HERE'S HOW AI HELPED RESEARCHERS DISCOVER THOUSANDS OF MINI EARTHQUAKES BENEATH YELLOWSTONE

For decades, scientists have tried to better understand this underground system. Until recently, they were unaware what the subsurface actually looked like.

In the past, geoscientists relied on drilling boreholes to study Yellowstone’s underground environment. But, this method triggered eruptions of steam and boiling water, making the work both dangerous and difficult.

Many of these boreholes have since been sealed, leaving scientists to depend on archival drilling logs and rock core that were extracted.

According to the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, researchers are now using a new technique to map Yellowstone’s subsurface. The method is geophysics, a subfield of geology that studies the physical properties of rock and fluids in the subsurface to map out the system beneath the national park.

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK ANNOUNCES NORTH RIM REOPENING AS DRAGON BRAVO FIRE RECOVERY CONTINUES

This approach is noninvasive, meaning the techniques do not significantly disturb the ground in order to learn about the hydrothermal system.

In 2018, a team from the University of Wyoming used these techniques to create images of Yellowstone’s underground plumbing system.

The researchers collected multiple datasets beneath Sentinel Meadows, a hydrothermally active drainage area in the Lower Geyser Basin. As well as focusing on the plumbing system beneath Rosette Spring. 

WHAT CAUSED THE EXPLOSION AT YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK? GEOLOGIST WEIGHS IN

The team utilized a technique called Electrical Resistivity Tomography to identify areas that contain less hydrothermal water, since the water is electrically conductive.

By using this approach, the researchers were able to measure the underground hydrothermal waters without drilling or causing damage to the environment.

They discovered that hydrothermal water lies about 16 to 33 feet below the surface, but there is no clear pipe or conduit leading directly to the spring.

COOLING WATERS LIFTS FISHING RESTRICTIONS FOR SELECT RIVERS AND STREAMS AT YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

Scientists assume the water travels through a dense network of tiny pathways within glacial deposits to reach the surface. These pathways are so small that they are difficult to detect with the current field equipment.

Despite these findings, researchers still do not fully understand how water travels from deep underground to the surface.

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As technology improves, new geophysical data will continue to provide insights into how Yellowstone’s underground hot water plumbing system works.

On April 1, Ryan Jennings, a 46-year-old father of three from North Yarmouth, Maine, was visiting Juno Beach with his family when his two oldest children were swimming and were caught up in a rip current.

Jennings ran into the ocean to rescue his son and daughter, throwing one to shore while holding the other above the water, exhausting the father.

According to the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, lifeguards initiated a water rescue around 3:25pm and assisted in bringing four individuals to shore who were not swimming in a guarded area.

Police responded to screams from a woman who said her husband was drowning near the 1000 block of Ocean Drive. When officers arrived on the scene, they found Jennings in the shallow shoreline area lying on his back unconscious with two bystanders attempting to bring him to shore, according to the Juno Beach Police Department. Officers Palacio and Curreri dragged Jennings onto the shore and began CPR once on land.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER 

Ryan Jennings was transported to Jupiter Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.

"This incident underscores the importance of swimming at guarded beaches, where trained lifeguards can identify hazardous conditions, including rough surf and rip current formation, helping to reduce the risk of incidents before they happen," says Palm Beach Fire Rescue.

A GoFundMe was established for Ryan's wife, Emily, and their three children. The organizer says, "his heroic actions are a testament to the kind of person he was, and his loss leaves a tremendous void in the lives of everyone who knew him."

The National Weather Service has issued a high rip current risk through Friday for much of Florida's Atlantic coast, ranging from Jacksonville to Boca Raton.

No injuries were reported, according to the United States Coast Guard (USCG).

WATCH: DOG ‘CONTINUOUSLY SHIVERS’ AFTER HARROWING RESCUE FROM FRIGID NEW YORK RIVER

On April 4, at 5:45 p.m., watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound were notified via Very High Frequency (VHF) radio that the vessel, Proudfoot, was disabled and caught in seas over 12 feet.

Hazardous weather prevented local police and responders from assisting, reports said. 

It was then that Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound responded by issuing an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast and dispatching a boat crew from Station Shinnecock.

However, the boat crew later returned to the station due to worsening sea conditions, USCG stated.

By 8:30 p.m, a Cape Cod-based Coast Guard aircrew arrived on-site via an MH-60T Jayhawk.

2 RESCUED IN MULTIAGENCY EFFORT AFTER FISHING BOAT SLAMMED AGROUND BY WAVES IN MASSACHUSETTS

The crew completed the rescue of all four passengers—two men and two women—by 9:42 p.m., before flying them to Gabreski Airport for evaluation by medical personnel.

Video captured the precise, tactical rescue as each individual was hoisted and airlifted into the helicopter to safety.

SEE IT: COAST GUARD RESCUES FATHER AND SON AFTER THEIR BOAT CAPSIZES

Coast Guard Lt. Jonathan Roth of Sector Long Island Sound noted that the difficult mission highlighted how vital life jackets and reliable communication tools are for boaters. 

He emphasized that this safety equipment is essential for any trip, regardless of the season or weather conditions.

The following morning, it was reported that the vessel washed ashore at Democrat Point, Fire Island. 

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State environmental officials and local police inspected the vessel at the scene, confirming there were no signs of pollution risk.

"The owner has contracted a commercial salvage company to recover the vessel pending improved weather and safety conditions," USCG said. 

Main areas of impact include parts of Montana, Iowa, Wyoming, Kansas, Missouri, the Dakotas, Minnesota and Nebraska.

Wind alerts are in effect across Montana on Tuesday, while a Level 1 out of 4 flash flood risk is in place for Thursday and Friday across Kansas, northern Missouri, and far western Illinois.

RECORD WARMTH KICKS OFF HOLIDAY WEEKEND, WITH RAIN LOOKING TO SOAK EASTER PLANS FOR MILLIONS ACROSS EAST

A strengthening area of low pressure is moving across southern Canada on Tuesday, triggering strong to potentially damaging winds across portions of the Northern Rockies. 

Wind Advisories and High Wind Warnings have been issued for central and western Montana, where wind gusts could reach up to 90 mph through the afternoon along I‑15, from Bozeman toward the Glacier National Park area. 

Wind gusts are expected to expand late Tuesday into Wednesday morning across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest. 

COLD FRONT FUELS WINTER’S RETURN WITH CHANCE OF SNOW ACROSS MAJOR NORTHEAST CITIES AFTER NEAR-RECORD WARMTH

In Minneapolis, gusts over 45 mph are forecast as the storm system moves north of the Great Lakes.

As the system tracks into southeastern Canada, a trailing front will stall from the Great Lakes through the Central Plains. 

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The FOX Forecast Center said this stall will trigger multiple rounds of moisture over the same regions, heightening the flash flood risk.

Additionally, isolated severe storms may develop across Kansas on Wednesday afternoon.

The Weather Prediction Center has maintained a Level 1 out of 4 for flash flooding through Thursday and Friday across eastern Kansas, northern Missouri, and far western Illinois, including Kansas City.

HAWAII BRACES FOR INCHES OF TORRENTIAL RAIN AND FLASH FLOODING JUST WEEKS AFTER LIFE-THREATENING KONA LOWS

Widespread rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches are expected between Wednesday and Friday, with localized amounts of 2 to 3 inches possible near the Kansas City metro area.

Tragedy unfolded in Southeast Florida as officials from Pompano Beach Fire Rescue were dispatched to a swimmer in distress on Sunday night.

This comes as there is a high rip current risk for all Central Florida Atlantic beaches this week, including locations along the Daytona, Space and Treasure Coasts.

WHAT IS A RIP CURRENT AND HOW TO SURVIVE ONE

Wave heights ranging from three to four feet are expected, and it is strongly discouraged to enter the water.

According to a press release from city officials, Ocean Rescue lifeguards were immediately dispatched and entered the water, where they located a man who was unresponsive before bringing him back to shore.

Rescuers performed CPR and other lifesaving measures until fire rescue teams arrived to provide advanced life support while transporting him to the nearest medical facility.

"Despite extensive lifesaving efforts, the patient was subsequently pronounced deceased at the hospital," a statement from the city of Pompano Beach reads.

HIGHEST NUMBER OF NORTH ATLANTIC RIGHT WHALE CALVES RECORDED IN 17 YEARS

As temperatures continue to rise and people visit the beach, the risk of rip currents remains constant, posing a threat to even the most experienced swimmers.

The National Weather Service (NWS) offers a surf forecast for popular beach locations to help beach-goers and swimmers prepare for inadequate conditions such as rip current risk, surf height, thunderstorm risk and more.

YOUNG GREAT WHITE SHARK SPOTTED OFF THE COAST OF THE FLORIDA PANHANDLE

Locations in the Orlando metro area are at risk of strong storms across East Central Florida to start the week, dampening plans for spring breakers to get outside.

Rip currents are strong, narrow currents that move away from shore and out to sea at high speeds.

Unfortunately, many people are injured or killed each year by dangerous waves and currents, according to the NWS. A rip current is a natural treadmill that travels at an average speed of 1 to 2 feet per second, but has been measured as fast as 8 feet per second.

If you become stuck in a rip current, do not panic. Don't swim directly against the current; try swimming sideways along the shoreline until you gradually escape the current's pull.

RAIN, POTENTIAL FLASH FLOODING DAMPEN SPRING BREAK PLANS IN FLORIDA

Once you are finally free from the current, swim at an angle back to the beach.

The NWS recommends choosing a location with lifeguards on duty for a safe beach experience. They're also the best source of local information about beach conditions and hazards.

During the first Artemis I mission in 2022, the un-crewed spacecraft encountered technical issues with the heat shield, which have since been resolved.

This was the first of a series of increasingly complex missions that will eventually set the stage for astronauts to return to the surface of the moon and establish a base.

NASA'S ARTEMIS PROGRAM: PAVING THE WAY FOR HUMANKIND'S RETURN TO THE MOON AND BEYOND

"Our early Artemis flights are a test campaign, and the Artemis I test flight gave us an opportunity to check out our systems in the deep space environment before adding crew on future missions," Amit Kshatriya, deputy associate administrator of the Moon to Mars Program Office, NASA Headquarters in Washington, said.

During this mission, the Orion spacecraft experienced an unexpected char loss across the ship’s heat shield, according to NASA. Engineers determined that gases generated inside the Orion’s heat shield were not able to vent and dissipate as expected through the shield’s outer material called Avcoat.

"The Apollo crew module’s heat shield relied on a material called Avcoat to beat the heat," a statement from NASA reads. "It’s an ablator, meaning it burns off in a controlled fashion during reentry, transferring heat away from the spacecraft."

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

Using data from the Avcoat material, a NASA investigation team was able to replicate the same environment in which the Orion experienced during its trajectory to Earth and experienced significant char loss.

Experts discovered that during the trajectory to Earth, there were periods of dips through the atmosphere, causing heat rates to decrease and thermal energy to build up within the Avcoat heat shield material.

"This led to the accumulation of gases that are part of the expected ablation process," NASA officials explained. "Because the Avcoat did not have permeability, internal pressure built up, and led to cracking and uneven shedding of the outer layer."

The result was a dark, charred spacecraft bearing the scars of its unmanned journey back to our world.

This issue resulted from scientists initially testing the spacecraft at much higher heating rates than those that actually occurred during the mission. The unexpectedly less severe heating observed during the Artemis I reentry into Earth slowed char formation while still generating gases within the char layers.

TIMELINE: A DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE TO THE 10-DAY ARTEMIS II MISSION TO BRING HUMANITY BACK TO THE MOON

Gas pressure built up to the point of cracking and releasing parts of the charred layer, as the Orion ship suffered some damage.

NASA said the extensive investigation and tests to find the root of the issue and to ensure safety going forward are the top priority, with approximately 200 Avcoat samples removed from the ship for analysis.

A heat shield is one of the basic parts of the reentry process back to our planet, and it would be impossible to sustain life inside without it, with temperatures as high as 7,000 degrees at the surface of the spacecraft.

"The process was extensive," Howard Hu, manager of the Orion Program, said. "We gave the team the time needed to investigate every possible cause, and they worked tirelessly to ensure we understood the phenomenon and the necessary steps to mitigate this issue for future missions."

ARTEMIS II MISSION: CREW TRAVELS FARTHER THAN ANY HUMANS IN HISTORY DURING RECORD-BREAKING LUNAR FLYBY

After extensive tests and analysis of the immense amount of data collected from Artemis I, officials are confident in the safety of the heat shield upon the crew’s return to Earth.

See the complete day-by-day guide for the Artemis II mission below:

The crew aboard the Orion spacecraft entered the lunar gravitational sphere of influence — where the moon's gravity is stronger than Earth's — shortly after 12:40 a.m. ET, and began a 7-hour period to make detailed lunar observations Monday afternoon.

TIMELINE: A DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE TO THE 10-DAY ARTEMIS II MISSION TO BRING HUMANITY BACK TO THE MOON

According to NASA, Artemis II crew members — Commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover and mission specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen — broke the 1970 space travel record set by Apollo 13 by about 4,102 miles shortly before 2 p.m. ET.

"From the cabin of Integrity, as we surpass the furthest distance that humans have ever traveled from planet Earth, we do so in honoring the extraordinary efforts and feats of our predecessors in human space exploration," the crew said after surpassing the record.

This mission served as a critical test for the Orion spacecraft and a key building block of the Artemis program, which hopes to establish a long-term lunar base by 2030.

NASA PAUSES GATEWAY LUNAR-ORBIT SPACE STATION TO BUILD LUNAR BASE ON THE MOON

The 7-hour lunar observation period began at 2:45 p.m. ET. NASA said human eyes may be able to help make discoveries not possible with computer imaging alone.

With limited window space, the team is expected to divide into pairs to make these observations, taking 90-minute shifts.

NASA will also lose contact with the Orion capsule for roughly 40 minutes around 6:45 p.m., as Earth disappears completely behind the Moon in a rapid "Earthset" and "Earthrise" phenomenon for the team.

This will also mark Artemis II's closest distance to the moon, 4,070 miles, and when the capsule will use the Moon's gravity to "slingshot" around and begin its return course toward home.

The lunar observation period will conclude at 9:20 p.m, and Orion will fully leave the Moon's sphere of influence by Tuesday night.

The crew will transmit some of the high-resolution images of the far side of the Moon on Tuesday.

ARTEMIS II BEGINS FIRST FULL DAY IN SPACE, PERFORMING CRITICAL SYSTEM CHECKS, MANEUVERS ON HISTORIC MISSION

Late Sunday night, the crew caught a historic first glimpse of the Orientale basin, on the Moon's most extreme western side and is nearly impossible to see from Earth.

"This mission marks the first time the entire basin has been seen with human eyes," NASA said on X.

After breaking free from Earth's orbit Thursday, the four-person crew coasted through the void of space on a direct course to the moon, having completed pre-planned, precise course corrections early Friday, with NASA announcing the crew was more than halfway to the moon and officially closer to it than Earth.

Throughout the weekend, the crew made final steering nudges to ensure Orion entered the correct orbital slot, guaranteeing the spacecraft would be able to "whip around" the moon.

As they prepared for Monday’s lunar flyby, the crew exercised, practiced medical response procedures and tested the spacecraft’s emergency communications system in deep space, NASA said.

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

Along the way, the crew practiced zero-gravity CPR and other emergency procedures.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

They also tested a special exercise device onboard to determine if it significantly impacted Orion's flight path. At the same time, engineers continued to monitor the spacecraft’s life support system, which maintained a comfortable cabin environment during the heavy physical exertion.

The crew spoke to Trace Gallagher, the host of FOX News @ Night, late Thursday, and was eager to thank their families for their support for the first time since launching.

Commander Wiseman highlighted the incredible achievement of the American space program.

"This is unbelievable, that we can put our minds to something and pull it off," Wiseman said.

EVERYDAY INNOVATIONS BORN FROM SPACE TRAVEL

Mission Specialist Koch explained how the crew was getting adjusted to living in space, telling Gallagher that she was very comfortable sleeping upside down in zero gravity.

NASA released the first high-resolution images of Earth from the Orion spacecraft on Friday. These pictures of the African continent were actually taken at night.

The historic flight launched Wednesday at 6:35:12 p.m. ET from the Kennedy Space Center.

A few hours before the mission's launch window opened, the mission very briefly entered a "No-Go" range, while they addressed a glitch with the Flight Termination System.

After roughly 45 minutes, the mission returned to "Go" and things continued as planned.

FOX Weather Correspondent Brandy Campbell covered the launch live, describing the atmosphere during the launch as "electric."

Mission control in Houston reported Friday that the Orion spacecraft is performing excellently.

ARTEMIS II BRINGS PIECES OF THE PAST ON ITS HISTORIC DEEP SPACE VOYAGE

After whipping around the moon Monday, the crew will begin the voyage home, set to splash down next Friday afternoon in the Pacific Ocean.

The newly tagged shark pinged between Mexico Beach and St. Joseph Peninsula.

LARGEST MALE WHITE SHARK CONTENDER’S LATEST PING OFFERS FRESH INSIGHT INTO SHARK BEHAVIOR

According to OCEARCH, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to researching and protecting sharks, whales, sea turtles and other ocean life, Brookes traveled more than 5,000 miles to reach the Gulf — an area where great white sharks usually frequent during the winter months.

"The Gulf plays an important role in the annual migration of these animals, and continued research will help us better understand the environmental factors that influence where sharks travel and how they use these habitats," OCEARCH Senior Data Scientist John Tyminski said.

In a recent study released by OCEARCH, scientists discovered that the Gulf serves as a regular winter habitat for great white sharks migrating thousands of miles from Atlantic Canada and the northeastern U.S.

By tracking the movements of 92 great white sharks at all the stages of life, they found that the animals typically migrate to this region for the warm waters and abundant food.

MASSIVE 1,400-POUND GREAT WHITE SHARK ‘BRETON’ PINGS NEAR UNCHARTED WATERS OFF TURKS AND CAICOS

"For years we suspected white sharks were using the Gulf more than people realized," Chris Fischer, founder and expedition leader of OCEARCH, said. "This research confirms the Gulf is a regular winter habitat for this population and highlights how connected the ecosystems of the Atlantic Ocean truly are."

Brookes was tagged in Nova Scotia by Tancook Islands Marine Field Station in collaboration with OCEARCH last September to help scientists understand shark migration patterns better.

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She is over 8 feet long and weighs more than 450 pounds, according to OCEARCH.

From coast to coast and everywhere in between, spring is awakening landscapes from winter’s nap, transforming fields, neighborhoods, towns, national parks, you name it, into a vibrant tapestry of blossoms, bursting with rows of vibrant colors. 

The world is transforming into an open palette, bursting with azaleas, tulips, wildflowers and more.

Explore some of the best places and times to witness spring blossoms in full bloom.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., runs through April 12.

NATIONAL MALL CHERRY BLOOMS REACH PEAK BLOOM EARLY DUE TO WARMER-THAN-AVERAGE SPRING TEMPERATURES

This annual event lines the National Mall and monuments with iconic cherry blossom trees, creating a breathtaking walkway of pink and white.

The tradition began in 1912, when Japan gifted 3,000 trees to the city, and today, millions of visitors flock to enjoy the scenic pathways around the Jefferson Memorial and the Tidal Basin.

This year, Death Valley’s superbloom peaked early, driven by a historic Southwest heat wave and strong winds.

Many visitors call this phase the "carpet of gold" because of the vibrant yellow Desert Gold flowers that blanketed the valley floor.

RECORD-BREAKING HEAT WAVE CAUSES BREATHTAKING DEATH VALLEY SUPERBLOOM TO PEAK EARLY THIS YEAR

While these yellow blooms at lower elevations reached their peak in March, visitors can still catch spectacular displays at higher elevations, where flowers linger from April through June, according to the National Park Service (NPS).

These higher-altitude blooms will paint the landscape in a diverse palette of purples, pinks and reds, as species like Notch-leaf Phacelia, Desert Five-Spot and Desert Paintbrush take over the show.

Through early May, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch in California transform the 55-acre field into what looks like a beautiful rainbow.

According to The Flower Fields, rows of 80 million vibrant Ranunculus line the fields in every color, from deep reds and bright yellows to royal purples.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE NEEDS YOUR HELP AFTER MILES OF RARE PLANTS WERE DAMAGED IN THE HOTTEST PLACE ON EARTH

Adding to the beauty, the fields offer a stunning Pacific Ocean view that perfectly complements the 13 different shades of blooms.

In the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the wildflower season peaks from late March through mid-April.

According to Visit Fredericksburg, Wildseed Farms serves as the nation’s largest working wildflower farm, featuring more than 200 acres of blooming fields.

Visitors can explore a half-mile walking trail through vibrant displays of Texas bluebonnets and red corn poppies, which create a colorful backdrop against the rustic landscape.

While tulips famously line the countryside of the Netherlands, they also blossom every spring in Holland, Michigan. 

The city, which was settled by Dutch immigrants, celebrates this heritage annually with its renowned Tulip Time Festival.

According to Tulip Time, this year’s festival runs from May 1 through May 10.

IS MAY TOO LATE TO PLANT SPRING FLOWERS?

This is another area that truly comes alive like a rainbow, as millions of vibrant tulips in every imaginable color line the city streets, public parks and the historic downtown area.

Pine Mountain, Georgia, is home to the world’s largest azalea garden at Callaway Gardens.

According to Callaway Gardens, the Callaway Brothers Azalea Bowl is a 40-acre garden featuring more than 3,000 native and hybrid azaleas.

Each spring, the garden transforms into a vibrant display of pinks, reds, lavenders and whites as the azaleas reach peak bloom.

While peak bloom is typically mid-March to early April, late bloomers can last until mid-April.

The 128th Rochester Lilac Festival in Highland Park kicks off May 8 through May 17.

According to the Highland Park Conservancy, the park is home to over 500 varieties of lilacs spread across 1,200 plants, making it the largest collection of its kind in North America.

SEE IT: STINKY, RARE 'CORPSE FLOWER' BLOOMS AT BROOKLYN BOTANIC GARDEN

The park is a wash of color, ranging from snowy whites to velvety dark purples across its 150 acres.

According to South Carolina State Parks, Landsford Canal State Park hosts the planet’s densest concentration of Rocky Shoals spider lilies.

These perennials emerge annually along the Catawba River, typically appearing from May through mid-June.

To see them, visitors can take a 1.5-mile round-trip walk via the canal or nature trails to a dedicated viewing area.

ALLERGY SEASON IS WORSE THAN EVER. HERE ARE THE 10 WORST ALLERGY CAPITALS IN THE US FOR 2026

While the plants are currently starting their seasonal debut, experts anticipate a standard peak toward the end of May.

Minnesota's state flower, the Showy Lady’s Slipper, is the star of the Lady Slipper Scenic Byway.

These rare orchids can be found tucked away in damp woodlands, such as the Chippewa National Forest and along County Highway 39.

According to the Lady Slipper Scenic Byway, peak blooming typically occurs between June 15 and July 5, though the most vibrant displays often appear around June 25 to 28.

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Once they arrive, the blossoms last for about 10 to 12 days, though the exact timing depends heavily on the early summer weather.

The Gloucester Police Department said the Fire Department, Harbormaster and Coast Guard responded when a 40-foot fishing boat ran aground off Atlantic Road around 7:30 p.m. ET.

COLD FRONT TRIGGERS WINTER’S RETURN WITH POSSIBLE SNOW ACROSS MAJOR NORTHEAST CITIES AFTER NEAR-RECORD WARMTH

The Coast Guard was unable to initially pull the vessel off the rocks.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, winds were gusting over 20 mph, with temperatures in the 40s on land.

While the crew was not in immediate danger, police were concerned about the powerful waves battering the boat.

CREWS RESCUE HIKER THAT WAS CRITICALLY INJURED AFTER BEING STUNG BY BEES OVER 100 TIMES IN ARIZONA

"Approximately 2- to 4-foot seas were battering the boat, pushing it against the rocks, and causing increasingly severe damage to the hull, so first responders decided to evacuate the two crew members from the boat for their safety," police said.

Firefighters, police and the harbormaster were able to throw rescue lines to the two crew members and help them onto dry land unharmed amid rough seas.

See the complete day-by-day guide for the Artemis II mission below:

TIMELINE: A DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE TO THE 10-DAY ARTEMIS II MISSION TO BRING HUMANITY BACK TO THE MOON

The crew aboard the Orion spacecraft entered the lunar gravitational sphere of influence — where the moon's gravity is stronger than Earth's — shortly after 12 a.m. ET, and will begin a 7-hour period to make detailed lunar observations Monday afternoon.

According to NASA, Artemis II crew members — Commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover and mission specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen — will break the 1970 space travel record set by Apollo 13 by about 4,105 miles shortly before 2 p.m. ET.

This mission serves as a critical test for the Orion spacecraft and a key building block of the Artemis program, which hopes to establish a long-term lunar base by 2030.

NASA PAUSES GATEWAY LUNAR-ORBIT SPACE STATION TO BUILD LUNAR BASE ON THE MOON

The 7-hour lunar observation period is expected to begin at 2:45 p.m. ET. NASA says human eyes may be able to help make discoveries not possible with computer imaging alone.

With limited window space, the team is expected to divide into pairs to make these observations, taking 90-minute shifts.

NASA will also lose contact with the Orion capsule for roughly 40 minutes around 6:45 p.m., as Earth disappears completely behind the Moon in a rapid "Earthset" and "Earthrise" phenomenon for the team.

This will also mark Artemis II's closest distance to the moon, 4,070 miles, and when the capsule will use the Moon's gravity to "slingshot" around and begin its return course toward home.

The lunar observation period will conclude at 9:20 p.m, and Orion will fully leave the Moon's sphere of influence by Tuesday night.

The crew will transmit some of the high-resolution images of the far side of the Moon on Tuesday.

ARTEMIS II BEGINS FIRST FULL DAY IN SPACE, PERFORMING CRITICAL SYSTEM CHECKS, MANEUVERS ON HISTORIC MISSION

Late Sunday night, the crew caught a historic first glimpse of the Orientale basin, on the Moon's most extreme western side and is nearly impossible to see from Earth.

"This mission marks the first time the entire basin has been seen with human eyes," NASA said on X.

After breaking free from Earth's orbit Thursday, the four-person crew coasted through the void of space on a direct course to the moon, having completed pre-planned, precise course corrections early Friday, with NASA announcing the crew was more than halfway to the moon and officially closer to it than Earth.

Throughout the weekend, the crew made final steering nudges to ensure Orion entered the correct orbital slot, guaranteeing the spacecraft would be able to "whip around" the moon.

As they prepared for Monday’s lunar flyby, the crew exercised, practiced medical response procedures and tested the spacecraft’s emergency communications system in deep space, NASA said.

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

Along the way, the crew practiced zero-gravity CPR and other emergency procedures.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

They also tested a special exercise device onboard to determine if it significantly impacted Orion's flight path. At the same time, engineers continued to monitor the spacecraft’s life support system, which maintained a comfortable cabin environment during the heavy physical exertion.

The crew spoke to Trace Gallagher, the host of FOX News @ Night, late Thursday, and was eager to thank their families for their support for the first time since launching.

Commander Wiseman highlighted the incredible achievement of the American space program.

"This is unbelievable, that we can put our minds to something and pull it off," Wiseman said.

EVERYDAY INNOVATIONS BORN FROM SPACE TRAVEL

Mission Specialist Koch explained how the crew was getting adjusted to living in space, telling Gallagher that she was very comfortable sleeping upside down in zero gravity.

NASA released the first high-resolution images of Earth from the Orion spacecraft on Friday. These pictures of the African continent were actually taken at night.

The historic flight launched Wednesday at 6:35:12 p.m. ET from the Kennedy Space Center.

A few hours before the mission's launch window opened, the mission very briefly entered a "No-Go" range, while they addressed a glitch with the Flight Termination System.

After roughly 45 minutes, the mission returned to "Go" and things continued as planned.

FOX Weather Correspondent Brandy Campbell covered the launch live, describing the atmosphere during the launch as "electric."

Mission control in Houston reported Friday that the Orion spacecraft is performing excellently.

ARTEMIS II BRINGS PIECES OF THE PAST ON ITS HISTORIC DEEP SPACE VOYAGE

After whipping around the moon Monday, the crew will begin the voyage home, set to splash down next Friday afternoon in the Pacific Ocean.

NEW HAWAII BEACH ADVISORY ISSUED FOR HIGH BACTERIA AFTER HISTORIC FLOODING

This comes as many areas are still recovering from the earlier storms, which left homes and roads damaged by feet of water and mud. 

Numerous communities were evacuated due to the Flash Flood Emergency, including Waialua and Haleiwa on Oahu's northern shore. 

Residents told FOX Weather that people were forced to shelter on their roof to avoid the raging floodwaters. 

Some areas, including Kane’ohe and Pu’u Ali’i experienced over 38 inches of rainfall in just a few days. 

One Wahiawa resident, David Fuga, told FOX Weather Correspondent Robert Ray that some neighbors were completely devastated by the flooding.

"Mud up to 5 feet in their homes, lost all of their belongings," Fuga said.

COUPLE RESCUED AFTER BEING STRANDED DURING HAWAII FLOODING

Governor Josh Green called it the worst flood the state had seen in 20 years and estimated that the storms could potentially cost up to $1 billion in damages. 

According to the FOX Forecast Center, the next round of rain is expected to organize by midweek. 

The low-pressure system will tap into moisture and strengthen the southerly winds, which will likely cause strong thunderstorms and heavy rain across areas that have already experienced record-breaking rainfall. 

The new storm system has the potential to become severe if all the ingredients are aligned, including gusty downslope winds that may worsen as the low-pressure system gets closer to the islands. 

The FOX Forecast Center will have a clearer picture of the storm’s intensity by Thursday.

That said, even though some of the region have seen a few weeks of drier weather, the ground is still unable to absorb much additional rainfall. Officials worry that even moderate rain could trigger more flash floods, runoff, and rising streams in regions that were already hit the hardest by the recent storms. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Stay with FOX Weather for the latest updates on Hawaii’s next storm system. 

A slow-moving system over the Gulf of America is already impacting South Texas with heavy rain. It will continue to move east over the next week, eventually stalling over Florida. 

Across parts of South Texas, rain totals will generally be around 1-2 inches, with higher amounts possible near the U.S.-Mexico border, according to the FOX Forecast Center.

This weather will likely dampen any spring break plans for the Sunshine State through Thursday.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, rain totals will be around 1-2 inches, but amounts of 3-5 inches are possible in popular locations such as Miami and Daytona Beach.

As a result, a level ¼ flash flood threat has been added for Tuesday and Wednesday.

Locations such as Fort Myers and Miami, Florida, are at risk of severe thunderstorms. Despite this, the wet weather could be beneficial for both areas, as they have recently endured extreme drought.

FIERCE WINDS, BITTER CHILL TO WHIP ACROSS NORTHERN PLAINS, THREATENING TRAVEL BY EARLY WEEK

The entire week will be accompanied by a looming thunderstorm threat and mostly cloudy skies.

This severe weather comes at a bad time as millions of Americans are traveling for spring break this week, especially to southern locations, expecting a pleasant beach getaway.

A Rip Current Statement is in effect for the entire First, Space, and Treasure Coasts (Jacksonville to Port St. Lucie) in Florida through the entire week. Wind gusts could be as strong as 30–40 mph in the southern parts of the state through Thursday.

It is important to check local beach conditions before entering the water, and it is best to choose a location with a lifeguard on duty. 

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO STAY SAFE AT THE BEACH DURING SPRING BREAK

Before entering the water, talk with a lifeguard or beach patrol. They are the best source of information for the current water conditions in your area.

Main areas of impact include Montana, the Dakotas, Minnesota and Nebraska, with a High Wind Watch already issued for parts of Montana on Tuesday.

COLD FRONT FUELS WINTER’S RETURN WITH CHANCE OF SNOW ACROSS MAJOR NORTHEAST CITIES AFTER NEAR-RECORD WARMTH

The FOX Forecast Center said power outages are possible, but if they occur, they will most likely be limited to higher-elevation areas.

Starting late Monday and continuing through Wednesday, strong winds will develop as a tight pressure gradient sets up between high pressure building in behind a departing clipper system in the Northeast and a new area of low pressure moving in from the Pacific Northwest.

RECORD WARMTH KICKS OFF HOLIDAY WEEKEND, WITH RAIN LOOKING TO SOAK EASTER PLANS FOR MILLIONS ACROSS EAST

Wind gusts of 30 to 40 mph are likely, with higher gusts possible in some areas.

Depending on the track of the low pressure, it will dictate who sees the higher wind gusts.

Along I‑15, from Bozeman toward the Great Falls area in Montana, gusts could exceed 90 mph.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

The FOX Forecast Center highlights crosswinds as a factor in creating more dangerous driving conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles, which are more likely to sway in strong winds.

Residents and travelers are urged to stay alert as these powerful winds sweep the region.

Be sure to check back for updates as FOX Weather continues to track this incoming system.

The Phoenix Fire Department said they responded to Lookout Mountain around 10 a.m. on Saturday after getting a report of a hiker that was stung multiple times by bees near the summit.

Responding crews located a man who reported over 100 stings and was unable to continue his descent from the mountain.

Firefighters conducted a hoist operation with a helicopter, called Firebird 10, to rescue the man and bring him to safety.

SWARM OF 'RELENTLESS' BEES KILL TEXAS FAMILY'S BELOVED RODEO HORSES, FIREFIGHTERS SAY

Officials said the hiker was transported to a nearby hospital by an awaiting ambulance at the trailhead, and he remains in critical condition.

Bees are very common on Lookout Mountain, and they are frequently encountered by hikers. Almost 100% of wild bees in Arizona are Africanized honey bees, commonly known as "killer bees," which are known for being aggressive and highly protective of their hives.

HIGHEST NUMBER OF NORTH ATLANTIC RIGHT WHALE CALVES RECORDED IN 17 YEARS

Africanized honey bees are a hybrid between European and African bee subspecies which were accidentally released in Brazil in the 1950s. They have spread to the south as far as northern Argentina, and to the north into the United States, according to the Center for Invasive Species Research.

These types of bees tend to sting more when they feel threatened, which can be life-threatening, especially for people allergic to stings or with limited capacity to escape.

The fire department is urging people to avoid disturbing bee hives and skip scented products when outdoors. They also say hikers should wear light-colored clothing.

250 MILLION BEES UNLEASHED UPON NORTHERN WASHINGTON AFTER TRUCK OVERTURNS

If you encounter a swarm, fire officials said you should run away, quickly hide and protect your head and face.

It's also important not to swat at the bees, as this can provoke an attack.

A fast-moving clipper system could bring another round of snow to major cities across the Northeast this week.

The same system that fueled Saturday’s severe storms is now pushing east, delivering rain along the East Coast and triggering a sharp drop in temperatures—setting the stage for the chance of snow to return to parts of the Northeast.

RECORD WARMTH KICKS OFF HOLIDAY WEEKEND, WITH RAIN LOOKING TO SOAK EASTER PLANS FOR MILLIONS ACROSS EAST

Cities such as New York, Boston and Burlington, Vermont, could all see a dusting of snow by early this week.

This late-season clipper proves that the harsh 2025-2026 winter isn’t over just yet.

From record-shattering totals to feet of snow that paralyzed the region, the relentless season has buried parts of the Northeast under repeated rounds of snowfall — some measuring in feet — leaving records shattered and communities digging out for days.

TIMELINE: A DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE TO THE 10-DAY ARTEMIS II MISSION TO BRING HUMANITY BACK TO THE MOON

It has been a historic winter for many; spanning cross-country storms and powerful blizzards, winter’s grip has held the Northeast tight throughout the season.

PROVIDENCE SHATTERS 48-YEAR RECORD FOR ALL-TIME BIGGEST SNOWSTORM WITH OVER 37 INCHES OF HEAVY SNOW

That said, the Great Lakes and Northeast can expect rain on Sunday, followed by snow showers and below-average temperatures from Monday through Wednesday.

APRIL WEATHER OUTLOOK: SEVERE STORMS TARGET MILLIONS AS SPRING TEMPERATURE WARMUP FINALLY NEARS

Showers and scattered downpours are expected to begin in the morning, stretching from Georgia to upstate New York, as the cold front from Saturday's severe storms moves east.

From Raleigh to Boston along the I-95 corridor, rain is expected through the afternoon, likely impacting travel and airport operations for the Easter holiday, especially across the Northeast.

SEVERE WEATHER RELOADS OVER MIDWEST, PLAINS WITH STORMS BLASTING MORE THAN 65M FROM TEXAS TO PENNSYLVANIA

By evening, much of the rain is expected to move offshore.

The FOX Forecast Center said the wake of the cold front will trigger cooler air to return to the region as well as the Mid-Atlantic.

"While not unusually cold for this time of year, Monday’s temperatures will fall closer to seasonal averages with highs in the 40s and 50s," they noted.

THOUSANDS WITHOUT POWER AS HOLIDAY WEEKEND WINTER STORM DUMPS HEAVY SNOW, SIGNIFICANT ICE ACROSS NORTHERN US

With that, an area of low pressure will push into the Great Lakes, drawing in just enough moisture to trigger light snow.

While overall totals are expected to remain light, 1 to 3 inches of snow is possible, with slightly higher amounts near the Great Lakes and the higher terrain of the Adirondacks.

Cities in the path of the snow include Buffalo; Syracuse, NY, 1 to 3 inches; Burlington, VT, around 1 inch; Albany, NY; and a few flakes possible in Boston and New York City.

The FOX Forecast Center highlights that most of these areas typically see their last measurable snow by early-mid April.

Although the late-season snow is noteworthy, the approaching surge of cold air will affect a wider area. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Just days after near-record warmth, temperatures are expected to drop 10 to 15 degrees below average from Monday through Wednesday.

Wednesday is likely to be the coldest day, with wind chills remaining in the 20s across interior parts of the Northeast.

WHAT DOES THE WIND CHILL MEAN?

By Thursday, temperatures are expected to rebound, returning closer to seasonal averages.

Many of the tools and technologies we take for granted every day can be directly traced to humanity's quest to reach space.

In its conquest for space travel, humanity has obtained more than satellites and science: the engineering behind the complex challenges achieved to make life possible in space has since lead to inventions of items that have become indispensable in everyday life.

ARTEMIS II BRINGS PIECES OF THE PAST ON ITS HISTORIC DEEP SPACE VOYAGE

From memory foam to portable computers, space exploration has sparked a wide range of innovations, including scratch-resistant lenses, CAT scanners, LEDs, ear thermometers and more.

Humanity's conquest of spaceflight has pushed the limits of what had been previously thought possible – paving the way for innovation that continues to be essential in everyday life.

The solutions to the extreme engineering challenges behind spaceflight eventually trickled down to consumer markets, onto the store shelves and into households across the world.

The origin of the water filtration system, hand-held vacuum and home insulation material can all be traced back to space travel.

HAWAII'S KILAUEA VOLCANO IS BREWING YET AGAIN, PREPARING TO PUT ON A SHOW FOR IT'S 44TH EPISODE

In the 1960s, NASA developed an electrolytic silver iodizer to purify drinking water for astronauts – the same technology now widely used to kill bacteria in recreational pools.

When NASA pushed the boundaries and set their target on the moon, they approached Black and Decker to develop a lightweight device to collect samples on the moon, which would be commercially released as the Dustbuster in 1979.

TIMELINE: A DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE TO THE 10-DAY ARTEMIS II MISSION TO BRING HUMANITY BACK TO THE MOON

In order to combat the severe temperatures in space, NASA developed insulation from aluminized polyester that is now used in most home insulation.

Space travel is responsible for pushing technological barriers previously thought impossible.

The GRiD Compass, one of the first portable laptops, was developed in 1982 to serve as a single point of contact on space missions. From its creation, the laptop's new software would go on to become popular in the commercial markets.

In the 1960s, a NASA researcher was trying to make computers more interactive, becoming a catalyst for the invention of the computer mouse.

NASA'S ARTEMIS PROGRAM: PAVING THE WAY FOR HUMANKIND'S RETURN TO THE MOON AND BEYOND

Renowned for advancing communications technology, NASA developed wireless headsets to abandon the burden wires posed to the astronauts.

In the 1990s, a team at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory worked to create cameras small enough to fit on a spacecraft with scientific quality – the same technology found in ⅓ of camera phones today.

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

The crew of four astronauts on the historic Artemis II mission were equipped with brand-new iPhones, which, among other things, will be used to capture photos.

As NASA and its affiliated space programs pursued what once seemed impossible, they drove innovations that continue to shape the world today—often in unexpected ways. Few could have predicted that inventions like scratch-resistant lenses, athletic shoes and artificial limbs would trace their origins back to the space program.

While researching protective coatings for aerospace applications, the Lewis Research Center developed and patented a process that was later adapted for scratch-resistant lenses.

WATCH: ARTEMIS II LIFTS OFF FROM KENNEDY SPACE CENTER

Even your shoes could be a product of space travel. A former NASA engineer first pitched the idea of Nike Air trainers, which likely wouldn't exist if it weren't for suit construction technology developed by NASA.

NASA's innovations in shock-absorbing materials coupled with robotic and extravehicular activities are being adapted to create more functionally dynamic artificial limbs.

The demands of spaceflight have also driven innovations like CAT scans, mine-detection technology and rescue tools for damaged vehicles.

WHAT KIND OF FOOD IS PACKED FOR THE ARTEMIS II SPACE MISSION?

The need for a good digital image is essential in a space program, which in turn helped create CAT scanners and radiography.

NASA's surplus rocket fuel is used to produce a flare that can safely destroy landmines by burning a hole through the mine without detonating it.

The jaws of life, an extraction tool used to free people from mangled vehicles, applies a miniature version of the explosive charge used to separate devices on the space shuttles.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Few realize just how far space-derived technology reaches, shaping industries from sports footwear and home insulation to medical imaging, all driven by the challenges and aspiration of sending humans into space.

The United States Geological Survey said that precursory eruption activity is occurring as the active volcano prepares to erupt – one of Earth's most captivating natural spectacles.

ARTEMIS II MISSION: ORION SPACECRAFT TO LINE UP FOR MOON FLYBY OVER HOLIDAY WEEKEND

According to the USGS, the forecast for the start of episode 44 is between April 6 to April 14. 

On Saturday morning, the south vent overflowed at 6:11 a.m. HST, with lava flowing from the south vent at least 10 times through small dome fountains.

One of the most active volcanoes in the world, Kilauea has been erupting episodically within its summit caldera since December 23, 2024 – and is preparing to do so for the 44th time in the coming days. 

Eruption episodes at Kilauea typically last from a few hours to one day, with some lasting up to 8 ½ days of lava flow. 

APRIL SKYWATCHING GUIDE: SEE THE FIRST FULL MOON OF SPRING, SPOT MERCURY, MARVEL AT A METEOR SHOWER AND MORE

When the volcano comes alive, it is a sight to behold. Fountains of red to yellow lava shoot more than 1,000 feet in the air out of boiling lakes of lava – a scene that annually attracts crowds of tourists to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to witness the phenomenon.

For those fortunate enough to witness a Kilauea eruption, the natural spectacle is as dangerous as it is mesmerizing. According to the USGS, the volcano lets off threatening hazardous gases, especially to those with heart or respiratory issues, infants, children and pregnant women. When the volcano is erupting, unsafe ash is abrasive and can irritate eyes, skin and the respiratory system.

Can't make the trip to Hawaii to witness the 44th episode? Don't worry. The USGS operates several live webcams at Kilauea, streaming continuously on their website—stay tuned for any signs of eruption. You won’t want to miss it.

Lawrence County Fire and Rescue said they were dispatched to save a baby cow that had fallen into a cave. 

They worked closely with members of the community to rescue the animal. 

They assessed if the air in the cave was safe to enter, then built a rope system to lower first responders down into the cave.

NEW JERSEY STATE TROOPERS RESCUED A BABY BEAR ABANDONED IN A ROADSIDE DITCH

Once in the cave, first responders made sure the cow wasn't hurt, and prepared it to be pulled out. 

Those on the ground created a haul system to hoist the cow out of the hole. 

LARGEST MALE WHITE SHARK CONTENDER’S LATEST PING OFFERS FRESH INSIGHT INTO SHARK BEHAVIOR

Video shows the little red calf being pulled from the cave with a harness around it and its feet tied so it couldn't fall or hurt itself before being pulled out. 

It was set on the ground while crews worked to unharness it. 

Another video showed the little cow standing up, looking around at all the people and trucks surrounding it, before running off into the field. 

Lawrence County Fire and Rescue posted an update on Facebook on Friday saying after much outreach from people online, they called the farmer to check on the calf and determine its status. 

VIDEO: BRAVE FIREFIGHTERS RESCUE FAMILY DOG IN DESTRUCTIVE HOUSE FIRE IN LOUISIANA

They said the calf was in good shape and unaffected by the incident. 

Lawrence County Fire and Rescue commended the community for its assistance with the ordeal. 

OCEARCH tagged Contender in January 2025 off the Florida/Georgia coast. 

Since then, his location has been marked by satellite pings as he moves and migrates during the year. 

GREAT WHITE SHARK BELLA PINGS OFF LOUISIANA COAST IN POSSIBLE 'NEW SHARK HOTSPOT'

On Wednesday, April 1, Contender was pinged past the Gulf Stream deep off the coast of Georgia. 

OCEARCH scientists said his recent movements from near the coast of Florida to rapidly moving out into deeper waters could be a sign of breeding. 

"This sudden movement could be to forage in deeper waters, but we cannot rule out the possibility that it’s related to reproduction at this time of year," said OCEARCH Senior Data Scientist John Tyminski.

OCEARCH said these trends are common among mature male white sharks like Contender and Breton. 

MASSIVE 1,400-POUND GREAT WHITE SHARK ‘BRETON’ PINGS NEAR UNCHARTED WATERS OFF TURKS AND CAICOS

Since his tag on Wednesday, Contender has moved back closer to the Georgia coast, still in deeper waters, but just on the edge of the Gulf Stream. 

Clocking in at nearly 14 feet long and roughly 1,650 pounds at the time of his tagging, Contender is OCEARCH's largest male white shark ever tagged in the Atlantic. 

HIGHEST NUMBER OF NORTH ATLANTIC RIGHT WHALE CALVES RECORDED IN 17 YEARS

His movements have taken him all around the East Coast of the U.S., and up into Canada. 

OCEARCH is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to researching and protecting sharks, whales, sea turtles and other ocean life, tagging these animals to track and study their migration habits and behaviors from afar. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

To keep up with Contender and his movements, as well as monitor hundreds of other sharks and ocean animals, check out OCEARCH's free global shark tracker app. 

Temperatures could reach the 80s across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast and parts of the Northeast on Saturday, with cities like Washington, D.C. forecast to reach 87°. 

Nearly 270 million Americans will see above-average temperatures. 

APRIL WEATHER OUTLOOK: SEVERE STORMS TARGET MILLIONS AS SPRING TEMPERATURE WARMUP FINALLY NEARS
 

The warmth will also fuel severe weather across parts of the Ohio Valley, including southern Kentucky and western New York.

Storms will fire up Saturday afternoon and into the evening as the heat builds. Portions of Ohio, including Cleveland and Columbus, are under a Level 2 out of 5 risk of severe thunderstorms, according to NOAA's Storm Prediction Center.

The warmth will be short-lived, as a cold front pushes east on Sunday, ushering in storms that will lead to a soggy Easter across the Northeast. 

Showers and a few downpours are expected to begin Sunday morning from Georgia to upstate New York.

'SUPER EL NIÑO' BREWING AS LA NIÑA FADES AHEAD OF PEAK HURRICANE SEASON

By Sunday afternoon, rain will reach major I-95 cities from Raleigh to Boston. 

For those planning to attend outdoor Easter events like egg hunts or parades, rain could impede plans. 

Across the Northeast, travel impacts are possible on both the roads and in the sky, as people head to or from their holiday weekend plans. 

TIMELINE: A DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE TO THE 10-DAY ARTEMIS II MISSION TO BRING HUMANITY BACK TO THE MOON

Most of the rain will lighten up on Sunday evening and overnight into Monday. 

Temperatures on Monday in the Northeast will remain near seasonal averages in the 40s and 50s. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Things will stay on the cooler side through the middle of next week.

Crews are working to contain the Springs Fire in Riverside County, California, which settles just a few miles between Los Angeles and San Bernardino.

LARGEST WILDFIRE IN NEBRASKA HISTORY LEAVES 1 DEAD, SCORCHES OVER 640,000 ACRES AS CONDITIONS BEGIN TO EASE

The fire broke out around 11am local time, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL Fire).

As of 10pm ET, the fire had exploded to 4,176 acres, with only 25% contained.

Evacuation Orders are in place across 8 zones in the Moreno Valley and Gilman Springs Road area in Riverside County, with Evacuation Warnings announced in 6 additional zones across the same region.

WHAT ARE SANTA ANA AND DIABLO WINDS?

Wind Alerts and dry conditions have assisted the Springs Fire with its massive expansion. Wind Advisories remain across the area until midday on Saturday as winds are forecast to gust upwards of 50mph and even higher across the elevated terrain.

CAL Fire/Riverside County Fire Department has implemented a Drift Smoke Advisory, saying "the fire is putting off lots of drift smoke that can be seen and smelt throughout the northeast (Riverside, Jurupa Valley, etc.) and southeast (Menifee, Wildomar, Lake Elsinore, etc.) portion of Riverside County."

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK ANNOUNCES NORTH RIM REOPENING AS DRAGON BRAVO FIRE RECOVERY CONTINUES

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

According to CAL Fire, resources assisting with the containment include 36 fire engines, 7 hand crews, 2 water tenders, 2 helicopters and 2 dozers, which all account for about 260 personnel.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

This is a developing story. Stick with FOX Weather as more details become available. 

The overall threat covers more than 65 million people over 1,500 miles from the Big Bend of Texas to western Pennsylvania.  

WEATHER WHIPLASH: RECORD WARMTH EXPECTED FOR EASTERN US ACROSS HOLIDAY WEEKEND FOLLOWED BY RAPID COOLDOWN

Portions of southern Iowa and northern Missouri are under a Level 3 out of 5 risk of severe thunderstorms, according to NOAA's Storm Prediction Center. 

This area faces the greatest risk of seeing supercell thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes — just south of Thursday's most intense storms.

WHAT IS A SUPERCELL THUNDERSTORM?

There will be a narrow window from mid-to late Friday when these supercells are most likely to form.

Warm air high in the atmosphere on Thursday prevented many tornado-generating storms from forming. 

However, egg-sized hail was reported across parts of eastern Iowa and western Illinois by the National Weather Service (NWS), as well as widespread reports of damaging wind gusts that reached 65 mph.

ARTEMIS II MAKES HISTORY, BRINGING HUMANS AROUND THE MOON FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 50 YEARS

A rope tornado was spotted touching down in West Liberty, Iowa Thursday afternoon and the roof was ripped off part of a small farm in nearby West Branch. No injuries have been reported.

A second severe weather system is moving out of the Rockies and into the Plains.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Thunderstorms are firing up ahead of and along the associated cold front from the Ohio Valley to Texas into tonight. All hazards are possible, including damaging winds, large hail and tornadoes.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, storms will fire along a dryline — the boundary between dry air from the west and warm, moist air from the Gulf — across western Oklahoma into West Texas.

Storms will organize into a line from western Iowa to West Texas Friday evening and charge eastward overnight, with the greatest threat being damaging wind gusts in Kansas and Oklahoma.

In addition to the severe weather hazards, the FOX Forecast Center noted that the significant moisture in the atmosphere and the repeated number of storms moving across the same region could lead to flash flooding from northern Texas into southwestern Missouri, where a Level 2 out of 4 flash flood risk is in place through Saturday morning.

A widespread 2-3 inches of rain is possible from Dallas to Kansas City through Saturday.

Flash flooding closed multiple roads in Johnson County, Missouri, just east of Kansas City, on Thursday.

This active severe weather pattern comes right on cue, as April is historically when spring severe weather season begins to intensify across the middle of the country.

See the complete day-by-day guide for the Artemis II mission:

TIMELINE: A DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE TO THE 10-DAY ARTEMIS II MISSION TO BRING HUMANITY BACK TO THE MOON

Artemis II marks humanity's first return to the Moon in 50 years and will travel to the lunar far side — farther than any crewed spacecraft has gone before. This mission serves as a critical test for the Orion spacecraft, serving as a key building block of the Artemis program, which hopes to establish a long-term lunar base by 2030.

ARTEMIS II BEGINS FIRST FULL DAY IN SPACE, PERFORMING CRITICAL SYSTEM CHECKS, MANEUVERS ON HISTORIC MISSION

After breaking free from Earth's orbit Thursday, the four-person crew is coasting through the void of space on a direct course for the Moon, having completed pre-planned precise course corrections early Friday.

Through the weekend, the crew will make final steering nudges to ensure Orion enters the correct orbital slot to ensure that the Orion spacecraft will be able to "whip-around" the Moon.

On Sunday, Orion will enter the lunar gravitational sphere of influence — where the Moon's gravity is stronger than Earth's — in preparation for Monday's flyby when they will reach maximum distance from home.

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

Along the way, the crew members — Commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover and specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen — will practice zero-gravity CPR and other emergency procedures.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

The crew will also test a special exercise device onboard to determine if it significantly impacts Orion's flightpath. At the same time, engineers will monitor the spacecraft’s life support system, which is supposed to maintain a comfortable cabin environment, during intense exercise. 

The crew spoke late Thursday to Trace Gallagher, the host of FOX News @ Night, and was eager to thank their families for their support for the first time since launching.

Commander Reid Wiseman highlighted the incredible achievement of the American space program.

"This is unbelievable that we can put our minds to something and pull it off," Wiseman said.

Mission Specialist Koch explained how the crew was getting adjusted to living in space, telling Gallagher that she was very comfortable sleeping upside down in zero gravity.

On Friday, NASA released the first high-resolution images of Earth from the Orion spacecraft. These pictures of the African continent were actually taken at night.

The historic flight launched Wednesday at 6:35:12 p.m. ET from the Kennedy Space Center.

A few hours before the mission's launch window opened, the mission very briefly entered a "No-Go" range, while they addressed a glitch with the Flight Termination System.

After roughly 45 minutes, the mission returned to "Go" and things continued as planned.

FOX Weather Correspondent Brandy Campbell covered the launch live, describing the atmosphere during the launch as "electric."

Mission control in Houston reported Friday that the Orion spacecraft is performing excellently.

After whipping around the Moon Monday, the crew will begin the voyage home, set to splash down next Friday afternoon in the Pacific Ocean. 

Troopers from Troop "B" Perryville Station received an unusual call around 1:37 pm about a lone cub spotted in a roadside ditch on Interstate 78.

HIGHEST NUMBER OF NORTH ATLANTIC RIGHT WHALE CALVES RECORDED IN 17 YEARS

According to the New Jersey State Police Facebook post, the bear was found on the East side of I-78 near milepost 12.2 in Union Township. 

When troopers arrived at the scene, they found the small cub by itself and in need of assistance.

Authorities safely secured the animal and transported it back to the station. The baby bear was then turned over to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) for proper care.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

"Thanks to the swift response of the troopers, the cub is now safe and receiving the attention he needs," the New Jersey State Police said. 

On Tuesday, the NJDEP issued a reminder to residents to start to take preventative measures as more bears begin to emerge from hibernation. 

In the past, black bears have been seen wandering into neighborhoods foraging for food. 

GREAT WHITE SHARK BELLA PINGS OFF LOUISIANA COAST IN POSSIBLE 'NEW SHARK HOTSPOT'

According to NJDEP, black bears have been sighted in all of New Jersey’s 21 counties. However, most of New Jersey’s black bears live in the northwest portion of the state. 

"We’ve had a long winter, and black bears are emerging from their dens and searching for food," said NJDEP Fish & Wildlife Assistant Commissioner Dave Golden. "It’s very important that residents reduce the potential for encounters by removing trash and other potential food sources as the smell can draw them into neighborhoods."

Troopers from Troop "B" Perryville Station received an unusual call around 1:37 pm about a lone cub spotted in a roadside ditch on Interstate 78.

HIGHEST NUMBER OF NORTH ATLANTIC RIGHT WHALE CALVES RECORDED IN 17 YEARS

According to the New Jersey State Police Facebook post, the bear was found on the East side of I-78 near milepost 12.2 in Union Township. 

When troopers arrived at the scene, they found the small cub by itself and in need of assistance.

Authorities safely secured the animal and transported it back to the station. The baby bear was then turned over to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) for proper care.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

"Thanks to the swift response of the troopers, the cub is now safe and receiving the attention he needs," the New Jersey State Police said. 

On Tuesday, the NJDEP issued a reminder to residents to start to take preventative measures as more bears begin to emerge from hibernation. 

In the past, black bears have been seen wandering into neighborhoods foraging for food. 

GREAT WHITE SHARK BELLA PINGS OFF LOUISIANA COAST IN POSSIBLE 'NEW SHARK HOTSPOT'

According to NJDEP, black bears have been sighted in all of New Jersey’s 21 counties. However, most of New Jersey’s black bears live in the northwest portion of the state. 

"We’ve had a long winter, and black bears are emerging from their dens and searching for food," said NJDEP Fish & Wildlife Assistant Commissioner Dave Golden. "It’s very important that residents reduce the potential for encounters by removing trash and other potential food sources as the smell can draw them into neighborhoods."

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Cold air from Canada has kept part of the Northern U.S. firmly within winter's grasp. While April snow is not uncommon across the Northern Tier, back-to-back storms have the potential to smash monthly snow averages in just a few days.

More than 45,000 customers were without power early Friday in Central and Northeast Wisconsin, as well as the Fox Valley. At least 12,000 customers were without power in the Upper Peninsula.

TIMELINE: A DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE TO THE 10-DAY ARTEMIS II MISSION TO BRING HUMANITY BACK TO THE MOON

According to the FOX Forecast Center, nearly 0.5 inches of ice accretion have been reported in parts of Wisconsin — which is heavy enough to cause widespread outages and create dangerous road conditions.

The same systems that have brought severe weather across the Midwest and Plains are producing snow and ice, instead of rain, in northern parts of the Upper Midwest as they tap into the frigid Canadian air.

Over a foot of snow and significant icing is likely across portions of the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest starting today and into this holiday weekend. Another 8 to 12 inches of snow is possible across the Dakotas and Northern Minnesota, as another area of low pressure blasts through the region.

SEVERE WEATHER RELOADS OVER MIDWEST, PLAINS WITH STORMS SET TO BLAST MORE THAN 65M FROM TEXAS TO PENNSYLVANIA

North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota had already begun to experience moderate snowfall accumulations since Thursday evening.

Roscoe, South Dakota, has received 4.7 inches of snow so far.

By the end of the weekend, snow totals could easily exceed a foot and a half in cities such as Fargo, North Dakota, and Duluth, Minnesota.

"To put more context into the snow, Fargo only averages around 4.1 inches every April," the FOX Forecast Center said. "The current forecast calls for right at 12 inches by Saturday."

HERE ARE 10 OF THE BEST BEACHES IN THE US FOR DIGITAL DETOXING

By the time the holiday weekend arrives, travelers across most of the Upper Midwest will face lingering snow and ice, which will certainly affect drivers heading to family for Easter Sunday.

WEATHER WHIPLASH: RECORD WARMTH EXPECTED FOR EASTERN US ACROSS HOLIDAY WEEKEND FOLLOWED BY RAPID COOLDOWN

Portions of southern Iowa and northern Missouri are under a Level 3 out of 5 risk of severe thunderstorms, according to NOAA's Storm Prediction Center. This area faces the greatest risk of seeing supercell thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes — just south of Thursday's most intense storms.

WHAT IS A SUPERCELL THUNDERSTORM?

There will be a narrow window from mid-to late Friday afternoon when these supercells are most likely to form.

Warm air high in the atmosphere on Thursday prevented many tornado-generating storms from forming. However, egg-sized hail was reported across parts of eastern Iowa and western Illinois by the National Weather Service (NWS), as well as widespread reports of damaging wind gusts that reached 65 mph.

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A rope tornado was spotted touching down in West Liberty, Iowa Thursday afternoon and the roof was ripped off part of a small farm in nearby West Branch. No injuries have been reported.

A second severe weather system will move out of the Rockies and into the Plains by Friday afternoon.

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Thunderstorms are expected to fire ahead of and along the associated cold front from the Ohio Valley to Texas in the afternoon and evening. All hazards are possible, including damaging winds, large hail and tornadoes.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, storms could fire along a dryline — the boundary between dry air from the west and warm, moist air from the Gulf — that's expected to form Friday across western Oklahoma into West Texas.

Storms are forecast to organize into a line from western Iowa to West Texas Friday evening and charge eastward overnight, with the greatest threat being damaging wind gusts in Kansas and Oklahoma.

In addition to the severe weather hazards, the FOX Forecast Center noted that the significant moisture in the atmosphere and the repeated number of storms moving across the same region could lead to flash flooding from northern Texas into southwestern Missouri, where a Level 2 out of 4 flash flood risk is in place through Saturday morning.

A widespread 2-3 inches of rain is possible from Dallas to Kansas City through Saturday.

Flash flooding closed multiple roads in Johnson County, Missouri, just east of Kansas City, on Thursday.

This active severe weather pattern comes right on cue, as April is historically when spring severe weather season begins to intensify across the middle of the country.

Over a foot of snow and significant icing is likely across portions of the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest starting today and into this holiday weekend.

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Wisconsin has experienced widespread icing, resulting in thousands of power outages.

Over 50,000 people in the state are without electricity.

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So far, locations such as Polonia, Wisconsin, have experienced half an inch of ice accumulation, threatening travelers in the region as Americans are on the move for the holiday weekend.

Locations such as North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota have already begun to experience moderate snowfall accumulations since Thursday evening.

Roscoe, South Dakota, has received 4.7 inches of snow so far.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, a second similar but stronger storm is expected by the start of the weekend. It could bring more widespread snow totals, with another 8 to 12 inches possible across the Dakotas and Northern Minnesota.

Colder air is expected to settle in place across Wisconsin and northern Michigan, allowing more wintry conditions to expand across both states.

HERE ARE 10 OF THE BEST BEACHES IN THE US FOR DIGITAL DETOXING

By the end of the weekend, snow totals could easily exceed a foot and a half in cities such as Fargo, North Dakota, and Duluth, Minnesota.

"To put more context into the snow, Fargo only averages around 4.1 inches every April," the FOX Forecast Center said. "The current forecast calls for right at 12 inches by Saturday."

HERE ARE 10 OF THE BEST BEACHES IN THE US FOR DIGITAL DETOXING

By the time the holiday weekend arrives, travelers across most of the Upper Midwest will face lingering snow and ice, which will certainly affect drivers heading to family for Easter Sunday.

However, that calm pattern will be short-lived, as another round of active weather is expected to bring additional rain.

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According to the FOX Forecast Center, starting next week, dry weather will return to the Central Plains. This is extremely out of the norm for this time of year.

April is typically one of the most active months for severe weather across the Southern Plains and Southeast, including states like Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Missouri.

However, this drought will only last for a few days.

WEATHER WHIPLASH: RECORD WARMTH EXPECTED FOR EASTERN US ACROSS HOLIDAY WEEKEND FOLLOWED BY RAPID COOLDOWN

Forecasters say a more active pattern is likely to return by mid-April, increasing the chances for widespread rain and the potential for severe storms over parts of the Central and Southern Plains.

This setup comes as a ridge of high pressure sets up across the East while a trough develops throughout the West, creating perfect conditions for storms to propagate over the Plains.

Multiple rounds of rain are becoming likely from April 11 to 16, impacting numerous cities including Dallas, Houston, Oklahoma City, Kansas City, Little Rock and St. Louis.

While the return of storms could bring a renewed threat for severe weather, the added rainfall may also help improve ongoing drought conditions affecting millions.

The FOX Forecast Center does warn that the timing and intensity of the storms may shift as we get closer to the weather event.

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Stay with FOX Weather for the latest update on the upcoming storms.

The North Atlantic right whale has been endangered for more than 100 years, when commercial whaling in the 1800s nearly eradicated the species, according to NOAA Fisheries.

3 GRAY WHALES FOUND DEAD ON CALIFORNIA SHORELINE IN THE COURSE OF A WEEK

Since then, commercial whaling is no longer a threat to these whales, but their population numbers have never recovered, and human threats still exist.

Vessel strikes and entanglement from fishing gear are still the leading causes of North Atlantic right whale deaths.

In the last 10 years, there have been more right whale deaths than births.

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Because of this, the North Atlantic right whale calving season is closely monitored and critical to the survival of the species.

The calving season runs from mid-November to mid-April, and female North Atlantic right whales birth a single calf after more than a year-long pregnancy. Female right whales mature at about age 10 on average.

NOAA Fisheries said female right whales used to give birth to a calf every three to four years, but now are averaging seven to 10 years between births.

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"Biologists believe the additional stress from entanglements, vessel strike injuries and changes in prey availability due to climate change all likely contribute to right whales calving less often," NOAA Fisheries said. 

This year, NOAA Fisheries recorded 23 North Atlantic right whale calf births, the highest number recorded since 2009 when 39 calves were born.

The most recent birth of the year came from right whale #4617 "Mirror." Mirror is a first-time mom this season, and she is 10 years old.

She was spotted with her new whale calf on March 14, by an aerial survey team from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, NOAA Fisheries said.

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At the end of January, right whale #1515 "Ghost," gave birth to her ninth known calf.

Ghost is believed to be about 50 years old, and was named for her callosity pattern, which resembles a cartoon ghost, NOAA Fisheries said.

Another recent mother is right whale #1245 "Slalom." She is 44 years old.

She was spotted with her new baby on Jan. 22. This is Slalom's seventh known calf.

On Jan. 20, right whale #3020 "Giza" was spotted south of Charleston, South Carolina with her calf.

Giza is at least 26 years old, and NOAA Fisheries said this is her fourth known calf.

NOAA Fisheries has kept track of all the right whale calves born this season. To see all the new additions, click here.

NOAA said to do your part in helping to preserve the North Atlantic right whale population, go slow and stay alert when boating or fishing in the northern Atlantic.

Though they're massive, averaging up to 52-feet long, the whales can be hard to spot, especially in low lighting or during bad weather.

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NOAA said mother-calf pairs are at a heightened risk for vessel strikes because they spend nearly all their time at or close to the water surface, but are difficult to see.

To report a right whale sighting and learn more, click here.

A large group of hikers was traveling across Little Wildhorse Canyon just outside Goblin Valley State Park when they encountered wet weather along the way, according to a Facebook post from officials.

7 FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT FLASH FLOODS

While on their journey, the group encountered flash flooding, and several hikers were swept away and washed down the canyon in a frightening manner.

According to officials, the area had an 80% chance of rain and heavy cloud cover.

Thankfully, rescuers were able to reach them quickly and hike them out of the trail head, where they were eventually treated for minor injuries.

PHOTOS: INJURED HIKER RESCUED IN REMOTE PART OF CALIFORNIA CANYON

"Please take this as a reminder — always check weather forecasts before hiking canyons, pay attention to the weather you see unfolding, and be ready to change your plans," a statement from the Goblin Valley State Park reads.

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK ENTERS STAGE 3 WATER RESTRICTIONS FOLLOWING ANOTHER SOUTH RIM PIPE BREAK

It is important to always know your physical limits when venturing out in nature and to adequately prepare for the environment you are traveling to. 

Be sure to check your local weather conditions, as well as pack food, water and first aid supplies.

A new survey released by Beach.com reveals some of the best beaches in the country for taking a break from screens and social media.

All the beaches were ranked on a variety of factors that made them best for digital detox, including: number of businesses per square mile, cell and broadband coverage, percent of protected land and reviews with digital detox keywords like "peace, quiet, low crowds and relaxation." 

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See which beaches made the list of the best places to unwind:

Nestled along Oregon's southern coast, Secret Beach is a hidden oasis.

Nearly 74% of Curry County's land is protected, and the area only has 52% cell phone coverage.

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Secret Beach earned a 9.5 out of 10 digital detox score. 

In addition, the scenery will take your breath away with offshore rock formations, craggy bluffs and just the sounds of nature.

Hot on the heels of Secret Beach is Mashes Sands, earning a 9.4 on the detox scale.

Mashes Sands is a hidden treasure of Wakulla County on Florida's Gulf Coast, and is surrounded by saltwater marshes, a ton of wildlife and is an excellent place to watch the sunset.

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The beach has 80% broadband and 88% cell phone coverage, but 48% of the county's land is protected.

Additionally, 27% of reviews of the beach highlighted digital detox keywords, making it an ideal place to relax.

Third Beach on Washington's Olympic Coast is an oasis of coastal forest and sandy beach.

Well-maintained, the beach is managed by Olympic National Park in the Olympic Wilderness.

Hike through the coastal forest to get to this beautiful beach, and enjoy the quiet sounds of nature and the ocean while you take a sandy stroll.

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Third Beach's high digital detox score comes from its low cell coverage, sitting at 58%.

This rocky beach in the town of Machiasport, Maine, earned a 9.3 digital detox score.

Jasper Beach is a barrier split and is cracked by fresh and saltwater lagoons, according to the Town of Machiasport.

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The beach's digital detox score tied with Third Beach in Washington, but has 73% cell phone coverage and 25% of its county land protected.

Located in the Florida Keys, Horseshoe Beach is shaped like a large horseshoe.

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The beach is extremely remote, and has 48% cell coverage.  It earned a digital detox score of 9.0.

A tranquil coastal community in Louisiana, Holly Beach got an 8.9 digital detox score and has 0.1 businesses per square mile.

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It has high cell coverage, but spottier broadband coverage.

According to Cameron Parish, visitors to Holly Beach can enjoy crabbing, swimming and driving on the beach.

Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area is located on the south end of the Ocean Shores Peninsula in Grays Harbor County.

This area is known for its wildlife viewing opportunities, and is popular for birding and wildfowl hunting, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 

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Located on 600 acres of land within the Johns River Wildlife Area, Oyhut is well-covered by cell and broadband service.

The Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve just south of Guadalupe, California, made the list with a score of 8.7.

The preserve features 550-foot-high dunes that are the tallest on the West Coast, according to the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center.

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Though more populated with 2.7 businesses per square mile, the dunes preserve is a great place to surf, fish, hike, view wildlife and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Situated in Tillamook County, Oregon, Short Beach earned a score of 8.5 for digital detox beaches.

It's a small, secluded beach situated in a cove off Oregon's central coast.

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Seventy percent of Tillamook County's lands are protected, and cell overage is spottier at 64%.

Crandon Beach in Miami-Dade County, Florida, scored 8.1 for digital detox beaches.

Located in a very populated area with good cell and broadband coverage, 65% of the area's lands are protected.

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Crandon Beach is known for its peaceful, calm waters that are great for swimming.

The beach offers plenty to do in the area, and is the perfect vacation getaway for those who don't want to be too disconnected.

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To see Beach.com's full list of 20 best beaches for digital detoxing, click here.

ARTEMIS II BEGINS FIRST FULL DAY IN SPACE, PERFORMING CRITICAL SYSTEM CHECKS, MANEUVERS ON HISTORIC MISSION

This is not only a monumental moment in American history but also a historic milestone for the world, as this mission will help shape the future of space exploration for generations to come.

It’s been over 50 years since humanity last embarked on such a bold journey beyond Earth, and Artemis II marks the next chapter in the quest to explore space.

LIVE UPDATES: ARTEMIS II LAUNCH FINAL COUNTDOWN UNDERWAY TO SEND ASTRONAUTS AROUND THE MOON

This mission will set the stage for future lunar landings, as it will test life-support systems, navigation, and spacecraft performance in deep space—and may even pave the way for humanity’s journey to Mars.

NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and CSA astronaut Jeremy Hensen are aboard the Orion spacecraft, which will carry them around the moon and back to Earth over 10 days.

But what exactly can we expect during the 10-day journey? When will we see the astronauts? When will they reach the Moon? How far will they travel? And when might they enter a communications blackout? Let’s break it down through NASA's day-by-day guide.

After a successful launch and 'test drive' of Orion’s manual controls, the Artemis II crew is finishing a critical 24-hour systems check. 

From refining their orbit to testing the space toilet—which required a minor fix and has since been resolved—the team is ensuring every life-support system is ready before tonight's Day 2 engine burn sends them 230,000 miles away from home, NASA said.

Day 2 is all about the Translunar Injection burn.

After testing life-support systems with high-intensity workouts, the crew—led by Mission Specialist Christina Koch—will fire Orion’s 6,000-lb thrust engine to leave Earth’s orbit. 

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

This critical maneuver is the Translunar Injection (TLI) burn.

According to NASA, once the crew is on its way, we’ll see the first of several live videos from the cabin as the astronauts settle in for the long journey.

On day 3 of the journey, the mission shifts from leaving Earth to moving into deep space.

After Jeremy Hansen leads the first minor course correction to keep Orion on target for the Moon, the crew will transition into medical drills—including practicing CPR in zero-gravity. 

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Christina Koch will also verify the emergency 'backup' communications systems as the team prepares for their high-speed lunar flyby.

Day 4 is all about fine-tuning the approach to the Moon.

Between refining their path with a second correction burn and studying lunar maps, the crew is preparing for their close-up with the Moon. 

They’ll also have dedicated time to capture what will likely be some of the most iconic deep-space photos of the century.

Day 5 marks the moment the Moon’s gravity officially takes over. 

As Orion enters the 'lunar influence,' the crew will conduct high-stakes drills in their orange survival suits, proving they can eat, drink, and live in them for days if the cabin loses pressure. 

One final steering adjustment in the afternoon will line them up for the day 6 historic lunar flyby.

Day 6 will bring the astronauts closest to the Moon, meaning they will be traveling the farthest from Earth. 

The crew is expected to break the 50-year-old record for the farthest distance humans have ever traveled from Earth as they swing around the Moon's far side. This would surpass the current record of 248,655 miles from Earth, set in 1970 by the Apollo 13 crew.

During a planned 30–50 minute communications blackout, the astronauts will become the first humans in decades to see the lunar surface up close, documenting craters and ridges that will look as large as a basketball held at arm's length.

On day 7, Orion will exit lunar influence and prep "for the first of three return trajectory correction burns that will adjust Orion’s path home," stated NASA. 

NASA'S ARTEMIS MISSIONS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AHEAD OF THE HISTORIC MOON LAUNCH

After exiting the Moon’s gravitational pull, the crew will perform the first steering adjustment to aim Orion back toward Earth. 

Between scientific debriefs, the four astronauts will finally get some off-duty time to rest before the final stretch of the mission.

According to NASA, "the primary activities for flight day 8 include two Orion demonstrations."

The crew will practice building an emergency radiation shelter inside the cabin to prepare for solar flares.

To end the day, the astronauts will take manual control of Orion for a series of deep-space flight maneuvers to prove they can pilot the ship home if the automated systems fail.

This will be Artemis II’s last full day in space before splashdown on Day 10.

The crew will have time to review and study procedures for reentry to Earth.

"Another return trajectory correction burn will ensure the spacecraft remains on target for that return," the agency said.

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The astronauts will test compression garments to prevent fainting once they hit Earth’s gravity, review reentry procedures, and test backup waste systems as they prepare their bodies for the plunge back into the atmosphere.

The last day of the mission is focused on getting the astronauts home safely.

The crew will face a temperature up to 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit as they re-enter Earth's atmosphere. 

Slowed by a series of parachutes, the Orion capsule will splash down in the Pacific Ocean at just 17 mph, where the U.S. Navy will be waiting to welcome the first lunar travelers of the 21st century home.

ARTEMIS II BEGINS FIRST FULL DAY IN SPACE, PERFORMING CRITICAL SYSTEM CHECKS, MANEUVERS ON HISTORIC MISSION

After high temperatures flirted with the lower 80s's across the eastern U.S. Wednesday, temperatures tumbled into 40s across the Northeast early Thursday.

However, warmth from the Gulf is already surging back into the Southeast and will spread north and east through the end of the week.

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Nearly 270 million Americans from southern New England to the Carolinas will be experiencing temperatures 15–25 degrees above average to start the weekend. 

Parts of the Mid-Atlantic, Appalachians and eastern Ohio Valley will approach record warmth Saturday.

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Washington, D.C. is expected to reach 88 degrees, surpassing the daily record of 85 degrees set back in 2011.

Huntington, West Virginia is also forecast to approach 90 degrees.

Immediately behind the record warmth, a cold front responsible for severe weather across the Plains and Midwest will reach the East Coast by Easter Sunday.

NASA'S ARTEMIS PROGRAM: PAVING THE WAY FOR HUMANKIND'S RETURN TO THE MOON AND BEYOND

According to the FOX Forecast Center, showers are expected to begin Sunday morning from upstate New York to Georgia. 

"By late morning into the afternoon, rain will reach major I-95 cities from Raleigh to Boston," the Forecast Center said.

Behind the front, temperatures will drop back into the 40s and 50s across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, slightly cooler than seasonal averages. The cold is expected to persist into the middle of next week. 

While not unusually cold, temperatures on Monday will fall closer to seasonal averages, with highs in the 40s and 50s.

This cooler pattern is expected to persist into the middle of next week.

ARTEMIS II MAKES HISTORY, BRINGING HUMANS AROUND THE MOON FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 50 YEARS

This threat comes as an active weather pattern takes hold of the Central U.S., as spring severe weather season intensifies across the Heartland following an active March which saw deadly tornadoes in Illinois, Indiana and Michigan.

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Thunderstorms are expected to develop and intensify by late Thursday over the Central Plains and shift over the Midwest and Great Lakes through the afternoon and into the evening.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, damaging wind gusts of 75 mph or stronger and tornadoes are the primary severe weather hazards expected.

"Some limitations in instability may prevent storms from becoming widespread. However, storms that do form are likely to be discrete supercells, which increases the tornado threat," the Forecast Center said.

The risk of strong (EF-2+) tornadoes spans a corridor more than 700 miles long, from Missouri to Michigan.

The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Level 3 out of 5 risk of severe thunderstorms for southern Wisconsin, just south of Milwaukee; northern Illinois, including Chicago; and eastern Iowa.

Storms are expected to form over Iowa by late Thursday morning, reaching Illinois and Wisconsin by noon and St. Louis and Chicago shortly after, with the threat lasting through the first half of the evening.

As storms weaken, heavy rain will remain, creating a localized flash flood threat late Thursday across Wisconsin, Michigan, and northern Illinois. A widespread 1-2 inches of rain is expected across the Midwest and parts of the Great Lakes through Thursday.

WHAT FLOOD WATCHES, WARNINGS AND EMERGENCIES REALLY MEAN

A second severe weather system will move out of the Rockies and into the Plains by Friday afternoon.

Thunderstorms are expected to fire ahead of the associated cold front and organize into a line from western Iowa to West Texas by the mid-afternoon hours. All hazards are possible, including damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes.

Parts of the Midwest are once again in the bull's-eye, where southern Iowa and northern Missouri are under a Level 3 threat and are under the greatest threat of seeing discrete supercells capable of producing tornadoes.

Heavy rain will persist overnight Saturday, creating another flash flood threat from northern Texas into southwestern Missouri. 

This active severe weather pattern comes right on cue, as April is historically when spring severe weather season begins to intensify across the middle of the country.

The Orion spacecraft and SLS rocket took off from Kennedy Space Center's Launchpad 39B at 6:35 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1.

It's the first time in 52 years that humans have been on a lunar mission.

LIVE UPDATES: ARTEMIS II LAUNCH FINAL COUNTDOWN UNDERWAY TO SEND ASTRONAUTS AROUND THE MOON

Nearly 12 hours into the mission, the crew has now officially started its first full day in space. These initial 24 hours are critical as the astronauts focus on essential system checks and orbital maneuvers to ensure the spacecraft is healthy before heading to the Moon.

Following its successful launch and an apogee raise burn—the engine firing that pushed the spacecraft into a high orbit 43,000 miles above Earth—the Artemis II crew released from the rocket's upper stage to conclude a 70-minute 'proximity operations' demonstration.

During the exercise, the astronauts manually steered the Orion capsule to practice the precise maneuvers required for future docking missions.

It was then during the test operation that the crew encountered an issue with the spacecraft's toilet.

They reported a blinking fault light and worked closely with the mission control in Houston to restore the toilet to normal after the operation.

After a 4-hour rest period, the four-astronaut crew will awake at 7am EDT on Thursday, April 2, to prepare for what's called the perigee raise burn, NASA said. 

Compared to the apogee raise burn, the perigee raise burn pushes the lowest point of the spacecraft's orbit further away from Earth.

According to NASA, "Together with the apogee raise burn completed earlier, these burns shape the spacecraft’s initial orbit and prepare it for later translunar operations. "

The crew will then enter another sleeping period around 9:40am. 

On Wednesday, a few hours before the mission's launch window opened, the mission very briefly entered a "No-Go" range, while they addressed a glitch with the Flight Termination System.

After roughly 45 minutes, the mission returned to "Go" and things continued as planned.

The launch window for the mission opened at 6:24 p.m.

Artemis II is the first crewed mission in NASA's Artemis program. The space agency has plans for at least three more Artemis missions, with the ultimate goal of building a permanent base on the moon and helping bring humans closer to Mars exploration.

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and CSA astronaut Jeremy Hensen are aboard the Orion spacecraft, which will carry them around the moon and back to Earth over 10 days.

"Artemis II is the opening act," NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said. "It's going to set up for the subsequent missions. That's why we're going to the Golden Age of science and discovery right now."

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Weather is a critical factor in launching a rocket. Temperatures and conditions have to be perfect to meet launch criteria.

While rain showers could've potentially been an issue, everything worked out perfectly on Wednesday, and the weather held off.

The mission was delayed a few times, first in January after arctic air settled over Florida, making it too cold for the wet dress rehearsal of the rocket.

NASA'S ARTEMIS MISSIONS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AHEAD OF THE HISTORIC MOON LAUNCH

In February, the mission was delayed two more times, the first during a wet dress rehearsal when a hydrogen leak occurred.

After repairing the link, a second wet dress rehearsal kicked off successfully, but a few hours later, a leak in the flow of helium happened, causing the rocket and spacecraft to be rolled back to the Vehicle Assembly Building for repairs.

Finally, Orion and the SLS rocket were rolled back out to the launchpad in mid-March.

NASA didn't conduct a third wet dress rehearsal, but announced its anticipated launch date of April 1.

10 IMPORTANT ROCKET LAUNCHES IN THE HISTORY OF THE US SPACEFLIGHT

Anticipation for the rocket launch kept growing as we inched closer and closer to liftoff.

People from all over the world came to Florida to watch the launch.

NASA employees and members of the media gathered to witness the history-making event.

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The Artemis II astronauts will now spend four days making the journey to the moon, two days orbiting the moon and another four days returning to Earth.

They are set to splash down in the Pacific Ocean in roughly 10 days.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake occurred around 1:41am Pacific Time, with the epicenter less than a mile outside of Boulder Creek, California, which is about 27 miles southwest of San Jose.

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Over 25,000 reports of shaking came into the USGS. Weak to moderate shakes were felt as far north as Sacramento, including cities like San Francisco and San Jose, and as far south as King City, along with some reports in Fresno. 

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There have been no reports of damage caused by this earthquake, and no tsunami warning is in effect. The USGS says there is a 56% chance of feeling a magnitude 3 or higher aftershock within the next week.

On April 1, four astronauts onboard Artemis II set off to fly further from Earth than ever before, taking monumental steps for humankind building upon the historic foundation of aviation.

ARTEMIS II MAKES HISTORY, BRINGING HUMANS AROUND THE MOON FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 50 YEARS

In 1903, the Wright Brothers made history in North Carolina when the Wright Flyer became the first powered flight. More than 120 years later, the Wright Brothers continue to be a part of history.

Onboard Artemis II is a 1-inch by 1-inch swatch of fabric from the original Wright Flyer used in the first powered flight, courtesy of the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum.

After the mission, the fabric will be reunited with two other 1903 Wright Flyer swatches at the museum, celebrating the nation’s history and innovation in aviation.

"Historical artifacts flying aboard Artemis II reflect the long arc of American exploration and the generations of innovators who made this moment possible," NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said.

NASA'S ARTEMIS PROGRAM: PAVING THE WAY FOR HUMANKIND'S RETURN TO THE MOON AND BEYOND

A smaller square cut of the swatch previously flew aboard space shuttle Discovery on STS-51D in 1985 and is making its second journey into space.

The Wright Flyer fabric is merely one item included in the Artemis II flight kit that includes numerous relics from aviation and spaceflight history.

"This mission will bring together pieces of our earliest achievements in aviation, defining moments from human spaceflight, and symbols of where we’re headed next," Isaacman said. "During America’s 250th anniversary, Orion will carry astronauts around the Moon while also carrying our history forward into the next chapter beyond Earth."

Returning to space onboard Artemis II will be a 13-by-8-inch American flag, which flew with the first shuttle mission, STS-1, the final shuttle mission, STS-135, and NASA’s first crewed test flight of SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft, SpaceX Demo-2.

10 IMPORTANT ROCKET LAUNCHES IN THE HISTORY OF THE US SPACEFLIGHT

The Artemis program is building upon the monumental foundation established by the Apollo pioneers, who first blazed the trail to space.

A flag that was originally set to fly on NASA's Apollo 18 mission will make its first flight to space with Orion, serving as an emblem of the U.S.'s renewed commitment to lunar exploration.

In another nod to the generation of wandering trailblazers that paved the way for space exploration, Orion will also carry a copy of a 4-by-5-inch negative of a photo from the Ranger 7 mission, the first U.S. mission to successfully make contact with the lunar surface.

Bringing mementos to outer space on NASA spacecrafts has been a tradition since the 1960s, a legacy that the Artemis program has continued.

On Artemis I, the first unscrewed test flight that paved the way for Artemis II and the Orion and SLS, the ship carried a symbolic flight kit that included historical artifacts from Apollo missions, STEM items, digitized student essays and teacher pledges and more.

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Onboard Artemis II, about 10 pounds of mementos in total – including flags, pins, historical mementos, postcards, stickers and patches – on a mission to travel further than any artifacts, mementos or memorabilia have traveled from Earth in history.

The Orion spacecraft and SLS rocket took off from Kennedy Space Center's Launchpad 39B at 6:35 p.m. on April 1.

It's the first time in 52 years that humans have been on a lunar mission.

LIVE UPDATES: ARTEMIS II LAUNCH FINAL COUNTDOWN UNDERWAY TO SEND ASTRONAUTS AROUND THE MOON

A few hours before the mission's launch window opened, the mission very briefly entered a "No-Go" range, while they addressed a glitch with the Flight Termination System.

After roughly 45 minutes, the mission returned to "Go" and things continued as planned.

The launch window for the mission opened at 6:24 p.m.

Artemis II is the first crewed mission in NASA's Artemis program. The space agency has plans for at least three more Artemis missions, with the ultimate goal of building a permanent base on the moon and helping bring humans closer to Mars exploration.

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and CSA astronaut Jeremy Hensen are aboard the Orion spacecraft, which will carry them around the moon and back to Earth over 10 days.

The first 24 hours of the mission are critical, and astronauts will be locked in to complete the necessary tasks to ensure a successful mission.

"Artemis II is the opening act," NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said. "It's going to set up for the subsequent missions. That's why we're going to the Golden Age of science and discovery right now."

HOW LIGHTNING STRIKING APOLLO 12 FOREVER CHANGED NASA'S LAUNCH WEATHER POLICIES

Weather is a critical factor in launching a rocket. Temperatures and conditions have to be perfect to meet launch criteria.

While rain showers could've potentially been an issue, everything worked out perfectly on Wednesday, and the weather held off.

The mission was delayed a few times, first in January after arctic air settled over Florida, making it too cold for the wet dress rehearsal of the rocket.

NASA'S ARTEMIS MISSIONS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AHEAD OF THE HISTORIC MOON LAUNCH

In February, the mission was delayed two more times, the first during a wet dress rehearsal when a hydrogen leak occurred.

After repairing the link, a second wet dress rehearsal kicked off successfully, but a few hours later, a leak in the flow of helium happened, causing the rocket and spacecraft to be rolled back to the Vehicle Assembly Building for repairs.

Finally, Orion and the SLS rocket were rolled back out to the launchpad in mid-March.

NASA didn't conduct a third wet dress rehearsal, but announced its anticipated launch date of April 1.

10 IMPORTANT ROCKET LAUNCHES IN THE HISTORY OF THE US SPACEFLIGHT

Anticipation for the rocket launch kept growing as we inched closer and closer to liftoff.

People from all over the world came to Florida to watch the launch.

NASA employees and members of the media gathered to witness the history-making event.

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The Artemis II astronauts will now spend four days making the journey to the moon, two days orbiting the moon and another four days returning to Earth.

They are set to splash down in the Pacific Ocean in roughly 10 days.

The Winter Haven Police Department said they responded to a home on Tuesday afternoon for an infant that was left inside a vehicle.

It's unknown how long the child was left in the vehicle, police said. 

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Upon arrival, they immediately began life-saving measures and took the baby to the hospital. A later update stated the baby girl had died.

Police said she was in the care of her grandmother.

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High temperatures in Winter Haven on Tuesday reached 85 degrees, according to National Weather Service data.

Kids and Car Safety said this is the first confirmed child death in a car so far in 2026.

An investigation into the baby's death is underway.

Video from Tobruk on Wednesday shows the world in a red hue as thick dust blocked the sun.

BLOOD RAIN, A RARE WEATHER PHENOMENON, FALLS ACROSS SOUTHERN EUROPE

The Tobruk Municipal Guard Branch issued a state of emergency for Amahid east to Ain Ghazala west and to Al-Jaghboob south due to the weather conditions.

In the video, winds whipped and sirens could be heard in the background. 

As the camera panned around, cars and streets were barely visible due to the dust.

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The entire scene appeared apocalyptic in nature, with streetlights barely doing anything to illuminate the area.

A group of people stood inside a doorway, wearing masks and hats, trying to protect themselves from the dust. 

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Local emergency officials said they were busy trying to prepare for any emergencies that could arise during the severe weather. 

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They advised residents to be very cautious and not travel during these conditions. 

These severe storms have torn across the Heartland region, taking lives and destroying homes and communities.

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And with that, the season has only just begun.

On Monday, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) unveiled three new radars that will provide much more detailed, real-time data than traditional fixed radar systems and can be deployed directly into severe weather.

Mounted on heavy-duty trucks, these new units carry multiple types of radar to help scientists study storms, tornadoes, wildfires and flooding up close and from different perspectives.

The higher-quality data is expected to improve forecast precision and support earlier, more accurate warnings to better protect lives.

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This is significant news as severe weather season continues, with NOAA’s National Severe Storms Laboratory Director, DaNa Carlis, Ph.D., calling it a "game changer for public safety."

Carlis highlights that they are not only increasing the number of radars to three, but also improving the quality of data reaching forecasters and decision-makers.

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These advanced mobile radars are made to be quickly deployed to areas experiencing severe weather, enabling scientists to position the instruments near storms and wildfires to collect detailed, real-time data.

"This proximity allows researchers to close the radar gap with detailed views of atmospheric processes that are difficult or impossible to capture with our fixed radar network alone," NOAA said.

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The mobile radars will play an important role in helping determine storm behavior and potential hazards.

By scanning the lowest levels of a storm, where tornadoes and other threats develop, they provide detailed information on conditions that directly affect communities.

SEVERE STORMS TARGET MORE THAN 25M ACROSS THE GREAT LAKES AHEAD OF ACTIVE APRIL PATTERN FOR CENTRAL US

This high-resolution data allows scientists to track rapid changes in wind patterns and storm structure, improving understanding of storm intensity, development and potential impacts.

That said, these radars will also provide invaluable support in monitoring other high-impact hazards, as well.

NOAA said in wildfire scenarios, mobile radars can track smoke plumes, winds generated by fires and evolving weather conditions that influence fire spread and firefighter safety.

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Along with that, during flash-flood events, the radars can identify areas receiving the heaviest rainfall in real time, supporting communities in responding to sudden, dangerous flooding.

Carlis said the data gathered by the new mobile radars will be used to improve NOAA’s weather forecasts, providing earlier and more accurate warnings that help protect lives and property during severe storms.

The health department issued a Beach Advisory for bacteria known as enterococci at Mokule‘ia Beach on the northern shore of Oahu, where some of the worst flooding took place.

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The state said the high bacteria count is being caused by runoff pollution from the heavy rain. Swimming in contaminated waters can cause gastroenteritis that can result in nausea and additional infections, according to the health department.

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Heavy rain from the second of two Kona Low systems triggered a Flash Flood Emergency for the towns of Waialua and Haleiwa on the North Shore early on Friday, Mar. 20.

Homes were swept away by floodwaters. Although there were no serious injuries reported, officials said nearly 200 people had to be rescued across the state that weekend.

FOX Weather Correspondent Robert Ray, who covered some of the flooding as it unfolded, said runoff from the heavy rain pushed animals and debris into the Pacific Ocean, triggering a Brown Water Advisory in the immediate aftermath. 

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The damage from the flooding has the potential to approach $1 billion, Governor Josh Green said.

This season has brought near-record snowmaking totals to the mountain, with some depths exceeding a staggering 30 feet in some places, Killington Resort noted. 

SEE IT: NORTHEAST BURIED UNDER FEET OF SNOW AS BLIZZARD RAGES, SHUTTING DOWN MAJOR CITIES

As a result, heavy, water-saturated snow combined with such extreme base depth has led to structural issues along the trails, they said.

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According to the FOX Forecast Center, Killington has received about 1–2 inches of rain since early Tuesday morning. 

Killington Resort said, around 1:00 a.m., the grooming team noticed a crack starting to develop on the Superstar Glacier. That crack has since grown into a crevasse 8–10 feet deep, showing ongoing movement.

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Ongoing warm overnight temperatures and increased moisture led the team to adjust their grooming plan to better maintain snow coverage.

"A number of trails remain ungroomed, including Double Dipper, Needle's Eye, and Highline among others. This is a strategic move as we continue to manage conditions through this stretch of spring weather," the Killington Resort said. 

The resort also wants guests to be aware of areas of thinning snow coverage. Ski Patrol is actively monitoring conditions, marking hazards, and identifying areas where walking may be necessary.

APRIL WEATHER OUTLOOK: SEVERE STORMS TARGET MILLIONS AS SPRING TEMPERATURE WARMUP FINALLY NEARS

Even after some recent snow loss, Killington Resort emphasizes that most of the mountain still has excellent coverage for a "spring-tastic" experience.

On the flip side, however, if unstable conditions persist, they may have to reassess operations. 

Thursday, the FOX Forecast Center says there is a chance of a wintry mix, with freezing rain likely. 

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While on Friday, skies will become partly sunny, and afternoon temperatures are expected to rise to 61 degrees, accelerating snowmelt.

Be sure to check Killington.com for any and all future updates. 

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK ANNOUNCES NORTH RIM REOPENING AS DRAGON BRAVO FIRE RECOVERY CONTINUES

As a result, water cannot currently be pumped to the South Rim.

Park officials are urging residents, visitors, and staff to conserve water and reduce usage in homes, hotel rooms and campgrounds by limiting showers, turning off taps when not in use, and reporting leaks.

According to the National Park Service (NPS), Grand Canyon Water Utilities is responsible for providing water to up to 5 million visitors and 2,500 to 3,000 residents.

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There are 5 stages of water restriction levels for the canyon and Stage 3 represents ‘Mandatory Water Conservation Measures,’ meaning the South Rim water tank level is between 11 and 15 feet. 

"Close Camper Services, campgrounds switch to dry camping (restrooms available). No woodburing or charcoal fires at Mather campground," it states.

Along with that, NPS has made several operational changes at Mather Campground: Camper services are closed, water spigots have been turned off, fires are prohibited, restrooms remain open, and the RV dump and water station continue to operate.

Prior to the increased restrictions, the South Rim was at Stage 2 water conservation as the park has faced ongoing breaks in the Transcanyon Waterline (TCWL).

Originally built in the 1960s, the pipeline has far exceeded its 30-year design lifespan.

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK CLOSES OVERNIGHT HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS IN SOUTH RIM AFTER MULTIPLE WATER MAIN BREAKS

"Since 2010, there have been over 85 major breaks in the TCWL that have each disrupted water delivery," the NPS said. 

Recently, in March, water restrictions were critical enough to close overnight hotel accommodations in South Rim after multiple water main breaks.

And during Labor Day weekend 2024, hotels closed after a series of water main breaks forced operators to shut down the TCWL.

A National Park Service project to rehabilitate the Transcanyon Waterline began in 2023 and is expected to finish construction in 2027. 

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Until the break along the North Kaibab Trail is repaired, and water tanks return to sustainable levels, Grand Canyon National Park will remain in conservation mode. 

If conditions don’t improve, officials said the park may need to increase water restrictions to Stage 4. 

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This would mean overnight lodging could close, additional fire restrictions would be implemented, and Trailer Village would become unavailable, the park said. 

Artemis II will mark the first time humans set out to attempt a lunar flyby in over 50 years, another forward advancement in pursuing NASA's Artemis exploration program's ultimate goals: returning humankind to the moon, laying the foundation for the future and the exploration of Mars.

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

Founded on the idea of further pursuing human expansion across the solar system, NASA's Artemis program aims to achieve the goal of landing American astronauts on the surface of the moon this decade and maintaining U.S. superiority in exploration and discovery.

NASA’s "Moon to Mars" roadmap is already in motion. These five Artemis missions will build on the last, and lay the foundation that carries humanity deeper into space than ever before.

The program's first mission, Artemis I, launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center on Nov. 16, 2022, and successfully returned to Earth with a successful splashdown in the Pacific Ocean on Dec. 11, 2022.

Artemis I served as a test flight and laid the initial foundation for where we are today by sending a spaceship into deep space for a lunar flyby. Artemis I used a Space Launch System (SLS) rocket to launch an Orion spacecraft on a 25-day mission around the moon – without a single soul on board.

Artemis I was the first integrated flight test of NASA’s newest Deep Space Exploration Systems.

After 1.4 million miles, the mission’s success propelled the program into its next phase—Artemis II—and brought humankind that much closer to its long-awaited return to the great unknown.

Picking up where Artemis I left off, Artemis II is using an SLS rocket to launch an Orion spacecraft for a flyover on the moon – but this time, they're bringing humanity with them.

ARTEMIS II MISSION PHASES

Artemis II will attempt to bring humans back to deep space with a moon fly-by for the first time since 1972.

The lunar fly-by will bring the spaceship roughly 4,000 to 6,000 miles away from the moon's surface – inviting the Artemis II crew to see the entire disk of the moon – which at closest approach, according to NASA, will appear to be about the size of a basketball held at arm’s length.

On its 10-day mission, Artemis II aims to demonstrate a broad range of capabilities needed on deep space missions, as the test flight will continue to raise the bar further for the next generation of astronauts.

The return to deep space, with three Americans and one Canadian onboard, marks a pivotal stepping stone in humanity's long-term return to the moon – further advancing the Artemis program's ultimate goals. 

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Looking to the future, Artemis III will begin to lay the foundation for lunar landings by testing docking methods on the moon.

Currently scheduled for mid-2027, the demonstration mission in low Earth orbit will test commercial landers.

According to NASA, the mission will launch crew in the Orion spacecraft on top of the SLS rocket to test rendezvous and docking capabilities between Orion and the private commercial spacecraft – developed by SpaceX, Blue Origin or both – needed to land astronauts on the moon.

Artemis III will identify a moon lander vehicle that will be able to safely transfer future astronauts to the moon's surface and back to Orion in lunar orbit.

This will set the stage for humanity’s next giant leap: the Artemis IV lunar landing mission.

For the first Artemis lunar landing mission, Artemis IV, NASA is currently targeting a mission date for early 2028.

According to NASA, the mission "will be one of the most complex undertakings of engineering and human ingenuity in the history of deep space exploration" by exploring the moon's South Pole region.

The mission will aim to use the astronauts’ observations, samples and data collected to expand our understanding of our solar system and Earth.

After launch, the Artemis IV crew will transfer from Orion to a commercial lunar lander—building off of Artemis III—for the journey to the lunar surface and back before returning to Earth for a Pacific Ocean splashdown.

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Artemis IV is aiming to bring humankind back to the moon's surface, and expand on lunar exploration, for the first time since the Apollo 17 mission in 1972.

Past the Artemis program's first lunar landing mission with Artemis IV, the next mission will continue to expand on NASA's presence on the moon.

NASA PAUSES GATEWAY LUNAR-ORBIT SPACE STATION TO BUILD LUNAR BASE ON THE MOON

With a launch anticipation by late 2028, Artemis V will return to the moon.

According to NASA, the Artemis program will expand to feature future missions about once per year after Artemis V.

Taking monumental steps towards the Artemis program's goal of building a foundation on the moon, construction on the NASA moon base will begin on the Artemis V mission.

10 IMPORTANT ROCKET LAUNCHES IN THE HISTORY OF THE US SPACEFLIGHT

Looking towards the future of Artemis III and beyond, NASA continues to refine its plans for working towards the ultimate goals of the Artemis program.

Ushering in a new "Golden Age" of space exploration, the Artemis program will drive increasingly complex missions to further human understanding of the moon and lay the foundation for humanity’s first crewed journey to Mars.

The new Domestic Aviation Forecast System (DAFS) will generate more detailed forecasts of icing and turbulence, giving pilots real-time information about the changing weather conditions while in the air.

FINAL PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR THE LAUNCH OF NASA'S ARTEMIS II SPACE MISSION

"This is the culmination of extensive research and years of work that gets right to the heart of our aviation forecast mission: supporting passenger safety and the aviation industry," Terra Ladwig, acting chief of NOAA Global Systems Laboratory’s Assimilation, Verification, and Innovation Division, said.

The tool will not only forecast the likelihood of icing and its severity, but also enhance turbulence predictions, including low-level turbulence near the ground, clear air turbulence that is difficult to detect, mountain wave turbulence and turbulence within clouds and storms.

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"Improving prediction of turbulence and icing will strengthen NOAA's ability to provide critical flight safety information to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the aviation community," Joshua Scheck, aviation support branch chief for NOAA's Aviation Weather Center, said.

According to NOAA, the new DAFS was developed with funding from the FAA Aviation Weather Research Program.

The tool is based on an advanced operational regional forecast model, the High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR), which was designed to track severe weather events.

"The DAFS is another example of how NOAA continuously works with the FAA to deliver the most accurate, timely, and useful aviation forecasts," Scheck said.

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The system updates its forecast every hour on a 1.8-mile surface grid and divides the atmosphere into 50 layers from the ground to high altitude. It also ingests three-dimensional radar data every 15 minutes to improve its predictions.

Previously, icing and turbulence guidance were generated by numerical weather models that updated hourly on an 8-mile surface grid. Now, icing and turbulence forecast updates will be more precise.

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"The enhanced horizontal and vertical resolution provides more detailed forecasts, which potentially gives pilots more options to navigate around hazards," Curtis Alexander, GSL’s deputy director, said.

The NASA astronauts embarking on the space mission will spend 10 days in orbit. It begs the question — what kind of food is packed for trips outside the planet?

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

According to NASA, the food selection for flying aboard the Orion spacecraft is chosen to support the crew’s health and performance during the mission.

"Food selections are developed in coordination with space food experts and the crew to balance calorie needs, hydration and nutrient intake while accommodating individual crew preferences," a statement from NASA reads.

There are 189 unique menu items available to the crew for the mission, all while considering shelf life, nutritional value and compatibility with Orion’s overall mass.

Unexpected items include macaroni and cheese, barbecue baked brisket, butternut squash, cobbler and lemonade.

NASA ARTEMIS II COUNTDOWN: HERE'S WHAT HAPPENS FROM NOW UNTIL LAUNCH

Shelf-stable foods help maintain food safety and quality throughout the ship, while also reducing the risk of crumb-fouling instruments.

Flour tortillas are a common bread item for shuttle astronauts. Tortillas provide an easy solution to the breadcrumb problem and have been used since 1985, according to NASA.

The Artemis crew uses Orion’s portable water dispenser to rehydrate foods and beverages, along with a briefcase-style food warmer to heat meals as needed.

10 IMPORTANT ROCKET LAUNCHES IN THE HISTORY OF THE US SPACEFLIGHT

The preparation for the nutritional plan for the Artemis mission is intentionally simple, using ready-to-eat, hydratable, thermo-stabilized or irradiated foods that can be safely prepared on this mission.

The organization plans for liftoff to start on Wednesday, making it the first crewed rocket ship to return to the moon since 1972.

NASA'S ARTEMIS MISSIONS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AHEAD OF THE HISTORIC MOON LAUNCH

The launch countdown includes "L Minus" and "T Minus" times. The "L minus" indicates how far away liftoff is in hours and minutes. The "T minus" time is a sequence of events built into the launch countdown.

Each event is planned precisely to make sure the teams have everything necessary before launch day.

Here are some of the key milestones that take place starting at L-16 hours:

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MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

ARTEMIS II MISSION PHASES

ARTEMIS II ROCKET ON TRACK TO ROLL OUT TO LAUNCHPAD WITH HOPES OF SENDING HUMANS FURTHER INTO SPACE THAN EVER

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As temperatures begin to warm up this spring, the looming threat of fire danger increases.

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Footage shared by the Carencro Fire Department showcases a firsthand look at the intense fire conditions that first responders faced in Carencro.

They quickly break apart a portion of the home’s structure to help gain access inside.

Helmet camera footage from firefighter Jake Richard shows his perspective of the fiery conditions inside the house, with zero visibility, not to mention in a building in which he did not know the layout.

Once inside the home, the camera becomes completely dark due to heavy smoke buildup, eventually clearing once his fellow firefighters make contact with him.

Upon arrival, Richard reported finding the family dog and needing assistance with the extraction.

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"Richard conducted a search and successfully located the family dog, Chop, removing him safely from the home," a statement from the fire department reads.

After securing Chop and getting him safely outside the burning home, Richard returned inside to assist crews in extinguishing the remaining flames.

According to officials, the home was heavily damaged during the fire, but they are happy with the successful rescue of the dog, which was trapped inside.

PHOTOS: INJURED HIKER RESCUED IN REMOTE PART OF CALIFORNIA CANYON

Thanks to the great training, bravery and skill of Richard and the rest of the fire department, they saved a family member in blinding fire conditions.

The East Mississippi Chapter of the National Weather Association and American Meteorological Society hosted its 24th annual Southeast Severe Storms Symposium on March 28–29 at Mississippi State University.

FOX WEATHER'S STEVE BENDER AND HALEY MEIER INSPIRE STUDENTS AT MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY SYMPOSIUM

This impactful event hosted around 120 attendees and four keynote speakers, including FOX Weather’s very own Craig Herrera.

Herrera’s appearance was highly anticipated by everyone in attendance, and his presentation on proper severe weather communication hit home for many.

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Samuel Gonzalez, an attendee and senior professional meteorology major from Mayhill, New Mexico, said that meeting Herrera was especially inspiring since they have both moved over one thousand miles to follow their dreams.

"I’ve been dreaming about a career in meteorology for a long time," Gonzalez said. "It’s an honor to meet a great meteorologist from my home state of New Mexico at Mississippi State University."

During his presentation, Herrera recapped major weather-related events of 2025, honing in on the impacts of meteorology for all seasons, and for all America.

With tears in his eyes, Herrera recounted the impacts of Hurricane Melissa, the devastating Category 5 hurricane that hit Jamaica in October of 2025.

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"When you’re helping to save lives, it’s worth it all," Herrera said. "I’m glad we were there; somebody had to deliver the story."

Herrera recognized the difficulties of serving as a meteorologist, from rigorous STEM classes to covering weather’s destructive nature first-hand, comparing meteorology to a game of baseball.

"What’s your walk-up song?" Herrera asked, "I swing, and I miss. What did I learn from that?"

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While playing his personal walk-up song, he encouraged the audience to go into life’s experiences with a positive outlook.

"People’s lives change with weather," Herrera said. "Be authentic. Be yourself. Be real. On camera and off camera."

College meteorology students can have a chance at getting first-hand experience in the broadcast industry, thanks to an annual scholarship program and partnership between FOX Weather and Mississippi State University.

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Scholarship recipients at MSU are given financial aid, mentorship and the opportunity to serve as an intern for FOX Weather.

The scholarship program is available to eligible students with a concentration in either broadcast meteorology or professional meteorology/climatology at Mississippi State, one of the top meteorology schools in the nation.

On Nov. 14, 1969, Apollo 12 prepared to bring three astronauts into space, landing on the Moon for the second time ever on a cloudy, rainy day. 

NASA had recognized lightning during thunderstorms to be a problem for spaceflight during its early days, so the agency never allowed launch during thunderstorms. 

However, what they didn't realize at the time, was that a rocket launching into space could trigger lightning if it flew through highly electrified clouds. 

A southward-moving cold front was passing through central Florida, producing cloudy skies and rain showers as launch time for Apollo 12 approached, NASA said. 

NASA said, although no lightning was reported in the area before the launch, potential gradient measurements from sensors were varying significantly, implying rapidly and highly fluctuating electric fields over the launch area before the final countdown. 

NASA'S ARTEMIS MISSIONS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AHEAD OF THE HISTORIC MOON LAUNCH

Because there was no lightning, not violating any rules of the Lightning Launch Commit Criteria, and President Nixon was in attendance, mission control didn't want to delay the launch.

So, Apollo 12 launched as planned, and 36 seconds later, the rocket was hit by lightning, which disconnected the service module’s fuel cells that produced power for the command module, NASA said. 

10 IMPORTANT ROCKET LAUNCHES IN THE HISTORY OF THE US SPACEFLIGHT

Sixteen seconds later, Saturn V was hit by another bolt of lightning. NASA said this strike impacted the command module's navigation system, causing temporary loss of the system’s stabilizing platform and denial of critical flight data to Mission Control. 

The recommendation of a young NASA engineer resulted in flight telemetry being restored. Fortunately, the Saturn V booster’s systems, including navigation and communications, had not been affected by the lightning strikes, NASA said.

SOLAR FLARE EVENT HAPPENS DAYS BEFORE ARTEMIS II MISSION. NASA SAID THEY'RE NOT CONCERNED ABOUT IT

Apollo 12 was able to continue its launch into space and conduct its mission without further problems, safely splashing down in the Pacific Ocean 10 days later on Nov. 24, 1969. 

The incident led to a lot of lightning research among the aerospace community, NASA said. 

After careful consideration, NASA implemented a new Lightning Launch Commit Criteria a few months later, to significantly lower the risk of being struck by lightning again. 

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Over the years, further research and technology advancements allowed for the LLCC to be revised, updated and improved to increase both launch availability and launch safety, NASA said.

NASA now releases individual weather requirements for each space launch for optimal conditions for a safe roll-out and launch of their rockets.

For example, Artemis II, NASA's first crewed lunar flyby mission for the Artemis program, has a planned launch date on April 1. 

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

The Orion spacecraft and SLS rocket cannot launch if temperatures aren't between 41° and 94°, winds are higher than 33–44 mph and if there is rain, thunderstorms, lightning, certain clouds or solar activity. 

The near-disaster of lightning striking Apollo 12 changed the future of aerospace launches forever.

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

Rounds of rain are expected to begin across parts of the Plains Tuesday through the weekend, as storms move across a dip in the jet stream, which acts as an atmospheric conveyor belt for storms. 

ROUNDS OF SEVERE WEATHER TO SLAM MILLIONS ACROSS CENTRAL US AS ACTIVE SPRING PATTERN IGNITES NATIONWIDE

This pattern change signals the beginning of the spring severe weather season across the Southern Plains, where April averages the second-most tornadoes behind May.

In the near-term, warm temperatures spreading across the eastern two-thirds of the country will enhance severe weather across the Central U.S., as well as fuel storms in the Great Lakes and Mid-Atlantic.

Thunderstorms capable of producing strong wind gusts and hail are forecast to fire across parts of the Texas Panhandle and Western Oklahoma late Tuesday afternoon ahead of a more significant severe weather threat Wednesday.

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A cold front will move through and stall over the Plains Wednesday. NOAA's Storm Prediction Center has issued a Level 2 out of 5 risk of severe thunderstorms for a corridor stretching from Kansas City, Missouri through Oklahoma City to North Texas. 

Dallas is under a Level 1 threat. These storms will be capable of producing large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes.

While severe weather hazards are not expected to be incredibly damaging, the FOX Forecast Center noted that the significant moisture in the atmosphere due to warmer temperatures will drive days of potential flash flooding.

WHAT FLOOD WATCHES, WARNINGS AND EMERGENCIES REALLY MEAN

"These storms will have plenty of fuel to produce heavy rain," the Forecast Center said.

"Even if the severe weather threat ends up being somewhat limited, the focus will quickly shift to the risk of flash flooding from Wednesday into Thursday."

A more intense severe weather system will move into the Plains and the Midwest by Friday.

A Level 2 threat covers parts of Kansas, Iowa, Missouri and northern Oklahoma, which could produce damaging wind gusts, hail, and possibly a few tornadoes. 

All told, more than half a foot of rain could fall in parts of the Plains and Mississippi Valley by the end of the week, including cities like Little Rock, Arkansas and St. Louis.

A separate severe weather system is making its way across the Great Lakes Tuesday, with associated rain reaching the Northeast coast.

SEVERE STORMS TARGET MORE THAN 25M ACROSS THE GREAT LAKES AHEAD OF ACTIVE APRIL PATTERN FOR CENTRAL US

According to the FOX Forecast Center, storms will continue to develop across the warm front which will act like a track for storms to repeatedly move along over the next couple of days, with the main concerns being large hail, damaging wind gusts and heavy rain.

Thunderstorms are expected to linger over Pennsylvania early Wednesday, with a second threat reloading over Chicago and the Midwest on Thursday.

On Tuesday, flood watches were issued across parts of Upstate New York from Watertown south to the New York-Pennsylvania border. The heavy rain could melt the remaining snowpack, leading to flash flooding and causing some rivers to rise to moderate flood stage.

Parts of the Mid-Atlantic could see periods of on-and-off rain through the weekend.

'FIREBALL SEASON' EXPLAINED: WHY METEORS ARE LIGHTING UP SKIES ACROSS THE COUNTRY

The fireball was first reported about 50 miles above Wilkeson, Washington, where it traveled northwest at approximately 39,000 mph before disintegrating 30 miles above Wauna, Washington, on the north shore of Carr Inlet.

More than 100 eyewitnesses in Oregon and Washington, as well as the Canadian province of British Columbia, filed reports with the American Meteor Society describing the bright fireball. 

The organization noted that the fireball was not associated with any active meteor showers.

According to NASA, February through April is considered "fireball season," when activity increases by roughly 10 to 30 percent, particularly around the March equinox. 

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Scientists aren’t entirely sure why this happens. Some astronomers believe the Earth passes through more space debris during this time of year, while others suggest the apparent increase may be tied to the widespread use of smartphones and home security cameras, which capture these brief events more frequently.

In recent months, fireball sightings have been reported across the country, from Michigan and Ohio to Pennsylvania, California and Texas. 

Just days ago, residents across East Texas reported a meteor streaking across the sky, with some also hearing a loud boom. 

One woman, Sherrie James, even shared photos of what she believes may be a meteorite. She said it was small enough to fit in the palm of her hand.

As sightings continue to spark curiosity and excitement, experts encourage the public to document these rare moments. 

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If you capture one of these fleeting moments, be sure to share your best photos and videos at FOXWeather.com/connect.

GREAT WHITE SHARK BELLA PINGS OFF LOUISIANA COAST IN POSSIBLE 'NEW SHARK HOTSPOT'

This tracked ping represents the farthest south an OCEARCH-tagged white shark from the western North Atlantic population has ever been documented in the West Indies.

Tagged during OCEARCH’s Expedition Nova Scotia off Scatarie Island on Sept. 11, 2020, Breton measured 13 feet, 3 inches and weighed 1,437 pounds at the time.

"His SPOT tag is still sending locations, well beyond the typical lifespan of most tags," OCEARCH said on X regarding his new tagged location.

WATCH: NEARLY 10-FOOT ENDANGERED DUSKY SHARK PINGS OFF THE GULF COAST NEAR ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA

SPOT tags are satellite-linked devices attached to the shark's dorsal fin that provide near real-time location data and typically only last about 5 years. 

Breton was the first shark tagged during OCEARCH’s 2020 Expedition Nova Scotia and was named in honor of the people of Cape Breton, near where he was tagged. 

He is the fifth shark OCEARCH has tagged on the Island over two years of research in the area, supporting evidence that the region may provide consistent access to white sharks. 

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His name, chosen by OCEARCH partner SeaWorld, honors the people of Cape Breton and reflects the organization’s support for wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and ocean health initiatives.

1,400-LB WHITE SHARK 'BRETON' PINGS OFF GEORGIA COAST

Before his southernmost trek, he was spotted off the coast of Georgia on March 3, but over the past five years, he has also been tracked throughout the North Atlantic, from New Brunswick to Newfoundland, Canada, among other locations.

The Marine Mammal Center, which is based out of Sausalito, said at least six whales were spotted by their team in San Francisco Bay as of March 16.

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On March 25, a dead whale was seen wedged under pilings at the Phillips 66 Refinery in Rodeo. Marine Mammal Center scientists, along with the California Academy of Sciences, confirmed this as the second dead whale reported in the Bay and wider region since the start of the year.

Since the whale was difficult to access given its location, officials couldn't perform a necropsy.

Three days later, another gray whale was found dead, floating off Tiburon near the Larkspur Ferry Terminal.

SUSPECTED CAUSE OF DEATH REVEALED FOR LARGE WHALE FOUND DEAD ON NEW YORK CITY BEACH

The Marine Mammal Center reported a third whale death in Pinole over the weekend. Scientists said the gray whale was found floating in San Francisco Bay near the Oakland Harbor.

The whale is being transported to Angel Island where a necropsy will be performed, the Marine Mammal Center said.

And the first whale death didn't happen too long ago either. On March 17, scientists located a dead whale in the San Francisco Bay Area near the Golden Gate Bridge.

The center said gray whales are currently heading north on their yearly migration to the Arctic, stopping by San Francisco Bay to rest and feed along their route. The whale species makes one of the longest annual migrations of any mammal, traveling about 10,000 miles round-trip and in some cases, over 14,000 miles, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 

This comes amid a growing concern for the gray whale species, with a population of 12,900. This is the lowest number of gray whales reported since the 1970s, according to the Marine Mammal Center.

YOUNG WHALE STRANDED ON THE BEACH IN FLORIDA IS EUTHANIZED

NOAA Fisheries said gray whales are regularly found in the North Pacific Ocean, and they're known for their curiosity toward boats along the West Coast, often acting as the focus of whale watching and ecotourism.

An Unusual Mortality Event was recently closed amid a continued population decline — over 50% since 2016, the center said.

Scientists believe changing Arctic conditions may be forcing the species to adapt to unprecedented environmental changes.

The Marine Mammal Center is an organization that was established to rescue, rehabilitate and release marine mammals who are injured, sick or abandoned. They encourage anyone who sees whales in the Bay Area to contact them.

WATCH: WHALE CRASHES ONTO BOAT OFF NEW HAMPSHIRE COAST

The nonprofit is partnering with the San Francisco Harbor Safety Committee's Marine Mammal Subcommittee to develop a pilot called "Whale Smart," which is an educational and training program for commercial vessel operators, including high-speed ferry and passenger vessels, to enhance whale safety efforts.

They hope to reduce the risk of vessel strikes and improve safe coexistence between marine traffic and whales in what's described as one of the nation's busiest waterways.

A hiker became injured more than a mile into a canyon over the weekend, prompting a multi-agency effort along the South Fork of the American River.

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Being alone in a remote area of the canyon, especially if ill-prepared, can be a deadly outcome.

Thankfully, first responders were able to locate, treat and safely extract the hiker safely, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL Fire).

A helicopter was used to hoist the injured hiker out of the rural area, due to the extent of the journey to locate the individual, on top of their injuries.

"A fall in steep, remote terrain can turn serious fast," a statement from CAL Fire reads.

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It is always important to know your physical limits when exploring remote wilderness locations such as this.

The National Park Service suggests choosing a trail or route based on your hiking experience. Ask yourself whether you have ever hiked in this type of environment, whether it is the physical terrain or the weather conditions.

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Before heading out, experts suggest:

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It is important to keep track of your time and distance while traveling. The total hike time includes the time it took you to hike to your destination and back to your starting point. This goes back to always knowing your limits.

This will mark the first time a crew flies aboard the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft, and it will be the first crewed mission to travel around the moon since 1972.

FINAL PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR THE LAUNCH OF NASA'S ARTEMIS II SPACE MISSION

If everything goes according to plan, this mission will be remembered in the history books.

However, Artemis II isn’t the only revolutionary space mission in America’s history. Here are a few rocket launches that stand out as pivotal moments in space exploration:

This marked a new chapter in spaceflight when the U.S. launched the first rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, known as Bumper 2.

This two-stage rocket combined a V-2 missile base with a WAC Corporal upper stage. It reached a record-breaking altitude of nearly 250 miles.

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Bumper 2 rockets allowed NASA to measure attributes including air temperatures and cosmic ray impacts.

On May 5, 1961, Alan Shepard became the first American to journey into space aboard Freedom 7.

Although the flight lasted only about 15 minutes, it set the stage for future crewed missions.

SOLAR FLARE EVENT HAPPENS DAYS BEFORE ARTEMIS II MISSION. NASA SAID THEY'RE NOT CONCERNED ABOUT IT

Shepard’s flight was part of Project Mercury and helped NASA better understand how humans respond to spaceflight.

In 1962, John Glenn Jr. became the first American to orbit Earth during the Friendship 7 mission.

He circled the planet three times before the spacecraft splashed down safely in the ocean. The flight lasted 4 hours, 55 minutes and 23 seconds.

Apollo 8 is considered one of the most daring missions ever flown, marking the first time a crewed spacecraft orbited the moon.

SEE THE OBJECTS HUMANS LEFT BEHIND ON THE MOON

The three astronauts aboard Apollo 8 circled the moon 10 times before returning to Earth. 

The mission lasted about six days, and the crew was later named Time magazine’s "Men of the Year" for 1968 upon their return.

On July 16, 1969, a 363-foot-tall Saturn V rocket launched Apollo 11 from Kennedy Space Center.

Apollo 11 became known as the first spaceflight crew to land on the moon.

EXTRAORDINARY ‘SUNGRAZER’ COMET COULD DAZZLE NYC SKYWATCHERS WITH A STUNNING SHOW

This mission was crewed by Commander Neil Armstrong, Command Module Pilot Michael Collins and Lunar Module Pilot Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin. 

This set the stage for six more Apollo missions to carry humans to the moon.

NASA launched its first space station, Skylab, in May 1973.

It was occupied for about 24 weeks by three astronaut crews and allowed NASA to conduct long-duration human space research.

Skylab’s orbit eventually decayed, and it reentered Earth’s atmosphere on July 11, 1979, scattering debris over the Indian Ocean and parts of Western Australia.

The first Space Shuttle launch took place on April 12, 1981—almost exactly 20 years after the first human spaceflight.

When the Space Shuttle Columbia flew into space, it started a new era. This was the first mission to use a reusable spacecraft.

NASA ANNOUNCES ARTEMIS II MISSION PHASES, PLANS FOR FUTURE ARTEMIS PROGRAM LAUNCHES

It was also the first time in history a new spacecraft was launched on its first flight with a crew aboard.

The Space Shuttle program went on to fly more than 100 missions over 30 years before ending in 2011.

In 1990, NASA launched the Hubble Space Telescope into orbit.

This mission became groundbreaking because it allowed scientists to observe the universe without atmospheric distortion, capturing sharp images of distant galaxies, nebulae and stars.

WATCH: NASA'S HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE CAPTURES RARE PROOF OF COMET BREAKING APART

It also helped researchers better understand black holes, the expansion of the universe and its age.

The launch of Hubble ultimately revolutionized modern astronomy.

The Falcon Heavy Launch marked a major milestone in modern spaceflight. It was the first mission to launch the powerful Falcon Heavy rocket.

This rocket became known as the most powerful operational rocket in the world, generating about five million pounds of thrust.

'FIREBALL SEASON' EXPLAINED: WHY METEORS ARE LIGHTING UP SKIES ACROSS THE COUNTRY

This mission captured global attention and demonstrated the potential of reusable heavy lift rockets.

Crew Dragon Demo-2 launched on May 30, 2020, marking a major milestone in space history as the first crewed mission flown by a private company, SpaceX.

Riding aboard the spacecraft Falcon 9, the astronaut traveled to the International Space Station.

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This was the first time the U.S. launched astronauts into space since the end of its Space Shuttle program in 2011. After spending about two months in orbit, the crew safely returned to Earth on August 2, 2020.

On Sunday, Starlink satellite 34343 experienced an "anomaly" during its orbit, resulting in the loss of communications with the satellite, according to Starlink.

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

This comes as a solar flare caught the attention of NASA officials on Sunday, with the launch of Artemis II just days away.

The latest analysis shows that the International Space Station was under no risk at the time of this event, and that there is no renewed threat to its crew.

Officials said this will not affect the launch of Artemis II on Wednesday.

As a result of the recent solar flare event, SpaceX and Starlink teams will be working to determine the cause of the satellite losing communications, which happened at about 347 miles above Earth.

SOLAR FLARE EVENT HAPPENS DAYS BEFORE ARTEMIS II MISSION. NASA SAID THEY'RE NOT CONCERNED ABOUT IT

"The SpaceX and Starlink teams are actively working to determine the root cause and will rapidly implement any necessary corrective actions," a statement from Starlink reads.

According to NASA, a strong solar flare was emitted from the sun on Sunday night, providing the opportunity to capture a stunning image of the event.

FINAL PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR THE LAUNCH OF NASA'S ARTEMIS II SPACE MISSION

The image captured by NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory shows bright pockets, almost like holes in the sun, followed by swooshing energy bursting out from the layer.

According to NASA, the image shows a subset of extreme ultraviolet light that highlights extremely hot material in flares, which are colorized in gold.

Solar flares are powerful bursts of radiation or light from the sun and are the most powerful explosions in the solar system. Flares and solar eruptions can impact radio communications, electric grids, navigational signals and pose risks to spacecraft and astronauts.

'FIREBALL SEASON' EXPLAINED: WHY METEORS ARE LIGHTING UP SKIES ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Experts said the solar flare eruption, at its peak, resulted in a strong radio blackout on the sunlit side of Earth on Sunday, according to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center.

Despite this, NASA has stated that the flaring activity is not currently anticipated to impact the Artemis II mission, and they'll continue to monitor space weather activity leading up to the launch.

WHAT IS A SOLAR FLARE?

Based on the predicted weather on Earth and in space, the mission is still 80% a go for launch on Wednesday.

Solar flares can be generated by a solar storm, which is when the sun creates a tangled mess of magnetic fields that twist as the sun rotates, with the equator moving faster than its poles, according to NASA experts.

When directed towards Earth, it can cause major power outages and beautiful auroras. Thankfully, our planet’s magnetic field and atmosphere protect us from the worst of these storms.

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

Otherwise known as the magnetosphere, it shields us from erosion of our atmosphere by the solar wind, cosmic rays from deep space and more.

Simply put, it is a gatekeeper for our planet, repelling damaging energy that’s harmful to life on Earth and trapping most of it at a safe distance.

Not to mention, NASA’s first mission in over 50 years to send astronauts into orbit around the Moon—the Artemis II mission—is slated to launch Wednesday night.

FINAL PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR THE LAUNCH OF NASA'S ARTEMIS II SPACE MISSION

And the excitement isn’t over yet—more celestial treats are on the way.

Between April 5–8, a sungrazer comet is expected to grace the New York City sky—if it survives its close pass by the Sun, it could potentially put on a dazzling show visible to the naked eye.

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According to NASA, a sungrazer comet can be defined as a distinct type of comet that passes extremely close to the Sun at its closest point, known as perihelion.

And a comet is classified as a sungrazer if it approaches within roughly 850,000 miles of the Sun at perihelion, with some coming even closer—sometimes just a few thousand miles away.

'FIREBALL SEASON' EXPLAINED: WHY METEORS ARE LIGHTING UP SKIES ACROSS THE COUNTRY

This particular sungrazer headed across the sky this April is called C/2026 A1 (MAPS), sweeping significantly close to the Sun, roughly less than a million miles, according to EarthSky.org.

NASA notes that because these comets get so close to the Sun, it is exposed to intense solar radiation and strong gravitational forces, which put significant stress on it.

THE BEST CELESTIAL EVENTS IN 2026 YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS

Hence, why there is the possibility comet C/2026 A1 (MAPS) might not make it to skywatchers' views. 

Specifically, EarthSky.org reports that the comet’s perihelion will occur on April 4–5 and notes that "as of mid-March, the comet is brightening as it approaches the inner solar system."

It had brightened to around magnitude 10 at that time, and models for April suggest it could reach a brightness between +1 and -2 magnitude.

For reference, magnitude is a scale astronomers use to measure how bright a celestial object appears from Earth, with lower numbers representing brighter objects and higher numbers representing fainter objects. 

HERE'S WHAT TO KNOW AS ARTEMIS II IS SET TO LAUNCH WEDNESDAY

That said, comet C/2026 A1 (MAPS) is shaping up to be remarkably bright, meaning it has the potential to be seen by the naked eye—provided it survives its close pass to the Sun, ErathSky.org said. 

Some models suggest that by early April, it could reach a brightness comparable to that of Venus, the brightest planet.

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The comet can be best viewed southwest during or shortly after sunset.

If it survives its trip around the Sun, scientists hope it will put on a spectacularly bright show for the world to see.

STRONG WINDS, DRY AIR EXPAND FIRE THREAT FROM THE PLAINS INTO THE ROCKIES AS SOUTHEAST RISK EASES

While April snow is not uncommon across these regions, this winter flashback will serve as a significant drop in an ongoing temperature roller coaster, with highs reaching the 70s in Minneapolis and Chicago and conditions in the 60s across New England on Monday. 

Several different storm systems will track across the Midwest and New England and tap into the cold air, which will deliver several rounds of snow and ice.

WEATHER WHIPLASH: SPRING TEMPERATURES QUICKLY REPLACED BY WINTER-LIKE COLD BLAST

Light snow could break out across northern Minnesota on Tuesday, bringing snow or a wintry mix to places like Duluth, ahead of the first winter storm which is expected to reach the region by midweek.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, freezing rain and sleet are expected to begin Wednesday evening across parts of South Dakota, Nebraska, and southwest Minnesota, before spreading into Wisconsin and parts of Michigan, generally north of Interstate 96 and 69 corridors by early Thursday. 

This will impact the Minneapolis and Marquette, Michigan metro areas, coming just two weeks after a record blizzard blasted Michigan's Upper Peninsula. 

HISTORIC BLIZZARD BURIES MARQUETTE, MICHIGAN IN 3 FEET OF SNOW

A widespread area of 3–5 inches of snow is expected, with localized pockets of up to 8 inches of snowfall through Thursday.

A second winter storm will follow closely behind, reaching the Dakotas and Minnesota by Friday and shifting east through the weekend, with snow lingering into Sunday.

This second winter blast will also pack wind gusts between 30 and 40 mph, leading to periods of whiteout driving conditions.

All told, parts of northern Minnesota and Michigan's Upper Peninsula could see more than a foot of snow total.

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

A different storm system will harness the cold Canadian air over New England beginning Tuesday and lasting through Wednesday, set to deliver a mix of snow and freezing rain across New York's North Country, as well as the Berkshires, Green Mountains and White Mountains.

After this system exists east, the first system from the Midwest will arrive on Thursday, bringing snow, ice and sleet to the same parts of Northern New England and last into Saturday.

Cold air trapped near the ground will make it easier for ice to build up, weighing down power lines with the potential to cause widespread outages.

WHAT ARE ICE STORMS AND WHY ARE THEY DANGEROUS?

"Areas of most concern will be those low-lying areas in Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire where there is a level of melting between the cold layers," the FOX Forecast Center said.

In addition, ice is expected to create dangerous road conditions, particularly when precipitation refreezes overnight.

A widespread coating to three inches of snow is expected across northern New England between Wednesday and Sunday. But depending on where the snow and ice line sets up, parts of northern Maine could pick up double-digit snow totals.

DEEP MAGNITUDE 7.5 EARTHQUAKE IN PACIFIC OCEAN SHAKES TONGA, TRIGGERS BRIEF TSUNAMI WARNING ACROSS ISLANDS

Despite the strength of the quake, with an epicenter roughly 72 miles below the earth's surface, no tsunami warning was issued.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), earthquakes deeper than 62 miles below the Earth's surface are unlikely to cause tsunamis.

LOOKING BACK AT JAPAN’S HISTORIC TSUNAMI DISASTER 15 YEARS LATER

Vanuatu's Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department warned people to stay away from specific coastal areas and asked them to remain alert.

Vanuatu is located over the boundary between the Indo-Australian tectonic plate and the Pacific Plate and is one of the most seismically active parts of the Pacific Ring of Fire, according to the USGS. 

The Ring of Fire is the 25,000-mile chain of volcanoes surrounding the Pacific Ocean, where 90 percent of the world's earthquakes occur.

Members of the Branson Fire Department responded to a technical rescue in a remote area on Saturday, officials said on social media.

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As part of a multi-agency rescue mission, officials reached the stranded hiker after traveling through difficult terrain in a heavily wooded area.

First responders walk through steep terrain with limited visibility, staying close together as they navigate the wilderness.

"The patient sustained serious injuries and was experiencing respiratory distress," a statement from the Branson Fire Department said.

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According to officials, firefighters cleared a path through the area to establish a rope system to help move the hiker to a safer location.

Due to the remote location and the extent of the patient’s condition, rescue crews decided to transport the patient by water to a different location, where they could be transferred to a Mercy Lifeline helicopter for further care.

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"Please be mindful of changing terrain, stay on marked paths, wear appropriate footwear and let someone know your plans before heading out," officials said. "Taking a few extra precautions can make a significant difference in your safety."

NASA officials, along with the Artemis II astronauts, took the stage Sunday to answer questions about how the mission's final stages are going and any last-minute details that need to be addressed.

A popular question for Commander Reid Wiseman entailed what to expect in terms of manual control of the ship, the Orion.

NASA ANNOUNCES ARTEMIS II MISSION PHASES, PLANS FOR FUTURE ARTEMIS PROGRAM LAUNCHES

Team member and pilot Victor Glover said manually flying these ships is an important evolution needed for the next two missions to have this capability.

"We are essentially going to make sure that vehicle flies the way that we think it does, that we designed it to do," Glover said. "And so, we're going to not only fly the vehicle manually, we're gonna execute the six degrees of freedom, so translating forward, backwards, left, right, up and down, and then also being able to rotate, pitch, on roll and pitch on roll."

Both Wiseman and Glover will be in the first two main seats for the launch of the Orion.

Wiseman reflected on his role as commander of the crew and how they would address certain issues, noting that no quick split-second decisions would ever be made alone, and stating that there are "no fast hands" in the cockpit.

An additional area of concern to monitor leading up to the launch is the weather. Exploration Ground Systems Manager Shawn Quinn stated that they will be watching for cumulus clouds, the thick cloud rule and strong winds.

According to NASA, sustained winds exceeding 37.5 knots or peak winds exceeding 52.8 knots warrant delaying the launch for safety reasons.

Despite this, Quinn states that based on the current weather, the mission is forecast to be 80% a go for Wednesday afternoon.

NASA is working closely with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to predict what kind of space weather will be ongoing at the time of launch.

According to Quinn, all final tests for the mission, including radio-frequency tests with the launch vehicle and spacecraft, have passed as we rapidly approach the official launch countdown.

NASA'S ARTEMIS MISSIONS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AHEAD OF THE HISTORIC MOON LAUNCH

Part of this large operation includes the hard-working and dedicated Mission Evaluation Room Team, experts who support the Flight Control Team. They are comprised of experts from across NASA, including U.S. and European teams, to tackle any issues that may arise.

Program Manager Howard Hu addressed any doubts about the technology's capabilities and the crews' abilities, as this would be the first flight with a complete life support system.

"Uniquely for life support, we put humans with the life support system, both in the cabin environment and also in the spacesuits," Hu said. "And we've been designing the system since the very beginning of the program, and over the last decade plus, we've done testing across the board with suits."

In the event that things do not go as planned, the Orion ship has a unique capability to backtrack on the crew's journey. In this case, it would be an abort scenario initiated by the team.

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There are three types of "abort" scenarios that could occur. One is called an LAS abort, a launch abort system, where the spacecraft would land relatively close to the launch site. The second, an untargeted Atlantic abort, would land somewhere across the Atlantic near Africa. The third abort scenario would be ideal, with the possibility of a single orbit, then returning to a near-nominal landing site in San Diego.

Hu reinforced the idea that it would be more of an early return than an "abort," but noted the ship's capability to return to Earth at any point along the mission's trajectory.

Officials are confident that after continuous testing, the flight software that controls life support and other essential functions will perform as expected.

So most of the public's understandable concerns have been sincerely dismissed as officials believe the mission is truly ready to go.

Regarding returning and docking the ship, Wu stated that the Orion ship and the Artemis II mission give the crew the opportunity to "test drive the car." This is a utility that will be studied for the next Artemis mission: whether crew members will have to physically dock the ship or if it would be an autonomous capability so no one needs to take over.

This is something that is going to be very important as more control is given to pilots, but will ultimately be decided later down the line.

MEET THE ASTRONAUTS PREPARING FOR HUMANITY’S RETURN TO THE MOON ON THE ARTEMIS II MISSION

Wu went on to share that the Artemis II team will get as close as 252,799 statute miles away from the moon. This will be 4,144 miles closer than the Apollo mission has ever gone.

This mission is the proper stepping stone for the overall plan to build a base on the moon and to establish an enduring American presence in space, as the forefront of expanding human exploration across the universe.

As it neared the western coast on Friday, residents were met with a sky that appeared to be ablaze with streaks of fiery orange and red, ahead of the storm's arrival.

WATCH: DUST TURNS SKIES EERIE RED OVER DALLAS AS 60-MPH WINDS BLAST METROPLEX

Videos captured online took the internet by surprise, with many describing them as having an ‘apocalyptic’ feel.

In particular, Dedham’s Shark Bay Area brings us two unique perspectives showcasing the phenomenon.

In a Facebook post, the park wrote: "Incredibly eerie outside, and everything is covered in dust. Not a lot of wind yet."

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Across the region, the sky also took on a softer orange hue, caused by dust swirling during the storm.

So, what exactly caused the sky to turn this extraordinary blood-red color during such a powerful cyclone in Australia?

The FOX Forecast Center believes it could be due to the way different wavelengths of light scatter in the atmosphere.

WHY DID THE SKY TURN PINK DURING A RECENT WINTER STORM IN IOWA?

A similar phenomenon was observed in January when the skies in Iowa turned pink during a winter storm.

Colors like blue have shorter wavelengths, whereas red, orange and pink light have longer wavelengths.

When the sun is near the horizon at sunrise or sunset, its light passes through a greater thickness of the atmosphere.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

During this journey, the shorter blue wavelengths scatter more, letting the longer red and pink wavelengths stand out and dominate the sky’s appearance.

Reports suggest that strong winds lifted the iron-rich red soil and dust into the atmosphere, which, combined with scattered sunlight, filtered out most wavelengths except red, producing a vivid crimson sky.

It happened at the Seven Seas Beach in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, on Saturday. Rescuers helped an 18-year-old woman and 19-year-old man who became trapped at the bottom of the cliff because of rising waters.

VIDEO: FATHER AND DAUGHTER HEROICALLY RESCUED BY SWIM COACH IN RIP CURRENT IN CALIFORNIA

Fajardo Municipal Office of Emergency Management responders called U.S. Coast Guard watch standers at Sector San Juan around 7 p.m. requesting help to bring the two people who were stuck to safety.

The woman reportedly sustained a head injury while trying to climb the rocky cliff, according to authorities.

A Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter was deployed to assist in rescue efforts. Once at the scene, the aircrew used a rescue basket to hoist both the man and woman to the aircraft safely.

COUPLE RECOUNTS BEING STRANDED ON BEACH FOR 24 HOURS DURING CATASTROPHIC HAWAII FLOODING

The man and woman were transported to a hospital in San Juan where they received treatment, but the extent of their injuries is unknown.

"We appreciate the teamwork between our emergency response partners from the Fajardo Municipal Office of Emergency Management and Emergency Medical Service personnel who worked seamlessly with our aircrew to rescue the two people and transport them to a higher level of care," Lt. Cmdr. Ray Lopez, Sector San Juan Search and Rescue mission coordinator for the case, said.

Coast Guard crews are advising people to keep tabs on weather conditions and advisories while out in the water.

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO STAY SAFE AT THE BEACH DURING SPRING BREAK

"We urge beachgoers to monitor weather advisories for rip currents and high-surf conditions, and heed warning signs at beaches. Don’t become a victim, stay away from dangerous shoreside rock formations during increased sea states," Lopez said.

A common threat to everyday beachgoers is the "swash zone," where breaking waves wash onto the shore, masking submerged dangers such as swirling currents, unswimmable conditions and large rocks.

Another threat to swimmers is shorebreak, a wave that quickly slams onto shore at a relatively steep beach.

WATCH: NORTH CAROLINA MAN 'OBLITERATED' AS HURRICANE ERIN WAVE SMASHES INTO SAND DUNE

The National Weather Service said shorebreak occurs on sharply sloped beaches where waves break quickly and steeply onshore, sometimes causing serious injuries.

Be sure to keep a safe distance from the water, as even the most experienced swimmers can be affected by the powerful tides.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

You should never turn your back on the ocean and always stay aware of the tides' strength. Check with officials and look for beach advisories for potential risks before you get near the water.

Fireballs have been spotted across the country. Whether streaking through a dark sky or in broad daylight, they’ve truly been stealing the show, with four being recorded in just one week.

So why does the sky keep randomly surprising us with these blazing meteors?

SEE IT: FOURTH METEOR SIGHTING IN ONE WEEK CAUGHT ON CAMERA IN MICHIGAN

According to NASA, we’re in "fireball season," so seeing bright meteors pass overhead is not unusual.

Scientists aren’t entirely sure why, but from February through April, these brilliant meteors show up more often — increasing by roughly 10% to 30%, especially around the March equinox.

WHY SPRING EQUINOX AURORAS SHINE BRIGHTEST IN MARCH AND WHERE TO CATCH THEM

Some astronomers speculate that Earth passes through more debris at this time of year, while others suggest the increase may be due to the widespread use of ready-to-go devices like cellphone cameras and even Ring doorbell security cameras capturing these fleeting events in real time.

From Texas to Ohio, Pennsylvania, California and Michigan, just to name a few, hundreds of unsuspecting residents have witnessed these bright flashes — fireballs, or "shooting stars" recently.

NASA defines a fireball as an exceptionally bright meteor that can outshine Venus, caused by larger chunks of space debris burning up in the atmosphere.

In light of recent events, many have wondered whether these events are always sudden and unexpected, or if they can be seen coming.

CALIFORNIA METEOR SIGHTING BECOMES THIRD IN ONE WEEK ACROSS US

Across the U.S., NASA uses a system of telescopes to keep watch for objects in space of all sizes.

A key part of that effort involves identifying and tracking asteroids 140 meters or larger, which could make it through the atmosphere and cause widespread damage, the agency noted.

Much smaller meteoroids, however, are nearly impossible to spot in advance and usually disintegrate before reaching Earth, making them largely harmless.

Following the meteor that streaked across the skies on March 21, Sherrie James shared photos of the suspected meteorite in a plastic bag, which appeared roughly the size of her palm.

HOW OFTEN DO METEORITES CRASH IN THE US?

The majority of meteorites that reach Earth are fragments of small asteroids, or large meteoroids, that break apart as they pass through the atmosphere.

NASA said by analyzing them in the lab, scientists can identify their type, estimate how long they spent in space, and trace their origins.

While most meteorites originate from the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, on rare occasions some have been traced back to the moon or Mars, which are significantly rare.

In recent weeks, many people have not only seen the sudden streak of a fireball across the sky, but most reports say they also heard a boom.

METEOR LIGHTS UP TEXAS SKY IN BROAD DAYLIGHT AND PRODUCES LOUD BOOM HEARD BY MANY

As meteors enter Earth’s atmosphere, they travel at hypersonic speeds—much faster than the speed of sound.

This extreme velocity generates a pressure wave and, combined with the intense heat and friction that can cause the rock to break apart, it can produce a loud, explosive sound known as a sonic boom, audible from the ground.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

When a meteor fragments, it releases significant energy, creating additional pressure waves that can result in very powerful booms, sometimes strong enough to shake buildings.

All that said, keep your eyes and cameras ready for the sky because it’s "fireball season."

SEE IT: METEOR CAUGHT ON CAMERA STREAKING OVER PITTSBURGH, REPORTS OF LOUD BOOM ACROSS OHIO VALLEY

If you capture one of these fleeting moments, be sure to share your best photos and videos at FOXWeather.com/connect.

As temperatures plummet by as much as 30 degrees, a dangerous combination of biting winds and plummeting humidity is turning the landscape into a tinderbox.

APRIL WEATHER OUTLOOK: SEVERE STORMS TARGET MILLIONS AS SPRING TEMPERATURE WARMUP FINALLY NEARS

Saturday saw Fire Weather Warnings for nearly 50 million people across nearly 20 states, and while conditions ease in the South, elevated fire risks continue across the Plains on Sunday.

After a heightened Saturday, rising moisture and calmer winds across the South on Sunday will help ease wildfire concerns from the Carolinas into parts of Texas.

At one point, nearly the entire Southeast was under some form of fire weather alert.

NEW JERSEY MAN FACES ARSON CHARGES IN CONNECTION WITH JONES ROAD WILDFIRE THAT SCORCHED OVER 15K ACRES

Across the Plains, wildfire conditions are beginning to improve. But the FOX Forecast Center warns that the threat isn’t over yet.

While conditions are easing as winds calm, the most dangerous areas remain in parts of Wyoming, Nebraska and Utah, where strong, gusty winds continue to pose a serious risk.

MIDWEST, OHIO VALLEY PELTED BY DAMAGING HAIL AND VICIOUS WIND GUSTS AS BRIEF TEMPERATURE PLUNGE SPREADS EAST 

Originating from polar regions, the cooler air mass is exceptionally dry, causing humidity to drop into the teens across a large portion of the country. While the dry air is significant on its own, the combination of the dryness with strong winds creates a dangerous potential for the spread of wildfire.

The winds are driven by an area of high pressure building behind the cold front.

HISTORIC HEAT WAVE EXPANDS INTO CENTRAL US AFTER WEEKS OF RECORD HEAT IN THE SOUTHWEST

On Saturday, this seasonably strong high settled over the southern Great Lakes, and the pressure gradient tightened over a relatively short distance, generating stiff breezes, causing the fire threat to intensify across the Southeast and the Plains.

In the Southeast, humidity dropped as low as 20%, especially across parts of South Carolina, southern Georgia and north Florida. Sustained winds reached 10 to 20 mph with higher gusts.

Fire Weather Warnings spanned from western North Carolina through Louisiana, including parts of the Florida panhandle, with a Fire Weather Watch issued for parts of east Texas.

LARGEST WILDFIRE IN NEBRASKA HISTORY LEAVES 1 DEAD, SCORCHES OVER 640,000 ACRES AS CONDITIONS BEGIN TO EASE

In Nebraska, several wildfires continue to burn near the historic Morrill Fire.

The Minor Fire, which has burned nearly 14,000 acres and is about 7% contained, and the Ashby Fire, which has burned just over 36,000 acres and is 46% contained, could grow again on Sunday as locally stronger winds move through the area.

 Some forecasts indicate gusts up to 30 mph, which may further complicate containment efforts.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Fire Weather Warnings and watches in the Plains span from as far north as Minnesota down to the northernmost tip of Texas, and as far west as Wyoming over some western counties in Illinois.

ROUNDS OF SEVERE WEATHER TO SLAM MILLIONS ACROSS CENTRAL US AS ACTIVE SPRING PATTERN IGNITES NATIONWIDE

From Texas to the Midwest, this month has been marked by severe storms leaving damage across several communities.

From dozens of tornadoes to flash flooding, large hail, and damaging winds, many areas are still recovering and remain on high alert as March is set to end just as actively as it began, with more severe storms expected across the Northern Tier Monday through at least Wednesday.

NEARLY 50M PEOPLE ACROSS 18 STATES UNDER FIRE WEATHER WARNINGS AS COLD, DRY AIR AND GUSTY WINDS MOVE ACROSS US

And with April just around the corner, only brief breaks are expected before a new, active pattern brings stormy conditions to parts of the Plains and South by next weekend.

As the week begins, an area of low pressure will move through parts of the Northern Plains, sparking a threat of severe storms along and near a warm front in the Great Lakes on Monday.

PHOTOS: 23 TORNADOES STRIKE HEARTLAND IN MULTI-DAY OUTBREAK, LEAVING 8 DEAD AND COMMUNITIES DEVASTATED

The FOX Forecast Center said hail will be the primary threat, though an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out despite a lower overall tornado risk.

As the front lifts northward, a few supercell storms could also develop nearby.

WHAT IS A SUPERCELL THUNDERSTORM?

Cities from Milwaukee to Green Bay should be on alert for severe storms on Monday night.

By Tuesday into Wednesday, this system shifts into the Northeast, drawing in warmer, more humid air.

As that airmass moves in, rain and thunderstorms will become more widespread, increasing the risk for flash flooding, with the greatest concern near the eastern Great Lakes, where a deep snowpack remains.

NOAA'S STORM PREDICTION CENTER DEBUTS REVAMP TO SEVERE WEATHER OUTLOOKS THIS SEASON

Areas from Buffalo to Watertown face the highest flooding risk, as 1 to 2 inches of rainfall could accelerate snowmelt.

Periods of rain are likely to linger across the Northeast through at least midweek, the FOX Forecast Center said.

Heading into April, a trailing cold front is expected to stall across the Ohio Valley, and this boundary will act as a focus for multiple waves of energy, raising the potential for repeated rounds of rain and an increasing flood threat across parts of the South as the week progresses.

Rainfall totals could exceed 3 to 5 inches in some locations, with higher localized amounts possible.

April is typically one of the most active months for severe storms across parts of the Plains and the South.

APRIL WEATHER OUTLOOK: SEVERE STORMS TARGET MILLIONS AS SPRING TEMPERATURE WARMUP FINALLY NEARS

The larger-scale pattern is expected to evolve into a classic spring setup, with a trough forming over the West and a ridge building in the East.

And that type of pattern tends to favor repeated storm systems moving through the Plains.

By Easter weekend and beyond, the pattern is likely to shift further.

The jet stream is expected to dip farther south across the Plains, allowing storms to intensify and track through traditional severe weather regions such as Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana.

WHAT IS THE JET STREAM?

With summer-like warmth, increasing moisture and potent disturbances in place, the potential for severe storms will rise.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, the exact storm tracks and impacts remain uncertain, and forecasts are still being refined.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Currently, there are no organized severe storm outlooks through the beginning of next week, though that is likely to change as forecasts become more precise.

Overall, this shift marks the beginning of a more active and typical spring severe weather season across the Plains.

Building upon the success of the uncrewed Artemis I mission in 2022, the Artemis II mission will be NASA’s first mission with crew aboard the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket and Orion spacecraft, marking humanity's return to the moon as the first crewed mission to the moon's vicinity since 1972.

After years of preparation, delays and obstacles, the eyes of the world will be on the Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida in April for the long-awaited launch of Artemis II.

There will be four humans onboard Artemis II for the mission that marks a key step toward a long‑term return to the Moon and future missions to Mars.

NASA'S ARTEMIS MISSIONS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AHEAD OF THE HISTORIC MOON LAUNCH

Let's meet the astronauts attempting to go further than no human before them.

On Friday, the Artemis II crew held a pre-launch press conference highlighting the historic mission at hand.

Leading the Artemis II mission to the moon is Commander Reid Wiseman. 

"If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together," Wiseman said at Friday's press conference. 

ARTEMIS II MISSION PHASES

A 27-year U.S. Navy veteran, Wiseman was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 2009.

No stranger to space, he served as Flight Engineer aboard the International Space Station for Expedition 41 for 165 days in 2014, completing over 300 scientific experiments, while logging 13 hours as lead spacewalker.

In his personal life, Wiseman is a father of two daughters. Following the death of his wife in 2020, he has raised them as a single parent—an experience he considers both his greatest challenge and his most meaningful responsibility.

A Baltimore, Maryland native, Wiseman graduated from Dulaney High School in 1993; earned a B.S. in Computer and Systems Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1997, an M.S. in Systems Engineering from Johns Hopkins University in 2006, in addition to a Certificate in Space Systems.

WHAT DOES THE ARTEMIS SYMBOL MEAN?

Victor J. Glover Jr. was selected to serve as the pilot for the Artemis II mission.

First selected as an astronaut in 2013 while he was serving as a Legislative Fellow in the U.S. Senate, Glover served as pilot of the Crew-1 dragon spacecraft, named Resilience, which flew to the International Space Station, where he also served as Flight Engineer for Expedition 64/65.

Looking towards the future, Glover said on Friday, "My first mission, the dream of going to space because it was my first time, was there. It was front and center… This mission is much more about duty and responsibility so we can pass the baton off for this campaign called Artemis with its lofty goals."

NASA PAUSES GATEWAY LUNAR-ORBIT SPACE STATION TO BUILD LUNAR BASE ON THE MOON

In his storied career with the U.S. Navy, Glover accumulated 3,500 flight hours in more than 40 aircraft, over 400 carrier arrest landings and 24 combat missions.

A California native, Glover graduated from Ontario High School in 1994; earned a B.S. in General Engineering from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo in 1999; an M.S. in Flight Test Engineering from the USAF Test Pilot School at Air University in 2007; an M.S. in Systems Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School (2009); and a Master of Military Operational Art and Science from Air University (2010).

In his personal life, Glover is a married father of four. 

With the Artemis II mission, Mission Specialist Christina Koch is set to become the first woman to travel beyond low Earth orbit—a milestone that builds on her record of trailblazing achievements in space.

"The thing to celebrate is that we as a world, are actually living in an era where we know that we have to go for all, and by all in order to answer humanity's call to explore," Koch said at a pre-launch press conference on March 27.

According to NASA, Koch set a record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman with a total of 328 days in space, and she participated in the first all-female spacewalks.

She was selected as a NASA astronaut in 2013 and served as a flight engineer on the International Space Station for Expedition 59, 60 and 61.

Koch, a native of Grand Rapids, Michigan, grew up in Jacksonville, North Carolina, and was living in Livingston, Montana, when she was selected for the Astronaut Corps.

Koch attended North Carolina State University in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she earned Bachelor of Science degrees in electrical engineering and physics and a Master of Science degree in electrical engineering and studied abroad at the University of Ghana. She attended high school at the North Carolina School of Science and Math in Durham, North Carolina and White Oak High School in Jacksonville, North Carolina.

On Artemis II, Koch will serve as a mission specialist.

Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Jeremy Hansen will serve as a mission specialist on Artemis II, slated to become the first Canadian to ever venture into deep space.

"I feel a great sense of pride for Canada, because I have seen the greatness that we have within the country and the contributions that we are capable of making… We often say in this crew, the point is not being the first. It's making sure you're not the last," Hansen said at Friday's press conference. 

Hansen is from London, Ontario, and was a fighter pilot before joining the CSA. He currently works with NASA on astronaut training and mission operations, according to NASA.

He is married with three children and enjoys sailboat cruising and racing, rock climbing and mountain biking in his free time. 

On Artemis II, Hansen will serve as a mission specialist.

The West has recorded snow levels far lower than usual this year, and back-to-back storms from atmospheric rivers in January and February were supposed to help increase snowpack in the mountains.

Across the West, mountain snow typically begins accumulating in September and October, peaking around April 1, before ending in May. 

APRIL WEATHER OUTLOOK: SEVERE STORMS TARGET MILLIONS AS SPRING TEMPERATURE WARMUP FINALLY NEARS

When early-season snow stopped falling from early January to early February, those back-to-back storms brought minor relief, bringing some hope for a more robust recovery since there was still time for the snow season to peak.

However, when the heat dome settled over California, Arizona, Nevada and Colorado in early March, it just stayed there, breaking hundreds of daily temperature records and melting a lot of the snow for weeks straight.  

NEW FLORIDA WATER RESTRICTIONS ISSUED AS HISTORIC DROUGHT INTENSIFIES, WITH LITTLE RELIEF EXPECTED

This has left the snowpack at shockingly low levels. In a typical season, snow melt continues through late May. 

But this season is far from typical. Basins across the southwest are reporting the snowpack to be less than 10% of average. 

HOW EL NIÑO COULD HELP BUST FLORIDA'S HISTORIC DROUGHT, DESPITE LIMITED SHORT-TERM RELIEF

Along the Upper Colorado River, the snowpack has completely melted, at 0% of average, according to the FOX Forecast Center. 

The FOX Forecast Center warned that the lack of water from the snowpack could send Lake Mead and Lake Powell, two major reservoirs located in Nevada, Arizona and Utah, to remarkably low levels.

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK ANNOUNCES NORTH RIM REOPENING AS DRAGON BRAVO FIRE RECOVERY CONTINUES

Additionally, accelerated snow melt could lead to drought conditions and increased fire weather risk across the West. 

Thankfully, the record-breaking heat dome gives way to cooler, wetter conditions for the end of March and beginning of April. 

Through the first week of April, roughly 1-3 feet of snow could fall on the mountain peaks of the West, with less accumulation at lower elevations. 

TO STUDY CALIFORNIA’S LARGEST ACTIVE VOLCANO, SCIENTISTS FIRST HAVE TO CLIMB IT

While it is helpful, these upcoming snowfalls won't do much to help the 10-20 foot snow deficit, the FOX Forecast Center said. 

The first round of rain and snow moves into the Northwest and Northern Rockies on Monday. On Tuesday, the snow will push further south into Colorado and Utah. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

The FOX Forecast Center said on Wednesday a second system will move in right on its heels and may linger into Easter weekend. 

Fire Weather Warnings have already been issued for nearly 50 million people across nearly 20 states.

The same cold front responsible for Thursday's severe weather and the temporary end of historic heat in the Plains and Southeast is continuing to sink south.

Temperatures on Saturday will be 20-30 degrees colder than the previous day across the Carolinas, Georgia and north Florida. 

MIDWEST, OHIO VALLEY PELTED BY DAMAGING HAIL AND VICIOUS WIND GUSTS AS BRIEF TEMPERATURE PLUNGE SPREADS EAST 

To the west, temperatures will be 10-20 degrees colder than Friday from Alabama toward south Texas. And in the north, cities like St. Louis, Indianapolis and Philadelphia will be waking up below freezing just two days after being in the 70s, 80s and 90s.

Originating from polar regions, this cooler air mass is exceptionally dry, causing humidity to drop into the teens across a large portion of the country. While the dry air is significant on its own, the combination of the dryness with strong winds creates a dangerous potential for the spread of wildfire.

The winds are driven by an area of high pressure building behind the cold front.

HISTORIC HEAT WAVE EXPANDS INTO CENTRAL US AFTER WEEKS OF RECORD HEAT IN THE SOUTHWEST

On Saturday, this seasonably strong high will settle over the southern Great Lakes, and the pressure gradient will tighten over a relatively short distance, generating stiff breezes, causing the fire threat to intensify across the Southeast and the Plains.

In the Southeast, humidity will drop as low as 20%, especially across parts of South Carolina, southern Georgia and north Florida. Sustained winds will reach 10-20 mph with higher gusts.

Fire Weather Warnings span from western North Carolina through Louisiana, including parts of the Florida panhandle, with a Fire Weather Watch issued for parts of east Texas.

LARGEST WILDFIRE IN NEBRASKA HISTORY LEAVES 1 DEAD, SCORCHES OVER 640,000 ACRES AS CONDITIONS BEGIN TO EASE

Relief from these threats is not far off. Increasing moisture will diminish the fire threat east of the Mississippi River on Sunday.

Across the Plains, however, lingering danger will persist. The pressure gradient will fuel a low-level jet, yielding strong southerly winds of 20-30 mph, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph. Combined with humidity levels between 15-20%, the winds will allow any new ignitions to spread rapidly. 

The critical zone includes much of Nebraska, including areas recently scorched by the historic Morrill Fire, which is now contained after burning more than 640,000 acres. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Fire Weather Warnings in the Plains span from as far north as Minnesota down to the northernmost tip of Texas, and as far west as Wyoming over some western counties in Illinois.

Since 1985, conservation plans have been in place to help recover and protect the piping plover population in the U.S.

SPIDERS THE SIZE OF A HUMAN HAND ARE SPREADING THROUGHOUT THE US

In a post to X on Friday, the Department of the Interior announced piping plover populations are increasing, but help is still needed. 

Piping plovers are small birds that nest and feed along coastal sand and gravel beaches in North America, according to U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS).

There are three populations of piping plover that live in the U.S.: One in the Great Lakes, another in the northern Great Plains and a third along the Atlantic Coast. 

Piping plovers are small, growing to be 7 inches long on average. 

GREAT WHITE SHARK BELLA PINGS OFF LOUISIANA COAST IN POSSIBLE 'NEW SHARK HOTSPOT'

They are very light, weighing 1.4 to 2.3 ounces, according to USFWS. 

The birds' bodies are sandy brown, with white bellies and underparts.

Piping plovers have a melodic call, USFWS said. 

The latest 5-year review of the status of the piping plover conducted in 2024 listed the Great Lakes population as endangered, and the Atlantic and Great Plains populations as threatened. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Many of piping plovers' nesting areas are subject to disturbance by humans and other animals. 

The U.S. Department of the Interior said when visiting public beaches, watch out for nesting signs and avoid stepping near posted areas. Keep dogs on leashes to prevent nest disturbance. 

Sargassum was spotted on Fort Lauderdale beaches Friday, according to the nonprofit sargassum-tracking company Sargassum Monitoring.

RECORD SARGASSUM LEVELS IMPACTING FLORIDA BEACHES DURING SPRING BREAK

According to NOAA, sargassum rots on beaches and releases hydrogen sulfide gas, which smells like rotten eggs.

FLORIDA FRENZY: SARGASSUM, DEAD DOLPHINS AND COCAINE SHARKS MAKE HEADLINES DURING SPRING BREAK

The Florida Department of Health said hydrogen sulfide can irritate the eyes, nose and throat, which can be particularly problematic for people with asthma and other breathing conditions.

While sargassum has been documented for centuries, it first became a major issue along Florida and Caribbean beaches in 2011 when large rafts of the smelly algae washed up on popular vacation destinations.

Scientists have attributed this to the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt — a giant bloom of seaweed in the Atlantic Ocean that has grown nearly every year since 2011. According to NASA, in March 2023, the amount of Sargassum seaweed in the Belt totaled 13 million tons.

The thick rafts of Sargassum seaweed are then carried by ocean currents and wash onto beaches.

Scientists haven't come to a consensus on the cause of this recent growth.

Some attribute it to increased agricultural runoff from North and South America, as well as Africa, while another popular hypothesis posits that changes in seasonal winds have allowed deep, nutrient-rich water to rise closer to the sea surface where the seaweed grows.

Picking up where Apollo 17 left off in 1972, NASA's Artemis program will send astronauts on increasingly difficult missions to explore more of the Moon for scientific discovery, economic benefits and to build the foundation for the first crewed missions to Mars, according to NASA.

The Artemis Accords were established by NASA and the U.S. Department of State, along with seven other initial signatory nations, established the Artemis Accords in 2020. 

Over the last six years, 61 nations have signed the accords. 

Artemis I launched on Nov. 16, 2022 as the first uncrewed lunar test flight in NASA's Artemis program. 

HISTORY MADE: NASA'S MOON ROCKET ROARS TO LIFE LAUNCHING ON ARTEMIS 1 TEST FLIGHT

The launch was delayed several times due to Hurricanes Ian and Nicole, as well as several necessary repairs being made both at the Vehicle Assembly Building and the launchpad. 

Artemis I's mission lasted nearly 26 days, and splashed down on Dec. 11 in the Pacific Ocean. 

This is the second mission in the Artemis program, and the first crewed mission around the Moon. 

Four astronauts, NASA's Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Canadian Space Agency's Jeremy Hansen, aim to travel farther from Earth than humans have in more than 50 years.  

ARTEMIS II ROCKET ON TRACK TO ROLL OUT TO LAUNCHPAD WITH HOPES OF SENDING HUMANS FURTHER INTO SPACE THAN EVER

The mission will last 10 days, with the Orion spacecraft and SLS rocket carrying them around the Moon and back to Earth. 

Artemis II was originally planned to launch in February 2026. After an initial delay because of the extreme cold, the launch was pushed back to March. 

Then, a hydrogen leak prevented the launch of the mission in February. After repairing the leak, a second Wet Dress Rehearsal took place successfully. 

HERE'S WHY NASA WILL MONITOR THE SUN FOR SOLAR ERUPTIONS DURING ARTEMIS II MISSION

The next day, NASA announced Artemis II would be delayed once again and rolled back to the VAB from the launchpad because of a helium flow leak. 

In late February, it was announced that Artemis III, IV and V, the three Artemis missions previously announced and planned for by NASA, would be happening sooner than originally planned. 

Artemis III would plan to launch by April 2027, meanwhile Artemis IV and V would both launch in 2028. 

Originally set to be the first crewed lunar landing, Artemis III's mission plan was shifted to attempt a low-Earth orbit with one or both of NASA's lunar landers. 

NASA ANNOUNCES CRITICAL CHANGES TO ARTEMIS MISSION'S RETURN TO THE MOON

Artemis IV will now be the first mission to land humans on the surface of the Moon since Apollo 17 in 1972.  NASA plans to launch Artemis IV in early 2028. 

Artemis V is targeted to be the second launch of 2028. NASA said it expects to start building a lunar base on this mission. 

With Artemis II's astronauts in Florida and the launch only a few days away, NASA revealed the mission phases. 

Artemis II's first phase will include the rocket launch as well as a 24-hour high-Earth orbit. 

NASA ANNOUNCES ARTEMIS II MISSION PHASES, PLANS FOR FUTURE ARTEMIS PROGRAM LAUNCHES

Phase II will be the journey to the Moon, lasting about four days. 

The third phase begins with the lunar fly-by and journey back to Earth.

Phase IV will be the reentry to Earth's atmosphere and splashdown off the coast of San Diego in the Pacific Ocean. 

During "Ignition," NASA announced plans to pause the funding to Gateway, an orbiting moon base, to shift toward building a base on the surface of the moon. 

Gateway Space Station was planned to launch no earlier than 2027, according to NASA's website.

It was set to be a lunar orbiting space station that would "not only be a home-away-from home for astronauts during extended stays in lunar orbit, but also enable additional capabilities in support of Artemis objectives," according to NASA.  

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said the Moon Base will be built in phases, starting with a "repeatable, modular approach" with lunar missions. 

Phase 1 will be introducing equipment, learning more about the environment and advancing technology. 

NASA PAUSES GATEWAY LUNAR-ORBIT SPACE STATION TO BUILD LUNAR BASE ON THE MOON

Phase 2 will establish early infrastructure on the moon and Phase 3 will set a long-term human presence via the Moon Base.

Isaacman said NASA will spend $20 billion over the next seven years to build the base.

While the Artemis program is still in its early stages of missions, NASA says the program will help prepare for humans on Mars. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

NASA said engineers and scientists around the country are working to develop the technologies astronauts will use to one day live and work on Mars and safely return home to Earth.

Emma Stasko and Logan Bonn went to Hawaii for their spring break in late March. "It was just supposed to be a simple vacation," Bonn said. 

They were staying in Honolulu, and Bonn said they wanted to see some beaches on the west side of Oahu, so on March 19 they headed to Yokohoma Bay and arrived at about 2 p.m.

Around 5 p.m. that evening, Bonn and Stasko got back into their car and drove to another beach to watch the sunset. 

"Once we got to the other beach and stopped the car, it said ‘Key not detected,’" Bonn said. 

Realizing they must've left the key at Yokohama Bay, they got into the car and drove back to search for it.

HAWAII RECOVERS FROM DEVASTATING FLOODS AFTER BACK-TO-BACK KONA LOW SYSTEMS DRENCH STATE

They looked for the key for over an hour at Yokohoma Bay and couldn't find it, and the car wouldn't shift back into drive, so they were stuck. 

Stasko said it was raining heavily, but luckily the car was still turning on, so they had shelter and warmth. 

She said they reached out to the car rental company and police.

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The tow truck called by the rental company kept getting delayed because of other calls due to the rain and flooding. 

"We were like, ‘OK, we’ll just wait it out,'" Stasko said. "We still had a lot of faith." 

At 1 a.m. on Friday, the tow truck was finally dispatched, but the roads were closed and blocked due to flooding, so it couldn't get to the couple.

They knew they'd be spending the night in the car and the tow truck would try again in daylight. 

TO STUDY CALIFORNIA’S LARGEST ACTIVE VOLCANO, SCIENTISTS FIRST HAVE TO CLIMB IT

"The rain just kept going, and the roads kept getting worse," Stasko said. 

When the sun came up, the tow truck was still unable to get to them. Stasko said they had some food and water, so they weren't extremely worried, and were still in touch with police. 

They had seen helicopters flying around throughout the day, and tried waving them down, but knew other people's needs were bigger than theirs at that moment, so they could wait. 

WATCH: DEPUTIES RESCUE 11 PASSENGERS AFTER BOAT CAPSIZES OFF FLORIDA BEACH, 2 WITH MINOR INJURIES

Bonn said they had seen a car drive up the road toward the mountain, and he decided to hike up to see if he could find the car and pool resources in case they were all stuck.

Stasko has an MCL knee injury and was unable to go with him and walk long distances. 

Bonn said the road dead-ended at a military base, where he was greeted and politely told he couldn't be there, and they couldn't help. 

RECORD SARGASSUM LEVELS IMPACTING FLORIDA BEACHES DURING SPRING BREAK

He said by the time he got back to Stasko, it was 2 or 3 p.m., they were almost out of food and water, and their phones were nearly dead.

"It was at that point we realized we might really need some help soon, or things might go badly," he said. 

Stasko said she had seen in movies people writing SOS and getting help, so she decided to try it. 

"Five minutes after I wrote that, the Coast Guard helicopter flew over us," she said.

At around 4 p.m., Stasko and Bonn said the Coast Guard helicopter circled back, landing in the parking lot near their car to pick them up. 

They were flown back to Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point on Oahu, given food and water and received a medical check.

"They were great. They were really helpful and supportive," Bonn said. "We really can't thank Coast Guard enough." 

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In total, Bonn and Stasko were stuck for just over 24 hours. 

Thankfully, the flooding wasn't impacting the area around their hotel, but they saw the extensive damage ongoing around the North Shore of Oahu. 

"It was just horrible for all the locals," Stasko said. 

Stasko and Bonn stayed in Hawaii for a few more days before heading back to Colorado. 

Sargassum was spotted on Fort Lauderdale beaches Friday, according to the nonprofit sargassum-tracking company Sargassum Monitoring.

RECORD SARGASSUM LEVELS IMPACTING FLORIDA BEACHES DURING SPRING BREAK

According to NOAA, sargassum rots on beaches and releases hydrogen sulfide gas, which smells like rotten eggs.

FLORIDA FRENZY: SARGASSUM, DEAD DOLPHINS AND COCAINE SHARKS MAKE HEADLINES DURING SPRING BREAK

The Florida Department of Health said hydrogen sulfide can irritate the eyes, nose and throat, which can be particularly problematic for people with asthma and other breathing conditions.

While sargassum has been documented for centuries, it first became a major issue along Florida and Caribbean beaches in 2011 when large rafts of the smelly algae washed up on popular vacation destinations.

Scientists have attributed this to the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt — a giant bloom of seaweed in the Atlantic Ocean that has grown nearly every year since 2011. According to NASA, in March 2023, the amount of Sargassum seaweed in the Belt totaled 13 million tons.

The thick rafts of Sargassum seaweed are then carried by ocean currents and wash onto beaches.

Scientists haven't come to a consensus on the cause of this recent growth.

Some attribute it to increased agricultural runoff from North and South America, as well as Africa, while another popular hypothesis posits that changes in seasonal winds have allowed deep, nutrient-rich water to rise closer to the sea surface where the seaweed grows.

Sixteen-year-old Aiden Andrews and his father Brian were on a guided dive with Fossil Junkies, a local fossil-hunting tour company.

LARGEST MALE GREAT WHITE SHARK 'CONTENDER' RETURNS TO WATERS OFF FLORIDA'S COAST IN TIME FOR SPRING BREAK

Captain John Kreatsoulas told FOX 13 Tampa Bay reporter Kimberly Kuizon that while finding small megalodon teeth isn't uncommon, finding one that size is quite rare.

Video captured the moments when Aiden and his father celebrated underwater after making the remarkable discovery.

GREAT WHITE SHARK BELLA PINGS OFF LOUISIANA COAST IN POSSIBLE 'NEW SHARK HOTSPOT'

Popularized by Hollywood monster movies, the Carcharocles megalodon, was the largest shark to have ever lived, according to the Smithsonian Institution. 

Scientists believe the largest megalodon reached up to 60 feet in length and weighed up to 50 tons. And as Andrews can attest — they possessed teeth the size of a human hand.

According to the Smithsonian, megalodon lived between 23 and 3.6 million years ago across all of Earth's oceans. 

LARGEST HAILSTONE IN ILLINOIS STATE HISTORY

This pattern change is right on cue, as April is historically when spring severe weather season begins to intensify across the middle of the country — April averages the second-most tornadoes behind May.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, severe storms could develop beginning Tuesday evening from Missouri through Indiana and Ohio. Meanwhile, a second severe weather threat could develop next weekend, signaling what the Forecast Center said appears to be just the start of a prolonged stormy pattern.

HISTORIC HEAT WAVE EXPANDS INTO CENTRAL US AFTER WEEKS OF RECORD HEAT IN THE SOUTHWEST

"By late Tuesday, a developing area of low pressure moving through the Central Plains will begin interacting with a surge of warm, humid air coming north from the Gulf." 

Rain and thunderstorms could move into the Northeast and New England by Wednesday and Thursday as the system charges east.

This also marks the start of a stretch of rain and storms for the eastern two-thirds over the next week to ten days, according to the long-range forecast from NOAA's Climate Prediction Center.

NATIONAL MALL CHERRY BLOOMS REACH PEAK BLOOM EARLY DUE TO WARMER-THAN-AVERAGE SPRING TEMPERATURES

By next weekend, the Pacific jet stream, which acts as an atmospheric conveyor belt for storms, is expected to shift into what the FOX Forecast Center called "a classic setup," with a large dip in the jet stream over the West and a ridge over the East.

"As this setup takes hold, it will likely refocus the severe weather threat over more typical areas like Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas," the Forecast Center said.

This pattern change signals the beginning of spring severe weather season across the Southern Plains. But despite the destructive potential of these storms, this pattern could also bring much-needed rain to the region which is almost completely in drought.

A recent study from the University of California, Berkeley revealed more about severe weather on our solar system’s largest planet.

Jupiter has humongous storms, some of which last for centuries, which include lightning strikes that are 100 times more powerful than on Earth.

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According to NASA, Jupiter is about 11 times wider than Earth, with an equatorial diameter of 88,846 miles. It is also the fifth planet from the sun, orbiting at an average distance of 483.7 million miles. Jupiter is so large that if it were a hollow shell, it could fit 1,000 Earths.

There is still more for us to learn about lightning on Earth, with several new types of "transient luminous events" discovered in the last decade, according to Michael Wong, a planetary scientist at UC Berkeley’s Space Sciences Laboratory.

Studying these patterns on Jupiter could help us better understand our own planet’s powerful energy.

"It [lightning] tells us about convection, which is how the atmosphere churns and transports heat from below," a statement from Wong reads. "Convection operates a little bit differently on Earth and Jupiter because Jupiter has a hydrogen-dominated atmosphere, so moist air is heavier and harder to bring upward."

According to Wong, almost every spacecraft that has passed by Jupiter has detected signs of lightning due to the flashes that stand out during the night side of the planet. As scientists carried out more missions, data collections showed super-powerful flashes.

HOW OFTEN DO METEORITES CRASH IN THE US?

Despite this, it is difficult to capture the raw optical power of these lightning flashes due to cloud cover on the planet’s night side.

These images and data are collected by NASA’s Juno spacecraft, which uses a microwave radiometer as its core instrument. This provides a more precise way to measure lighting power, unaffected by obscuring clouds in Jupiter’s atmosphere.

There is so much storm activity simultaneously across the belts that encircle the planet that it makes it difficult to pinpoint a specific lightning storm event. That is, until 2021 and 2022, when there was a lull in storms along the North Equatorial Belt of the planet, allowing Wong to focus on one large storm at a time.

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Using the Juno spacecraft and the Hubble Space Telescope, Wong was able to pinpoint a single large storm at a time. During the research, the spacecraft got close enough to Jupiter to measure microwave radiation from lightning, with an average of three lightning flashes per second.

In total, the Juno Spacecraft detected 613 pulses of microwave radiation from lightning on the planet.

HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE CAPTURES DAZZLING IMAGE OF INTERACTING GALAXIES

According to Wong, the translated power from these lightning strikes was 100 or more times the power of an Earth bolt. 

"Based on one study of lightning radio emissions on Earth, Jupiter’s bolts could have been a million times more powerful than those on Earth," a statement from the study reads.

Experts say that lightning on Jupiter is likely generated the same way as on Earth, but it remains a mystery.

"Lightning not only emits at radio and optical wavelengths, but also generates thermal, acoustic and chemical energy," Space Physicist at Charles University in Prague, Czechia, Ivana Kolmašová, said. "On Earth, a single bolt is estimated to release about 1 gigaJoule of total energy, or a billion Joules: enough to power 200 average homes for an hour."

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Wong estimates that the energy of a lightning bolt on Jupiter ranges from 500 to 10,000 times more powerful than one on Earth.

Who knows what secrets this gaseous planet holds beneath its powerful, severe weather as experts continue to collect more data from these unknown worlds.

The Atlantic Marine Conservation Society (AMSEAS) said it received an alert of a whale's carcass washed up on Rockaway Beach in Queens, New York, Thursday morning.

Just two days before on Tuesday, AMSEAS received notice of a whale's carcass floating about 15 miles south of Long Island.

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As officials arrived at the beach to investigate, the whale was confirmed as the same one seen floating near Long Island a few days prior.

It was identified as a Sei whale, approximately 40 feet long. Sei whales are an endangered whale species under the Endangered Species Act. 

They average between 40 and 60 feet long and can live between 50 and 70 years, according to NOAA Fisheries.

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AMSEAS said it is working closely with New York City, state and NOAA Fisheries officials to secure and monitor the whale and is coordinating a response team to conduct a necropsy on Friday to hopefully determine the whale's cause of death.

All whales, dolphins and porpoises are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which makes it illegal to touch, harm or feed these animals. 

The agency said to keep a 150-foot distance from any stranded or injured animals you may come across, and call trained responders to handle the situation.

"It is important to remember that whales in the surf are still dangerous, even when deceased," AMSEAS said.

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To report strandings of marine mammals and sea turtles in New York, you can call the New York State Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Hotline at 631-369-9829.

The public can also report sightings of healthy marine mammals and sea turtles in and around New York to sightings@amseas.org.

READ MORE: 20+ Amazon Big Spring Sale deals that rival Prime Day — up to 78% off

Original price: $49.99

This Nebo flashlight quickly recharges with a micro-USB cord. Water- and dust-resistant, it’s built to handle all types of weather — making it an ideal camping companion. An adjustable design and magnetic base enable hands-free operation, clipping easily to a carabiner or metal surface. 

Original price: $29.99

Reach dropped screws and other pieces more easily with this extendable magnetic flashlight. Three LED lights and a flexible neck give you precise visibility, while a built-in magnet collects metal objects.

READ MORE: Amazon's Big Spring Sale: DeWalt, Craftsman and Black+Decker tools start at $11

Original price: $39.99

Clip this Nebo flashlight to your pants for emergency light on the go. Despite its compact size, it delivers powerful brightness with five modes, from Turbo for high output to a low setting for longer use. A two-hour charge gets you back to full battery. 

Original price: $33.99

This Nebo pen light is slim enough for small spaces, whether you’re working under your car’s hood or searching beneath your couch. Multiple light modes, including strobe, keep you prepared for emergencies, while the low light helps extend battery life. Higher modes project light over long distances. Power it with AAA batteries or USB recharging.

Original price: $22.65

These Energizer headlamps let you move hands-free and instantly switch between modes with the click of a button. Adjust the beam from dim to high or wide for more intensity. With a beam distance of more than 260 feet, these lamps help you stay alert. Right now, buy two for under $20.

Original price: $23.99

This pack of flashlights is smarter than most. An LCD display shows the remaining battery life, along with five modes — like strobe and SOS — for walking at night or roadside emergencies. Constructed from durable metal, this compact set handles drops with ease. 

Original price: $35.54

At under 4 inches, this pocket-friendly Streamlight flashlight is portable and a great everyday carry. It will run for up to 1 1/2 hours on high and more than three hours on low. Use the built-in clip to attach it to your hat, pants or belt.

READ MORE: Amazon's Big Spring Sale tech deals: Up to 63% off AirPods, Anker power banks and more

Original price: $54.99

The OLight Baton4 is a mini flashlight that you can tuck away in your pocket, bag or car for reliable light away from home. It projects light over 500 feet, and a magnetic clip brings hands-free convenience. At just under 2 ounces, it’s comfortable to carry anywhere.  

Original price: $79.98

This Volisaber flashlight is now 50% off and doubles as a power bank for travel or emergencies. It has an impressive 3,280-foot spotlight that illuminates your path. Additional settings adjust with a quick twist, and USB charging quickly powers the flashlight for up to 16 hours. 

For more deals, visit www.foxnews.com/deals

Original price: $28.90

A three-pack of emergency flashlights comes in handy when you lose power. The four-in-one body acts as a flashlight, nightlight, and desktop light, and automatically turns on when the electricity goes out. It runs for up to six hours on a full charge — enough to get through most outages.

If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items sent to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today.

Portions of the North Rim will reopen on May 15, Grand Canyon National Park said.

The national park said all paved roadways within the park will reopen, including at iconic Grand Canyon viewpoints like Point Imperial, Cape Royal, Roosevelt Point, Walhalla Overlook and Angels Window.

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Grand Canyon National Park announced the entire North Kaibab Trail will open for the 2026 season for foot traffic only.

Throughout the open season, trail maintenance and rehabilitation will continue on North Kaibab Trail, following moderate damage from the Dragon Bravo Fire in 2025.

The Dragon Bravo Fire was ignited by a lightning strike on July 4, 2025, and spread rapidly across the Grand Canyon.

7 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

One week after starting, winds picked up and pushed the fire outside containment lines, quickly spreading toward critical infrastructure and housing, the national park said.

On July 12 and 13, aerial damage assessments confirmed destruction of the Grand Canyon Lodge, the North Rim Visitor Center and many historic cabins in the park, as well as several buildings, vehicles, homes and water treatment facilities in the NPS Administration Area.

Less than a month after ignition, the wildfire reached "megafire" status, burning more than 100,000 acres.

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK OFFERS 277 MILES OF BREATHTAKING VIEWS AND ADRENALINE-PUMPING HIKES

By Sept. 30, the wildfire was fully contained, having burned approximately 145,000 acres.

Dozens of trails in the North and South Rim were closed, including North Kaibab Trail.

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In the months since the Dragon Bravo Fire, many trails remain closed as assessments and repairs continue within Grand Canyon National Park.

The national park said hikers on North Kaibab Trail should anticipate temporary trail closures and delays as repairs are made.

Post-fire hazards and weather events could also result in closures of the trail.

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Parking at the North Kaibab Trailhead will be limited to vehicles under 22-feet long and overflow parking will be available adjacent to the site of the former Grand Canyon Lodge, the national park said.

When conditions allow, the North Rim campground will reopen for tent and RV camping, with no hook-ups allowed. An opening date has yet to be set.

Cottonwood Campground will also reopen on May 15, providing an overnight option for backcountry hikers traveling along the North Kaibab Trail.

"For those seeking overnight accommodations, lodging is available outside the park. Overnight lodging will not be available on the North Rim in the park during the 2026 season," the national park said.

In fall 2025, emergency stabilization and selective demolition of the Grand Canyon Lodge was conducted.

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Crews saved what stone could be salvaged and planning for the future of the North Rim Lodge will occur through a separate National Environmental Policy Act process, Grand Canyon National Park said.

Originally projected for March 29 through April 1, a burst of spring warmth helped push the blossoms ahead of schedule.

Each spring, Washington, D.C. is transformed by cherry blossoms, a tradition that started in 1912 with Japan’s gift of 3,000 trees to the city.

HOW DC'S CHERRY BLOSSOMS ARE A LIVING VALENTINE FROM JAPAN

In the past, unusually warm or cool temperatures have led peak cherry blossom bloom to occur as early as March 15, 1990, and as late as April 18, 1958.

According to the National Mall NPS, today’s cherry blossom display is a "splendid spring spectacle."

Peak bloom is officially reached when roughly 70 percent of the cherry blossoms are open.

WHY SPRING SHOULD ACTUALLY BEGIN ON MARCH 1

These beautiful flowering trees typically hold their peak for just a few days, though timing depends heavily on the weather.

"Cool, calm weather can extend the length of the bloom, while a rainy, windy day can bring an abrupt end to the ephemeral blossoms," the NPS said. 

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Millions of visitors attend every year to see the picturesque cherry blossoms, which create a stunning row of pink and white around the Jefferson Memorial and the Tidal Basin.

Don’t miss out! And share your best photos and videos at FOXWeather.com/connect.

NEW FLORIDA WATER RESTRICTIONS ISSUED AS HISTORIC DROUGHT INTENSIFIES, WITH LITTLE RELIEF EXPECTED

The latest long-range climate forecast models produced in part by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) show the growing chance for strong, and maybe even Super El Niño conditions to develop sometime this summer, during hurricane season. 

According to the FOX Forecast Center, El Niño conditions typically bring increased rain from California to the Southeast, including Florida.

El Niño is one of three climatological phases of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) that describe natural changes in Pacific Ocean temperatures and atmospheric circulation that can greatly influence global weather.

ATLANTIC 2026 HURRICANE SEASON COULD SEE MAJOR IMPACTS FROM POTENTIALLY STRONG EL NIÑO

El Niño describes warmer conditions, while La Niña describes colder conditions, and ENSO neutral refers to a state where temperatures are close to average.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 99 percent of the Sunshine State is experiencing some level of drought, with over 70 percent under Extreme Drought conditions.

WATCH: DEPUTIES RESCUE 11 PASSENGERS AFTER BOAT CAPSIZES OFF FLORIDA BEACH, 2 WITH MINOR INJURIES

Extreme Drought is characterized by widespread crop losses and widespread water shortages.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed an emergency proclamation in February to address the impact the historic drought crop harvests as well as its role in increasing the state's wildfire threat.

The state's five water protection districts are implementing water conservation efforts, with the Southwest Florida Water Management District set to limit lawn watering and other outdoor water use to just one day a week, beginning on April 3.

This is Florida's worst drought in the last 25 years, driven by a prolonged dry pattern since the 2025 hurricane season, which saw no landfalling tropical systems in the state.

Since Aug. 1, 2025, Tallahassee is more than 17 inches below its average rainfall, with Jacksonville not far behind at more than 15 inches below normal over the same period.

Tampa and even Miami are also more than half a foot below average.

Currently, there is no meaningful drought relief on the horizon until the beginning of Florida's rainy season in mid-May — exactly when NOAA's Climate Prediction Center expects rain to finally return to the Southeast.

However, with many parts of Florida running such large rain deficits, typical wet-season rain may not be enough to completely bust the drought.

Fortunately, a strong El Niño may provide additional relief if those conditions are able to take hold early enough this summer.

El Niño typically strengthens the Pacific jet stream, bringing wetter conditions across the southern U.S. The jet stream acts as an atmospheric conveyor belt for storms and is usually pushed over the country's southern tier.

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According to the FOX Forecast Center, Florida typically receives about 54 inches of rainfall. During strong El Niño years, that total increases to around 59 inches, roughly 5 inches above average.

Historically, Central and South Florida typically receive nearly 70 percent of their annual rainfall from May through October.

Around 2:10 p.m. local time on March 24, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) Marine Unit responded to an overturned pontoon boat carrying 11 people near Fort Myers Beach.

SOS: BOATERS RESCUED AFTER 20 HOURS AT SEA WHEN BIRTHDAY PARTY FISHING TRIP WAS TURNED UPSIDE DOWN

LCSO said their Marine Unit arrived at the scene within three minutes of the call. 

The vessel reportedly overturned because of strong winds and a large wave.

Officials, with assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard and good Samaritans, safely rescued all 11 passengers from the water. 

SEE IT: COAST GUARD RESCUES FATHER AND SON AFTER THEIR BOAT CAPSIZES

Video captures the skillful rescue as the crew lift each person from the water onto the boat.

You can even hear the team counting to ensure everyone was accounted for.

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According to a local report, crews faced challenges trying to right the boat as strong currents and gusty winds made the operation even more difficult. 

Eventually, they managed to get the boat upright and tow it away.

WATCH: 2 FOUND CLINGING TO FLORIDA BUOY AFTER BOAT HITS CRUISE SHIP WAKE AND SINKS

According to LCSO, two of the 11 were transported to the hospital with minor injuries. 

THE BEST CELESTIAL EVENTS IN 2026 YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS

From the glow of spring's first full Moon to a new Moon and it's darker, star-filled skies, along with stellar views of Mercury and a passing meteor shower, there’s something new to spot in the sky across the world as the weeks of April unfold.

April 2 brings us the first full Moon of spring, the Paschal Moon, also often referred to as the pink Moon.

SEE IT: NASA ASTRONAUT SHARES PHOTO OF EGG-SHAPED OBJECT WITH TENTACLES GROWING ON INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

While it won’t actually look pink, the Moon can take on a golden hue when near the horizon.

The Moon will reach its exact full phase at around 02:12 UTC on April 2, 2026. 

Meaning, for most U.S. observers, this will occur during the evening of April 1, while in many other parts of the world, it will be visible on April 2 local time.

A full moon happens when the Moon, Earth, and Sun are in a straight line.

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And when the Sun and Moon are on opposite sides of Earth, the side of the Moon facing us is fully illuminated.

According to SeaSky.org, "This full moon was known by early Native American tribes as the Pink Moon because it marked the appearance of the moss pink, or wild ground phlox, which is one of the first spring flowers."

April 3 brings a prime opportunity to see Mercury, as it reaches its greatest western elongation. 

It’s best viewed in the morning, when it reaches its greatest western elongation of about 27.8 degrees from the Sun, placing it at its highest point above the horizon before sunrise, according to SeaSky.org.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Hence, the best chance to spot Mercury is just before sunrise; look for a planet hanging low in the eastern sky.  

On April 17, a new Moon will bring the darkest skies of the month, perfect for stargazing and observing faint celestial objects.

A new Moon happens when the Moon’s orbit places it between Earth and the Sun, so the side facing Earth is in shadow and mostly invisible.

April brings the annual Lyrid meteor shower.

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The shower will reach its peak on the night of April 21, with observers able to see roughly 18 meteors per hour streaking across the night sky.

This meteor shower occurs when Earth passes through the trail of debris left by Comet Thatcher, which has been orbiting the Sun for approximately 415 years.

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The best time to watch this meteor shower will be after midnight and before dawn on April 22.

NOAA's Storm Prediction Center has increased the threat to a Level 3 out of 5 risk of severe thunderstorms for a corridor across central Illinois, central Indiana and central Ohio — including the Indianapolis metro area. 

WINTER DELIVERS FINAL PUNCH TO NORTHEAST WITH SNOW AS HEAVY RAIN TARGETS THE SOUTHEAST

A Level 2 out of 5 threat covers a wider area, including Chicago, Cleveland and Pittsburgh. 

A strengthening dip in the jet stream over eastern Canada will drive the cold front through the Great Lakes and into the Ohio Valley, as the system moves around a large heat dome that is currently baking the western part of the country.

All modes of severe weather are possible, including damaging wind gusts and egg-sized hail. The SPC emphasized that the potential for wind gusts between 70 and 90 mph was the main reason for upgrading the threat to Level 3.

HAWAII RECOVERS FROM DEVASTATING FLOODS AFTER BACK-TO-BACK KONA LOW SYSTEMS DRENCH ST

Storms are expected to organize into a line by mid-to-late Thursday afternoon and tornadoes will be possible if enough energy is present for supercell thunderstorms to form. 

The areas most at risk of a strong tornado span a corridor from Peoria, Illinois, eastward through Indianapolis and much of Ohio to Pittsburgh.

The system will race south and east through Thursday night, reaching the Mid-Atlantic by Friday morning. Widespread soaking rain is expected for much of the East Coast through Friday, causing potential travel delays even as storms become less severe.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, storms will develop into a line heading into the evening hours — roughly from Pittsburgh to Kansas City, where damaging winds will become the primary concern. 

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Depending on exactly when storms develop Thursday afternoon, rain and severe weather could impact several Major League Baseball's Opening Day games, specifically the Chicago Cubs hosting the Washington Nationals, as well as games being hosted in Cincinnati and St. Louis.

Severe storms will persist through the night as the front moves south and east.

With slower moving storms as the cold front slows down slightly into Thursday night, flash flooding is possible. Rainfall rates are expected to increase overnight from Western Pennsylvania into central Illinois, and a widespread 1 to 2 inches of rain is likely.

SPLIT IN THE POLAR VORTEX COULD MEAN ONE LAST HURRAH FOR WINTER ACROSS THE NORTHERN TIER

As the front pushes south into the Southeast by Saturday, thunderstorms may linger, although they are expected to weaken.

Behind the cold front, temperatures will drop into the 40s and 30s on Friday across much of the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic and Northeast after conditions in the upper 60s and 70s.

The winter-like cold extends through the first half of the weekend, with more than 100 million people experiencing below average temperatures from Maine to South Carolina.

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Check back for updates on this developing story.

Mount Shasta presents a unique challenge for U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists. With a peak over 14,000-feet, the only place researchers can collect critical samples on Mount Shasta is near the towering summit of California's largest active volcano, forcing researchers to double as mountain climbers.

The USGS and U.S. Forestry Service monitor and protect Mount Shasta—working in the daunting shadow of this geological work of art.

In their respective fields, Andy Calvert and Nick Meyers are two stewards of the magnificent stratovolcano located in the Cascade mountain range in Northern California. Together, the pair have over five decades of experience on Mount Shasta, and work to maintain and protect the mountain, which draws thousands of thrill-seekers to Siskiyou County each year to enjoy the outdoors.

On May 18, 1980, Dr. Andy Calvert collected his first rock sample from his front yard in northern Idaho as a seventh-grader – volcanic ash from the catastrophic eruption at Mount Saint Helens. Years later, after taking a geology class in college, Calvert pursued a career as a geologist that brought him to Russia, Alaska, Hawaii, Saudi Arabia and New Zealand, before ending up on the USGS Mount Shasta team.

What started as a summer internship with the U.S. Forestry Service for Nick Meyers at 19-years-old has led him to the role of Lead Climbing Ranger at Mount Shasta, where he has worked for more than 25 years. 

WATCH: MOUNT SAINT HELENS ERUPTION IN 1980

Though Meyers describes Shasta as a beginner-friendly mountaineering objective, conditions can quickly turn dangerous—and often do. U.S. Forest Service rangers patrol the mountain daily, and when incidents occur, Meyers and fellow USFS climbers are on the front lines, carrying out high-risk, high-stress rescue operations on the volcano.

"Granted the weather and conditions are going well, a climb could go quite smoothly. It's about 6 ½ miles one way in 7,000 vertical feet, so it's definitely a trek. In the grand scheme of things, Mount Shasta is considered a little bit more of a novice endeavor, but it could certainly kill you and, despite being 15 minutes off of I-5, still has a lot of real mountain hazards," Meyers said.

Together, their teams work hand in hand to scale the imposing mountain, enabling scientists to collect the critical data needed to monitor the active volcano—all while navigating dangerous terrain. Scientists must not only climb over 14,000 feet, but also carry essential instruments and gather data throughout the expedition.

"Any opportunity we get to spend time with Andy and his cohorts is a total bonus… For us, our job could be a little bit like Groundhog Day: sharing safety and hazard-based information. To get that geologic perspective is really cool because we could share that with the visitors, it just provides a much more well-rounded experience for climbers," Meyers said.

Typically, on a USGS climb, the team of rangers and scientists embark on a two to three-day climb, Meyers said, climbing up the most common path known as the Avalanche Gulch Route when hoping to summit the volcano. The USGS crews collect samples from the summit roughly every two years – but often embark on "housekeeping" expeditions maintaining 

On every expedition, weather is a critical factor. During summit missions, teams must carefully assess conditions to safeguard every crew member. In the high-alpine environment of Shasta's summit, dangerous conditions funnel in strong winds blended with frigid temperatures.

Mount Shasta is classified as a Very High Threat volcano under the National Volcano Early Warning System, necessitating constant monitoring. The USGS estimates its most recent eruption occurred roughly 3,500 years ago. Through ongoing observation, scientists can detect signs of renewed geologic activity—and, in worst-case scenarios, anticipate potential eruptions.

THIS ROCK IN ARCHES NATIONAL PARK WILL FALL, IT'S ONLY A MATTER OF TIME

The challenge Mount Shasta presents is unique and dangerous, but through a fluid partnership between the USGS and the U.S. Forestry Service – the team is able to gather essential data, keeping tabs on the future, while mapping the history of the volcano. 

By understanding the volcanic history of Mount Shasta's past, researchers scaling Mount Shasta can better understand and predict what might happen in the future.

Calvert, whose specialty is dating rocks, said his team’s goal is to create a geologic, topographic map that reconstructs Mount Shasta’s long-term "family history"— identifying its past volcanic activity, and what it may reveal about future eruptions.

"I've got to collect from every lava flow I could get to on the volcano, and a lot of that involves Nick and his crew. They've been incredible partners over the years and when I need to get to some place, they help me get up there. Sometimes they collect the rock when I'm not there and bring it back. It's really been a great partnership," Calvert added.

According to the USGS, Mount Shasta formed atop an older volcano that collapsed 300,000–500,000 years ago. Since then, it has experienced long quiet periods punctuated by eruptions, including the formation of two of the volcano's four eruption cones, Black Butte and Shastina, about 11,000 years ago.

Smaller eruptions have occurred in recent millennia, with the most recent around 3,200 years ago. The volcano remains active, evidenced by hot springs and gas emissions, and is prone to mudflows and debris flows during heavy rain or glacial flooding. 

LOOKING BACK AT JAPAN’S HISTORIC TSUNAMI DISASTER 15 YEARS LATER

Historically, eruptions occurred roughly every 600–800 years, though current monitoring shows low seismic activity and little ground deformation.

Combined, Meyers and Calvert share a lifetime of mountaineering experience, and the stories to prove it.

In the decades spent working on the field, Calvert recalled one of his favorite days spent on Mount Shasta, alongside Meyers some 13,000-feet up on the volcano.

"We sat down, and we had a candy bar, and I said, ‘Sometime I want to go over and get that dome over there.' It's steep, there's a glacier below it, it's a little bit harrowing," Calvert recalled.

The conditions lined up and without the condition, the trio embarked on a trek to the challenging dome on the north side of Mount Shasta.

"I went out and got the rock I needed. I dated it… I felt so safe because I was with these guys. Usually in places like that, I'm kind of on edge, but the conditions were perfect, Nick was on the other end of the rope, and I got the rock I needed. We went up to the summit and had the rest of the day. That day, that moment, is stuck in my mind as one of the best days of geologic field work I've ever had," Calvert said, adding that thanks to the excursion, researchers now know that the Hotlum Dome on Mount Shasta is roughly 10,700 years old. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

For Meyers, his experience on Mount Shasta has found that the saying "Service is the highest calling" is true – "Whether it's cleaning toilets or emptying trash or saving someone's life when they think they're going to die or working with scientists, the connection to the community and the people is really what it's all about – protecting an amazing place like Mount Shasta, so people can enjoy it."

HISTORIC HEAT WAVE EXPANDS INTO CENTRAL US AFTER WEEKS OF RECORD HEAT IN THE SOUTHWEST

According to the FOX Forecast Center, ahead of the cold front, a surge of warm and above-average temperatures will impact St. Louis, MO to New York City on Thursday. Some areas will reach the 70s and 80s. 

But as the blast of cold air moves in, those locations’ temperatures will drop to the 40s and even 30s. 

It is expected that during this dramatic temperature swing, nearly 300 million Americans will see above-average temperatures on Thursday. Meanwhile, by Saturday, 150 million Americans will experience below average temperatures. 

This chill is expected to settle in through the weekend. Conditions should remain cool but quiet into Sunday, as high pressure builds in, bringing a calm and crisp end to the week.

Here are a few cities that could see the largest temperature swings: 

Thursday’s high: 100 degrees 

Friday’s high: 56 degrees

Thursday’s high: 101 degrees 

Friday’s high: 58 degrees 

Thursday’s high: 93 degrees 

Friday’s high: 53 degrees 

Thursday’s high: 96 degrees 

Friday’s high: 58 degrees 

Thursday’s high: 84 degrees 

Friday’s high: 47 degrees

Thursday’s high: 92 degrees 

Friday’s high: 57 degrees

Thursday’s high: 90 degrees 

Friday’s high: 56 degrees 

Thursday’s high: 95 degrees 

Friday’s high: 61 degrees

Thursday’s high: 94 degrees 

Friday’s high: 61 degrees

Thursday’s high: 76 degrees 

Friday’s high: 49 degrees

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Stay with FOX Weather as the cold front develops over the weekend.

On Sunday afternoon, the Linville-Central Rescue Squad was alerted regarding a hiker who had fallen from the last ladder while traveling along the Grandfather Trail, according to a Facebook post from the Linville-Central Rescue Squad.

The Grandfather Trail and Macrae Peak, specifically, is a journey that only experienced hikers should attempt. It is a complex mountain hike that requires the use of in-place ladders and cables to get to certain points.

According to rescuers, the rescue was a joint effort involving multiple agencies that quickly located the injured hiker at the bottom of the ladder near Macrae Creek. 

After officials performed initial medical treatment on the hiker, they began the strenuous process of carrying the victim out through several sections, at some points requiring lowering the hiker by rope.

After assessing the length of the carry, the technical aspects, and the difficult terrain, the decision was made to contact the North Carolina Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team for a hoist rescue.

Video footage shows first responders carefully lifting the hiker up as he ascends to the helicopter for extraction.

SEARCH AND RESCUE CREWS SAVE TWO CLIMBERS STUCK ON HIGH LEDGE AT AN OREGON STATE PARK

According to the rescue team, the hiker was safely hoisted out of the complex trail and flown to a landing zone where a medical helicopter transferred the victim to a facility for further treatment.

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It is important to know your physical limits when hiking and be well-informed on the potential challenges of certain trails.

NASA PAUSES GATEWAY LUNAR-ORBIT SPACE STATION TO BUILD LUNAR BASE ON THE MOON

The photo showed an object that was floating in the air and appeared to be purple, egg-shaped with tentacles spouting out of it. 

Users were in utter shock when they saw the photo. One user responded to the astronaut by telling him to "kill it with fire."

Another said, "looks like a mimic hatching out of an egg," referring to the movie, "Prey." 

One user even joked by commenting, "Bro, I genuinely thought this was some kind of egg hatching."

WATCH: NASA'S HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE CAPTURES RARE PROOF OF COMET BREAKING APART

Although the photo is very strange, the object isn’t evidence of extraterrestrial life forms but is rather a normal everyday item. 

The astronaut, Donald Pettit, who snapped the picture, posted on X that the object was a potato he had been growing in his space garden. 

"Spudnik-1, an orbiting potato on @Space_Station," astronaut Pettit said on X. 

Astronaut Pettit took the photo in the middle of Expedition 72 on the International Space Station (ISS), which took place from September 2024 to April 2025. 

"I flew potatoes on Expedition 72 for my space garden, an activity I did in my off-duty time," astronaut Pettit said. "This is an early purple potato, complete with a spot of Velcro hook to anchor it in my improvised grow light terrarium." 

Pettit continued to tell users that he was inspired by Andy Weir’s book and movie "The Martian" to start growing potatoes.

"Potatoes are one of the most efficient plants based on edible nutrition to total plant mass (including roots)," Pettit said. "Potatoes will have a place in future exploration of space. So, I thought it was good to get started now." 

HERE'S WHY NASA WILL MONITOR THE SUN FOR SOLAR ERUPTIONS DURING ARTEMIS II MISSION

According to NASA, astronauts have been growing plants in the space garden for years in order to study plant growth in microgravity, while adding fresh food to the astronauts’ diet. 

In recent years, NASA has successfully grown three types of lettuce, Chinese cabbage, mizuna mustard, red Russian kale and zinnia flowers in space. 

A homeowner in Creston, Iowa, on Saturday called to report a grass fire in some trees in Green Valley State Park near his home. 

Creston Fire Department said they, along with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, responded to the scene to investigate. 

PEAK BLOOM OF ICONIC CHERRY BLOSSOM TREES IS HAPPENING SOONER THAN EXPECTED DUE TO WARM WEATHER

An Iowa DNR park ranger arrived ahead of firefighters and confirmed there were no controlled burns taking place in the park at the time. 

When the fire department arrived, they couldn't see any visible smoke in the area. 

However, as the park ranger and firefighters got closer, they noticed that cedar trees were periodically releasing large clouds of pollen up into the air. 

The fire department said the pollen appeared similar to smoke as it rose up between the trees. 

APRIL WEATHER OUTLOOK: SEVERE STORMS TARGET MILLIONS AS SPRING TEMPERATURE WARMUP FINALLY NEARS

Cedar trees are known for releasing large amounts of pollen in the early months of the year. 

According to the Cleveland Clinic, cedar tree pollen often induces allergies nicknamed "cedar fever." 

Cedar fever can cause symptoms like traditional pollen allergies, including stuffy nose, coughing and itchy eyes. 

According to pollen.com, pollen levels were high in the area on Saturday. 

ALLERGY SEASON IS WORSE THAN EVER. HERE ARE THE 10 WORST ALLERGY CAPITALS IN THE US FOR 2026

The landowner who reported the smoke-appearing pollen said he'd never seen anything like this in his years of living there, the fire department said. 

"While he was apologetic for calling us, we assured him that when in doubt, give us a shout (or call 911)," Creston Fire Department said in a Facebook post about the incident. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

A Red Flag Warning was also in effect on Saturday, signaling increased fire weather danger due to dry, windy conditions and low humidity.  

The Creston Fire Department reported responding to a powerful grass fire on Saturday that had spread across a field. 

A top wind gust of 30 mph was recorded in Creston on Saturday, according to the FOX Forecast Center. 

TOILET EXPLODES AFTER LIGHTNING STRIKES APARTMENT COMPLEX IN OKLAHOMA

According to Fire and Rescue New South Wales, crews from Katoomba and Leura arrived on the scene to find a footpath ablaze, gas seeping through the pavement, and a massive gum tree strewn across the roadway.

Firefighters managed to control the fire for roughly 90 minutes as gas and water services were turned off.

WATCH: LIGHTNING STRIKE FRIES, EXPLODES TREE OUTSIDE A NASHVILLE HOME

The video captures the full impact of the strike, showing water gushing out amid the fire.

And you can even see the significant blow to the tree as it is completely shattered.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

The agency highlighted in a Facebook post regarding the incident stating, "Wild weather can cause more damage than it looks. If you notice a gas smell or unusual bubbling near the ground after a storm, keep clear and call Triple Zero."

WHAT IS FOX WEATHER'S ROWI?

FOX Weather has you covered throughout the long road to October with FOX Weather's Exclusive ROWI — the Risk of Weather Impact. It's a scale based on a comprehensive set of factors, customized for each sport that take into account precipitation, wind, temperature, humidity, lightning risk, and other weather conditions that could impact a particular game.

The ROWI can determine the likelihood of delays and cancellations, but also highlights the weather conditions that measurably influence the game's result.

In terms of baseball, a HIGH ROWI means a game is likely to be delayed or postponed due to weather.

A MEDIUM ROWI means that a game has a chance of being delayed or postponed due to weather and/or the ambient weather conditions are enough to measurably influence the game's outcome.

A LOW ROWI means that weather is not expected to have a significant impact on the contest and a ZERO ROWI means that games resemble indoor conditions.

MLB HALL OF FAMER JOHN SMOLTZ DISCUSSES HOW DIFFERENT WEATHER CONDITIONS IMPACT BASEBALL

Ahead of Thursday's full slate of games, the Yankees and Giants renew their 150-year-old rivalry — squaring off by the Bay in the MLB season opener.

The ROWI is highlighting wind gusts up to 20 mph as potentially having an impact on the game for much of the game.

Max Fried will start for the Yankees against the Giants' Logan Webb, both of whom will hope to lean on their top-of-the-league groundball rates to minimize any role the wind might play in the early innings. 

Yankee slugger Aaron Judge will aim to neutralize any wind blowing into Oracle Park, after leading baseball in average exit velocity last year. Meanwhile, the Giants hope power-hitter Rafael Devers will be able to cut through any headwinds — he has four hits, including two home runs in 10 at-bats against Fried. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

The ROWI has flagged the Cubs' opener against the Nationals as the game most likely to be postponed due to weather.

Chicago is under a Level 2 out of 5 risk of severe thunderstorms, according to NOAA's Storm Prediction Center.

Severe thunderstorms are set to develop Thursday afternoon, likely around first pitch and continue into the evening.

The Cubs have currently not announced any schedule changes. 

Behind the storms, temperatures will plummet into the 30s in Chicago, which could impact some pitchers. Matthew Boyd, who emerged as the Cubs' ace last season, and Washington's young talent Cade Cavalli are slated to start Thursday.

Outside of the Cubs-Nationals, picture-perfect baseball weather is expected across much of the rest of the Opening Day slate.

The ROWI is currently LOW for both the Red Sox at Cincinnati and the Rays at St. Louis, both of which could also see rain at some point Thursday.

Be sure the check out the exclusive FOX Weather ROWI throughout the baseball season.

INCREASING AVALANCHE SAFETY, AWARENESS AFTER RECENT SNOW-RELATED FATALITIES

The Swedish Police Authority reported that officials were alerted to the avalanche, with information that people might be affected, and promptly launched a mountain rescue operation, following the LSO, the Swedish law on protection against accidents.

TWO SKIERS RESCUE A MAN TRAPPED IN SNOW

Mountain rescuers, led by an operation leader and accompanied by a search dog, were on site, supported by several helicopters, to carry out the mission.

The Authority said around 1:42 p.m. local time, police confirmed that five people had been swept away by the avalanche and located them.

DEADLIEST US AVALANCHE IN DECADES KILLS 8 BACKCOUNTRY SKIERS IN CALIFORNIA

However, the extent of the damage was still unknown, and rescue efforts continued to ensure that no one else, besides the five already located, had been swept away by the avalanche.

And the Swedish Police Authority notes that nothing suggests that more people are missing. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Authorities reported that three people had been injured and were being transported to the hospital by helicopter.

At this time, the extent of the injuries is unknown, as the situation remains a developing story.

The Southwest Florida Water Management District, which includes Tampa, voted Tuesday to declare an "extreme" water shortage which will restrict private outdoor water use.

HISTORIC HEAT WAVE EXPANDS INTO CENTRAL US AFTER WEEKS OF RECORD HEAT IN THE SOUTHWEST

The new restrictions, set to take effect April 3, will limit lawn watering to just one day a week, shorten lawn watering hours, and restrict home car washing and the use of aesthetic fountains.

LARGEST MALE GREAT WHITE SHARK 'CONTENDER' RETURNS TO WATERS OFF FLORIDA'S COAST IN TIME FOR SPRING BREAK

Florida's other four water conservation districts are also engaged in some form of water conservation, with the majority of the state under Extreme Drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

Extreme Drought is characterized by widespread crop losses and widespread water shortages.

Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in February amid the worst drought conditions in the last 25 years — primarily to address the increased wildfire threat caused by the severe lack of rainfall.

MASSIVE FLORIDA WILDFIRE SHUTS DOWN INTERSTATE 75 ALONG PART OF ALLIGATOR ALLEY AMID HISTORIC DROUGHT

The emergency declaration also waived agricultural weight restrictions to allow farmers to transport and harvest crops faster. 

According to the Florida Forest Service, 79 wildfires are ongoing and have scorched more than 4,500 acres across the state.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, Florida has been in a prolonged dry pattern since the 2025 hurricane season, which saw no landfalling tropical systems in Florida.

'SUPER EL NIÑO' BREWING AS LA NIÑA FADES AHEAD OF PEAK HURRICANE SEASON

Since Aug. 1, 2025, Tallahassee is more than 17 inches below its average rainfall for this point this year; Jacksonville sits more than 15 inches below normal for the same period.

Even tropical Miami is facing a significant rain deficit.

Little relief is expected with more than two months to go before the start of the rainy season across most of the state.

Parts of Central and South Florida will see less than 0.5 inches of rain over the next seven days, with no rain expected across much of the Panhandle.

So, what really is in store for us around the country? The FOX Forecast Center is calling for a "big shake-up." From severe storms to warmups and cooldowns, let’s break it down.

SEVERE STORM THREAT BREWING FOR NEARLY 50 MILLION ACROSS MIDWEST, OHIO VALLEY AHEAD OF WINTER FLASHBACK FREEZE

As we move out of March — The old saying "March comes in like a lion and leaves like a lamb" has certainly come true in 2026, kicking off severe weather season in a big way — the pattern across the U.S. is about to shift, as a historic heat wave in the West will begin to ease and push east.

PHOTOS: 23 TORNADOES STRIKE HEARTLAND IN MULTI-DAY OUTBREAK, LEAVING 8 DEAD AND COMMUNITIES DEVASTATED

We saw over 30 tornadoes in the month of March, triggering massive devastation across the Heartland.  

And now this warm, moist air, colliding with the cooler air already in place, will trigger severe storms across the Plains and into the Mississippi River Valley by the beginning of April.

As the record heat wave out west begins to ease, the pattern will shift and will break down the heat dome, allowing temperatures to ease back closer to normal. 

HISTORIC HEAT WAVE EXPANDS INTO CENTRAL US AFTER WEEKS OF RECORD HEAT IN THE SOUTHWEST

From California to Colorado, temperatures have been scorching, triggering many record-breaking march heat.

The FOX Forecast Center said that this shift will open the door to Pacific storm systems to move in again. 

More rounds of rain and even snow will likely return to the region.

While April is typically the snowiest month for parts of the Rockies, much of the West is coming off a winter of below-average snowfall, with snowpack levels at record lows.

WINTER DELIVERS FINAL PUNCH TO NORTHEAST WITH SNOW AS HEAVY RAIN TARGETS THE SOUTHEAST

Some snowfall is expected to be on the lighter side, but some higher elevations across the West have the better chance of seeing more, specifically within the Northern Rockies.

But any snowfall will help ease the snow drought.

Meanwhile, lower elevations are expected to get some moderate to heavy rain.

As the heat exits the West, it will shift east, as that same ridge of high pressure is expected to rebuild over the eastern half of the country.

This will set the stage for a stretch of above-average warmth along the East Coast. 

This creates a classic spring pattern with warmer air across the East and cooler, more active weather in the West, but the Eastern region is still expected to get some of those classic "April showers."

The FOX Forecast Center said the two air masses — warm air across the East and cooler air across the West — is where "things get interesting."

NOAA'S STORM PREDICTION CENTER DEBUTS REVAMP TO SEVERE WEATHER OUTLOOKS THIS SEASON

This is where the threat of severe storms potentially comes in, as the zone from the Great Plains through the Mississippi Valley is expected to become the focus for active weather. 

That is where cooler air coming out of the West will collide with warm, moisture-rich air surging north from the Gulf of America. 

When those ingredients come together, it creates a favorable setup for storms and potentially severe weather.

Some of these storms could arrive as early as mid-next week. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Portions of Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri are at a high level severe storm probability for April. 

These storms are expected to bring strong winds to the region, large hail, with EF2+ tornadoes possible for the month of April.

Search and rescue teams were activated after two male climbers became stuck while descending the west side of Smith Rock State Park in Oregon, according to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office.

PEAK BLOOM OF ICONIC CHERRY BLOSSOM TREES IS HAPPENING SOONER THAN EXPECTED DUE TO WARM WEATHER

While rappelling down the rugged and high-elevation terrain, one of the climbers' ropes became stuck in rocks on a narrow ledge nearly 400 feet in the air. Both of the climbers were unable to continue down due to the entanglement.

Due to the complexity and high stakes of such a rescue mission, search and rescue teams deployed several of their most experienced volunteer climbers.

"The rescue required navigating steep, exposed terrain entirely at night, with cold conditions adding to the complexity," a statement from officials reads.

Eventually, rescuers reached both stranded climbers, secured the ropes, and helped lower them safely back to the ground.

Luckily, neither climber was injured, but they had to endure the cold weather because they didn't anticipate being out overnight.

WATCH: DOG ‘CONTINUOUSLY SHIVERS’ AFTER HARROWING RESCUE FROM FRIGID NEW YORK RIVER

Thanks to the brave first responders' advanced climbing skills, both hikers were safe and sound.

Our universe is full of endless discoveries and possibilities that scientists continue to pursue in search of habitable life.

Exoplanets are extraordinary discoveries first found by NASA 30 years ago and could be the next step toward finding habitable life.

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According to NASA, an exoplanet is a planet beyond our solar system, with most of them orbiting other stars. Some are free-floating exoplanets, called rogue planets, which are untethered to any star.

The official number of exoplanets is 6,150, with more being discovered; more than 8,000 additional candidate planets await confirmation to join the club.

NASA PAUSES GATEWAY LUNAR-ORBIT SPACE STATION TO BUILD LUNAR BASE ON THE MOON

As the quest for habitable planets is still in the early phase, it is worth noting that the rate of exoplanet discoveries has accelerated recently, with the database reaching 5,000 confirmed three years ago.

When searching for planets that can sustain habitable life, it helps by searching for worlds most similar to ours.

Many exoplanets that have been discovered are rocky-type worlds in the same size range as Earth, which is a favorable factor for possible life.

Most of these Earth-sized worlds have been detected orbiting red dwarf stars. Despite this pleasant news, red-dwarf stars have a potentially deadly habit, especially in their younger years, according to NASA.

NASA ANNOUNCES ARTEMIS II MISSION PHASES, PLANS FOR FUTURE ARTEMIS PROGRAM LAUNCHES

These stars produce powerful flares that tend to erupt, sterilizing closely orbiting planets where life could have just begun to develop. This would rule out any consideration for planets orbiting these stars.

"Based on what we’ve observed in our own solar system, large, gaseous worlds like Jupiter seem far less likely to offer habitable conditions," a statement from NASA reads. "But most of these Earth-sized worlds have been detected orbiting red-dwarf stars; Earth-sized planets in wide orbits around Sun-like stars are much harder to detect."

Orange dwarfs are slightly cooler and less luminous than our star, which is considered by some scientists as potentially better for advanced life, burning steadily for billions of years, opening a vast timeframe for biological evolution in some forms.

When searching for a planet, scientists look for a world located in the habitable zone. This is the planet’s distance from a star at which liquid water could exist on the surface.

THE BEST EVIDENCE FOR LIFE OUTSIDE OUR SOLAR SYSTEM JUST GOT STRONGER

Similarly to Earth, the key to a habitable planet is a G-dwarf star, or, if possible, even better, a K-dwarf star.

A K star is otherwise known as a "Goldilocks star," which is where conditions are just right, not too hot, not too cold, to sustain life.

"K-dwarf stars are in the ‘sweet spot,’ with properties intermediate between the rarer, more luminous, but shorter-lived solar-type stars [G stars] and the more numerous red dwarf stars [M stars]," a statement from Edward Guinan of Villanova University reads. "The K stars, especially the warmer ones, have the best of all worlds."

A K star has a longevity capable of living 40 billion years, compared to a G star, which lasts 10 billion years.

SEE IT: JAMES WEBB TELESCOPE CAPTURES DETAILED IMAGES OF DYING STAR

In short, when looking for exoplanets with habitability, the abundance of K stars increases the chances of finding life and inching closer to the goal of establishing human life on another world.

During "Ignition," NASA expanded on its plans to increase the launch cadence of the future Artemis missions, with a goal of launching crew landings on the moon every six months starting in 2028. They also announced plans to pause the funding to Gateway, an orbiting moon base, to shift toward building a base on the surface of the moon.

WATCH: NASA'S HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE CAPTURES RARE PROOF OF COMET BREAKING APART

Gateway Space Station was planned to launch no earlier than 2027, according to NASA's website.

It was set to be a lunar orbiting space station that would "not only be a home-away-from home for astronauts during extended stays in lunar orbit, but also enable additional capabilities in support of Artemis objectives," according to NASA. 

NASA ANNOUNCES ARTEMIS II MISSION PHASES, PLANS FOR FUTURE ARTEMIS PROGRAM LAUNCHES

Now, the plan has shifted. 

"It should not really surprise anyone that we are pausing Gateway in its current form and focusing on infrastructure that supports sustained operations on the lunar surface," NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said.

The lunar base would be built in phases, starting with a "repeatable, modular approach" with lunar missions.

HERE'S WHY NASA WILL MONITOR THE SUN FOR SOLAR ERUPTIONS DURING ARTEMIS II MISSION

NASA said Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) deliveries and the Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV) program will increase the pace of lunar activity and will bring rovers, instruments and technology demonstrations to the moon.

These items will advance mobility, power generation, communications, navigation, surface operations and a wide range of scientific investigations, NASA said.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN NASA ELECTRONICS WILL LEAD TO FURTHER INTERPLANETARY EXPLORATION

Phase two transitions from experimentation to establishing early infrastructure on the moon. 

NASA said it will use lessons from earlier Artemis missions to build semi-habitable infrastructure and regular logistics.

SEE IT: JAMES WEBB TELESCOPE CAPTURES DETAILED IMAGES OF DYING STAR

The ultimate goal will be to support regular astronaut operations on the moon's surface, Isaacman said.

Isaacman said at this point, NASA expects to see significant contributions through international partners.

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For example, the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) pressurized rover and possible other partner scientific payloads, rovers and infrastructure and transportation capabilities.

At this point, phase three would be introduced.

The third and final phase would allow a long-term human presence on the moon.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

NASA said as cargo-capable human-landing systems come online, the agency will deliver heavier infrastructure needed for a continuous human foothold on the moon.

Such infrastructure will include the Italian Space Agency's Multi-purpose Habitats (MPH), the Canadian Space Agency's Lunar Utility Vehicle and opportunities for additional contributions in habitation, surface mobility and logistics, NASA said.

"The Moon base will not appear overnight," Isaacman said.

He announced NASA will spend $20 billion over the next seven years, through 2033, and build the base through dozens of missions working with commercial and international partners towards a deliberate and achievable plan.

"Just as there was Mercury and Gemini before Apollo, there will be an evolutionary path to building humanity's first permanent surface outpost beyond Earth," Isaacman said. "We will take the world along with us as they follow along on the NASA moon base website and watch the assembly through lunar relay and observation satellites."

HISTORIC HEAT WAVE EXPANDS INTO CENTRAL US AFTER WEEKS OF RECORD HEAT IN THE SOUTHWEST

Within the last week, temperatures surged throughout the Southwest, causing the most intense heat wave ever seen in March, and experts say this pattern will continue into April.

So far, over 1,500 records have been broken across 13 states and at least 95 locations have set new daily records or tied their all-time warmest day for March.

Extreme Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories were issued across Southern California, Neveda and Arizona, impacting more than 40 million people.

SEE WHEN AND WHERE RARE SUPERBLOOMS ARE HAPPENING WITH THIS INTERACTIVE MAP

The National Park Service (NPS) advised that the intense heat and high winds have led the wildflower superbloom to already reach its peak. Before the heat wave, this was Death Valley National Park's best wildflower bloom since 2016.

According to the NPS, the flowers that are located in the lower elevations have started to become setting seeds again. This is the area that was seen as a superbloom of yellow and purple flowers weeks earlier.

The higher elevations will have blooms between April and June. But these flowers tend to be in clusters between shrubs and don’t create the colorful hillsides.

EXTREME HEAT SAFETY: RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF HEAT ILLNESS AND HOW TO TREAT IT

The wildflowers are annuals, also referred to as ephemerals. They are known to be short-lived in order to stay alive during the desert’s more extreme conditions. They lay dormant as seeds, but once there's enough rain, they quickly sprout, grow, bloom and go back to seed again before the dryness and heat return.

In a typical year, the flowers that bloom in the lower elevations happen between February and mid-April. From mid-April to early May, the blooms begin to develop 3,000 to 5,000 feet above sea level in the upper desert slopes, canyons and higher valleys.

Then from early May to mid-July, the blooms happen at 5,000 to 11,000 feet above sea level on the mountain slopes, in pinyon pine and juniper woodlands.

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Although Death Valley is famous for its superblooms, they do not happen every year. Only under perfect conditions does the desert fill with a sea of gold, purple, pink and white flowers.

According to the American Meteor Society, many eyewitnesses across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin have filed reports of seeing a bright meteor light up the sky on Monday night.

CALIFORNIA METEOR SIGHTING BECOMES THIRD IN ONE WEEK ACROSS US

According to experts, the fireball was moving at around 29,000 mph, 42 miles above Midland County, Michigan. The space rock eventually disintegrated 23 miles above Saginaw Bay.

According to NASA, the peak of the fireball descent was 40 times brighter than the planet Venus.

This comes as three other meteors were observed streaking across the sky in Chowchilla, California, Houston and Pittsburgh. These past meteor events were much faster than this one, but they came much closer to the surface.

HOW OFTEN DO METEORITES CRASH IN THE US?

The California meteor sighting happened just two days ago, and about 200 eyewitnesses reported seeing the fireball hurl through the night sky.

When meteoroids enter Earth’s atmosphere at such a high speed and burn up, they are called meteors. This is also when we refer to bright sky objects as "shooting stars."

CALIFORNIA METEOR SIGHTING BECOMES THIRD IN ONE WEEK ACROSS US

"Sometimes meteors can even appear brighter than Venus – that’s when we call them fireballs," a statement from NASA reads. "Scientists estimate that about 48.5 tons (44,000 kilograms) of meteoritic material falls on Earth each day."

Since early March, a historic heat dome has shattered temperature records across the Southwest, bringing temperatures 30 to 40° above average from California to Colorado.

More than 1,800 heat records have been broken since March 11.

Yuma, Arizona saw the hottest March temperature ever recorded in the United States at 109° on Friday.

EXTREME HEAT SAFETY: RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF HEAT ILLNESS AND HOW TO TREAT IT

Into the weekend, temperatures crept up in the Midwest and Plains. 

Cities in Colorado, Iowa and Kansas recorded new all-time record highs for March.

NOAA'S STORM PREDICTION CENTER DEBUTS REVAMP TO SEVERE WEATHER OUTLOOKS THIS SEASON

On Sunday, St. Louis recorded a high of 90°. This marks the first time on record that there was a high of at least 90° and a low of 15° in the same March, according to the FOX Forecast Center.

In an impressive display of extremes, cities like Omaha, Nebraska, and Wichita climbed into the mid-90s, which are levels that are far more typical of late June or July than March.

Omaha recorded a 96° temperature on Saturday, breaking a record of 91° set in 2012.

Meanwhile, Wichita, Kansas, saw 93° on Saturday, shattering the previous record of 92° set exactly 110 years prior, according to the FOX Forecast Center.

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Temperatures have soared as the week has progressed, and Wednesday and Thursday are poised to be record-breaking days across the Midwest and Southeast.

Warm air is being funneled toward the Tennessee Valley and the Carolinas, where dozens of daily records could fall through Thursday. Some of this warmth may even reach as far north as the Mid-Atlantic before the next cold front, the FOX Forecast Center said.

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On Friday, temperatures return to normal in the central states, while the Southeast sees higher temperatures.

By Saturday, the heat will ease up across the east.

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The heat wave will continue to dig its claws into the Southwest through the weekend.

By Monday, the Southwest should get a much-needed break from the extreme temperatures.

WATCH: DOG ‘CONTINUOUSLY SHIVERS’ AFTER HARROWING RESCUE FROM FRIGID NEW YORK RIVER

Video from the Offaly Fire & Rescue Service in Birr, Ireland showed the tense moments when three-year-old Bru was hoisted out of the hole by a pulley after a nearly three-hour operation.

The pooch was excited to be free and appeared no worse for wear after quickly shaking off the dust from the well.

According to local public broadcasting, Bru was taken to a veterinarian and is in good condition. 

Approximately 59 million light-years away, M90 is one of the few galaxies moving closer to Earth, NASA reports.

"Over time, its orbit through the Virgo Cluster accelerated so much that M90 is in the process of escaping the cluster entirely," the agency said.

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About 300 million years ago, the galaxy passed near the center of the cluster, where dense gas stripped away vast amounts of its material.

Without this gas, M90 can no longer form new stars, and the spiral galaxy is slowly fading. 

NASA STILL ON TRACK TO LAUNCH ARTEMIS II TEST FLIGHT AFTER ROLLBACK DUE TO REPAIRS

This process is flattening M90 as it transitions into a lenticular galaxy, NASA said.  

NASA’s Webb Telescope team shared the new view of the large spiral, noting that the image allows scientists to peer more clearly through the galaxy’s dust and stars.

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As it is part of their broader study of analyzing a set of 55 big galaxies that are still creating new stars, the data collected will add valuable information on how galaxies develop and transform over billions of years.

According to NASA, the ideal time to observe this bright spiral galaxy is in May. 

Under a dark, clear sky, it is visible with binoculars, while larger telescopes can reveal more details, including its spiral arms and bright core.

Scientists say the massive galaxy poses no "immediate" threat to Earth, as it's about 59 million light-years away and would take billions of years to reach our vicinity.

A news conference was held on Tuesday, where NASA said Artemis II is on track to launch with no issues reported. 

The SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft that will carry three NASA astronauts and one Canadian Space Agency astronaut around the Moon have passed their flight readiness review, marking one of the last big things to happen prior to launch. 

HOW OFTEN DO METEORITES CRASH IN THE US?

All four astronauts are healthy and safe in Houston, and will journey to Florida in the coming days for launch. 

The Artemis II mission will consist of four mission phases: 

Artemis II's first phase will include the rocket launch as well as a 24-hour high-Earth orbit. 

During this orbit, NASA will be monitoring environmental control and life-support systems, the newest and most critical piece to keeping the crew safe and healthy, NASA Acting Administrator of the Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, Dr. Lori Glaze, said. 

WATCH: NASA'S HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE CAPTURES RARE PROOF OF COMET BREAKING APART

Additionally, once the upper stage of the rocket has separated from Orion, NASA will conduct the proximity operations demonstration and test Orion's manual controls to ensure all systems are operating in the spacecraft. 

The final stage of the first phase will be performing the trans-lunar injection, which Glaze said will set the astronauts on the path to the Moon and back. 

Phase II will be the journey to the Moon. 

Glaze said this process will take four days. 

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The third phase begins with the lunar fly-by.

This will be when astronauts on board get to observe the far side of the Moon, and hopefully break the Apollo record for the farthest any human has traveled from Earth in space, Glaze said. 

Once the lunar fly-by is complete, the four-day journey back to Earth will begin. 

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The fourth and final phase of Artemis II's mission will be the reentry to Earth's atmosphere and splashdown off the coast of San Diego in the Pacific Ocean. 

Glaze said NASA will work closely with the Department of War to recover the crew and bring them safely to shore. 

Once on land, the astronauts will be transported back to Johnson Space Center in Houston. 

In addition to breaking down the phases of Artemis II's mission, NASA further explained Artemis III, IV and even Artemis V's expected plans and timelines.

In late February, NASA administrators announced their plans to accelerate Artemis mission launches starting in 2027. 

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Artemis III will now be a low-Earth orbit mission with one or both of NASA's lunar Landers, planned to launch in mid-2027. 

Glaze said as soon as Artemis II launches, assessment of the launchpad for Artemis III will begin. 

"The hardware for Artemis III is very mature," Glaze said. "We're working to meet the 2027 launch readiness." 

Glaze said a lot of the equipment for Artemis III is already ready. 

NASA'S 1,300-POUND VAN ALLEN PROBE A BLAZES BACK TO EARTH, SPLASHES DOWN IN PACIFIC AFTER 14 YEARS IN ORBIT

Artemis IV and V: 

Artemis IV is planned to launch in early 2028, with a mission of landing on the Moon. 

Artemis V will follow in late 2028, Glaze said. 

Equipment for Artemis IV is also in the process of being assembled and progress is being made, Glaze said. 

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A new generation of spacesuits for Artemis IV is being created by Axiom. 

Four astronauts will go on Artemis IV's mission, with NASA planning to set two astronauts of that crew onto the Moon's surface. 

Pieces of Artemis V are in production as well. 

Glaze said Artemis V will be the second landed mission on the Moon in 2028, with a goal of preparation for NASA's lunar base. 

On Sunday, March 22, the 10-foot-2-inch, 729-pound predator was pinged about 7 miles east of the Chandeleur Islands, according to OCEARCH.

WATCH: NEARLY 10-FOOT ENDANGERED DUSKY SHARK PINGS OFF THE GULF COAST NEAR ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA

OCEARCH took to Instagram with a post titled "NEW WHITE SHARK HOTSPOT IN THE GULF?" highlighting the area as one of the most shark-dense regions of the Gulf. 

Bella’s recent movements suggest that this region near the Chandeleur Islands may be an emerging hotspot for white sharks, an area where they haven’t been frequently recorded before. 

Tiger shark Hanna also pinged near the Chandeleur Islands from August through October of last year.

FOUR WHITE SHARKS PING IN THE GULF JUST IN TIME FOR SPRING BREAK

And this March, like Bella, many of OCEARCH’s other tagged sharks—such as Goodall, Mira, and Ripples— have been active in the Gulf near Florida.

Typically, every winter, these sharks make their way south along the East Coast, chasing warmer waters.

Bella was recently tagged and released into Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia, on July 18, 2025, by the Tancook Islands Marine Field Station Team, in collaboration with the OCEARCH science and fishing teams and Dr. Nigel Hussey of the University of Windsor. 

RARE SHARK SPOTTED BY GROUP OF COLLEGE STUDENTS DURING NIGHTTIME DIVE OFF CALIFORNIA COAST

She helps provide valuable data on the movement and behavior of white sharks, including their seasonal presence in Atlantic Canada, as part of a broader research effort to support the conservation of the species in the western North Atlantic.

"Her presence in these waters adds valuable data to the growing body of research about how white sharks use Canadian coastal habitats during the summer and fall months," OCEARCH said. 

WHERE DO MOST SHARK ATTACKS HAPPEN IN THE US?

Named in honor of OCEARCH’s biggest followers and supporters in Florida, Bella, meaning "beautiful" in Italian, carries great meaning as it reflects the dedicated global community that drives this vital work.

The organization notes that Bella’s journey goes beyond science; it represents the shared effort required to protect the species.

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Bella and other sharks and sea animals like her can be tracked in real-time using the free OCEARCH Global Shark Tracker app.

On Sunday, March 22, the 10-foot-2-inch, 729-pound predator was pinged about 7 miles east of the Chandeleur Islands, according to OCEARCH.

WATCH: NEARLY 10-FOOT ENDANGERED DUSKY SHARK PINGS OFF THE GULF COAST NEAR ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA

OCEARCH took to Instagram with a post titled "NEW WHITE SHARK HOTSPOT IN THE GULF?" highlighting the area as one of the most shark-dense regions of the Gulf. 

Bella’s recent movements suggest that this region near the Chandeleur Islands may be an emerging hotspot for white sharks, an area where they haven’t been frequently recorded before. 

Tiger shark Hanna also pinged near the Chandeleur Islands from August through October of last year.

FOUR WHITE SHARKS PING IN THE GULF JUST IN TIME FOR SPRING BREAK

And this March, like Bella, many of OCEARCH’s other tagged sharks—such as Goodall, Mira, and Ripples— have been active in the Gulf near Florida.

Typically, every winter, these sharks make their way south along the East Coast, chasing warmer waters.

Bella was recently tagged and released into Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia, on July 18, 2025, by the Tancook Islands Marine Field Station Team, in collaboration with the OCEARCH science and fishing teams and Dr. Nigel Hussey of the University of Windsor. 

RARE SHARK SPOTTED BY GROUP OF COLLEGE STUDENTS DURING NIGHTTIME DIVE OFF CALIFORNIA COAST

She helps provide valuable data on the movement and behavior of white sharks, including their seasonal presence in Atlantic Canada, as part of a broader research effort to support the conservation of the species in the western North Atlantic.

"Her presence in these waters adds valuable data to the growing body of research about how white sharks use Canadian coastal habitats during the summer and fall months," OCEARCH said. 

WHERE DO MOST SHARK ATTACKS HAPPEN IN THE US?

Named in honor of OCEARCH’s biggest followers and supporters in Florida, Bella, meaning "beautiful" in Italian, carries great meaning as it reflects the dedicated global community that drives this vital work.

The organization notes that Bella’s journey goes beyond science; it represents the shared effort required to protect the species.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Bella and other sharks and sea animals like her can be tracked in real-time using the free OCEARCH Global Shark Tracker app.

SEE IT: A PIECE OF CHEESE PROVES VITAL FOR THE RESCUE OF A DOG ON A FROZEN LAKE IN NEW YORK

A little after 6 p.m. on Monday, March 23, 911 received a call regarding a dog observed swimming in the middle of the Seneca River, and the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to respond.

According to the sheriff’s office, Air1 crews were on a patrol flight at the time and reached the scene in about a minute.

SEE IT: OFFICER GLIDES ONTO FROZEN NEW JERSEY LAKE TO RESCUE A TRAPPED DOG

When they arrived, the aircrew spotted a goldendoodle struggling to stay afloat in the middle of the river and, because of the dog’s condition, a skid rescue was carried out.

An Air1 flight crew member walked along the helicopters skid to the rear, secured himself to the aircraft, and guided the pilot toward the dog.

Video captures the daring rescue as he carefully edged along the skid to lift the dog safely on board.

Around 6:15 p.m., the dog was successfully rescued from the river. 

The frigid waters left the dog visibly cold, with officers noting that it was shivering continuously.

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The dog was then taken to the ball fields on Downer Street, where personnel from the Baldwinsville Fire Department were ready with blankets, the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office said. 

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The office praised 911, the Air1 flight crew, and Baldwinsville firefighters for their efforts.

WHAT IS A KONA LOW?

Homes were destroyed after feet of water and mud rushed across the North Shore of Oahu — which bore the brunt of the heaviest damage statewide and where pouring rain triggered a Flash Flood Emergency early Friday.

Governor Josh Green issued an updated State of Emergency last Thursday which activated the National Guard and unlocked other state resources in response ahead of some of the worst flooding.

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The state health department said Saturday there were no serious injuries statewide, while Gov. Green noted Friday that nearly 200 people had been rescued.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) said over the weekend that it's working closely with state officials to coordinate diaster response.

Waialua and Haleiwa on Oahu's northern shore were evacuated predawn Friday during the Flash Flood Emergency, where stranded residents told FOX Weather that people were sheltering on their roofs to avoid raging floodwaters.

TORRENTIAL RAIN TRIGGERS DANGEROUS FLASH FLOODING IN HAWAII, FORCING THOUSANDS OF EVACUATIONS

More evacuations were issued over concerns of "imminent failure" at the nearby Wahiawa Dam in Honolulu County.

Evacuations were lifted Saturday afternoon, but a boil water notice remains in effect, the Oahu Emergency Management said late Monday.

The Hawaii National Guard was seen wading through knee-high water in Oahu Saturday. 

Gov. Green called it the state's worst flooding in 20 years.

Friday's flooding came on the heels of an initial Kowa low that brought heavy rain and hurricane-force wind gusts. The Governor's Office said more than 200,000 people lost power at one point last week, after the first storm.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, the Scofield Barracks near Wahiawa have recorded more than 35 inches of rain since the first storm began on Mar. 11.

EXTREME FLOODING DEVASTATES HAWAII AS POWER RESTORATION CONTINUES, EVACUATION ORDERS LIFT

A Wahiawa resident told FOX Weather Correspondent Robert Ray that some neighbors were completely devastated by the flooding.

"Mud up to 5 feet in their homes, lost all of their belongings," David Fuga said.

Kahului on Maui has recorded more than 20 inches of rain this month, now its wettest month on record.

Honolulu has already surpassed its average yearly rain total, according to the FOX Forecast Center, recording its wettest March in 20 years and its fourth-wettest month on record.

Ray said there he encountered several large mud-caked debris piles across the North Shore, as crews cleared flood damage amid heavy rain that was ongoing Sunday.

While all major roads have been cleared, widespread local closures remain with reports of mudslides across Oahu, Maui and the Big Island.

Ray documented treacherous travel conditions across Oahu late Monday, with several inches of water that continued to inundate roads and runoff poured off mountainsides like waterfalls.

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Certain schools remain closed across the main Hawaiian islands.

All told, damage from the flooding has the potential to approach $1 billion, Gov. Green said.

Despite the damage, the Hawaii Tourism Authority said trips to the state do not need to be postponed or canceled. 

At least three other smaller quakes were recorded shortly after at similar depths.

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The country's meteorological service issued a Tsunami Warning across the whole island chain and urged people to evacuate to higher ground.

The warning was lifted about 2 hours after the quake and there's no immediate report of any tsunami waves or any damage.

WHAT IS A TSUNAMI?

The U.S. Tsunami Warning System did not issue any tsunami advisories.

The quake's epicenter was about 148 miles below the ocean surface, roughly the same distance between New York City and Baltimore.

HOW THE TONGA VOLCANO ERUPTION COULD HAVE WARMED THE PLANET, STUDY SAYS

Both Tonga and nearby Fiji are among the most seismically active countries in the world, due to their location along a major subduction zone — where the Pacific and Australian tectonic plates collide.

This eight-legged creepy species, known as the Joro spider, can grow as large as a human hand and has been spotted in at least eight states since 2021, including Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, California, Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania.

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"Joro spiders will likely continue to spread in the U.S., but they aren't the ‘flying venomous spider invasion’ that’s been sensationalized in the media," Virginia Tech entomologist Theresa Dellinger said in a press release.

Researchers say the spider is spreading through a process called "ballooning," in which the young Joro spiders release a thread of silk that can be captured by the wind, allowing them to be lifted to new locations. 

This process allows them to travel for relatively long distances, similar to other spider species. Over time, they may even reach Canada.

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But fully grown Joro spiders are unable to travel like this due to their size.

In one study by the University of Georgia, researchers found that Joro spiders are so well-equipped to spread due to their high metabolism and heart rate. This causes them to be able to tolerate colder temperatures in the North.

"Just by looking at that, it looks like the Joros could probably survive throughout most of the Eastern Seaboard here, which is pretty sobering," Andy Davis, a research scientist at the University of Georgia, said in UGA Today. 

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In a newer study that was published in the Arthropoda journal, scientists at the University of Georgia discovered that the insect can also tolerate loud vibrations and noises seen in urban settings. Unlike other animals, they are able to settle in stressful environments.

"These Joro webs are everywhere in the fall, including right next to busy roads, and the spiders seem to be able to make a living there," Davis said. "For some reason, these spiders seem urban tolerant."

Experts said that Joro spiders are native to Asia and can be found in Japan, Korea, China, Indochina and Nepal. They were first reported in the U.S. in 2014, and experts believe they likely arrived through materials imported from East Asia.

According to Joro Watch, the insects are orb-weavers and are typically seen from September to October, when they build large webs ahead of laying their eggs. Egg sacs are usually produced between mid-October and November and can contain between 400 and 500 eggs.

Male and female Joro spiders differ significantly in appearance and size. Adult males grow to about 0.25 inches in length and are brown, while females can reach up to 1.25 inches and are bright yellow.

"They are not aggressive and seem to be quite shy despite their size," Dellinger said.

GIANT INVASIVE SPIDERS SPOTTED IN GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

Although this species may appear terrifying, experts stress that they do not pose a threat to humans.

Like all spiders, the Joro spiders do have venom, but they are not in the same category as a Black Widow or Brown Recluse. At worst, a bite could cause an allergic reaction.

"This spider is not going to harm people, and it’s only going to hurt you if you try to pick it up," Davis told FOX News. "It is one of the shyest spider species we know of."

What frightens scientists about this species is their invasive tendencies. Experts worry that Joro spiders may damage crops, trees and push out native species.

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"There’s so much ecological damage being done all over the world, for so many reasons, mostly because of humans," Davis said. "This to me is just one more example of mankind's influence on the environment."

Many people do not realize that there is a difference between the characterization of meteors and meteorites.

SEE IT: METEOR CAUGHT ON CAMERA STREAKING OVER PITTSBURGH, REPORTS OF LOUD BOOM ACROSS OHIO VALLEY

According to NASA, meteors are bits of rocks and ice ejected from comets as they move in their orbits around the sun. A meteor that reaches the ground is called a meteorite.

An example showcasing the key difference would be the recent meteor streaking across California on Sunday. This never made the cut as a meteorite because the space rock disintegrated in the sky, never reaching the ground.

"Most space rocks smaller than a football field will break apart in Earth’s atmosphere," a statement from NASA reads. "Traveling at tens of thousands of miles per hour, the object disintegrates as pressure exceeds the strength of the object, resulting in a bright flare."

The main question is, how often do these occur every year?

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According to data collected by the Meteoritical Society at Washington University in St. Louis, since 1807, 1,924 meteorites have been found and verified in the U.S., and the society has determined that roughly nine meteorites crash onto Earth every year.

Studies show that the top states with the most frequent meteorites are Texas, California and New Mexico.

METEOR LIGHTS UP TEXAS SKY IN BROAD DAYLIGHT AND PRODUCES LOUD BOOM HEARD BY MANY

According to NASA experts, more than 50,000 meteorites have been found on Earth, and 99.8% of them come from asteroids. The remaining few (0.2%) meteorites are split almost equally between meteorites from Mars and the moon.

The 50 known Martian meteorites were blasted off Mars by meteoroid impacts.

CALIFORNIA METEOR SIGHTING BECOMES THIRD IN ONE WEEK ACROSS US

If you have witnessed a meteor event, the American Meteor Society has an online page where the public can report large fireballs.

According to the American Meteor Society, well over 200 eyewitnesses across California, Nevada and Arizona reported seeing a fireball hurl through the night sky on Sunday.

SEE IT: METEOR CAUGHT ON CAMERA STREAKING OVER PITTSBURGH, REPORTS OF LOUD BOOM ACROSS OHIO VALLEY

The meteor was first spotted 49 miles above Chowchilla, California, moving south at 35,000 mph, and traveling 58 miles before disintegrating above Colfax at about 29 miles in the sky.

This comes after eyewitnesses in both Houston and Pittsburgh also observed a fiery space rock hurling through the sky this week.

According to NASA, data indicates one of the objects became visible about 49 miles above Stagecoach, Texas, on Saturday, northwest of Houston, traveling at around the same speed as the meteor observed in the west on Sunday.

The meteor spotted streaking across the Pittsburgh morning sky early on Tuesday looked almost like a missile shooting through the atmosphere.

WATCH: NASA'S HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE CAPTURES RARE PROOF OF COMET BREAKING APART

The fireball was initially observed over Lake Erie, moving at about 40,000 mph before traveling over 34 miles and breaking apart, according to NASA.

Both meteors spotted in the Pittsburgh and Houston areas produced loud booms.

METEOR LIGHTS UP TEXAS SKY IN BROAD DAYLIGHT AND PRODUCES LOUD BOOM HEARD BY MANY

Neither of the prior meteor events is related to the latest fireball streaking across California this weekend. NASA notes that the meteor that the most recent meteor had a different radiant and speed.

According to NASA, meteors are bits of rocks and ice ejected from comets as they move in their orbits around the sun. A meteor that reaches the ground is called a meteorite.

That's because the trees are expected to be in full bloom this week. The recent warm weather has pushed the Yoshino cherry trees to Stage 5 of 6, also known as "Puffy white."

The blossoms are coming out, and now it's just a waiting game to see when they open. The National Mall and Memorial Parks said they expect peak bloom to happen this week.

The cherry trees' blossom development is dependent on weather conditions.

PEAK BLOOM OF THE PICTURESQUE CHERRY BLOSSOM TREES IN WASHINGTON, D.C. IS ALMOST HERE

It was initially thought that the cherry blossom trees would reach peak bloom at the National Mall between March 29 and April 1.

In Utah, cherry blossoms are already peaking at the state capitol in Salt Lake City. Governor Spencer Cox shared a video of the vibrant cherry blossoms on social media on Monday.

The blooming of cherry blossom trees is an annual springtime tradition in the nation’s capital, dating back to the historic 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry blossom trees from Japan.

Cherry blossoms frame the Jefferson Memorial along the tidal basin in Washington, D.C. The pink and white blossoms draw about a million visitors each spring.

Warm or cool temperatures in the past have resulted in peak bloom as early as March 15 (in 1990) and as late as April 18 (in 1958), according to the National Park Service.

Peak bloom typically lasts for several days, and forecasting it is almost impossible more than 10 days in advance. For people across the U.S., the blooming of cherry blossom trees symbolizes the start of spring with an explosion of life and color.

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If you plan on visiting Washington, D.C. for the beautiful views, be sure to share your best photos and videos at FOXWeather.com/connect.

This unsettled pattern will continue into the weekend, potentially causing travel delays and additional impacts in areas already affected by recent storms.

WINTER DELIVERS FINAL PUNCH TO NORTHEAST WITH SNOW AS HEAVY RAIN TARGETS THE SOUTHEAST

According to the FOX Forecast Center, the setup will take shape as another potent cold front pushes south. This pattern will be similar to the storms that impacted the region on Sunday and Monday. 

Storms will begin late Thursday, as a strengthening dip in the jet stream over eastern Canada drives the cold front through the Great Lakes and into the Ohio Valley. This system will rotate around a large "heat dome" that is currently taking over the western part of the country.

By Friday, the front is forecast to move through the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, triggering a line of severe storms. But the overall severity depends on how much heat develops throughout the day. 

The FOX Forecast Center says the primary threats will be damaging wind gusts and pockets of heavy rain.

SPLIT IN THE POLAR VORTEX COULD MEAN ONE LAST HURRAH FOR WINTER ACROSS THE NORTHERN TIER

As the front pushes south into the Southeast by Saturday, thunderstorms may linger, although they are expected to weaken.

Behind the system, much colder air will surge in. A steady northerly wind will pull in the colder air, plummeting temperatures.

Temperatures across the Northeast and Great Lakes will drop into the 30s and 40s on Saturday, while the Mid-Atlantic will fall back into the 50s after experiencing 70-degree days earlier.

Millions of people could wake up to below-freezing temperatures and gusty winds to start the weekend.

This frigid air will continue into Sunday, as high pressure builds in, causing a calm and crisp end to the week.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Stay with FOX Weather for the latest updates on this developing East Coast storm system.

Video footage shows a father and daughter visibly struggling in strong ocean currents. The father eventually reaches his child, both struggling to keep their heads above water, showing clear signs of exhaustion.

Then, almost out of nowhere, a hero dives into the ocean without any warning.

LARGEST MALE GREAT WHITE SHARK 'CONTENDER' RETURNS TO WATERS OFF FLORIDA'S COAST IN TIME FOR SPRING BREAK

Local swimming coach at Westcliff College, Lucas Taub, dove into the water without hesitation and swam right to the two family members.

OVER 1,500 RECORDS SHATTERED ACROSS THE SOUTHWEST AS ANOTHER WEEK OF EXTREME HEAT CONTINUES

Taub grabbed hold of the two and brought them both to shore, where other bystanders waited to lend a hand.

The man was able to pick up the child and bring her safely back to dry land.

As thousands of Americans head out for spring break in March, it is important to understand the dangers of rip currents when planning a day at the beach.

WHAT IS A RIP CURRENT AND HOW TO SURVIVE ONE

Rip currents are strong, narrow currents that move away from shore and out to sea at high speeds.

Unfortunately, many people are injured or killed each year by dangerous waves and currents, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). A rip current is a natural treadmill that travels at an average speed of 1 to 2 feet per second, but has been measured as fast as 8 feet per second.

If you become stuck in a rip current, do not panic. Don't swim directly against the current; try swimming sideways along the shoreline until you gradually escape the current's pull.

Once you are finally free from the current, swim at an angle back to the beach.

EXTREME FLOODING DEVASTATES HAWAII AS POWER RESTORATION CONTINUES, EVACUATION ORDERS LIFT

The NWS recommends choosing a location with lifeguards on duty for a safe beach experience. They're also the best source of local information about beach conditions and hazards.

This unsettled pattern will continue into the weekend, potentially causing travel delays and additional impacts in areas already affected by recent storms.

WINTER DELIVERS FINAL PUNCH TO NORTHEAST WITH SNOW AS HEAVY RAIN TARGETS THE SOUTHEAST

According to the FOX Forecast Center, the setup will take shape as another potent cold front pushes south. This pattern will be similar to the storms that impacted the region on Sunday and Monday. 

Storms will begin late Thursday, as a strengthening dip in the jet stream over eastern Canada drives the cold front through the Great Lakes and into the Ohio Valley. This system will rotate around a large "heat dome" that is currently taking over the western part of the country.

By Friday, the front is forecast to move through the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, triggering a line of severe storms. But the overall severity depends on how much heat develops throughout the day. 

The FOX Forecast Center says the primary threats will be damaging wind gusts and pockets of heavy rain.

SPLIT IN THE POLAR VORTEX COULD MEAN ONE LAST HURRAH FOR WINTER ACROSS THE NORTHERN TIER

As the front pushes south into the Southeast by Saturday, thunderstorms may linger, although they are expected to weaken.

Behind the system, much colder air will surge in. A steady northerly wind will pull in the colder air, plummeting temperatures.

Temperatures across the Northeast and Great Lakes will drop into the 30s and 40s on Saturday, while the Mid-Atlantic will fall back into the 50s after experiencing 70-degree days earlier.

Millions of people could wake up to below-freezing temperatures and gusty winds to start the weekend.

This frigid air will continue into Sunday, as high pressure builds in, causing a calm and crisp end to the week.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Stay with FOX Weather for the latest updates on this developing East Coast storm system.

The wide-reaching storm system is stretching across areas from the Mid-Atlantic coast to the lower Mississippi Valley by Monday morning.

On Sunday, large hail and damaging winds were the primary threat as storms tore through the Ohio Valley and pushed towards the East Coast. 

SPRING STORMS, HEAVY RAIN TARGET THE EAST WHILE WINTER DELIVERS FINAL PUNCH TO NORTHEAST WITH SNOW

This system is being fueled by a massive, record-breaking heat wave in the West, increasing instability ahead of an early spring cold front.

In the Northeast, especially across eastern Massachusetts and the Boston area, conditions will be chilly and prime for snow showers in the morning hours.

Some weak instability could lead to narrow bands of heavier snow per the FOX Forecast Center. 

OVER 1,000 RECORDS SHATTERED ACROSS THE SOUTHWEST AS WORST MARCH HEAT WAVE EVER CONTINUES IMPACTING MILLIONS

While widespread accumulation is not expected due to marginal temperatures, some of these bursts could briefly coat surfaces and reduce visibility. 

Farther south across the I-95 corridor from New York City and Philadelphia and into parts of the Mid Atlantic, skies will remain cloudy with periods of light rain or drizzle before conditions gradually improve later in the day.

ONGOING EXTREME FLOODING DEVASTATES HAWAII AS POWER RESTORATION CONTINUES, EVACUATION ORDERS LIFT

Severe storms could occur across the Carolinas as the cold front begins to weaken, with large hail being the main threat from any severe storms that do develop.

The USCG received a distress report Friday morning about multiple people stranded across the island.

ONGOING EXTREME FLOODING DEVASTATES HAWAII AS POWER RESTORATION CONTINUES, EVACUATION ORDERS LIFT

Coast Guard Sector Honolulu coordinated its response with the Navy, deploying an MH-60 Seahawk helicopter crew to Waialua, where five people and a dog were trapped on a rooftop.

The crew rescued them and brought them safely to Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point in Kapolei, Hawaii.

"Safety of life remains our top priority," Cmdr. Jeffrey Padilla, incident commander, Sector Honolulu, said. "We are working closely with our partners, including the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency and Honolulu County first responders, to support developing search and rescue efforts." 

In the afternoon, USCG MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew rescued two people stranded near Yokohama Bay due to the washed-out flooded roads. 

The man and woman wrote SOS in the sand, where a Coast Guard helicopter crew spotted the message when flying over the area. The crew then hoisted the pair and transported them to Air Station Barbers Point.

Boats and airplanes from the Honolulu station responded to the incident as well. 

"The bravery and selfless service of these Coast Guard personnel embody the best of what it means to be an American," The Department of Homeland Security said on X. "Thank you to these heroes and all the Coast Guard personnel who continue working around the clock to protect our homeland."

Multiple Kona Lows have impacted the Hawaiian Islands, resulting in dangerous flash flooding that has led to thousands of evacuations, soaring power outages, more than 200 rescues and significant damage. 

FEMA said on X over the weekend that the organization is working closely with Gov. Josh Green and Hawaii Emergency Management Agency as the state leads rescue and shelter operations, and that it stands ready it stands ready to provide additional support to help protect lives and communities.

The Hawaii National Guard has also activated approximately 200 soldiers and airmen to support all counties across the state in response to the ongoing storm.

On Friday, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said in a press conference that this is the largest flood his state has seen in 20 years. 

 HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Stay with FOX Weather for the very latest on this ongoing situation. 

A few tornadoes can’t be ruled out in the Ohio River Valley, though the FOX Forecast Center said large hail is currently the primary threat, accompanied by the potential for damaging winds.

Wind intensity could range from 60 mph to over 85 mph in parts of the region.

SPRING STORMS, HEAVY RAIN TARGET THE EAST WHILE WINTER DELIVERS FINAL PUNCH TO NORTHEAST WITH SNOW

This system is being fueled by a massive, record-breaking heat wave in the West, increasing instability ahead of an early spring cold front.

OVER 1,000 RECORDS SHATTERED ACROSS THE SOUTHWEST AS WORST MARCH HEAT WAVE EVER CONTINUES IMPACTING MILLIONS

An upgraded Level 3 out of 5 severe storm risk has been issued for much of western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio and a small part of West Virginia. Meanwhile, a Level 2 out of 5 severe storm risk remains for Louisville, Kentucky; Cincinnati and Columbus, Ohio.

Heavy rain and thunderstorms will become increasingly likely from the Ohio Valley into southern New England as a cold front associated with a low-pressure system moves into the Great Lakes and Northeast.

CALIFORNIA TIES WARMEST MARCH TEMPERATURE IN US HISTORY FROM HEAT WAVE

And by late Sunday afternoon, that front extending from the system will move into the Ohio Valley, where storms are expected to develop.

As it moves east, the system is expected to affect areas from the Mid-Atlantic coast to the lower Mississippi Valley by Monday morning.

ONGOING EXTREME FLOODING DEVASTATES HAWAII AS POWER RESTORATION CONTINUES, EVACUATION ORDERS LIFT

The FOX Forecast Center said that increasing moisture and atmospheric instability will support storm development, with the potential for damaging winds and hail.

Hail up to 2 inches — or about the size of an egg — is likely in Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania.

However, forecasters note that the warm sector of the system may remain partially capped, which could limit storm development ahead of the front.

KNOW YOUR FLOOD TERMINOLOGY: WHAT FLOOD WATCHES, WARNINGS AND EMERGENCIES REALLY MEAN

If any supercells form and persist, large hail is possible.  And while the tornado threat is uncertain, isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out.

PHOTOS: DEADLY TORNADOES, MASSIVE HAIL, HEAVY RAIN RIP THROUGH MIDWEST, SOUTHERN PLAINS, KILLING AT LEAST TWO

Heavy rain along the front is expected to move into the Mid-Atlantic and southern New England by this evening, with areas from Boston to New York City and Philadelphia potentially seeing occasional torrential downpours into Sunday night.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

This has prompted a Level 1 of 4 flash flood threat across Pennsylvania and New York, including Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and New York City.

By Monday, severe storms could occur across the Carolinas as the cold front begins to weaken, with large hail being the main threat from any severe storms that do develop.

The Calhoun County Sheriff's Office said Deputy Steven Bruner suffered a medical emergency shortly after his shift ended.

Authorities said Deputy Bruner worked tirelessly helping with evacuations in the Mossy Pond Community near Miller Road. The sheriff's office advised anyone who lives in the area to evacuate immediately.

"To know Bruner was to love him. He was the kind of person who would step up to help anyone without a second thought. Selfless, dedicated and truly one of a kind," the sheriff's office said on Facebook.

The Mossy Pond Area Wildfire has burned over 500 acres, and at least 12 structures have been impacted, according to emergency management officials.

The Florida Forest Service has multiple tractors on the ground throughout the fire area working to contain the fire. Aerial resources, including drones and fixed wing aircraft, are flying over the area to monitor conditions as well.

FLORIDA FIRE DANGER SPIKES AS 'EXTREME DROUGHT' REACHES 25-YEAR HIGH, AS STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED

Florida is currently experiencing the worst drought they've seen since 2001, according to the FOX Forecast Center. The state has been in a prolonged dry pattern since the 2025 hurricane season.

Some of the worst drought conditions are across North Florida and parts of the Panhandle. Florida's fire season historically runs from January until the start of the rainy season in June.

LARGEST WILDFIRE IN NEBRASKA HISTORY LEAVES 1 DEAD, SCORCHES OVER 640,000 ACRES AS CONDITIONS BEGIN TO EASE

Calhoun County Emergency Management said utility crews are actively working to replace damaged poles and restore power throughout the area.

The sheriff's office is out in the community conducting welfare checks throughout the impacted area. A countywide burn ban is in place and will remain in effect until further notice.

"Rest easy, Deputy Bruner. We have it from here," the sheriff's office said.

NASA later confirmed on X that the fireball blazed across the sky around 4:40 p.m. CDT on March 21.

SEE IT: METEOR CAUGHT ON CAMERA STREAKING OVER PITTSBURGH, REPORTS OF LOUD BOOM ACROSS OHIO VALLEY

This comes less than a week after a bright meteor blazed across the Ohio skies on March 17, with reports of visibility in Delaware, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia.

According to NASA, data indicates the object became visible about 49 miles above Stagecoach, northwest of Houston, traveling southeast at roughly 35,000 mph, and disintegrated around 29 miles above Bammel, near Cypress Station.

Estimated at one ton in mass and three feet in diameter, the meteor’s breakup created a pressure wave that produced audible booms, according to NASA.

WATCH: RARE METEOR EXPLOSION CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Meteors streak through the sky at tens of thousands of miles per hour, far exceeding the speed of sound, and whether a sonic boom is heard on the ground depends on their size and altitude.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

NASA reported that Doppler radar detected fragments of the meteorites produced between Willowbrook and Northgate Crossing, and a local woman told FOX Weather that one of the meteorites crashed through the roof of her Houston home.

Sherrie James shared photos of the possible meteorite in a plastic bag, appearing to be the size of her palm.

Although evacuation warnings have now been lifted for vulnerable areas on Oʻahu downstream of Wahiawā Dam, more heavy rain still threatens the region and Flash Flood watches remain. 

On Saturday, FEMA shared on X that it is working closely with Governor Josh Green and Hawaii EMA as the state leads rescue and shelter operations, and that it stands ready to support as needed to help protect lives and communities.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green said in a Friday evening press conference that this is the largest flood Hawaii has seen in 20 years since the flood of Manoa in 2004. 

Hawai‘i National Guard (HING) has activated approximately 200 Soldiers and Airmen to support all counties in response to the ongoing Kona Low storm, as first responders have stayed busy assisting and aiding residents stranded by rapidly rising floodwaters over the past several days. 

Gov. Green said nearly 196 people had been rescued as of Friday evening. 

'SUPER EL NIÑO' BREWING AS LA NIÑA FADES AHEAD OF HURRICANE SEASON

More than 80 people at campsites were rescued by Honolulu Fire Department on O'ahu on Friday, with many more rescues likely across the island.

Flooding reached a dangerous peak Friday when a Flash Flood Emergency was issued over concerns of "imminent failure" at Wahiawa Dam in Honolulu County, prompting evacuation orders for Waialua and Haleʻiwa that were lifted after water levels stabilized.

O'Ahu Emergency Management said on Saturday the dam continues to hold, but stationary bands of heavy rain could raise the dam to a "threatening" level.

Since Thursday, the county has been swamped by catastrophic flooding, with over 20 inches of rain reported.

CALIFORNIA TIES WARMEST MARCH TEMPERATURE IN US HISTORY AS HISTORIC HEAT WAVE ROASTS 40M ACROSS WEST, PLAINS

Gov. Green said a major hospital on Maui, airports, schools, homes and roads have all been damaged across the islands, as blocked areas expand due to the massive amounts of water flow, berus and mud.

The Honolulu Police Department also reported sinkhole at Mokapu and Oneawa on Saturday morning. 

"We are now beginning to contemplate the reality that this storm could cost over a billion dollars of damage," Gov. Green said. 

The American Red Cross has boots on the ground on O‘ahu, Maui and the Big Island to assess damage from the most recent Kona Low storm. 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency said it was on the ground to offer support and is monitoring conditions on O'ahu. 

Hawaiian Electric warned residents to avoid downed power lines that could be energized. The agency warned people to stay at least 30 feet away from downed lines. 

KNOW YOUR FLOOD TERMINOLOGY: WHAT FLOOD WATCHES, WARNINGS AND EMERGENCIES REALLY MEAN

According to data from poweroutage.com, there were over 8,000 reported outages in Hawaii on Saturday, with the majority reported on the island of O'ahu.

Flash Flood Warnings remain in effect for Honolulu County and Maui County until 2:30 and 3 a.m. local time on Saturday. 

A Flood Watch is in place for the entire state, excluding the summits of the Big Island, through Sunday. 

Some locations have seen more than a foot of rain in just 24 hours. 

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO STAY SAFE AT THE BEACH DURING SPRING BREAK

Hawaii has not seen much of a break from the rain, as they received more than 50 inches of rain with the most recent system earlier in the week.

The FOX Forecast Center said a larger Kona Low will bring several areas of low pressure over Hawaii through Monday, tapping into anomalously high atmospheric moisture, and will continue to deliver periods of heavy rain and flash flooding across Maui and the Big Island.

 HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Another widespread 3-5" of rain is expected across almost all the islands through early next week. Higher amounts of 8-12" will remain across the higher elevations with localized amounts of over a foot once again possible, the FOX Forecast Center said.

By Monday morning, the heaviest rain will start to move away from Hawaii as a winds start to shift. 

The winds by Monday afternoon will shift to be more easterly allowing for the islands to start to dry out. By Tuesday, typical afternoon rain-showers will dominate the weather throughout the end of the week.

As millions of spring breakers flock to Florida in search of scenic beaches, warm weather and the trademark blue ocean waters – they are being met with an unpleasant surprise. 

Sargassum is a naturally occurring brown seaweed that floats in large masses across the ocean, renowned for its trademark vacation-ruining odor that coats the shores of numerous popular U.S. beaches along the East Coast, and just in time for spring break, it's back.

An estimated 9.5 million tons of sargassum is beginning to make landfall in the Western Atlantic, Caribbean, Mexico, southern Texas and in South Florida, according to environmental engineer Tracy Fanara.

While the rotten-egg stench is more than enough to ruin a beach day, sargassum plays an important role in the health and biodiversity of open ocean ecosystems, according to NOAA.

In natural amounts, sargassum provides habitat, food, protection, and breeding grounds for hundreds of diverse marine species. It supports commercially important fish such as tuna and swordfish, which feed on the smaller organisms living within sargassum mats, while also helping reduce beach erosion.

When high winds and ocean currents bring piles of sargassum ashore, the harmful algal bloom can adversely impact coastal ecosystems, tourism and public health.

Massive amounts of sargassum can form brown tides' nearshore, adversely impacting plants and animals, including coral reefs.

According to NOAA, sargassum contains high levels of arsenic and other heavy metals, organic contaminants and marine debris that could be harmful to humans. 

Once beached, sargassum produces hydrogen sulfide as it decomposes, releasing a potent rotten egg smell that can cause headaches and respiratory irritation, among other health impacts.

For some beaches, once the deterring algae makes landfall, the only solution to the stinky problem is cleaning it up.

The options for cleaning up sargassum are limited and costly. Municipalities that are plagued by the seaweed are often forced to use heavy machinery and specialized beach rakes to remove big piles from the shore. 

In areas where machinery access is limited, on smaller or environmentally sensitive beaches, crews of workers manually gather the algae using hand tools and wheelbarrows.

HERE'S WHY PEOPLE IN THE SUNSHINE STATE NEED TO BE ON ALERT DURING ALLIGATOR MATING SEASON

Another tactic includes blocking off the beachfront by deploying containment booms or barriers just off the beach, which, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, "have been used with mixed results."

Historically, most sargassum was confined to the Sargasso Sea in the western North Atlantic, according to NOAA. In 2011, its range expanded, and a new population—fueled by shifting wind patterns—began thriving in the open ocean.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Since 2011, sargassum has been a recurring problem in the Caribbean Sea, in the Gulf of America and the tropical Atlantic, with inundation events causing significant economic, environmental and public health harms.

Over the past 15 years, as sargassum has become a common presence on some of Florida’s most popular beaches, various solutions have been attempted, including daily maintenance efforts.

On a daily basis along 17 miles of beaches in Miami-Dade County, county employees drive tractors with rear-mounted blades along the shoreline at the high tide mark to mix and blend the sargassum. This daily maintenance takes place along beaches from Government Cut to the Broward County line, and at Crandon Park beach.

In addition, at four state-approved "hot spot" locations that frequently experience heavy Sargassum buildup, a Miami-Dade County vendor removes Sargassum with specialized tractors that utilize barber rakes.

In areas hit the hardest by massive sargassum mats, the effort to keep beaches clean and suitable for tourists and beachgoers is an ongoing, labor-intensive challenge that demands constant attention.

Know before you go. For vacationers and beachgoers, it's important to know where sargassum will end up before you set up an umbrella and beach chairs. Every Tuesday, NOAA releases a Weekly Sargassum Inundation Risk outlook, identifying the areas at risk for major, day-ruining build-ups of the smelly algae. 

The Department of the Interior announced on Friday that National Park Week will take place Aug. 22-30, 2026. 

This year's National Park Week will celebrate the National Park Service's 110th birthday and 250th anniversary of American Independence. 

HERE ARE THE TOP 10 MOST POPULAR NATIONAL PARKS ACROSS AMERICA

During this week, national parks across the U.S. will feature hundreds of programs, family activities and patriotic events across the country under the theme "Celebrate America’s Story."

In addition to the many activities during National Park Week, there will also be one day when entrance fees to all national parks are waived for U.S. residents, allowing them to get in for free. 

It falls on the National Park Service's birthday — Aug. 25. 

THESE FOUR POPULAR NATIONAL PARKS ANNOUNCE PLANS FOR 2026 VISITOR RESERVATIONS
 

The week kicks off with National Junior Ranger Day, when young visitors can take part in hands-on activities, learn about America’s parks and earn their official Junior Ranger badges, the NPS said. 

"From sunrise hikes to star-filled night skies, from historic battlefields to breathtaking natural wonders, there is a park and a story waiting for every visitor during National Park Week," the National Park Service said. 

In addition to celebrating the birthday of the National Park Service, the week will focus on America's 250th birthday. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

The NPS said the occasion will help Americans "reflect on the nation’s history and celebrate its enduring promise."

Throughout the year, national parks will host hundreds of special programs, commemorations and exhibits tied to the founding of the United States, including events at many of the historic places where America’s story began, the NPS said. 

To learn more about National Park Week, click here. 

Hubble captured images C/2025 K1 (ATLAS) fragmenting into at least four pieces, a shocking revelation to investigators observing the comet.

HERE'S WHY PEOPLE IN THE SUNSHINE STATE NEED TO BE ON ALERT DURING ALLIGATOR MATING SEASON

"Sometimes the best science happens by accident," said co-investigator John Noonan, a research professor at Auburn University. "This comet got observed because our original comet was not viewable due to some new technical constraints after we won our proposal. We had to find a new target—and right when we observed it, it happened to break apart, which is the slimmest of slim chances."

Before it fragmented, K1 was likely a bit larger than an average comet, approximately 5 miles across. 

TOP 10 MUST-SEE IMAGES FROM NASA’S JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE

The team estimates the comet began to disintegrate eight days before Hubble viewed it.

"Never before has Hubble caught a fragmenting comet this close to when it actually fell apart. Most of the time, it's a few weeks to a month later. And in this case, we were able to see it just days after," said Noonan.

Hubble took three 20-second images, one on each day from Nov. 8 through Nov. 10, 2025, capturing the progression of the fragmentation.

According to NASA, thanks to Hubble's sharp vision, the research team was able to trace the history of the fragments back to when they were a whole piece soaring through space, allowing them to reconstruct the comet's timeline.  

THE INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION EXPLAINED: TWO DECADES OF ASTRONAUTS LIVING AND WORKING IN SPACE

The images were taken just a month after K1’s closest approach to the Sun, called perihelion.

The comet’s perihelion was inside Mercury’s orbit, about one-third the distance of the Earth from the Sun. 

During this period, a comet experiences its most intense heating and maximum stress. After perihelion, some long-period comets like K1 tend to fall apart.

This groundbreaking new observation from Hubble marks the latest triumph in the telescope’s storied legacy.

Since its launch in 1990, the Hubble Telescope has made monumental contributions to the world's understanding of the universe. 

The Hubble Space Telescope is a school-bus-sized observatory orbiting above Earth’s atmosphere. Its 2.4-meter mirror captures high-resolution ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared light, revealing galaxies, stars, and planets with exceptional clarity—and helping pin down the age of the universe.

In its 36-year stay in space, Hubble has captured remarkable images of the cosmos that will be etched into astronomy books for decades to come. 

Beyond this first weekend of astronomical spring, winter's parting shot looms — a split in the polar vortex could plunge temperatures back into the 30s across the region late next week.

Cold air will linger across the Great Lakes, interior Northeast and New England, where 2–4 inches of snow could fall late Friday into early Saturday, as a clipper system races through northern New England.

Winter Weather Advisories are in effect across Vermont and New York's North Country through Friday night.

Temperatures will climb into the mid-50s along the Interstate 95 corridor on Saturday and potentially reach 65 degrees in New York City on Sunday.

Along the Mid-Atlantic coast, Washington, D.C. could reach the low 80s Sunday afternoon.

On Sunday, severe storms are expected to develop over the Ohio Valley and reach the East Coast by Sunday night.

Central Indiana and central Ohio are under a Level 2 out of 5 risk of severe storms Sunday, including Indianapolis and Columbus, Ohio. The main hazard is expected to be damaging wind gusts, but a tornado cannot be ruled out.

From there, some uncertainty remains regarding the storm's track and strength, but rain will likely reach the I-95 corridor by Sunday night, lasting into Monday.

"Colder air on the north side of the sprawling system may allow for widespread snow across interior New England and upstate New York with even the possibility of some icing," the FOX Forecast Center said. 

Behind these storms, highs on Monday in New York City may only reach the mid-40s, as another round of colder air moves in, with even colder air associated with a split in the polar vortex possibly arriving late next week.

More than 85 locations have already set new daily records for the hottest March day on record, including in California, and in major cities like Las Vegas, Denver and Phoenix. 

While daily records are being smashed left and right across the West, the historic heat wave is expected to break both March and April monthly heat records.

HUNDREDS RESCUED, THOUSANDS EVACUATED IN HAWAII FROM EXTREME FLASH FLOODING

In California on Thursday, both Thermal and Indio hit 108°F, tying the U.S. record high for the month of March. Though it didn't quite reach a U.S. high, the temperature set a new record for the hottest March day in California state history.

Thursday's high temperature ties the U.S. record set in both Rio Grande City, Texas on March, 31 1954 and Falcon Dam, Texas on March 27, 2020.

This historic heat wave has delivered record-breaking March temperatures across a vast stretch of the West, breaking records in Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, California and Nevada. 

In the entertainment capital of the world in the Mojave Desert, Las Vegas hit 97°F on Friday, breaking the daily and monthly record high for the third day in a row, according to NWS Las Vegas. 

CALIFORNIA TIES WARMEST MARCH TEMPERATURE IN US HISTORY FROM HEAT WAVE

Record temperatures across California have been set for multiple days over the past week. Downtown Los Angeles broke a record previously set in 1997 on Friday, at 96°. 

In 131 years of record keeping, Phoenix has hit 100° just once in March. On Thursday and Friday, Phoenix hit 105°F, recording its warmest March day during this heat wave. 

Temperatures are expected to stay high on Saturday, before slight cooling arrives on Sunday, NWS Phoenix said. 

Other cities that notched daily high records include: Kansas City, Missouri, Omaha, Nebraska and Flagstaff, Arizona.

HERE'S WHY PEOPLE IN THE SUNSHINE STATE NEED TO BE ON ALERT DURING ALLIGATOR MATING SEASON

An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect until Sunday night for portions of southwest Arizona and southern California. In Phoenix, it's the earliest heat warning to go into effect by more than a month. The earliest instance occurred between April 26th and 30th of 2020.

On Thursday and Friday, Denver and Boulder both reached 85°F, nearly 30° above the March average. For cities that can often see blizzards in March, Thursday's unprecedented temperature underscores the strength of this historic heat wave. 

As we move into the weekend, temperatures have no plans of cooling down. 

NWS Boulder said it expected to set a record for hottest March day on record with temperatures in the 80s and 90s along Interstate 25 Saturday. 

As the heat continues to intensify, more than 1000 record highs have been set since Mar. 11, the FOX Forecast Center said.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

High temperatures are soaring as much as 35° above average for this time of year from California to the Great Plains, with the hottest days expected to occur through Saturday.

Even beyond Saturday, temperatures will remain hot enough to shatter records for dozens of locations into the middle of next week. 

Many locations may break their daily records for 7+ consecutive days, a feat of endurance that is quite rare.

KNOW YOUR HEAT TERMINOLOGY: EXTREME HEAT WARNING, EXTREME HEAT WATCH AND HEAT ADVISORY

Extreme Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories are now in place for nearly 40 million across California and into the deserts of New Mexico and Arizona. 

This heat wave is expected to break not just daily records, but all-time monthly records for March—and potentially even April, by significant margins.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green said in a Friday evening press conference that this is the largest flood Hawaii has seen in 20 years since the flood of Manoa in 2004. 

More than 80 people at campsites were rescued by Honolulu Fire Department on O'ahu on Friday, with many more rescues likely across the island.

Gov. Green said nearly 196 people had been rescued as of Friday evening. 

'SUPER EL NIÑO' BREWING AS LA NIÑA FADES AHEAD OF HURRICANE SEASON

Evacuation Warnings remain in effect across the island, with the O'ahu Department of Emergency Management warning residents in Waialua that all roads are at risk of failing due to flooding. 

Flooding reached a dangerous peak Friday when a Flash Flood Emergency was issued over concerns of "imminent failure" at Wahiawa Dam in Honolulu County, prompting evacuation orders for Waialua and Haleʻiwa.

CALIFORNIA TIES WARMEST MARCH TEMPERATURE IN US HISTORY AS HISTORIC HEAT WAVE ROASTS 40M ACROSS WEST, PLAINS

Gov. Green said a major hospital on Maui, airports, schools, homes and roads have all been damaged across the islands. 

"We are now beginning to contemplate the reality that this storm could cost over a billion dollars of damage," Gov. Green said. 

The American Red Cross has boots on the ground on O‘ahu, Maui and the Big Island to assess damage from the most recent Kona Low storm. 

Hawaiian Electric warned residents to avoid downed power lines that could be energized. The agency warned people to stay at least 30 feet away from downed lines. 

KNOW YOUR FLOOD TERMINOLOGY: WHAT FLOOD WATCHES, WARNINGS AND EMERGENCIES REALLY MEAN

Flash Flood Warnings remain in effect for Honolulu County and Maui County until 2:30 and 3 a.m. local time on Saturday. 

A Flood Watch is in place for the entire state, excluding the summits of the Big Island, through Sunday. 

Some locations have seen more than a foot of rain in just 24 hours. 

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO STAY SAFE AT THE BEACH DURING SPRING BREAK

Hawaii has not seen much of a break from the rain, as they received more than 50 inches of rain with the most recent system earlier in the week.

The FOX Forecast Center said while this weekend is expected to be less impactful than the most recent system, it will tap into the anomalously high atmospheric moisture that will not budge, to deliver periods of heavy rain and flash flooding through early next week.

 HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Another widespread 3-5" of rain is expected across almost all the islands through early next week. Higher amounts of 8-12" will remain across the higher elevations with localized amounts of over a foot once again possible, the FOX Forecast Center said.

More than 65 locations have already set new daily records for the hottest March day on record, including in California, as well as notching daily records in major cities like Las Vegas, Denver and Phoenix. 

While daily records are being smashed left and right across the West, the historic heat wave is expected to break both March and April monthly heat records.

In California on Thursday, both Thermal and Indio hit 108°F, tying the U.S. record high for the month of March. Though it didn't quite reach a U.S. high, the temperature set a new record for the hottest March day in California state history.

Thursday's high temperature ties the U.S. record set in both Rio Grande City, Texas on March, 31 1954 and Falcon Dam, Texas on March 27, 2020.

This historic heat wave has delivered record-breaking March temperatures across a vast stretch of the West, breaking records in Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, California and Nevada. 

In the entertainment capital of the world in the Mojave Desert, Las Vegas hit 95°F on Thursday, the hottest March temperature on record. Though a new-record, the achievement may be short-lived as forecasts call for hotter temperatures into the weekend. 

In 131 years of record keeping, Phoenix has hit 100° just once in March. On Thursday, Phoenix hit 105°F and —along with at least 60 other locations — recorded its warmest March day during this heat wave. Into the weekend, forecasts call for temperatures to continue to rise as the March record could be pushed a few ticks further. 

Other cities that notched daily high records include: Kansas City, Missouri, Omaha, Nebraska, Flagstaff, Arizona and a myriad of other cities. 

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In Phoenix, it's the earliest heat warning to go into effect by more than a month. The earliest instance occurred between April 26th and 30th of 2020. Los Angeles is also under a warning through Friday, and in Las Vegas, the warning lasts through Sunday.

On Thursday, Denver reached 85°F, nearly 30° above the March average. For a city that can often see blizzards in March, Thursday's unprecedented temperature underscores the strength of this historic heat wave. 

As we move into the weekend, temperatures have no plans of cooling down. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

As the heat continues to intensify, more than 820 record highs have been set since Mar. 11, the FOX Forecast Center said.

High temperatures are soaring as much as 35° above average for this time of year from California to the Great Plains, with the hottest days expected to occur through Saturday.

Even beyond Saturday, temperatures will remain hot enough to shatter records for dozens of locations into the middle of next week. 

Many locations may break their daily records for 7+ consecutive days, a feat of endurance that is quite rare.

Extreme Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories are now in place for nearly 40 million across California and into the deserts of New Mexico and Arizona. 

KNOW YOUR HEAT TERMINOLOGY: EXTREME HEAT WARNING, EXTREME HEAT WATCH AND HEAT ADVISORY

This heat wave is expected to break not just daily records, but all-time monthly records for March—and potentially even April, by significant margins.

Millions of people flock to national parks every year. In 2025, the top 10 parks alone brought in nearly 49 million visitors. 

From mountains to rock formations, geysers, volcanoes and beaches, there's a national park for everyone to love. 

The National Park Service each year releases a report on the number of visitors to each national park.

Check out the list below and see which parks made the top 10: 

This national park that lies in both North Carolina and Tennessee took the top spot for most-visited park in 2025. 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park recorded 11,527,939 visitors for the year, far surpassing any other national park on the list. 

With more than 19,000 species documented in the park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most biodiverse in the national park system. 

The park encompasses more than 800 square miles and has held the record for most-visited park for many years. 

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Coming in second place is Zion National Park in Utah. This national park saw 4,984,525 visitors in 2025. 

The beautiful sandstone cliffs that make up Zion National Park encompass some of the most scenic canyon country in the United States. 

THIS ROCK IN ARCHES NATIONAL PARK WILL FALL, IT'S ONLY A MATTER OF TIME

Though millions of visitors behind Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Zion saw more than 200,000 more visitors than the third-most popular national park on the list. 

In addition to the sandstone cliffs, Zion's 232 square miles are also made up of high plateaus, the Virgin River and its tributaries and a maze of narrow, deep, sandstone canyons.

The third-most popular park of 2025 was Yellowstone National Park. 

Situated in Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone saw 4,762,988 visitors in 2025. 

Yellowstone is the first national park ever and encompasses 2.2 million acres full of unique hydrothermal and geologic features. 

Visitors flock to Yellowstone to see geysers like Old Faithful and beautiful hot springs. Yellowstone also has a vast wildlife population full of bison that have lived there for centuries, according to the National Park Service. 

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In Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park saw 4,430,653 people in 2025. 

The national park, made of plateaus and canyon carved by the Colorado River, spans 1,904 square miles. 

Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world, with a canyon that's one mile deep, the NPS said. 

Grand Canyon National Park is a vast historic geological landmark with 28 locations within the park designated as National Historic Landmarks or on the National Register of Historic Places. 

CATS AMONG TOP 5 INVASIVE PESTS IN AMERICA’S NATIONAL PARKS

Halfway down the list is Yosemite National Park in California. 

This vast national park saw 4,278,413 visitors in 2025, more than 125,000 people more than in 2024. 

HERE'S HOW TO STAY SAFE FROM ROCKFALLS AT YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

Encompassing 1,169 square miles, Yosemite National Park is known for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, giant sequoia trees and biological diversity.

Nearly 95 percent of Yosemite is congressionally designated wilderness.

Yosemite is one of the nation's oldest national parks, first designated in 1864, according to the NPS. 

"A land of extremes", Rocky Mountain National Park is located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. 

Spanning 415 square miles, Rocky Mountain National Park is home to beautiful mountain peaks and pristine alpine lakes. 

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Rocky Mountain National Park occupies only a small part of the 200-mile long Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, according to the NPS. 

The national park offers a wide variety of things to do year-round, including hiking, camping, biking, wildlife viewing and much more. 

Located in Maine, Acadia National Park attracted 4,079,318 visitors in 2025. 

Acadia is known as the "Crown jewel of the Atlantic Coast" and is mostly located on Mount Desert Island, the largest island off the coast of Maine.

FOX WEATHER CELEBRATES NATIONAL PARKS WEEK WITH INSIDE LOOK AT MOST STUNNING LOCATIONS IN AMERICA

The park is made up of 50,000 acres, of which there are more than 150 miles of hiking trails. 

Acadia National Park is famous for its sunrises, sweeping forests and beautiful mountains. 

Another Wyoming national park, Grand Teton National Park, was the eighth-most visited park with 3,800,648 visitors. 

The stunning mountain scenery that makes up the park spans 485 square miles, with the Teton Range spanning 7,000 feet above the valley of Jackson Hole. 

Grand Teton National Park was established in 1929, according to the NPS. 

In the wintertime, the snowy peaks of Grand Teton make it a noteworthy site for visitors. There's a variety of things to do in the warmer months of the year, including camping, hiking and mountaineering. 

BEAUTY OF GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK SHAPED BY RAPIDLY CHANGING WEATHER

Taking the ninth spot for the most-popular park in 2025 is Olympic National Park in Washington. 

The national park is known for its vast geology spanning from mountains and lakes to glaciers.

Olympic National Park saw 3,584,187 visitors in 2025. 

Located in Western Washington on the Olympic Peninsula, Olympic National Park was first established as a national monument in 1909 and redesignated as a national park in 1938. 

Visitors to the park can enjoy many outdoor activities, including boating and paddling on the lakes, fishing, tidepooling, camping and so much more. 

ICONIC 'TREE OF LIFE' THAT DEFIED GRAVITY FOR YEARS ALONG WASHINGTON BEACH TAKES LAST STAND

Rounding out the top 10 most-visited parks in total was Glacier National Park in Montana with 3,136,557 visitors. 

Glacier National Park showcases massive melting glaciers, stunning lakes and alpine meadows. 

As time goes on, more of the many glaciers in the national park shrink or melt altogether, an act of climate change. 

Glacier National Park also offers excellent photo opportunities unlike anywhere else in the U.S. 

The national park features more than 700 miles of trails. Hiking, biking and camping are some of visitors' favorite activities. 

7 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

All 10 national parks on 2025's list were the most visited in 2024, though Yellowstone and Yosemite moved up a slot on the list and Olympic National Park shifted from eighth most-visited to ninth most-visited park. 

National Park Week, a week to celebrate the 110th birthday of the National Park Service and all it offers, will take place on Aug. 22-30, 2026. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

During this week, parks across the nation will host patriotic programs, guided tours, educational exhibits and family activities that connect visitors to America’s past, present and future. 

On Aug. 25, 2026, to honor the National Park Service's birthday, all entrance fees into national parks will be waived for U.S. residents. 

Beyond this first weekend of astronomical spring, winter's parting shot looms — a split in the polar vortex could plunge temperatures back into the 30s across the region late next week.

Cold air will linger across the Great Lakes, interior Northeast and New England, where 2–4 inches of snow could fall late Friday into early Saturday, as a clipper system races through northern New England.

Winter Weather Advisories are in effect across Vermont and New York's North Country through Friday night.

This same system will bring a brief shot of rain farther south Friday evening.

Conditions will dry Saturday afternoon and early Sunday, according to the FOX Forecast Center, as another system approaches the Great Lakes.

As things dry out, temperatures will climb into the mid-50s along the Interstate 95 corridor on Saturday and potentially reach 65 degrees in New York City on Sunday.

Along the Mid-Atlantic coast, Washington, D.C. could reach the low 80s Sunday afternoon.

On Sunday, severe storms are expected to develop over the Ohio Valley and reach the East Coast by Sunday night.

Central Indiana and central Ohio are under a Level 2 out of 5 risk of severe storms Sunday, including Indianapolis and Columbus, Ohio. The main hazard is expected to be damaging wind gusts, but a tornado cannot be ruled out.

From there, some uncertainty remains regarding the storm's track and strength, but rain will likely reach the I-95 corridor by Sunday night, lasting into Monday.

"Colder air on the north side of the sprawling system may allow for widespread snow across interior New England and upstate New York with even the possibility of some icing," the FOX Forecast Center said. 

Behind these storms, highs on Monday in New York City may only reach the mid-40s, as another round of colder air moves in, with even colder air associated with a split in the polar vortex possibly arriving late next week.

Beyond this first weekend of astronomical spring, winter's parting shot looms — a split in the polar vortex could plunge temperatures back into the 30s across the region late next week.

Cold air will linger across the Great Lakes, interior Northeast and New England, where 2–4 inches of snow could fall late Friday into early Saturday, as a clipper system races through northern New England.

Winter Weather Advisories are in effect across Vermont and New York's North Country through Friday night.

This same system will bring a brief shot of rain farther south Friday evening.

Conditions will dry Saturday afternoon and early Sunday, according to the FOX Forecast Center, as another system approaches the Great Lakes.

As things dry out, temperatures will climb into the mid-50s along the Interstate 95 corridor on Saturday and potentially reach 65 degrees in New York City on Sunday.

Along the Mid-Atlantic coast, Washington, D.C. could reach the low 80s Sunday afternoon.

On Sunday, severe storms are expected to develop over the Ohio Valley and reach the East Coast by Sunday night.

Central Indiana and central Ohio are under a Level 2 out of 5 risk of severe storms Sunday, including Indianapolis and Columbus, Ohio. The main hazard is expected to be damaging wind gusts, but a tornado cannot be ruled out.

From there, some uncertainty remains regarding the storm's track and strength, but rain will likely reach the I-95 corridor by Sunday night, lasting into Monday.

"Colder air on the north side of the sprawling system may allow for widespread snow across interior New England and upstate New York with even the possibility of some icing," the FOX Forecast Center said. 

Behind these storms, highs on Monday in New York City may only reach the mid-40s, as another round of colder air moves in, with even colder air associated with a split in the polar vortex possibly arriving late next week.

Contender was tagged by OCEARCH in a similar area slightly closer to the coastline in January 2025. 

LARGEST SHARK EVER TAGGED BY RESEARCH GROUP SWIMMING OFF THE FLORIDA COAST

Since then, he has traveled up the coast, spending long periods of time around the Carolinas, traveling further north up into Canadian waters, and back south again to the Florida coast. 

In recent days, Contender has pinged several times along the Florida coast. The most recent was on Thursday afternoon, in the waters just north of Jacksonville. 

NEARLY 1,400-POUND GREAT WHITE SHARK 'GOODALL' PINGS NEAR GULF COAST AS SPRING BREAKERS HIT THE BEACH

At the time of his tagging, Contender was nearly 14 feet long, and estimated to weigh 1,653 pounds, according to OCEARCH. 

OCEARCH scientists estimated Contender to be about 32 years old when he was tagged. 

Dozens of white sharks like Contender spend their winters and early spring days around Florida in search of food. 

NEW RESEARCH FINDS GULF OF AMERICA IS THE IDEAL HABITAT FOR GREAT WHITE SHARKS DURING THE WINTER

A recent OCEARCH study found that the Gulf of America serves as a regular winter habitat for white sharks migrating thousands of miles from Atlantic Canada and Northeastern U.S.

While Contender has never ventured into the Gulf since being tagged, many of OCEARCH's tagged white sharks have made a recent visit or are there currently. 

OCEARCH is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to researching and protecting sharks, whales, sea turtles and other ocean life, tagging these animals to track and study their migration habits and behaviors from afar.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Stay tuned to see where Contender ventures next, along with more than 475 other ocean animals using OCEARCH's free global shark tracker app.

Thermal, California, in the Coachella Valley reached 108 degrees Thursday, tying the record for warmest recorded March temperature in U.S. history.

The unprecedented heat is expected to peak Friday and Saturday across California, the Southwest, and parts of the Great Plains, with conditions running as much as 35 degrees above average for this time of year.

KNOW YOUR HEAT TERMINOLOGY: EXTREME HEAT WARNING, EXTREME HEAT WATCH AND HEAT ADVISORY

More than 40 million people across Southern California and the deserts of Nevada and Arizona are under Extreme Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories through Sunday. 

The early scorching temperatures are also expected to further deplete the snowpacks across western mountain ranges — many of which were already running significant deficits after a winter with little snow. These snowpacks are a critical water source for many communities during the summer. 

Even as the most intense heat subsides, relief will not be immediate.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

More than 550 record highs have been set since Mar. 11, with dozens more expected to be shattered through next week, the FOX Forecast Center said.

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Phoenix hit 105°F on Thursday and —along with at least 60 other locations — has recorded its warmest March day during this heat wave.

The heat first arrived in the West on Monday and Tuesday and brought at least 47 new daily records to California and Oregon.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, the heat wave is caused by a ridge of high pressure aloft, which acts like a lid on a boiling pot, preventing the warm air from escaping.

This "heavy" high-pressure lid further warms the air below it — a process called adiabatic warming.

Phoenix is expected to climb to 106 degrees Friday, while both Las Vegas and Los Angeles could surpass the century mark. If downtown Los Angeles reaches 100 degrees, it will break the record of 99 degrees which has stood since 1879.

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The record heat is also reaching higher elevations.

Sacramento is forecast to reach 90 degrees Friday. It would be the first 90 degree March day in the city's history.

Flagstaff, Arizona, which is 7,000 feet above sea level, rocketed to 83 degrees Thursday, that city's warmest recorded March day.

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Denver is forecast to reach the mid-80s, nearly 30 degrees above the March average for a city that often sees blizzards in March.

Salt Lake City and Reno, Nevada, are among more than 100 locations expected to challenge their all-time March highs on Friday.

The FOX Forecast Center said even after Saturday, the heat will linger, with some places potentially breaking daily temperature records for seven days straight, a rare occurrence. 

Phoenix, Los Angeles and Las Vegas are all under Extreme Heat Warnings through Sunday.

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People across coastal California have flocked to beaches to take advantage of the unusual extra warmth.

San Francisco's Department of Emergency Management reminded residents to only swim at beaches with a lifeguard, and use extreme caution as ocean water is cold and currents are strong.

The Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management also reminded people to use caution in the extreme heat, sharing heat safety tips and resources for locals.

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO STAY SAFE AT THE BEACH DURING SPRING BREAK

Reduced snowpacks across the California Sierra and Intermountain West have already led to ski seasons ending early, and now the excess heat is likely to melt a lot more of the remaining snow.

Because the western U.S. relies on snowpack as a "natural reservoir" that slowly releases water through July, this premature spike in temperature is essentially draining the region's water bank account months too early, the FOX Forecast Center said.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

As the snow disappears a month early, high-elevation vegetation will begin drying out much sooner, extending the 2026 wildfire season by four to six weeks.

Temperatures across the West are expected to remain slightly higher than average through at least early April, according to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center's long-range forecast.

In most cases, a strong El Niño acts to suppress hurricane activity by increasing wind shear in the atmosphere over the Atlantic Ocean, which can disrupt developing storms and make it harder for hurricanes to organize and strengthen.

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Given the forecast for this year, this hurricane season may not be so straightforward. Although in an El Niño, the atmosphere acts to suppress developing storms, the threat of dangerous hurricanes is still very real.

Sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic remain near or slightly above average, which provides fuel for storms, setting the stage for a battle between unfavorable wind conditions caused by El Niño and the warmer ocean waters that strengthen brewing storms.

In the 2023 hurricane season, during a similar El Niño set up, record warm sea surface temperatures offset the traditional negative impacts from El Niño. Though El Niño informs long-range forecasts to better understand the atmospheric environment that plays a major role in the formation of the storms that are remembered for decades, the hurricane season is defined by much more than just El Niño or La Niña.

Even in years with a strong El Niño, the risk is never zero. These patterns may bring fewer storms overall—but it only takes one monster hurricane to leave a lasting mark for years to come.

Since 1990, there have been seven years with a comparable El Niño to what some of the more aggressive forecasts are suggesting for 2026. These were years with either a borderline strong El Niño or events that pushed into "super" El Niño territory. Those years were 1991, 1994, 1997, 2002, 2009, 2015 and 2023.

On average, those seasons produced 11 named storms, four hurricanes and two major hurricanes (Category 3+).

That is below the long-term Atlantic averages of 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes.

The takeaway is simple. Even during a "Strong El Niño," when overall activity is reduced, it only takes one storm to create significant impacts.

The most impactful storm of the 1991 hurricane season remains a significant meteorological event due to its rare formation.

HOW HIGH PRESSURE AND LOW PRESSURE DRIVE THE WEATHER

A high-pressure system, a North Atlantic cold front and the remnants of Hurricane Grace merged into a single, massive storm to create "The Perfect Storm."

The storm was able to intensify over the warm waters of the Gulf and take an unexpected turn back toward the U.S. coast.

Although the storm never made landfall in the U.S., it generated hurricane-force winds and massive waves that decimated coastal New England, killing six crew members from the fishing vessel Andrea Gail, which would later go on to inspire the Hollywood film "The Perfect Storm" starring George Clooney.

Despite hurricane strength, the storm was never officially named.

Though Tropical Storm Alberto never, in meteorological terms, met the necessary strength to be considered a hurricane, the damage it inflicted on the southeastern U.S. remains a benchmark disaster. 

Primarily remembered for the storm's "stalling" behavior, the storm made landfalls and, as a decaying system, hovered over Georgia and Alabama for days, dumping upwards of 20 inches of rain in some areas.

The storm triggered record-breaking crests across many river basins, resulting in extreme flooding across parts of the region. In the end, the widespread inundation left 33 dead.

Though the 1977 hurricane season was considered a quiet year, Hurricane Danny made landfall in southeast Louisiana.

Danny made a second landfall near Mobile Bay, bringing extreme rain to Alabama, with over 3 feet falling in Dauphin Island.

Only eight storms formed during the 1997 Atlantic hurricane season; the other seven did not have any land impacts.

Back-to-back storms made the 2002 hurricane season one to remember, especially in Louisiana.

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Hurricane Isidore was a powerful Category 3 storm at its peak, bringing significant impacts to Jamaica, Cuba and the Yucatán Peninsula. By the time it approached Louisiana, it had weakened to a tropical storm, but still produced heavy rain and flooding across the region.

Just days later, Hurricane Lili followed a similar path. Lili rapidly intensified into a Category 4 hurricane over the then-named Gulf of Mexico before weakening ahead of landfall, ultimately landing in Louisiana as a Category 1 hurricane.

Remarkably, Lili made landfall only seven days after Isidore impacted the same general area.

Combined, these two storms caused widespread damage across parts of the Caribbean and the Deep South, and were responsible for 37 fatalities.

With only nine named storms, the 2009 Atlantic hurricane season was relatively quiet.

One notable system that year was Hurricane Ida, which briefly reached Category 2 strength as it moved off the coast of the U.S., never making landfall as an official tropical cyclone.

However, Ida's story did not end there. The remnants of the storm transitioned into a powerful nor'easter, later dubbed "Nor'Ida."

The system went on to produce impacts across the Southeast and East Coast, with storm surge levels, rainfall and coastal impacts comparable to that of a tropical cyclone.

Hurricane Joaquin was a true wildcard.

It stalled and looped over the Bahamas as a powerful Category 4, becoming one of the region’s most damaging storms. While it never made U.S. landfall, it helped trigger historic flooding across the Southeast.

As Joaquin lingered offshore, it funneled deep tropical moisture into the region. At the same time, a non-tropical system and stalled front along the Carolina coast acted like a conveyor belt—lifting that moisture into a relentless "fire hose" of rain.

The result: catastrophic flooding, especially in South Carolina. Columbia and Charleston shattered multi-day rainfall records, with Charleston setting a new wettest October in just four days.

Even without landfall, Joaquin became one of the most impactful weather events of 2015.

The 2023 season defied expectations for a developing El Niño, becoming the Atlantic’s fourth most active on record. Exceptionally warm ocean waters helped offset El Niño’s usual suppressing effects, fueling storm development.

Hurricane Idalia was the season’s standout, rapidly intensifying into a Category 4 before landfall in Florida’s Big Bend.

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It produced record storm surge from Tampa Bay to the Big Bend and, at the time, became the strongest storm on record to strike the region—until Hurricane Helene surpassed it the following year.

California has reached its hottest March temperature on record after hitting 108 degrees in Thermal on Thursday. 108 degrees also ties the national record for hottest temperature in the month of March, according to the FOX Forecast Center.

Daily and monthly records are expected to be broken for March and April, which could reshape how we experience early spring compared to recent years.

EXTREME HEAT SAFETY: HOW TO PREPARE AND STAY COOL DURING A HEAT WAVE

This comes as an already record-low snowpack will melt away even further amid the potential heat wave.

High temperatures up to 35 degrees above average for this time of year could span from California to the Great Plains, with the hottest days expected now through Saturday.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, a heat dome or high-pressure system is expected to strengthen over the West. This heat dome is forecasted to be at record strength for this time of year, similar to summer heat waves.

"High pressure means air is heavy and sinking toward the surface," a statement from the FOX Forecast Center reads. "As air sinks, it moves from a region of lower pressure [high atmosphere] to a region of higher pressure [near the ground]."

WHAT IS A HEAT DOME?

Temperatures will remain hot enough to shatter records beyond Saturday in about a dozen locations until the middle of next week.

Extreme Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories are in place for nearly 40 million Americans across California and into the deserts of New Mexico and Arizona.

Locations such as Tucson, Arizona, could see temperatures as high as 103 degrees by Saturday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.

EXTREME HEAT SAFETY: RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF HEAT ILLNESS AND HOW TO TREAT IT

Phoenix, Arizona, reached 102 degrees on Wednesday, making it the earliest the city has ever reached 100 degrees (previously March 26, 1988).

Phoenix is experiencing its earliest heat warning, with the previous earliest occurring from April 26 to 30 of 2020.

Avoid outdoor activities during the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade.

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The heat wave will be the final push toward more consistent spring warmth, after what has already been a poor snow season in the West. The Western U.S. relies on consistent snowpack to serve as a natural reservoir that slowly releases water through July.

Still, this premature spike in temperatures is draining the region’s water bank way earlier than normal.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, as snow disappears earlier than normal, high-elevation vegetation will dry out faster. This will also extend the 2026 wildfire season by four to six weeks, and by June/July, it will affect farmers and cities that need water the most after the melting from the mountains has dried up.

So far, over 60 March high temperature records have been broken.

OVER 400 RECORDS BROKEN AS HISTORIC HEATWAVE ROASTS MORE THAN 40M ACROSS THE WEST WITH DANGEROUS TEMPERATURES

Daily and monthly records are expected to be broken for March and April, which could reshape how we experience early spring compared to recent years.

EXTREME HEAT SAFETY: HOW TO PREPARE AND STAY COOL DURING A HEAT WAVE

This comes as an already record-low snowpack will melt away even further amid the potential heat wave.

High temperatures up to 35 degrees above average for this time of year could span from California to the Great Plains, with the hottest days expected now through Saturday.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, a heat dome or high-pressure system is expected to strengthen over the West. This heat dome is forecasted to be at record strength for this time of year, similar to summer heat waves.

"High pressure means air is heavy and sinking toward the surface," a statement from the FOX Forecast Center reads. "As air sinks, it moves from a region of lower pressure [high atmosphere] to a region of higher pressure [near the ground]."

WHAT IS A HEAT DOME?

Temperatures will remain hot enough to shatter records beyond Saturday in about a dozen locations until the middle of next week.

Extreme Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories are in place for nearly 40 million Americans across California and into the deserts of New Mexico and Arizona.

Locations such as Tucson, Arizona, could see temperatures as high as 103 degrees by Saturday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.

EXTREME HEAT SAFETY: RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF HEAT ILLNESS AND HOW TO TREAT IT

Phoenix, Arizona, reached 102 degrees on Wednesday, making it the earliest the city has ever reached 100 degrees (previously March 26, 1988).

Phoenix is experiencing its earliest heat warning, with the previous earliest occurring from April 26 to 30 of 2020.

Avoid outdoor activities during the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade.

LARGEST WILDFIRE IN NEBRASKA HISTORY LEAVES 1 DEAD, SCORCHES OVER 640,000 ACRES AS CONDITIONS BEGIN TO EASE

The heat wave will be the final push toward more consistent spring warmth, after what has already been a poor snow season in the West. The Western U.S. relies on consistent snowpack to serve as a natural reservoir that slowly releases water through July.

Still, this premature spike in temperatures is draining the region’s water bank way earlier than normal.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, as snow disappears earlier than normal, high-elevation vegetation will dry out faster. This will also extend the 2026 wildfire season by four to six weeks, and by June/July, it will affect farmers and cities that need water the most after the melting from the mountains has dried up.

So far, over 60 March high temperature records have been broken.

OVER 400 RECORDS BROKEN AS HISTORIC HEATWAVE ROASTS MORE THAN 40M ACROSS THE WEST WITH DANGEROUS TEMPERATURES

A heat wave is a period of abnormally hot weather that lasts for two days or more, according to the National Weather Service. Heat waves can occur with or without high humidity and they can cover a large area.

Staying cool can be challenging when out in the elements during a period of extreme heat.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to how to prepare yourself for a heat wave.

Keep lots of water and hydrating fluids on hand. Regularly consuming hydrating liquids is one of the best ways to avoid heat illness.

Have sun protection in the form of head coverings and sunscreen at the ready. Wearing sunscreen can protect you from the sun's rays. Head coverings can help avoid sunburn and keep the face and neck cooler.

7 FACTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE UV INDEX TO KEEP YOU SAFE

Make a plan to stay cool. If you need to be outside for a job or activity, is there shade nearby? Is there somewhere with air conditioning to cool down?

Know the signs of heat illness. Heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are very serious conditions. If not treated, heat stroke can lead to death.

EXTREME HEAT SAFETY: RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF HEAT ILLNESS AND HOW TO TREAT IT

Check the weather forecasts. Stay up-to-date with the latest forecasts on FOX Weather and the National Weather Service to better understand the impacts of excessive high temperatures.

If you have a medical condition that could be impacted by a prolonged period of heat, talk to your doctor about how to prepare.

Know what to do in case of a power outage. Have a plan if the power goes out. Keep a cooler and ice at the ready for any refrigerated medications and necessary food and water.

Keep windows closed and covered to keep the home cool during a period of extreme heat. As tempting as it can be to open the blinds and windows during a hot, sunny day, it can drastically increase the temperature inside a home.

Try to limit using the oven during a heat wave to reduce the temperature inside the home. Ovens can also raise the temperature.

WHAT IS A HEAT DOME?

Use air conditioning as much as possible. The National Weather Service said electric fans only work if the temperature is lower than the 90s.

Drink plenty of water. Dehydration during extreme heat is very dangerous. Stay hydrated by drinking water and electrolyte drinks to help replace the water and minerals lost while sweating, the American Red Cross said. Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.

TOP DANGERS TO WATCH OUT FOR AT THE BEACH THIS SUMMER

Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light clothing doesn't absorb sunlight as easily as dark colors do. Lightweight, breathable materials like linen, cotton and muslin are all great for hot temperatures.

Avoid high-energy activities during the day. Exercise indoors or before the sun comes up or wait until after it goes down to consider an outdoor workout.

Keep a close eye on your pets. Dogs and cats can overheat easily. Make sure you avoid long periods of outdoor exposure without shade or water and try to avoid asphalt and dark-colored pavement, so their paws don't burn.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE AND HEALTHY AS TEMPERATURES RISE

Never leave anyone or any pet inside a hot car. Even with a window open, a vehicle's interior temperature can rise very quickly. In 2024, 39 children died from heat stroke after being left in a hot car, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Take cool showers or baths to help cool down.

Heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke should always be taken seriously. Know the signs and symptoms and seek medical attention if experiencing them.

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No matter the circumstances, it's important to take heat waves seriously. Though they may be short-lived sometimes, heat waves can also last for several days, sometimes up to a week.

For more safety tips and resources, visit heat.gov.

WHAT ARE THE EL NINO AND LA NINA CLIMATE PATTERNS?

El Niño is one of three climatological phases of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) that describe natural changes in Pacific Ocean temperatures and atmospheric circulation that can greatly influence global weather.

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El Niño describes warmer conditions, while La Niña describes colder conditions, and ENSO neutral refers to a state where temperatures are close to average.

As it pertains to hurricane season, El Niño generally limits hurricane activity by increasing hostile winds that act to prevent the development of tropical systems over the Atlantic. And taken in a vacuum, the stronger the El Niño event, the more storm development is inhibited.

WHAT IS A TROPICAL STORM?

In recent weeks, some long-range forecast models have signaled an increased chance of a strong El Niño pattern forming during hurricane season.

Columbia's International Research Institute for Climate and Society (IRI), which aggregates nearly 20 different dynamical and statistical climate forecast models from around the world into a single visual summary, is much more aggressive than the past forecast for El Niño. The February outlook called for equatorial Pacific water temperatures to peak around 0.7 degrees above average, which is a weak El Niño.

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The new forecast is calling for temperatures to peak in October in strong El Niño territory (about 1.5 degrees above average). This, along with NOAA's forecast, continues to highlight the growing chance for a strong, and maybe even Super El Niño conditions during hurricane season.

During El Niño years, the Atlantic generates, on average, roughly 10 storms and five hurricanes.

Conversely, during La Niña years, the Atlantic tends to be hyperactive, generating an average of 14 storms and seven hurricanes.

However, many other factors influence storm activity during hurricane season, including sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic, which remain near or slightly above average. These warmer waters will provide fuel for storm development.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, this sets up a bit of a battle between unfavorable wind conditions caused by El Niño and the warmer ocean waters that help storms grow.

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"Even in years with a strong El Niño, the risk is never zero," the FOX Forecast Center cautioned.

As FOX Weather Hurricane Specialist Bryan Norcross often notes, even in seasons with fewer storms, it only takes one to create major impacts.

Notably, Hurricane Andrew in 1992, which killed 65 people and resulted in more than $25 billion in damages, formed during an El Niño year.

More recently, during the 2023 season, record warm sea surface temperatures offset the negative impacts of El Niño and is currently the fourth most-active season in Atlantic history.

One of those storms was Hurricane Idalia, which resulted in $3 billion in damages after it slammed into the Big Bend of Florida.

While comparing hurricane seasons is rarely an apples-to-apples match, these examples illustrate the devastating impact a single powerful storm can have.

Also key to the impact of El Niño on the upcoming hurricane season is exactly when those conditions take hold.

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According to the FOX Forecast Center, if El Niño develops quickly by mid-summer, it could limit activity during the peak of hurricane season. However, if the transition is slower, there may still be a window for early-season storms in June and July.

Around 5:15 p.m. local time, California State Parks officials said they received a report of a shark biting a 39-year-old man off Big River Beach in Mendocino Headlands State Park. Three off-duty lifeguards who were surfing nearby came to assist.

SCARED OF SHARKS? FIND OUT WHERE YOU ARE MOST LIKELY TO GET ATTACKED BY A SHARK

KTVU reported that park officials have been posting signs at nearby beaches to inform the public of the 48-hour closure, which is part of the department’s standard protocol.

Multiple agencies responded to the incident, including State Parks, CAL FIRE, the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office, the Mendocino Fire Department and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

SURFER INJURED IN FOURTH SHARK ATTACK IN 48 HOURS, CLOSING BEACHES NEAR MAJOR AUSTRALIA CITY

State park officials reminded beachgoers that sharks play an important role in the coastal ecosystem, and interactions with humans are rare, KTVU highlights.

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The victim was taken to a Fort Bragg hospital, with no update yet on his condition.

Park and wildlife authorities are investigating, and the state Department of Fish and Wildlife has collected evidence from the scene.

SURFER SURVIVES SHARK ATTACK IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA OVER MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

Local reports indicate the individual was a 61-year-old woman, though officials have not yet released the specific cause of her death.

SWISS VILLAGE BURIED AFTER GLACIER COLLAPSE

Authorities said the tragic accident occurred at the Engelberg-Titlis ski resort around 11 a.m. local time.

Video footage shows the gondola that had fallen onto the hillside as rescue crews assisted.

UPWARDS OF 70 PEOPLE RESCUED FROM STALLED GONDOLA ON NEW YORK SKI MOUNTAIN

And as the footage continues, it underscores the sheer intensity and force of the winds.

Snow can be seen whipping around so heavily at times that visibility is nearly impossible.

The cable car detached and tumbled down the mountain.

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According to reports, the resort's website advised that numerous ski transport services remain closed due to strong winds.

Local news outlet the Blick newspaper reported that several schoolchildren witnessed the fatal accident, with one student describing it as frightening to see.

Norbert Patt, CEO of Titlis Cable Cars, emphasized to the Blick newspaper that the company is committed to a thorough investigation and will provide all available data.

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He described the incident as highly unusual, noting that gondola crashes are not something that should ever happen.

This is the second time Orion and the SLS rocket will be rolled out to the launchpad at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. 

HERE'S WHY NASA WILL MONITOR THE SUN FOR SOLAR ERUPTIONS DURING ARTEMIS II MISSION

After rolling out to the launchpad in mid-January, the mission was delayed a few times following extreme cold and problems during and after two wet dress rehearsals testing the systems before launch. 

The rocket was rolled back to the Vehicle Assembly Building in late February, where it has remained while repairs were being completed. 

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NASA said in a recent press conference it doesn't plan to conduct a third wet dress rehearsal once back at the launchpad. 

Additional work on the rocket will need to be done once it makes it to the launchpad, Lori Glaze, acting associate administrator of the Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, said. 

NASA STILL ON TRACK TO LAUNCH ARTEMIS II TEST FLIGHT AFTER ROLLBACK DUE TO REPAIRS

Rollout is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. eastern on Thursday, being carried by NASA’s crawler-transporter 2 at 1 mph. The journey to the launchpad from the VAB is 4 miles long and could take up to 12 hours, NASA said. 

Meanwhile, the four astronauts crewed for the mission are in quarantine in Houston, where they will stay up until five days prior to launch day. 

At that point, they will fly to Kennedy Space Center and continue their quarantine until they launch into space. 

Tentatively, NASA plans for an April 1 launch date, with five other dates available for launch in the first week of April. 

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Artemis II will fly humans farther from Earth and closer to the Moon than they've been in 50 years, with hopes of taking humans deeper into space than ever before. 

The mission will last 10 days. 

The American Meteorological Society said the term medicane is short for Mediterranean hurricane, and it has been used for more than two decades to identify storms that develop over the Mediterranean, yet appear similar to tropical cyclones.

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They aren't typically as strong as the hurricanes you might see in the Atlantic, like Hurricane Melissa, which was a Category 5 storm that ripped through Jamaica and caused catastrophic damage.

That's because medicines form in a smaller body of water, meaning the storms have less time to intensify.

Medicane Ianos was the most intense ever recorded, comparable to a Category 2 hurricane. The storm reached one-minute wind speeds of 44 meters per second, or roughly 98 mph.

A medicane also made landfall in Libya on Tuesday. The Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies with the University of Wisconsin-Madison said the large storm forced a significant amount of dust from the Sahara to the Mediterranean.

Medicanes exhibit similar characteristics of a tropical storm, including a warm core and an eye, the institute said. With it being March, water temperatures are cooler, making it harder for a traditional tropical system to form.

Medicanes form from a mix of atmospheric processes and interactions between the ocean and the air. When the ocean–air interaction is stronger, they can develop more like hurricanes and become just as intense and damaging, according to the American Meteorological Society.

HOW ARE HURRICANES RATED? THE SAFFIR-SIMPSON HURRICANE WIND SCALE EXPLAINED

These storms are hard to predict because models don't fully capture how the ocean and atmosphere interact during very strong winds, and they can miss smaller weather features that could still have a big impact, depending on how the storm develops.

That was the case with Storm Daniel — a medicane that intensified unexpectedly just before landfall and caused catastrophic flooding in Libya. Buildings were swept away and thousands of people died as a result of that storm.

WHAT IS A TROPICAL STORM?

Another factor that contributes to the lower intensity of medicanes is Saharan dust, which can suppress the development of these storms in the Mediterranean, according to the FOX Forecast Center.

7 FACTS TO KNOW ABOUT HURRICANES

The bigger concern with medicanes is that they make landfall on very dry land, which could result in a big dust storm, or haboob.

Life-threatening dangers include violent winds capable of tearing apart homes, large, deadly debris that may become airborne, a serious risk of injury, flooding and dangerous storm surge. 

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TROPICAL DEPRESSION, TROPICAL STORM AND HURRICANE?

Local news outlets report one resident saying they can feel something coming, while another struggled to sleep as the cyclone is expected to make landfall around 7 a.m. local time on Friday.

Evacuations and school closures are already underway ahead of the threat. Approximately 500 residents of Numbulwar are being airlifted to Darwin, according to the Northern Territory Government.

Forming in the Coral Sea, the system was initially classified as a Category 2 cyclone on March 17–18 by the Bureau of Meteorology in Australia, before quickly strengthening to Category 4, and then intensifying further into a Category 5 storm on March 19. 

WHAT IS A TROPICAL STORM?

The cyclone is expected to make landfall in Far North Queensland on Friday, March 20, before tracking westward toward the eastern Northern Territory over the weekend.

In the general sense, a tropical cyclone can be described as an intense rotating storm that forms over tropical or subtropical oceans.

Specifically, it’s a warm-core low pressure system, without a front attached, that rotates in an organized circulation over the tropical ocean, according to the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 

7 FACTS TO KNOW ABOUT HURRICANES

These also include hurricanes and typhoons.

NASA said the storm system works by drawing in warm, moist air, which rises, cools, and condenses to create clouds and release heat, powering a low-pressure core and causing rapid rotation due to Earth’s spin.

"And when the wind speeds reach 74 mph, the storm is officially a ‘tropical cyclone,’ or hurricane," they said.

The Bureau of Meteorology in Australia states the following areas as under a Warning Zone: Cape York Peninsula between Lockhart River and Cape Tribulation, and between Mapoon and Pormpuraaw, including Coen, Cooktown, Weipa, and Aurukun.

And a Watch Zone includes the following: Nhulunbuy to Port McArthur, including Borroloola, Numbulwar, Alyangula, and Ngukurr.

Narelle is expected to bring sustained winds near the maximum zone at about 137 mph (220 km/h) and with wind gusts to about 196 mph (315 km/h), according to the Bureau of Meteorology in Australia.

5 DIFFERENT NAMES FOR HURRICANES AROUND THE WORLD

These winds have the capability to destroy homes and infrastructure, as well as vegetation, with such intensity that debris can become airborne, effectively turning into ‘flying missiles.’

The Bureau notes that very destructive wind gusts could exceed 155 mph (250 km/h) as it pushes across the Cape York Peninsula coast on Friday morning.

Heavy rainfall will be associated with the storm, along with large waves, likely triggering minor to dangerous flooding.

The Bureau notes that the tides in the Princess Charlotte Bay are likely to rise well above normal high tide, accompanied by destructive waves and significant flooding.

WHAT TO DO WHEN HURRICANE OR TROPICAL STORM WATCHES AND WARNINGS ARE ISSUED FOR YOUR TOWN

They also warned of possible hazardous storm tide as the center of the cyclone crosses the coast. 

The Bureau of Meteorology in Australia states that, on average, the Australian region experiences 10 tropical cyclones each season, with three to four of them making landfall, based on data from 1980 to 81 and onward.

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"There has always been at least one tropical cyclone that crosses the Australian coast each season," they said, with quiet periods usually followed by bursts of activity.

ATLANTIC 2026 HURRICANE SEASON COULD SEE MAJOR IMPACTS FROM POTENTIALLY STRONG EL NIÑO

Stay prepared by following the latest updates and tracking the storm on the Bureau of Meteorology website, where they provide detailed information on targeted areas. 

With waves of charged-up college students flocking to the Sunshine State to create memories and enjoy the warm weather for spring break, there is a dangerous threat to be aware of in Florida that is far more prehistoric in nature.

TEXAS WOMAN COMES FACE-TO-FACE WITH AN ANGRY 8-FOOT ALLIGATOR

When alligator mating season crawls around every spring, the reptiles that inhabit rivers, lakes, swamps and canals in all 67 counties are increasingly present in Florida.

Alligator mating season is no joke, and when they appear, it's important to be on alert and act accordingly to stay out of harms way.

Wildlife officials warn that during mating season, alligator activity increases tremendously as the wild animals venture out in search of courtship from early April, and mating occurs in May or June.

12-FOOT ALLIGATOR HOISTED OUT OF DITCH IN HOUSTON SUBURB: 'GREAT GRAB, GUYS!'

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, nearly all alligators become sexually mature by the time they reach approximately seven feet in length, although females can reach maturity at six feet.

During mating season, these massive predators are increasingly active, often encountering humans on their quest for companions.

Wildlife authorities say sightings of alligators in unexpected locations across the Sunshine State tend to rise this time of year, as the reptiles explore beyond their usual habitats.

WATCH: 8-FOOT GATOR INTERRUPTS PIZZA DELIVERY IN FLORIDA

In Osceola County, officers from the Osceola County Sheriff's Office wrangled a roughly 6.5-foot alligator nonchalantly lounging in a neighborhood water culvert near a school.

Officials are emphasizing the importance of keeping a safe distance from alligators and avoiding the urge to attempt to handle or approach them.

The Osceola County Sheriff's Office warned of the dangers of approaching an alligator in the wild, asking Floridians and vacationers to alert the police or other public officials that are trained to handle the wild reptiles.

For both humans and pets, officials warn to be cautious near any body of water where alligators may be on the prowl in the outdoors.

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Serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, but if you are concerned about an alligator, call the Florida Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286.

Members of the Fannin County Emergency Management Agency were called to an injured hiker on the trail who had taken refuge near a shelter at Springer Mountain.

VIDEO: TWO RESCUED AFTER HOT AIR BALLOON CRASHES INTO 920-FOOT CELL TOWER IN TEXAS

The hiker had begun his journey on Sunday and spent the night on the trail, according to a statement from the Fannin County Emergency Management Agency. After sustaining an injury and being unable to walk, the hiker made a call for help.

"While the area is a popular destination for day hikers and backpackers, the terrain is rugged, remote and access for emergency responders can be challenging," a statement from Fannin County officials reads.

Due to the rugged terrain, many sections of the Appalachian Trail near Springer Mountain require first responders to hike significant distances.

The sudden drop in temperatures in the region made this rescue mission particularly difficult. According to officials, when the hiker first began his trip, the area was around 66 degrees, but by the time rescuers reached him, temperatures had dropped to 26 degrees, and it was snowing.

NEW YORK OFFICIALS WARN RESIDENTS AS SALAMANDERS, FROGS BEGIN ANNUAL SPRING MIGRATION AS TEMPERATURES CLIMB

First responders reached the injured hiker and escorted him safely to an ambulance, which was waiting for further evaluation. 

This made the already tough conditions even more difficult as light snow accumulated on the ground, hindering first responders' efforts.

This incident serves as a reminder that conditions in the North Georgia mountains can change rapidly, especially this time of year," said officials in a Facebook post.

HERE'S WHAT TO DO IF YOU ENCOUNTER A GRIZZLY BEAR AS FIRST ONE EMERGES FROM HIBERNATION AT YELLOWSTONE

Officials suggest these safety tips when planning a hike:

Artemis II, the NASA lunar test flight that will carry four astronauts around the moon on a 10-day mission, has a target launch date of April 1.

NASA STILL ON TRACK TO LAUNCH ARTEMIS II TEST FLIGHT AFTER ROLLBACK DUE TO REPAIRS

While in space, the astronauts will be at an increased risk of radiation exposure from the sun's solar activity because they will not be protected by Earth's magnetic field, NASA said.

Orion will serve as the main protection for NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen while they're in space.

But NASA and NOAA will do their part during the mission by watching the sun, helping to make real-time decisions based on space weather conditions to help keep the astronauts safe. 

Experts will watch for solar flares and coronal mass ejections.

A coronal mass ejection (CME) is an enormous cloud of electrically charged gas, called plasma, that erupts from the sun, according to NASA.

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One single CME can blast billions of tons of material into the solar system all at once and occur in the sun's outer atmosphere.

Solar flares are the most powerful eruptions in the solar system. The strongest solar flares can unleash more energy than a billion hydrogen bombs, NASA said.

The primary concern for the astronauts during these events are the solar particle events they can trigger.

If a solar particle event happens near the Artemis II crew, it can raise radiation levels inside the spacecraft.

NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center team will track any solar eruptions, measuring how large they are, how fast they're moving and how likely they are to generate energetic particles that will cross Orion’s path, NASA said.

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The teams will use real-time data from sun-watching spacecraft across the solar system to monitor the sun.

One such spacecraft is the Mars Perseverance Rover, which can look at the far side of the sun, where Earth has no view, NASA said.

WHAT IS A SOLAR FLARE?

The rover’s Mastcam-Z cameras can give NASA’s space weather teams a view of the largest sunspots up to two weeks in advance, so the team can monitor and prepare for possible solar flares.

NASA said the gradual rise in radiation caused by a solar particle event gives analysts time to evaluate the situation.

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Inside Orion, six radiation sensors measure dose rates in different parts of the cabin. If radiation levels increase, Orion’s onboard systems display warnings accompanied by an audible alarm.

Too high lifetime radiation exposure can increase risks for certain cancers or health disorders that could impair cognition and performance.

NASA will monitor dosage levels inside Orion, and alert for low threshold markers, signaling caution and prompting close monitoring, as well as high threshold markers, which will require the crew to take shelter.

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NASA said one such way the Artemis II crew will be able to help shield themselves during a particle event will be by taking equipment from storage bays around the cabin and securing them to the walls to add mass between the event and the astronauts.

"Once crews add mass to the places that tend to be hotter in terms of radiation exposure, they can then continue to go about their duties," Stuart George, a space radiation analyst at NASA Johnson, said.

Artemis II astronauts also wear personal radiation trackers called crew active dosimeters.

Radiation exposure occurs naturally when in space, as astronauts must go through Earth’s radiation belts and galactic cosmic rays.

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Together, the radiation exposure from these sources is expected to be comparable to a one-month stay on the International Space Station, or about 5% of an astronaut’s career limit, NASA said.

NASA said any additional radiation exposure from solar events would add to the baseline radiation exposure from the belts and the galactic cosmic rays.

In 2026, the spring equinox, known as the vernal equinox, will occur on March 20, at 7:46 a.m. EDT.

Spring officially begins in the Northern Hemisphere on March 20 with the vernal equinox, when the world experiences equal amounts of daylight and darkness.

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Despite this, some experts define the timing of this season differently.

Astronomical seasons occur because of the tilt of the Earth's axis and the positions of the planets during their orbits around the sun, according to NASA.

Meteorological seasons follow the changes of the calendar from month to month and are based on the annual temperature cycle.

WHY SPRING EQUINOX AURORAS SHINE BRIGHTEST IN MARCH AND WHERE TO CATCH THEM

Only two times in the year, the Earth's axis is tilted neither toward nor away from the sun, resulting in a nearly equal amount of daylight and darkness at all latitudes, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

This sort of event is called an equinox, derived from the Latin words aequus (equal) and nox (night).

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The vernal equinox is the astronomical beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. Seasons are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere, where it would be autumn for locations such as Australia.

During the vernal equinox, the sun passes directly above the equator, which would entail 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of night, according to NASA.

This will last for several days before and after the equinox.

Of course, we all know that Earth rotates around the sun once every 365 days, which helps determine seasons based on the planet's tilt.

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Seasons are caused by the fact that the Earth is tilted on its vertical axis by 23.5 degrees, and because of this tilt, most sunlight is aimed at the Southern Hemisphere during astronomical winter and at the Northern Hemisphere during our astronomical summer.

On the vernal equinox in March and the autumnal equinox in September, the equator (0 degrees latitude) is aligned directly with the sun, which gives us those near-perfect 12 hours of day and night.

Simply put, the two solstices and two equinoxes are precise moments in time when the sun is in direct alignment with a distinct band of latitude.

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Following the March equinox, observers anywhere on Earth can see the sun’s path in the sky continue to move farther north every day until the June solstice.

Across the state, hundreds of first responders are in action battling against multiple raging blazes as a historic fire outbreak explodes into a full-scale emergency, triggering evacuations while threatening life and property across impacted areas.

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The historic wildfire, coined the Morrill Fire, was first discovered on the morning of March 13 and has since burned over 643,361 acres across a massive swath of western Nebraska, impacting Morrill, Garden, Arthur, Keith and Grant counties.

The official cause of the wildfire is officially undetermined, as hundreds of firefighting personnel continue to battle the fire. As of Tuesday night, the blaze is 16% contained.

Amid what Governor Jim Pillen called "one of the worst natural disasters in Nebraska history," crews continue to battle numerous wildfires that have killed at least one person.

The deadly fire claimed the life of a Nebraska grandmother, 86-year-old Rose White, of Arthur, who died trying to escape the raging wildfire, Gov. Pillen announced in a press conference on Saturday.

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Gov. Pillen declared a state of emergency in response to the devastating wildfires across impacted areas, as high winds and low humidity fueled the explosion of the fire earlier this week, prompting evacuations in Nebraska and across state borders.

On top of hundreds of state and local fire departments and emergency response agencies combating the raging blaze, members of the Nebraska National Guard have been deployed to assist in combating the raging blazes.

HISTORIC HEAT WAVE BREAKS RECORDS ACROSS SOUTHWEST AS EXTREME HEAT WARNINGS PERSIST FOR MILLIONS

"We are making progress, but the fight isn’t over. My thanks to all the firefighters, guardsmen, aviators and others who are tirelessly working the line, as well as everyone supporting them," Gov. Pillen wrote in a post on X on Wednesday.

The historic Morrill Fire isn't the only blaze burning across Nebraska as dangerous fire weather provided the necessary ingredients for a frenzy of fires across the state.

As the Morrill Fire burns across western Nebraska, the Cottonwood Fire poses a dangerous threat to south-central Nebraska.

First observed on March 15, the Cottonwood Fire has burned 131,259 acres and is 40% contained as of Tuesday night.

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In total, over 800,000 acres have been scorched across Nebraska as numerous wildfires have burned across the state, with local and state officials working around the clock to contain the fires amid the unprecedented outbreak.

In the wake of the devastating fires have Gov. Pillen signed an executive order to provide emergency relief to farmers and ranchers that have had livestock feed and supplies "severely impacted."

"Nebraska’s producers are facing a real need right now, and we have the responsibility to stand with our farmers and ranchers," Gov. Pillen wrote on X.

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Other notable fires in the dangerous outbreak include the Road 203 Fire, which has scorched more than 35,000 acres across Thomas, Custer, Logan and Blaine Counties in central Nebraska and was 76% contained as of Wednesday morning.

The Anderson Bridge Fire, which erupted March 12 in the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest, has burned 17,400 acres and is 60% contained.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved Fire Management Assistance Grants to support response efforts for wildfires in Nebraska, along with additional fires across several Plains states. The funding is intended to help state and local authorities protect lives and property.

The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency received reports of 24 wildfires in 24 hours on Friday as dangerous weather concerns linger into the week.

Red Flag Warnings are in place across areas of western Nebraska through Wednesday and into Thursday as the fire threat persists.

According to the National Weather Service, a Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly.

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A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

Despite strong winds developing as expected on Tuesday, neither the Merrill nor Cottonwood fires grew notably beyond their perimeters, the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency said.

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With temperatures up to 80 degrees, wind gusts up to 30 mph and relative humidity as low as 17%, the ingredients for dangerous fire remain a concern as the historic wildfire outbreak continues to threaten the Great Plains.

With the Morrill Fire, at nearly 650,000 acres, and the Cottonwood Fire, over 120,000 acres, even marginal wind increases pose a significant risk to containment lines, according to the FOX Forecast Center.

In the heat of the threat, the U.S. Wildland and Fire Service listed a few steps to help prevent wildfires and protect your community:

This event occurs twice a year during the spring and fall equinoxes, when the center of the sun crosses the plane of our planet’s equator.

WHY SPRING EQUINOX AURORAS SHINE BRIGHTEST IN MARCH AND WHERE TO CATCH THEM

During the equinoxes, the sun will rise and set in between the city’s skyscrapers, creating a picture-perfect view for residents.

The first "Chicagohenge" is set to occur between March 20 and 23, while the second one will happen between Sept. 19 and 22.

Equinoxes are associated with the changing seasons, occurring twice a year, in March and September. Depending on where you are located, it can either mean nights and gloomy weather or nicer temperatures and more sunlight.

The day an equinox occurs, observers close to the equator will see the sun directly overhead at noon.

Once the equinox passes, viewers will see the sun’s path in the sky continue its movement further north every day until the June solstice, after which it begins traveling south.

The sun will cross the equator plane again in September, and will travel south until the December solstice.

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It will then head back north and begin the cycle again.

The movement of the sun is why the March equinox is referred to the northward equinox, and the September equinox is known as the southward equinox.

A "Chicagohenge" is not the only phenomenon that occurs during an equinox.

A "Manhattanhenge," similar to the "Chicagohenge," occurs twice a year when the sun aligns with the Manhattan streets.

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This event typically takes place in May and July.

There is also the "Baltimorehenge" that happens in March and September around the same time as the "Chicagohenge."

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Then there is the "Torontohenge" that occurs in February and October.