The Emergency Management Network Podcast

The salient point of this morning’s briefing centers on the imminent weather developments affecting various regions across the United States. A significant wintry mix is forecasted for parts of the Northeast, accompanied by accumulating snow from late today into early Wednesday. Concurrently, California is poised to experience a modest atmospheric river, resulting in periods of rain at lower elevations and snowfall at higher altitudes. The ongoing volcanic activity in Hawaii remains a subject of interest, as Kilauea’s summit inflation suggests a potential eruption window later this week, although no new lava has emerged. In Texas, wildfire activity has intensified, prompting officials to request public caution in affected areas. We will continue to monitor these evolving situations and provide timely updates.
Takeaways:
* The National Weather Service has issued warnings regarding a wintry mix and accumulating snow in the Northeast.
* California is preparing for a modest atmospheric river bringing rain and high elevation snow this week.
* Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano remains paused, but scientists predict a potential eruption later this week.
* Texas is currently experiencing increased wildfire activity, prompting officials to request public caution in affected areas.
* Winter weather advisories are in effect for upstate New York, indicating expected snow and hazardous conditions.
* Overall, there have been no significant weather updates or damaging events reported in the other states.
Sources
[NWS Western Region overview | https://www.weather.gov/wrh]
[California-Nevada River Forecast Center — Daily Briefing/Guidance | https://www.cnrfc.noaa.gov/]
[USGS HVO — Kīlauea Volcano Updates (updated within 24h) | https://www.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/volcano-updates]
[NWS Boston/Norton point & discussion (example Boston) | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=42.35896682739258&lon=-71.06539916992188]
[NWS Boston/Norton — Weather Story | https://www.weather.gov/box/weatherstory]
[NWS Albany Area Forecast Discussion/advisories | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=ALY&product=AFD&site=ALY]
[NWS point forecast example — Poughkeepsie (wintry mix tonight) | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=41.7&lon=-73.93]
[KVII (Amarillo) — “Wildhorse” grass fire | https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/crews-battling-grassfire-south-of-mlk-memorial-park-texas-am-forest-service-hughes-street-lanake-amarillo-amarillo-fire-department-fire-weather-warning]
[MySA — Hill Country 175-acre brush fire | https://www.mysanantonio.com/news/hill-country/article/brush-fire-blanco-gillespie-county-21342506.php]
[Texas A&M Forest Service — Current Wildfire Status | https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/wildfire-and-other-disasters/current-wildfire-status/


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Building Resilience: Emergency Management in Tough TimesIn this episode of the EMN Podcast, host Dan Scott is joined by Andrew Boyarsky, stepping in for the unwell Todd DeVoe.
The conversation emphasizes how tough times shape stronger leaders and improve emergency preparedness.
They delve into the critical role of community engagement, the challenges posed by funding cuts, the need for mental health support for emergency managers, and the necessity of comprehensive planning and mitigation.
The episode concludes with a call for better implementation of preparedness measures to build a more robust emergency management system.00:00 Introduction to the EMN Podcast00:52 Weather Updates and Their Impact02:12 The Cycle of Resilience06:15 Mental Health in Emergency Management09:11 Proactive vs. Reactive Emergency Management11:02 Challenges in Emergency Management16:41 Community and Government Roles29:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Welcome to our latest entry in the EMN Media blog, where we dive deep into the critical realms where philosophy meets disaster and uncomfortable truths are unearthed in emergency management. Today’s discussion centers on the need for proactive measures to prepare for emergencies, an area we believe is sometimes overlooked in favor of reactive tactics.The Changing Climate of Emergency ManagementIn a recent episode of the EMN Podcast, Andrew Boyarsky and I, Dan Scott, explored how the harsh winter conditions and unpredictable weather patterns expose the readiness—or lack thereof—of our emergency management strategies. From the cold blasts gripping the Northeast to unseasonably warm temperatures on the West Coast, these climate anomalies are not just weather concerns—they’re a pressing call to action for emergency preparedness.Responding vs. ReactingA recurring theme we discussed was the distinction between responding and reacting. A reaction happens when we’re unprepared, while a response is a calculated, prepared action. I find that as emergency managers, we often fall into the trap of reacting to emergencies rather than responding to them.Planning and preparation are key to improving emergency response. It’s critical for us to get ahead of events and anticipate both the predictable and the unexpected. Andrew’s insights into mental health resilience for emergency managers themselves highlighted the need for a strong, prepared mindset alongside physical preparedness.Resilience Through Tough Times“Tough times make strong people,” as the saying goes, and we are firmly in challenging times. These conditions are ripe for growth, not just for individuals but for the entire field of emergency management. Our discussion emphasized building resilience not only in personal well-being but also in the systems and communities we serve.The Role of Research and Proactive MeasuresIn our dialogue, I emphasized the need to use existing research to advocate for proactive emergency measures. The focus during "blue sky" days, when it seems all is quiet, should be on mitigation, preparedness, and sound planning. As we discussed, addressing these issues up front costs significantly less than dealing with the fallout from being underprepared.The Importance of Community and PartnershipsAndrew and I also talked about the crucial role of community engagement and partnerships in emergency management. With potential funding cuts looming, collaboration with faith-based organizations and other community partners could help fill gaps in resources and capabilities.ConclusionIn summary, today’s hardships can be tomorrow’s triumphs if we approach them with the right strategies. The lesson here, I believe, is clear: invest in preparation early, build resilient systems, and engage with the community to ensure a stronger, more capable response to whatever challenges come your way.If you're an emergency manager or involved in your community's safety efforts, I urge you to consider how you can implement more preventative strategies in your area. The work we do today will define how well we manage the inevitable crises of tomorrow.Thank you for joining us in this conversation. I’d like to extend my gratitude to Andrew Boyarsky for his insights and to Todd DeVoe, who, despite being unable to join us in person, was with us in spirit and added valuable commentary throughout. Let’s continue to prepare for a safe and resilient future, and as always, stay informed and stay safe.


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The salient focus of today’s discourse centers on the imminent deadline regarding Department of Homeland Security funding, which is crucial for maintaining essential operations. Congress faces a critical juncture as the current stopgap funding is set to expire on February 13, 2026, necessitating legislative action to avert a lapse in appropriations. Should lawmakers fail to enact a new funding measure, the Department will implement a plan to sustain essential life, safety, and security functions while pausing non-essential activities. Additionally, we will discuss the severe winter weather conditions affecting various regions, including Alaska and Hawaii, where winter storm warnings and advisories have been issued, predicting substantial snowfall and hazardous travel conditions. Throughout this episode, we shall diligently monitor updates from pertinent agencies and provide guidance on navigating these pressing circumstances.
Takeaways:
* The impending deadline for Department of Homeland Security funding necessitates immediate legislative action.
* Congress must pass a new funding measure by February 13 to avoid operational disruptions.
* Severe winter weather warnings have been issued for various regions, highlighting significant hazards ahead.
* FEMA has implemented new call center hours for Alaska survivors, effective immediately.
* Winter storm warnings predict significant snowfall and high winds across multiple states this week.
* The Tahoe Basin is expected to experience hazardous conditions due to winter weather advisories.
Sources
[Roll Call | https://rollcall.com/2026/02/09/this-week-dhs-faces-possible-shutdown-ahead-of-congressional-recess/]
[Reuters | https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/trump-backed-deal-end-shutdown-faces-tight-house-vote-2026-02-03/]
[DHS | https://www.dhs.gov/publication/lapse-funding-dhs]
[NWS Anchorage | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+storm+warning]
[NWS Anchorage | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+weather+advisory]
[FEMA | https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20260205/fema-alaska-call-center-hours-change-starting-monday-february-9]
[NWS Reno | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?warnzone=CAZ072&warncounty=CAC017&firewxzone=CAZ272&local_place1=South+Lake+Tahoe+CA&product1=Winter+Weather+Advisory]
[NWS Honolulu | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?warnzone=HIZ028&warncounty=HIC001&firewxzone=HIZ343&local_place1=12+Miles+ENE+Bradshaw+Army+Air+Field+HI&product1=Winter+Storm+Warning]
[NWS Honolulu AFD | https://www.weather.gov/hfo/AFD]
[NWS Billings | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+storm+warning]


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The primary focus of this morning’s briefing is the incursion of Arctic air into the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, which is expected to produce perilous wind chills and localized snow squalls. As we delve into the specifics, the National Weather Service has issued warnings regarding the persistent cold and gusty winds that will prevail throughout the weekend. Meanwhile, in the Pacific Northwest, an influx of moisture will manifest as rain at lower elevations and snow in the mountainous areas, accompanied by various coastal and marine hazards. It is also noteworthy that no tropical systems are currently active in either the Atlantic or Pacific basins, and the United States Geological Survey reports several minor seismic activities, including magnitude 2.5 earthquakes in California. As we examine the conditions across individual states, we will highlight significant weather advisories and alerts pertinent to the safety and preparedness of our listeners.
Takeaways:
* The weather conditions in the Northeast and Mid Atlantic regions are particularly severe, with dangerously low wind chills and occasional snow squalls expected throughout the weekend.
* The National Weather Service has issued warnings regarding cold and gusty winds, emphasizing the potential for hazardous conditions ahead.
* In the Pacific Northwest, renewed moisture will bring rain and mountain snow, alongside various coastal and marine hazards that require caution.
* The absence of tropical systems in both the Atlantic and Pacific basins indicates a period of typical weather patterns, with only routine seismic activity reported across the United States.
* Multiple small earthquakes have been recorded in California, but there are currently no elevated alerts from emergency management officials for any significant threats.
* Routine winter weather is anticipated in many states, with specific advisories for freezing drizzle and light ice in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Sources
[USGS | https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/feed/]
[NWS San Diego | https://www.weather.gov/sgx/]
[NWS New York — briefing PDF | https://www.weather.gov/media/okx/DSSBuilder/LatestBriefing.pdf]
[NWS New York | https://www.weather.gov/okx/]
[NWS Advisory text — MQT | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+weather+advisory]
[NWS Gaylord | https://www.weather.gov/apx/]
[NWS Portland | https://www.weather.gov/pqr/]
[NWS Seattle | https://www.weather.gov/sew/]


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The salient point of this podcast episode is the impending extreme cold weather that is forecasted to impact the Northeast and interior Mid-Atlantic regions this weekend. As articulated by the National Weather Service, severe cold watches have been issued, with wind chills anticipated to plummet into the range of negative 20s to negative 30s. Additionally, we address the marine hazards associated with gale to storm force gusts and heavy freezing spray, particularly affecting the western coastal areas. Furthermore, we discuss the high surf warnings currently in effect for Hawaii and the potential dangers posed by rip currents along the Southern California coast. We also touch upon recent weather phenomena, including confirmed EF0 tornadoes in Texas, while underscoring the necessity for residents in affected regions to seek assistance from FEMA as needed.
Takeaways:
* The National Weather Service has issued extreme cold watches for the Northeast region.
* Dangerous wind chills are expected to reach negative 30 degrees Fahrenheit this weekend.
* Residents affected by the October 2025 storms in Alaska are encouraged to apply for aid.
* High surf advisories will be in effect along California’s coast starting Friday morning.
* Visibility issues due to dense fog are reported across the San Joaquin Valley this morning.
* Two EF0 tornadoes were confirmed in Liberty County, Texas, with no reported injuries.
Sources
[FEMA | https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20260205/additional-areas-approved-individual-and-public-assistance-following-october]
[NWS Alaska Area AFD | https://www.weather.gov/arh/fire_afd]
[NWS LOX High Surf Advisory | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=lox&wwa=high+surf+advisory]
[NWS Hanford Fog Statement | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=sto&wwa=all]
[NWS Honolulu CFW | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=HFO&product=CFW&site=NWS]
[NWS Honolulu Surf Zone | https://www.weather.gov/hfo/SRF]
[NWS Burlington Extreme Cold Watch | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=Extreme+Cold+Watch]
[NWS Albany AFD | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=ALY&product=AFD&site=NWS]
[NWS Houston PNS | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=HGX&product=PNS&site=NWS]
[Houston Chronicle | https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-weather/forecast/article/nws-confirms-tornadoes-liberty-county-tuesday-21333480.php]


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