This update provides a brief summary of active American Red Cross disaster responses and the weather outlook. The information is obtained from sources like disaster-affected Red Cross chapters, RC View and government agencies.
Wild Weekend Weather Wreaking Havoc for Millions
Three major weather systems are creating hazardous conditions and widespread power outages coast-to-coast. In the Great Lakes, a major winter storm will continue to bring blizzard conditions, heavy snowfall, icing and strong winds throughout today. Along the East Coast, widespread severe storms are expected, with a risk for damaging wind gusts and tornadoes. Finally, record-breaking heat continues to build in the West. More than 450 Red Crossers are assigned to operations from Hawaii to Pennsylvania, to support those affected by storms, floods and countless other crises. For each disaster, Red Cross responders are providing comfort and care to those who need it the most.
Source: Poweroutage.us
The ongoing major winter storm will continue to bring heavy snow and strong wind gusts in the Great Lakes. Over the weekend, portions of Wisconsin and Michigan saw more than 2 feet of snowfall and an additional 4 - 8 inches are forecast today. Some areas of the Upper Peninsula in Michigan could see an additional 18 inches of snow, bringing the 2-day snowfall totals to 3 feet. In addition to the heavy snowfall, gusty winds of 40 – 50 miles per hour are making conditions very dangerous. Downed trees and power lines are expected, leading to widespread power outages. As of this morning, more than 115,000 customers, over 345,000 individuals, are without power in Michigan.
Source: National Weather Service Snowfall Reports from the Last 24 Hours
For most of the eastern U.S., there is an elevated risk for widespread storms and possible tornadoes. The threat of fast-moving thunderstorms is extended from Florida to Maine, with a Moderate Risk (Level 4 of 5) impacting the Carolinas, Virginia and Washington D.C. As part of the system, the Storm Prediction Center is forecasting straight-line wind speeds exceeding 75 miles per hour. Storms have already begun today in Florida and will move up the East Coast as the day goes on, with the most severe impacts expected later this afternoon and into the evening. In response to this widespread and severe threat, the Red Cross has been coordinating with local Emergency Management to ensure the necessary resources are ready to deploy as needed. The Red Cross has multiple shelter and incident management teams on standby.
Source: Storm Prediction Center 1-Day Convective Outlook
In southern California and portions of the Southwest, above-normal temperatures are forecast throughout the week. Temperatures will reach well into the 90s and 100s, with multiple high temperature records expected to be broken. The summerlike temperatures in March could cause an increased risk for vulnerable populations and lead to heat-related illnesses. If you are in an affected area, check out the Extreme Heat Safety Tips to learn how to stay safe during a heat wave and how to treat heat-related illnesses.
Source: National Weather Service
Finally, in Hawaii, the Kona Low Pressure System is starting to move away from the islands. The powerful system brought strong severe thunderstorms, considerable flash flooding and damaging winds statewide. The multi-day rain event has caused prolonged flooding on Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui and the Big Island. Thunderstorms are possible again today over the Big Island and light winds will hold throughout the week. In response to the storms and flooding, the Red Cross has established a level-3 disaster relief operation. Local disaster workers are managing 5 shelters, providing safe refuge to more than 90 individuals overnight. Red Cross responders will be focused on completing detailed damage assessments and delivering emergency relief supplies as conditions improve this week and allow them to safely travel to the affected areas.
Source: American Red Cross of Hawaii Facebook
With a variety of hazards impacting millions today, it’s important to stay informed about weather threats in your area by downloading the free American Red Cross Emergency App. To download, search “American Red Cross” in app stores (available in the App Store® or Google Play™), visit redcross.org/apps or text "GETEMERGENCY" to 90999. Also, if you or a loved one is in need of Red Cross services, visit the Find Open Shelters and Disaster Relief Services page on Redcross.org or the Emergency App.
Source: American Red Cross North Carolina Region Facebook