The Emergency Management Network Podcast

The primary focus of today’s discourse centers upon the perilous and severe cold conditions that are currently afflicting substantial portions of the Midwest and Northern Plains, with warnings issued by the National Weather Service indicating wind chills plummeting to a staggering -25 to -45 degrees Fahrenheit. As we delve into the implications of this arctic front, we will explore the expansion of winter weather alerts extending from eastern North Carolina to Texas, where the potential for hazardous icing and treacherous road conditions manifests imminently. Furthermore, we shall address the recent seismic activity in Wyoming, specifically a magnitude 4.7 earthquake, which has elicited minimal damage reports thus far. Additionally, we will highlight FEMA’s initiation of a 90-day appeal window for updated flood maps in Central Lane County, Oregon, emphasizing the importance of community preparedness in the face of these extreme weather phenomena. Join us as we navigate through these critical updates, ensuring that we remain informed and vigilant during this tumultuous winter period.
Takeaways:
* The National Weather Service has issued extreme cold warnings affecting areas such as Chicago and North Dakota.
* A substantial arctic front is anticipated to bring significant winter weather across multiple states this weekend.
* FEMA has initiated a 90-day appeal process for updated flood maps in Central Lane County, Oregon, necessitating property owner awareness.
* North Dakota continues to experience life-threatening wind chills due to extreme cold warnings in effect this morning.
* A magnitude 4.7 earthquake was reported south of Evanston, Wyoming, with no significant damage reported thus far.
* Residents in eastern North Carolina are under a winter storm watch, with significant ice and power outages possible.
Sources
[NWS Austin/San Antonio | https://www.weather.gov/ewx/]
[NWS EWX Warning Text | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=EWX&wwa=extreme+cold+warning]
[NWS Houston/Galveston Briefing | https://www.weather.gov/media/hgx/Winter/webinar3_januarywinterstorm.pdf]
[NWS Buffalo | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+storm+watch]
[NWS Chicago | https://www.weather.gov/lot/]
[NWS Chicago DSS Packet (Jan 23) | https://www.weather.gov/media/lot/DssPacket.pdf]
[NWS Newport/Morehead City | https://www.weather.gov/mhx/]
[NWS MHX Winter Storm Watch Text | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+storm+watch]
[NWS MHX Briefing (Jan 23) | https://www.weather.gov/media/mhx/LatestBriefing.pdf]
[NWS Bismarck — Extreme Cold Warning | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=Extreme+Cold+Warning]
[NWS Norman | https://www.weather.gov/oun/]
[Oklahoma DOT prep advisory | https://oklahoma.gov/odot/about-us/newsroom/2026/odot-crews-prepare-statewide-ahead-of-forecasted-winter-storm.html]
[OK LPG Emergency HOS Extension (Jan 21) | https://oklahoma.gov/content/dam/ok/en/lpgas/documents/2026-01-21-Declaration-LPG-Delivery-Drivers.pdf]
[FEMA Press Release | https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20260122/fema-updates-flood-maps-central-lane-county-oregon]
[How to Challenge a Flood Zone | https://www.fema.gov/flood-maps/change-your-flood-zone]
[USGS Event Page — M4.7 S of Evanston | https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/uu80127891]
[CISA — Known Exploited Vulnerabilities | https://www.cisa.gov/known-exploited-vulnerabilities-catalog]


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A substantial winter storm is poised to impact a wide swath of the United States this weekend, with significant weather disturbances anticipated from the Southern Plains to the Ohio Valley and Mid Atlantic regions. Various states, including Texas, New Mexico, Missouri, and Ohio, are currently under winter storm watches, as forecasters predict the potential for heavy snowfall and damaging ice. The National Weather Service has indicated that travel disruptions are likely to commence Saturday evening, persisting through Monday, particularly in the Texas Panhandle. Additionally, a magnitude 4.3 earthquake occurred near Ferndale, California, though no tsunami threat has been detected. As we navigate these developments, we will provide ongoing updates regarding the storm’s progression and any necessary safety measures.
Takeaways:
* A significant winter storm is anticipated to impact multiple regions, including Texas and the Northeast.
* Winter storm watches have been issued for various states, indicating potential heavy snow and ice accumulation.
* Travel disruptions are expected as the winter weather system evolves, particularly from Friday night through Sunday.
* Governor Wes Moore has declared a state of preparedness in Maryland in response to the impending winter storm.
* Seismic activity was noted with a minor earthquake occurring near Ferndale, California, without tsunami threats.
* The National Weather Service has high confidence in significant winter weather impacts throughout the weekend.
Sources
[USGS | https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/feed/v1.0/detail/nc75299751.geojson]
[NWS | https://www.weather.gov/mtr/]
[USGS | https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/feed/v1.0/detail/us7000rra1.geojson]
[Governor’s Office | https://governor.maryland.gov/Lists/ExecutiveOrders/Attachments/104/EO%2001.01.2026.01%20Declaration%20of%20a%20State%20of%20Preparedness%20-%20Winter%20Storm_Accessible.pdf]
[NWS | https://www.weather.gov/sgf/]
[NWS | https://www.weather.gov/abq/]
[NWS | https://www.weather.gov/cle/Forecast_Cold_Outbreak]
[NWS | https://www.weather.gov/media/phi/current_briefing.pdf]
[NWS | https://www.weather.gov/ama/]
[NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+storm+watch]


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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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