The Emergency Management Network Podcast

The principal focus of today’s discussion centers upon the imminent arrival of Arctic air in the Northern Plains, which necessitates the issuance of winter weather advisories and extreme cold watches. We elucidate the implications of a significant winter storm anticipated to develop this Friday, affecting regions from the Southern Rockies to the mid-south, with forewarnings of perilous wind chills and deteriorating travel conditions. Furthermore, we examine the recent seismic activity, including a magnitude 4.9 earthquake recorded in California, which has been followed by a series of aftershocks, yet fortunately, no major damage has been reported. In addition, we highlight FEMA’s reopening of the Bethel Assistance Hub in Alaska, aimed at providing crucial support to survivors of the October 2025 storms. As we navigate through these pressing weather and disaster updates, we urge our listeners to remain vigilant and to heed safety advisories.
Takeaways:
* The Northern Plains are currently experiencing Arctic Air and winter weather advisories.
* A significant winter storm is anticipated to develop from the Southern Rockies to the mid south.
* FEMA’s Bethel Assistance Hub is reopening to aid survivors from the October 2025 storms.
* A magnitude 4.9 earthquake occurred near Indio, California, with minor aftershocks reported.
* Winter weather advisories are in effect for much of North Dakota today, warning of hazardous conditions.
* Minnesota faces winter weather advisories today, with extreme cold expected later this week.
Sources
https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/index.php
https://www.weather.gov/bis/
https://www.weather.gov/mpx/
https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/wwd/wssi/wssi.php
https://www.weather.gov/hfo/watchwarn
https://www.weather.gov/hfo
https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/ci41162719/executive
https://scedc.caltech.edu/recent/Quakes/ci41162719.html
https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/nm60617031/executive
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/did-you-feel-that-3-8-magnitude-earthquake-confirmed-in-illinois/3878476/
https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20260116/fema-alaska-call-center-bethel-assistance-hub-closing-monday-observance
https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20260116/fema-alaska-call-center-bethel-assistance-hub-closing-monday-observance
https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/ci41162719/executive
https://scedc.caltech.edu/recent/Quakes/ci41162719.html
https://www.weather.gov/lox/
https://www.weather.gov/jax/
https://www.weather.gov/hfo/watchwarn
https://www.weather.gov/hfo
https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/nm60617031/executive
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/did-you-feel-that-3-8-magnitude-earthquake-confirmed-in-illinois/3878476/
https://www.weather.gov/mpx?id=RPD
https://www.weather.gov/mpx/
https://www.weather.gov/bis/


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The foremost concern addressed in this briefing pertains to the significant lake effect snow impacting regions downwind of Lakes Erie and Ontario, where winter storm warnings are currently in effect. The National Weather Service has indicated that snowfall rates may reach an alarming 2 to 3 inches per hour, accompanied by hazardous blowing and drifting snow, culminating in near whiteout conditions that are expected to persist through Wednesday afternoon. Furthermore, marine hazards on the Great Lakes have been exacerbated by heavy freezing spray warnings, which pose a substantial threat to vessels in these frigid waters. In addition to the winter weather, a G4 severe geomagnetic storm watch has been issued, suggesting possible disruptions to high-frequency radio, GPS, and satellite operations, while offering the potential for auroras to be visible under clear skies in various parts of the United States. As we navigate these multifaceted weather challenges, we urge our listeners to remain vigilant and prepared for the conditions ahead.
Takeaways:
* The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings due to lake effect snow.
* Marine hazards are present on the Great Lakes, with warnings for heavy freezing spray.
* A G4 severe geomagnetic storm watch has been confirmed, affecting radio and GPS systems.
* Wind chill temperatures in Southeast Michigan are dangerously low, reaching -15 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Additional snowfall of 6 to 12 inches is expected in certain areas of New York.
* Stagnant air and dense fog advisories are currently being issued in parts of Washington.
Sources
[NWS Baltimore/Washington | briefing/outlook, https://www.weather.gov/lwx/]
[NWS Boston/Norton | hazards, https://www.weather.gov/box/]
[NWS Detroit/Pontiac | homepage hazards, https://www.weather.gov/dtx/]
[NWS Buffalo | warnings/HWO, https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=buf&wwa=all]
[NWS Cleveland | marine warning, https://www.weather.gov/cle/marine_forecast]
[NWS Portland | hazards page, https://www.weather.gov/pqr/]
[NWS Cleveland | Lake Erie marine warning, https://www.weather.gov/cle/marine_forecast]
[NWS Houston/Galveston | homepage briefing, https://www.weather.gov/hgx/]
[NWS Seattle | hazards/air stagnation, https://www.weather.gov/sew/]


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Today’s central theme revolves around the significant winter weather conditions that are anticipated to impact various regions, particularly the Great Lakes and Interior Northeast. The Weather Prediction Center has identified a high likelihood of severe snow accumulation, with multiple winter storm and blizzard warnings currently in effect across several states. In particular, Alaska continues to face winter hazards, while California is under dense fog advisories and expects Santa Ana winds. Michigan and New York also remain vigilant as lake effect and system snow persist, potentially leading to hazardous travel conditions. As we delve into the specifics of this weather forecast, we underscore the importance of remaining informed and prepared for the challenges posed by these winter storms.
Takeaways:
* The Weather Prediction Center indicates a high probability of impactful snow across the Great Lakes.
* Winter storm and blizzard warnings are currently active in the Interior and western regions of the country.
* California is experiencing dense fog advisories in the Central Valley and Bay Area today.
* Wind chills are expected to drop significantly below zero in North Dakota tonight and into Saturday.
* Pennsylvania will see winter weather advisories this evening with potential for heavy snow showers.
* Texas is bracing for a strong cold front, leading to gusty winds and possible light snow.
Sources
[NWS Fairbanks | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter%20storm%20warning]
[NWS Fairbanks (Blizzard) | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?product1=Blizzard%20Warning&warnzone=AKZ821]
[NWS Anchorage | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter%20weather%20advisory]
[NWS Hanford | https://www.weather.gov/hnx/]
[NWS San Francisco Bay Area (AFD citing fog advisory) | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=mtr&product=afd&site=mtr]
[NWS San Diego | https://www.weather.gov/sgx/]
[NWS Grand Rapids (Advisory) | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=grr&wwa=winter%20weather%20advisory]
[NWS Gaylord (Advisory) | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter%20weather%20advisory]
[NWS Buffalo (HWO & Warning) | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=BUF&product=HWO&site=NWS]
[NWS Buffalo (Warning details) | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?warnzone=NYZ006&product1=Lake%20Effect%20Snow%20Warning]
[NWS Bismarck (Warnings/Advisories) | https://www.weather.gov/bis/]
[NWS Bismarck point forecast (High Wind) | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.80536&lon=-100.77933]
[NWS State College (Advisories/HWO) | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=ctp&wwa=hazardous%20weather%20outlook]
[NWS State College (Advisory text) | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter%20weather%20advisory]
[NWS Aberdeen (Advisory) | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter%20weather%20advisory]
[NWS Aberdeen Office Page | https://www.weather.gov/index.php/abr/]
[NWS Austin/San Antonio (Front and winds) | https://www.weather.gov/ewx/forecasts]
[NWS Amarillo (snow chance) | https://www.weather.gov/ama/ama/winter]
[NWS Duluth (Iron County Warning) | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter%20storm%20warning]
[NWS Cheyenne (Warnings) | https://www.weather.gov/cys/highwind]
[NWS Cheyenne WWA text | https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=cys&wwa=all]


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Today, we elucidate the prevailing weather conditions across the United States, with particular emphasis on the inclement circumstances in Alaska, where blizzard warnings have been issued for the Bering Strait Coast, St. Lawrence Island, and Shishmaref, effective from this afternoon through Saturday. This episode meticulously details the winter storm warnings and advisories that have expanded throughout various regions, including the Brooks Range and Yukon Kuskokwim areas, which may restrict travel to emergencies only. Furthermore, we address the repercussions of a recent magnitude 4.4 earthquake in Southern California, along with the localized winter weather advisories affecting several states from Michigan to Pennsylvania. Our discussion also encompasses the marine hazards along the Gulf of Maine and the ongoing advisories in Hawaii, underscoring the diverse meteorological phenomena currently impacting the nation. We conclude by reiterating the necessity for vigilance as we monitor these evolving weather patterns.
Takeaways:
* Alaska is experiencing severe winter weather, including blizzard warnings that necessitate caution.
* The National Weather Service has issued numerous advisories for hazardous conditions in various states.
* A magnitude 4.4 earthquake occurred in Southern California, with reports of light shaking felt locally.
* Travel in affected regions may be restricted to emergency situations due to adverse weather conditions.
* Florida has issued a boil water notice due to a scheduled water outage affecting local residents.
* Winter weather advisories are active in multiple states, emphasizing the need for preparedness and vigilance.
Sources
[NWS Fairbanks https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php]
[USGS event page https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/ci41158263]
[City of Arcadia https://arcadia-fl.gov/2026/01/13/7129/]
[NWS Honolulu Watches/Warnings https://www.weather.gov/hfo/watchwarn]
[NWS Gray, ME https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=gyx&wwa=all]
[NWS Detroit/Pontiac https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?format=ci&glossary=0&issuedby=DTX&product=AFD&site=NWS&version=1]
[City of Hendersonville https://www.hendersonvillenc.gov/water-sewer/customer-center/water-alerts]
[NWS Portland https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=pqr&wwa=all]
[NWS State College https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=rlx&wwa=all]
[NWS Seattle https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=sew&wwa=all]
[NWS Charleston, WV https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=WVZ526&lat=38.9166&local_place1=Harman+WV&lon=-79.533&product1=Cold+Weather+Advisory&warncounty=WVC083&warnzone=WVZ526]


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Today, I provide a comprehensive overview of significant meteorological phenomena affecting various regions. The episode elucidates the incursion of Arctic air, which is precipitating lake effect snow across the Great Lakes, accompanied by dangerously low wind chills that may plummet to single digits or below zero in certain locales. We also note the absence of severe thunderstorms as the Storm Prediction Center reports minimal probabilities for such events today. Additionally, we discuss the restoration of buoy tender capacity by the Coast Guard in Oceania, enhancing navigational support in the Western Pacific. Furthermore, a magnitude 4.4 earthquake near Willits, California, has been documented, although no substantial damage has been reported thus far. We will continue to monitor these developments and provide updates as warranted.
Takeaways:
* Arctic air is pushing south and east, leading to significant lake effect snow along the Great Lakes.
* The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for northern Indiana due to severe weather conditions.
* A magnitude 4.4 earthquake occurred near Willits, California, with no significant damage reported by local officials.
* FEMA has updated flood maps for Pima County, urging local residents to prepare for an appeal period for the new mappings.
* The Coast Guard’s operational capacity has been restored in Oceania, enhancing navigational support for mariners in the Western Pacific.
* Winter weather advisories remain in effect across multiple states, with specific warnings for parts of New York and Michigan.
Sources
[USCG | https://www.news.uscg.mil/Press-Releases/Article/4378815/uscgc-hickory-arrives-in-guam-restoring-full-buoy-tender-capacity-in-oceania/]
[FEMA | https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20260112/fema-updates-flood-maps-pima-county]
[USGS | https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/nc75295231]
[USGS | https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/nc75295291]
[SF Chronicle | https://www.sfchronicle.com/california/article/earthquake-willits-mendocino-21248590.php]
[USCG | https://www.news.uscg.mil/Press-Releases/Article/4377704/coast-guard-interdicts-15-aliens-near-san-clemente-island/]
[NWS Northern Indiana | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=INZ103&product1=Winter+Storm+Warning]
[NWS South Bend page | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=41.6769&lon=-86.269]
[NWS Gaylord | https://www.weather.gov/apx/]
[NWS Grand Rapids | https://www.weather.gov/grr/]
[NWS Albany | https://www.weather.gov/aly/winterheadlines]
[NWS Buffalo | https://www.weather.gov/buf/BUFHWOBUF]


This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe