    Chapel Hill Fire Department said it performed roughly 50 rescues since Sunday morning. First responders also rescued people in Durham after the Eno River hit major flood stage. Flooding on the Haw River shut down I-85 and I-40 in Alamance County after Chantal moved through.


    There are no more watches and warnings in effect.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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  • SpaceX may see first-stage boosters land at launch pad

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    CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — Last week’s Axiom 4 launch featured the return of SpaceX’s first stage Falcon 9 booster back at Landing Zone 1 (LZ-1) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

    This return is significant because the SpaceX lease on LZ-1 is coming to an end in July 2025.

    And it means that SpaceX’s famed Falcon 9 first-stage booster may be returning on a launch pad instead of LZ-1 during crewed missions.

    What You Need To Know

    • SpaceX’s Falcon 9 first-stage booster may be returning on a launch pad

    • SpaceX is currently seeking a launch license modification for its Falcon 9 operations at Space Launch Complex 40 

    • The request would increase the number of permitted launches from 50 to 120 per year

    • Space Launch Delta 45 stated existing launch complex property agreements for landing operations will be discontinued come July 2025

    • Get more space coverage here  ▶

    Back in May 2023, Space Launch Delta 45 issued a press release, stating, “SLC 13, currently Landing Zone 1 and 2, is also moving forward with Phantom Space and Vaya Space.”

    It means that the existing launch complex property agreements for landing operations will be discontinued once the agreements expire.

    “Commercial Launch Service Providers (CLSP) with landing operations can submit a request to SLD 45 for consideration of landing capability at their complex, which will then go through an extensive evaluation process,” said Erin White, Delta planning specialist. “Requests for landing operations will be evaluated for safety implications and their impacts to other programs on CCSFS.”

    So, for any CLSP, like SpaceX, that want to land a rocket will also have the choice to do it offshore on a ship, barge, or platform.

    “Vaya and Phantom are committed to making the best possible use of limited launch real estate on the Space Coast. We’ve agreed among the three of us to extend SpaceX’s use of SLC-13 through the end of the year while we are doing off-site preparations for adapting the site to our use, but that is still under review by SLD 45. By supporting SpaceX landings during our transition phase, we’re maximizing operational efficiency and ensuring this site continues to serve the broader launch community while we set the stage for our future use,” said Vaya Space COO Robert Fabian to Spectrum News.

    Signed new lease agreements with four CLSPs

    SpaceX is currently seeking a launch license modification for its Falcon 9 operations at Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS) in Florida.

    The request would increase the number of permitted launches from 50 to 120 per year—an additional 70 launches annually.

    Additionally, SpaceX plans to build a new landing zone at SLC-40 due to recent lease agreements with Space Launch Delta 45 (SLD-45).

    The proposed plans call SpaceX to “… construct a single LZ east of SLC-40 for the landing of Falcon first-stage boosters. The LZ would be made up of a 280-foot-diameter concrete pad surrounded by a 60-foot-wide gravel apron, with a total LZ diameter of 400 feet. Rocket Road would remain paved and traversable outside of landing events. SpaceX would construct a new nitrogen gas line from the existing metering station at SLC-40 to a fluids bay at the LZ. A 30-foot by 30-foot pedestal would be constructed adjacent to the landing pad to support post-landing vehicle processing. Crane storage is proposed along the existing SLC-40 fence line. The proposed lease boundary is approximately 10 acres.”

    The proposed LZ for SLC-40 is attached to the post.

    SpaceX also has plans to construct a landing zone at Launch Complex 39A, just north of the current pad at Kennedy Space Center.

    These plans are in part due to the future development plans from Space Launch Delta 45, where Commercial Launch Service Providers must meet the new requirements landing capabilities occurring back the CLSP’s launch site to minimizing impacts and evacuations at nearby CLSP complexes at nearby facilities at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Kennedy Space Center.

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    Jon Shaban

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  • Barry made landfall as a tropical depression

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    Tropical Storm Barry formed on the morning of June 29 over the Bay of Campeche, becoming the second named storm of the 2025 hurricane season.

    What You Need To Know

    • Tropical Storm Barry formed in the Bay of Campeche on the morning of June 29
    • Maximum winds reached 45 mph

    • Barry made landfall as a Tropical Depression across the mountains of northeastern Mexico


    Just like its predecessor, Tropical Storm Andrea, Barry formed and dissipated the same day. Maximum winds only reached 45 mph before Barry moved inland, dissipating across the mountains of northeastern Mexico.

    Barry caused flooding and damage in Quintana Roo, Mexico, where nearly 17 inches of rain fell. 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

     

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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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  • Andrea was a short-lived tropical storm

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    Tropical Storm Andrea formed on Tuesday, June 24, becoming the first named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. It dissipated 12 hours later.

    What You Need To Know

    • Tropical Storm Andrea only lasted 12 hours

    • It was short-lived and weak

    • It didn’t impact any land


    Andrea formed and dissipated on the same day without impacting any land. Max winds only reached 40 mph before moving over the colder waters of the north Atlantic.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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