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  • Fall officially arrives with the autumnal equinox

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    Fall has officially arrived. Summer has come to an end, meaning cooler and shorter days are on the horizon. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Fall begins Monday, Sept. 22

    • The 2025 autumnal equinox happens at 2:19 p.m. ET

    • The largest daily loss of daylight occurs in September



    The change in seasons occurs with the solstice or the equinox determined by the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun. 

    What is the equinox?

    The Earth is tilted at a 23.5-degree angle, and as it travels around the sun, the Earth’s axis is tilted toward or away from the sun.

    During the equinox, the Earth’s axis and its orbit line up, allowing the sun’s rays to shine directly on the equator. This means that both hemispheres get an equal amount of sunlight.

    Meteorological Fall vs. Astronomical Fall

     

    The meteorological seasons are calendar-based, whereas the astronomical seasons rely on the Earh’s position to the sun. 

    Meteorological fall occurs from Sept. 1 to Nov. 30. The meteorological seasons are broken down evenly into 3-month periods based on temperature and weather cycles. 

    Astronomical fall typically starts between Sept. 21 and Sept. 23. This varies because of leap years, which can shift the start date by a day or two. 

    Why do we lose so much daylight?

    We have been slowly losing more and more daylight since the summer solstice in June, and will continue to lose more daylight until the winter solstice in December. The largest daily loss of daylight occurs in September, especially as the autumnal equinox approaches.

    The Earth’s 23.5-degree tilt is the main reason we see daylight changes throughout the year. Your latitude also plays a role as well.

    This time of year, the Northern Hemisphere tilts away from the sun, leading to a decrease in daylight. Areas located closer to the equator will see less variation in daylight hours as opposed to areas located closer to the North Pole.

    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 Ramel Carpenter

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  • When will you see the first freeze this fall?

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    Leaves are changing, and the first day of astronomical fall is next Monday, Sept. 22. Most of the country will begin to see cooler temperatures in the coming weeks, and some won’t have to wait long.

    Even though winter doesn’t begin until December, cold air and freezing temperatures arrive well before then for most of the U.S.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Northern Plains and Intermountain West usually dip down below freezing before September is over

    • Interior New England  and the Great Lakes also see freezing temperatures before most of the country

    • Cold air arrives in Florida, the Gulf Coast and the Desert Southwest last



    Winter arrives at the time time every year on the calendar, but not on your thermometer. Every year is different. The maps below give a good idea of when you can expect the first freeze where you live based on the 1991-2020 U.S. climate normals.

    The maps below show the ‘median,’ or average date of the first freeze. This is when you could expect the first freeze to arrive during a ‘normal’ year. The next one shows the ‘earliest 10%’ which shows a scenario of when colder air arrives early, about once every 10 years. And the last map shows the ‘latest 10%,’ so during a warm year when cold air arrives late.

    Northeast

    Most of the Northeast and New England see the first freeze before or during early fall, in September or early October. The mountains and high elevations across interior New England and the Adirondacks average freezing temperatures sometime in September, with the rest of the Northeast getting freezing cold sometime during October or early November.

    Midwest

    The Upper Midwest and Northern Plains also get in on the cold early. Around the Great Lakes and Dakotas, the first freeze typically arrives during September or early October. Further south the wait isn’t much longer. Freezing air usually arrives to the rest of the Midwest sometime before Halloween.

    Northwest

    There are many microclimates across the Northwest, so the arrival of cold air varies. Across the Rockies and Intermountain West, some areas experience cold year-round and as early as August and early September. The Pacific Northwest might not see freezing temperatures arrive until late October or November thanks to the maritime influence. 

    Southwest

    The Southwest has a variety of climates as well, so the temperatures differ greatly during the fall and winter. The Desert Southwest and coastal California don’t see the arrival of cold air until late in the season, sometimes not until December. Once you get into the high desert and Southern Plains, it arrives much earlier, around October or early November.

    Southeast

    If you live in the Southeast, it still gets cold, especially away from the large bodies of water. In the Appalachians and areas away from the Gulf and Atlantic coast, freezing temperatures usually begin before Thanksgiving in late October or early November. The Gulf Coast and Florida, however, wait much longer, with freezing temperatures not arriving until late November or December. In South and Central Florida and southern Texas, freezing temperatures may never even arrive.

    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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  • Tropical Storm Gabrielle forms in the Atlantic

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    Tropical Storm Gabrielle has formed in the central Atlantic. It’s the seventh named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season.

    What You Need To Know

    • Gabrielle has formed in the central Atlantic

    • It’s expected to become a hurricane this weekend or early next week

    • It’s not a threat to the U.S. at this time


    Gabrielle has maximum winds of 45 mph and is currently moving north-northwest at 22 mph. It’s not expected to strengthen much in the next 48 hours as it moves through unfavorable conditions with strong upper-level winds keeping Gabrielle disorganized.

    This weekend, Gabrielle should enter a more favorable environment for strengthening, and it’s forecast to become a hurricane by this weekend or early next week.


    The cone of uncertainty displays where the center of a storm could be located. It does not predict which areas may feel the storm’s impact. Anyone outside but near the cone should be on alert and make storm preparations.

    Gabrielle is out in the central Atlantic, far from land. Although it’s moving north-northwestward, the motion is uncertain during the next several days until a better defined center forms. 

    As of now, it doesn’t look like a threat to the Caribbean or the U.S., but it could move near Bermuda next week.


    Spaghetti models or plots show a series of individual computer forecast models together on one map. They are useful to give insight into whether multiple models are in agreement on the path of the storm but they do not address the storm’s forecast intensity, winds, flooding and storm surge potential or other data. Tap here for more details on how to best use these models.

    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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  • When to expect the best fall foliage

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    Every fall, people travel far and wide to go ‘leaf-peeping.’ The goal is to catch the leaves at peak color to see all the vibrant reds, oranges and yellows that Mother Nature has to offer.

    Weather plays a primary role in knowing when and where to go.

    What You Need To Know

    • Weather plays a significant role in fall foliage


    • Heat and soil moisture determine foliage timing and intensity


    • Stressed trees will lose leaves earlier or later than normal


    Right place at the right time

    The first step of successful leaf-peeping is being at the right place at the right time. All other factors aside, this is the average time of the year around the U.S. that you can see peak fall colors according to Explore Fall.

    (Explore Fall)

    Aside from the Florida peninsula, the Gulf Coast and parts of the desert Southwest, most of the continental U.S. sees color change during fall.

    Weather’s role

    The weather determines whether the fall foliage comes out early, on time or late every year, but what role does it play?

    Heat and moisture are the biggest factors that influence fall foliage. The summer weather helps give an idea of when colors will pop, but the weather during September and October are the biggest influencers.

    Here is how soil moisture and air temperature affect fall foliage.

    Weather impacts on fall foliage

    (Explore Fall)

    A prolonged late-spring or severe summer drought that leads to dry soils in the fall not only affects the timing, but the quality of the colors. Drought and drier soil puts a higher stress on the trees, dulling down the colors and forcing them to lose their leaves sooner.

    Heavy rainfall and wet soils in the summer and fall can delay the colors’ arrival by a few days, or even weeks. The later arrival time can produce better fall colors.

    Colder and below-normal temperatures bring out fall colors early, while prolonged summer heat and above normal temperatures delay the colors.

    According to the USDA Forest Service, “a succession of warm, sunny days and cool, crisp but not freezing nights seems to bring about the most spectacular color displays.” In other words… typical fall weather.

    Current fall foliage

    Here is a map of the current fall foliage around the U.S.


    In some parts of the country, leaves have already started turning. The first areas to see color are typically further north and at higher elevations, including parts of the Upper Midwest and Northern Plains, the Mountain West and interior Northeast.

    Parts of New England are in a severe drought, with much of the mountain west under an extreme or exceptional drought, which could cause the trees to lose leaves early and mute the colors.

    7-Day foliage outlook

    Here is a look at Explore Fall’s 7-day foliage forecast and what the foliage is expected to look like in a week from now.


    You can submit your fall foliage photos here.

    Our team of meteorologists dive deep into the science of weather and break 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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  • The peak of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is here

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    Hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean spans June through November, and this year was forecasted to be near to above average.

    What You Need To Know

    • The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season was forecasted to be near to above average

    • Through early Sept. 2025, there have only been six named storms

    • The climatological peak of hurricane season is on Sept. 10


    However, as we approach the climatological peak of the season, we’ve only had six named storms. 

    2025 Atlantic Season predictions

    Both the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Colorado State University (CSU) made their seasonal forecasts back in May and updated them in August. The latest outlooks predict an above-average season: 13 to 18 tropical cyclones (down from 13 to 19 named storms) for NOAA and 16 named storms for CSU (down from 17 to 24 named storms).

    The new predictions include the six named storms we’ve already seen. The average number of named storms is around 14 per season.

    How the season began

    Tropical Storm Andrea formed on June 23, 2025. This marked the latest start to a season since 2014. 

    Next, Tropical Storm Barry formed toward the end of June and made landfall in Veracruz, Mexico. 

    After Barry, Tropical Storm Chantal impacted the southeastern U.S. The storm made landfall in South Carolina on July 6, bringing tropical storm force-winds and flooding rainfall to the Carolinas. 

    Flooding from Chantal at Cooper Road at the Haw River canoe access in Graham, North Carolina. (Graham Police Department)

    Tropical Storm Dexter followed, and next, Hurricane Erin. Erin became a large and powerful Category 5 storm. The storm stayed well off the coast of the U.S., but it brought dangerous rip currents to most of the eastern seaboard.

    Tropical Storm Fernand formed in mid-August and stayed offshore. Here’s a look at the 2025 hurricane season so far. 

    Since then, there has been a lull in tropical activity. 

    Still a lot of the season to go

    In September and early October, storms are most likely to form in the central Atlantic and the Caribbean. However, as more frontal boundaries move through the U.S. at this time, it’s possible for tropical cyclones to develop along old fronts in the Gulf of Mexico and off of the southeast coast. 

    “We are just coming up on the halfway mark of the hurricane season, usually the time of peak activity,” says Dr. Frank Marks, a meteorologist in the Hurricane Research Division of NOAA/Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory. 

    Don’t let the lull in the Atlantic lull you to sleep. As we approach the peak with quiet conditions, there’s still plenty of time for more storms to develop.

    Notable September and October tropical cyclones

    Even though many may be focused on fall, hurricane season is ongoing! There have been many tropical cyclones that have formed and made landfall in September and October. 

    Just last year, Hurricane Milton formed in October and rapidly intensified into a powerful Category 5 storm in the Gulf of America. This was the strongest tropical cyclone ever recorded over the Gulf since Hurricane Rita in 2005. Milton made landfall as a Category 3 storm near Siesta Key, FL.

    While the outlook over the next seven days looks quiet in the Atlantic, make sure you’re focusing on the forecast as conditions in the open waters can change. Tracking the Tropics.

    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 Britney Hamilton

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  • Tracking powerful hurricane Kiko as it heads towards Hawaii

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    Kiko formed off the coast of southern Mexico from a tropical wave. It became a tropical storm on Aug. 31, making it the eleventh named storm of the eastern Pacific hurricane season. Kiko intensified into a hurricane on Sept. 2. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Kiko is the eleventh named storm of the eastern Pacific hurricane season

    • It remains a major, powerful hurricane

    • Models have Hurricane Kiko moving close, but to the north of the Hawaiian Islands next week


    Kiko intensified into a Category 4 hurricane on Sept. 3. It weakened to a Category 3 hurricane with winds of 115 mph during the morning hours on Sept. 5, but by the afternoon it had re-intensified back into a Category 4 hurricane.

    It currently has maximum winds of 140 mph. It is moving west-northwest at 10 mph and is located roughly 1000 miles east-southeast of Hilo, HI.

    It is a much smaller storm than Hurricane Erin. Hurricane-force winds extend only 25 miles out from the center, with tropical storm-force winds extending 70 miles out from the center. 


    Models have Kiko taking a west-northwesterly track over the weekend into next week, coming close to Hawaii. 

    While it’s too soon for impact details, the cooler waters near the Aloha State should weaken Kiko greatly. We’ll continue to monitor the track and provide updates. 


     

    Storms that have come close to Hawaii

    Hurricane Hone passed just to the south of the Big Island of Hawaii in 2024 as a Category 1 hurricane with winds of 85 mph. Here are other cyclones that came close to the islands.

    Eastern North Pacific names

    Central North Pacific differences

    The National Hurricane Center monitors tropical activity in the Atlantic and North Eastern Pacific Ocean. If a storm forms between 140° West longitude and the International Date Line, it is the responsibility of the Central North Pacific Warning Center, located in Honolulu, HI. 

    There is a contrast in the names used in the Central Pacific compared to the Eastern Pacific and Atlantic. One list is composed of twelve names. 

    The names are used one after the other. When the bottom of one list is reached, the next name is at the top of the next list. Below is the current list. 

    It is interesting to note that if a storm forms in the Eastern North Pacific and is named in that basin, it will retain its name even if it moves into the Central North Pacific. For this reason, we are tracking Hurricane Kiko, since it formed east of 140° West longitude.

    Tropical Storm Akoni and Tropical Storm Ema formed in the Central North Pacific in 2019. Hurricane Hone brushed past Hawaii in 2024.

    This list will continue to be used until there is a storm named Wale. Three other lists have been generated by the World Meteorological Organization and are at the ready if needed. Hurricane Iona and Tropical Storm Keli formed in the Central North Pacific in 2025.

    Just like in the Atlantic and Eastern North Pacific, if storms are impactful, they can be retired. Four storms have been retired in the Central North Pacific. 

    • Iwa (1982): Retired after impacting Hawaii.
    • Iniki (1992): Retired after affecting Hawaii.
    • Paka (1997): Retired after affecting various islands in Micronesia.
    • Ioke (2006): Retired after impacting Micronesia.

    You can track the rest of 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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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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  • Models have Hawaii in Hurricane Kiko’s path

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    Kiko formed off the coast of southern Mexico from a tropical wave. It became a tropical storm on Aug. 31, making it the fourteenth named storm of the eastern Pacific hurricane season. Kiko intensified into a hurricane on Sept. 2. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Kiko is the fourteenth named storm of the eastern Pacific hurricane season

    • It intensified into a Category 4 hurricane with maximum winds of 130 mph

    • Models have Hurricane Kiko moving close to the Hawaiian Islands next week


    Kiko intensified into a Category 4 hurricane on Sept. 3, and currently has maximum winds of 130 mph. It is moving west at 9 mph and is located nearly 1600 miles east of Hilo, HI.


    Models have Kiko taking a west-northwesterly track over the weekend into next week, coming close to Hawaii. 

    While it’s too soon for impact details, the cooler waters near the Aloha State should weaken Kiko greatly. We’ll continue to monitor the track and provide updates. 


     

    Hurricane Hone passed just to the south of the Big Island of Hawaii in 2024 as a Category 1 hurricane with winds of 85 mph. Here are other cyclones that came close to the islands.

    You can track the rest of 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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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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  • Two areas to watch for tropical development in the Atlantic

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    Erin is now an extra-tropical cyclone as it moves through the North Atlantic.

    Elsewhere, we’re watching two other areas of interest in the Atlantic with development potential in the coming days.

    What You Need To Know

    • Two disturbances are being watched, one with high chances to develop

    • There is no immediate concern for the U.S.

    • The next name on the list is Fernand

    A tropical depression or storm could form this weekend southeast of Bermuda as the system turns north in the Atlantic. It has high odds (90%) to develop over the next couple of days.

    Another tropical wave that emerged off the African coast will continue to move westward with with much lower odds for tropical development. Conditions will be more favorable once it reaches the Caribbean Sea.

    Neither of these disturbances pose a threat to the U.S. right now.

    August is one of the busier months in the hurricane season, so activity will likely pick up in the coming weeks. The next name on the list is Fernand.

    More Storm Season Resources

    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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  • Tropical Storm Fernand forms in the Atlantic

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    Tropical Storm Fernand formed in the western Atlantic on Saturday afternoon. It’s the sixth named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season.

    What You Need To Know

    • Fernand has formed in the western Atlantic

    • It’s a tropical storm with max winds of 40 mph

    • It’s not expected to impact the U.S.


    Fernand has maximum winds of 40 mph and is moving north at 15 mph. It’s expected maintain a north and northeast trajectory over the next few days.

    It will encounter favorable conditions to strengthen, and could possibly becoming a category one hurricane, before becoming post-tropical.

    It’s likely that is passes near Bermuda, and Tropical Storm Watches or Warnings could be issued by Sunday.


    Forecast models keep Fernand well off the U.S. east coast, impacting Bermuda and then accelerating into the north Atlantic by Tuesday.

    You can track the rest of 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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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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  • Tropical Storm Fernand forms in the Atlantic

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    Tropical Storm Fernand formed in the western Atlantic on Saturday afternoon. It’s the sixth named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season.

    What You Need To Know

    • Fernand has formed in the western Atlantic

    • It’s a tropical storm with max winds of 40 mph

    • It’s not expected to impact the U.S.


    Fernand has maximum winds of 40 mph and is moving north at 15 mph. It’s expected maintain a north and northeast trajectory over the next few days.

    It will encounter favorable conditions to strengthen, and could possibly becoming a category one hurricane, before becoming post-tropical.

    It’s likely that is passes near Bermuda, and Tropical Storm Watches or Warnings could be issued by Sunday.


    Forecast models keep Fernand well off the U.S. east coast, impacting Bermuda and then accelerating into the north Atlantic by Tuesday.

    You can track the rest of 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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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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  • Tropical development chances increase for late week

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    Hurrricane Erin is expected to bring life-threatening surf and dangerous rip currents along the U.S. East Coast this week. 

    We’re watching three other areas of interest in the central and eastern Atlantic behind Erin with development potential in the coming days.

    What You Need To Know

    • Three disturbances are being watched, one with high chances to develop

    • Conditions will become more favorable later this week

    • The next name on the list is Fernand

    A tropical wave in the central tropical Atlantic is moving westward producing some disorganized showers and storms. Conditions will become more favorable for development in the next couple days.

    A tropical depression could form late this week or this weekend as the system continues to move westward near the Leeward Islands. It has high odds (70%) to develop this week.

    Another tropical wave that has emerged off the African coast will continue to move westward with medium odds for tropical development. A short-lived tropical depression could form by late week into the weekend, but conditions will become unfavorable after that.

    An area of low pressure in the central tropical Atlantic has low odds for development over the next seven days.

    Neither of these disturbances pose a threat to the U.S. right now.

    August is one of the busier months in the hurricane season, so activity will likely pick up in the coming weeks. The next name on the list is Fernand.

    More Storm Season Resources

    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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  • Tropical Storm Warnings issued as Hurricane Erin moves closer to U.S.

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    Hurricane Erin is still a strong hurricane and is expected to grow even larger, expanding its wind field. Erin is expected to produce life-threatening surf and rip currents along the beaches of the Bahamas, the U.S. East Coast, Bermuda and Atlantic Canada this week.

    Erin formed on Aug. 11 and strengthened into a hurricane on Aug. 15. Just one day later, it rapidly intensified into a Category 5 hurricane on Aug. 16. It brushed past the northern Leeward Islands, Puerto Rico and Hispaniola, bringing heavy rain, gusty winds and dangerous surf, but it has avoided any direct impacts to land.

    What You Need To Know

    • Erin is a Category 2 hurricane with 100 mph winds

    • It will bring life-threatening surf and dangerous rip currents to the East Coast

    • Erin will remain a hurricane through late week


    Erin is a Category 2 hurricane with maximum winds of 100 mph. It’s moving steadily northwest at 13 mph across the western Atlantic. 

    During the next few days, Erin is forecast to take a turn to the north, and eventually the northeast. It’s expected to stay offshore of the U.S. East Coast, moving in between Bermuda and the U.S. 

    Erin is expected to remain a hurricane through late week. Cooler waters and increasing wind shear will weaken this storm by the weekend.


    The cone of uncertainty displays where the center of a storm could be located. It does not predict which areas may feel the storm’s impact. Anyone outside but near the cone should be on alert and make storm preparations.

    A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for:

    • Beaufort Inlet to Duck, N.C.

    A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for: 

    • Bermuda
    • North of Duck, N.C. to Cape Charles Light to Chincoteague, Va.

    Storm Surge Warnings are also in effect from Cape Lookout to Duck, N.C. The combination of storm surge and tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline.

    The water could reach up to 2 to 4 feet above ground level from Cape Lookout to Duck, N.C., and 1 to 3 feet southward to parts of South Carolina, and northward to the Delmarva Peninsula.

    The deepest water will occur along the immediate coast.


    The primary impacts across these areas will occur late tonight into Thursday as Erin passes closest offshore, especially during high tide.

    While the strongest winds will stay over the Atlantic, it’s likely that some strong wind gusts will impact the Outer Banks, and possibly the Canadian Maritimes.

    We will continue to bring you the latest updates for Erin and the rest of the tropics.

    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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  • Tropical Storm Warnings issued as Hurricane Erin moves closer to U.S.

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    Hurricane Erin is still a strong hurricane and is expected to grow even larger, expanding its wind field. Erin is expected to produce life-threatening surf and rip currents along the beaches of the Bahamas, the U.S. East Coast, Bermuda and Atlantic Canada this week.

    Erin formed on Aug. 11 and strengthened into a hurricane on Aug. 15. Just one day later, it rapidly intensified into a Category 5 hurricane on Aug. 16. It brushed past the northern Leeward Islands, Puerto Rico and Hispaniola, bringing heavy rain, gusty winds and dangerous surf, but it has avoided any direct impacts to land.

    What You Need To Know

    • Erin is a Category 2 hurricane with 100 mph winds

    • It will bring life-threatening surf and dangerous rip currents to the East Coast

    • Erin will remain a hurricane through late week


    Erin is a Category 2 hurricane with maximum winds of 100 mph. It’s moving steadily northwest at 13 mph across the western Atlantic. 

    During the next few days, Erin is forecast to take a turn to the north, and eventually the northeast. It’s expected to stay offshore of the U.S. East Coast, moving in between Bermuda and the U.S. 

    Erin is expected to remain a hurricane through late week. Cooler waters and increasing wind shear will weaken this storm by the weekend.


    The cone of uncertainty displays where the center of a storm could be located. It does not predict which areas may feel the storm’s impact. Anyone outside but near the cone should be on alert and make storm preparations.

    A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for:

    • Beaufort Inlet to Duck, N.C.

    A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for: 

    • Bermuda
    • North of Duck, N.C. to Cape Charles Light to Chincoteague, Va.

    Storm Surge Warnings are also in effect from Cape Lookout to Duck, N.C. The combination of storm surge and tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline.

    The water could reach up to 2 to 4 feet above ground level from Cape Lookout to Duck, N.C., and 1 to 3 feet southward to parts of South Carolina, and northward to the Delmarva Peninsula.

    The deepest water will occur along the immediate coast.


    The primary impacts across these areas will occur late tonight into Thursday as Erin passes closest offshore, especially during high tide.

    While the strongest winds will stay over the Atlantic, it’s likely that some strong wind gusts will impact the Outer Banks, and possibly the Canadian Maritimes.

    We will continue to bring you the latest updates for Erin and the rest of the tropics.

    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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  • WATCH: Hurricane Hunters fly into Category 5 Hurricane Erin

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    Erin will bring life-threatening surf and dangerous rip currents to the East Coast.

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    Meteorologist Reid Lybarger

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  • Tropical activity increases in the month of August

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    Tropical activity is on the rise as we approach the climatological peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, which arrives on Sept. 10. After the first few months of the season, the tropics will come alive in August.

    What You Need To Know

    • Tropical cyclone development becomes more common this month

    • The season’s first hurricane usually forms in early to mid-August

    • The peak of hurricane season arrives in early September



    Based on a 30-year climate period from 1991 to 2020, an average Atlantic hurricane season has 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes (category 3+). The first named storm normally forms in mid to late June, the first hurricane forms in early to mid-August, and the first major hurricane forms in late August or early September.

    In August, you typically see more tropical waves developing into named storms.

    In the Atlantic basin, tropical storms are more likely to form just to the east of the Caribbean islands throughout August. Development is also common in the Gulf and along the east coast during this time of the season. 

    The first hurricanes of the season form during this time of hurricane season and will more than likely develop near the Caribbean islands and along the eastern coast.

    So if you live in a hurricane-prone region, before August and September, be sure to have your hurricane kit ready to go before a storm heads for your area. 

    More Storm Season Resources

    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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  • 2025 Atlantic hurricane season so far

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    The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is underway. NOAA and Colorado State University are both forecasting above normal activity this year as we enter the busiest months of the season.

    Hurricane season began on June 1 and will go through Nov. 30. Here are the tropical tracks so far from this season. 


    Here is the list of names being used in 2025. Excluding any names that get retired, will be re-used in 2031.


    You can learn more about 2025’s list of names here.

    Andrea

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

    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.

    Barry

    Barry was the second named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season and it was a short-lived tropical storm. 

    Tropical Storm Barry formed on the morning of June 29, over the Bay of Campeche. 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. 

    Chantal

    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.

    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, with significant flooding around Chapel Hill and nearby rivers.

    Dexter

    Dexter was the fourth named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. It formed over the open Atlantic on Sunday, Aug. 3, and stayed away from land throughout its lifespan. 

    It dissipated on Aug. 7.

    We’ll continue to update this story throughout the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season with daily tropical updates. 

    More Storm Season Resources

    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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  • Dexter turns post-tropical in the northern Atlantic

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    Dexter stayed over the open Atlantic.

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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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  • 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

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