National Weather Service News

Agency Ranks 2011 as Driest Year Ever in Texas

The National Weather Service says 2011 was Texas’ driest year on record as well as its second hottest. The agency said Friday the average rainfall for the drought-stricken state last year was 14.88 inches. The previous driest average total was …

Strong Storm Damages Businesses in Louisiana Town

The owner of a jewelry store in Jennings, La., says he hopes to reopen in time to deal with Christmas layaways even though winds ripped off part of the roof. Phil Cureton’s store, Jennings Fine Jewelry, was among several damaged …

Early Flood Outlook Looks Favorable for Most of North Dakota

North Dakota residents who have taken turns battling major floods the last three years may be in for a break, based on the first National Weather Service flood outlook of the season. Hydrologist Allen Schlag says the current dry weather …

As Disaster Losses Mount, U.S. Seeks to Make Country ‘Weather Ready’

Noting that the U.S. has experienced $35 billion in economic losses due to disasters already this year, the federal government is embarking upon a national plan it hopes will save lives and protect property from severe weather events. The goal …