SKYE on AOL http://weather.aol.com SKYE on AOL http://weather.aol.com/media/feedlogo.gif SKYE on AOL http://weather.aol.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Today's 10 Must-See Photos: 5-18-2013http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/18/todays-10-must-see-photos-5-18-2013/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/18/todays-10-must-see-photos-5-18-2013/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/18/todays-10-must-see-photos-5-18-2013/#comments
  • AP Photo/Anja Niedringhaus
    1 of 10
    Afghan children peer through a fence that surrounds a swimming pool on a hill overlooking Kabul, Afghanistan, Friday, May 17, 2013. The swimming pool build by the Soviets more then 30 years ago has rarely been used, caught instead in the middle of decades of war.
  • Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty Images
    2 of 10
    Spectators leave the stands as the semi-final match opposing Victoria Azarenka of Bulgaria to Sara Errani of Italy is interrupted by the rain at the Rome Masters on May 18, 2013.
  • AP Photo/The St. Joseph News-Press, Sait Serkan Gurbuz
    3 of 10
    Eric Duncan of Rockport (Mo.) High School competes in the Class 1 division of the long jump at Dwight T. Reed Stadium of Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Mo., on the first day of the Missouri State High School Track and Field Championships on Friday, May 17, 2013.
  • AP Photo/Eranga Jayawardena
    4 of 10
    Sri Lankan government soldiers march in a war victory parade in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Saturday, May 18, 2013. The military parade is being held to commemorate the 4th year anniversary of the government's victory over Tamil Tiger rebels. In 2009, the Tamil Tigers admitted defeat in their 25-year war with the Sri Lankan government that left more than 70,000 people dead.
  • AP Photo/The Connecticut Post, Christian Abraham)
    5 of 10
    Emergency workers arrive the scene of a train collision, Friday, May 17, 2013 in Fairfield, Conn. A New York-area commuter railroad says two trains have collided in Connecticut. The railroad says the accident involved a New York-bound train leaving New Haven. It derailed and hit a westbound train near Fairfield, Conn. Some cars on the second train also derailed.
  • AP Photo/Patrick Semansky
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    Trainer Shug McGaughey leads Kentucky Derby winner Orb, with exercise rider Jennifer Patterson aboard, out of a barn at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Saturday, May 18, 2013, for a workout on the morning of the 138th running of the Preakness Stakes horse race.
  • AP Photo/Majdi Mohammed
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    A Palestinian hurls stones at Israeli forces, not seen, as tear gas fumes swirl in background, during a protest against the expansion of the nearby Jewish settlement Ofra outside the village of Deir Jarir near Ramallah, Friday, May 17, 2013.
  • AP Photo/Keith Srakocic
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    Houston Astros shortstop Jake Elmore, left, and right fielder Jimmy Paredes collide and the ball gets loose as they try to catch a pop fly by Pittsburgh Pirates' Russell Martin with the bases loaded and two outs in the ninth inning of a baseball game Friday, May 17, 2013, in Pittsburgh. The error allowed the winning run in the Pirates' 5-4 victory.
  • AP Photo/Lee Jin-man
    9 of 10
    Buddhists gather under lanterns during a service to celebrate Buddha's birthday at Jogye temple in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, May 17, 2013. Many Buddhists visit temples nationally to celebrate Buddha's 2557th Birthday and pray with their wishes.
  • AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty
    10 of 10
    Next: 10 Amazing Underwater Surfing Photos
    Marc Pelletier, of Biddeford, Maine, uses a power sprayer while cleaning the Emilee Savannah, a lobster boat he works on as a sternman, Friday, May 17, 2013, at Camp Ellis in Saco, Maine. The 34-foot fishing boat was beached in order to scrape and paint the hull during low tide in preparation for the upcoming lobstering season.

 

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]]>co-gallerygallery-widePhotosSKYE Editors2013-05-18T10:15:00+00:00Preakness Will Not be as Wet as Kentucky Derbyhttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/18/preakness-will-not-be-as-wet-as-kentucky-derby/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/18/preakness-will-not-be-as-wet-as-kentucky-derby/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/18/preakness-will-not-be-as-wet-as-kentucky-derby/#commentsWhile there is a threat for a shower in spots in Baltimore, on Saturday, it should not be a washout like the day of the Kentucky Derby.

The best chance for spotty showers will be during the afternoon and evening hours, so a shower at the time of the Preakness Stakes, which is 6:20 p.m. EDT, is not out of the question.

"It will not compare to the Kentucky Derby, where the track was soaking wet and muddy," AccuWeather Expert Senior Meteorologist Brett Anderson said. "Expect a fast track."

The high will reach 70 degrees, which is about 5 degrees shy of the normal high in Baltimore.

"It will be very comfortable temperature-wise," Anderson said. People enjoying the Infieldfest will not need to worry about bringing jackets or layers as temperatures from opening time, 8:00 a.m. EDT Saturday, will already be around 60 degrees.

Oxbow, with an exercise rider aboard, gallops at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Friday, May 17, 2013. The Preakness Stakes horse race is scheduled to take place May 18. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)

PHOTOS ON SKYE: Incredible Natural-Disaster Photos from Space

 

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]]>co-articleAccuWeather2013-05-18T09:00:00+00:00Alaska Volcano Shoots Ash 15,000 Feet Into the Airhttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/18/alaska-volcano-shoots-ash-15-000-feet-into-the-air/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/18/alaska-volcano-shoots-ash-15-000-feet-into-the-air/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/18/alaska-volcano-shoots-ash-15-000-feet-into-the-air/#comments
The Pavlof volcano erupts Thursday, May 16, 2013, as seen from the air from the southwest in Cold Bay, Alaska. (AP Photo/Alaskan Volcano Observatory, Theo Chesley)

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) - One of Alaska's most restless volcanoes shot an ash cloud 15,000 feet into the air Friday in an ongoing eruption that is visible for miles when the weather allows.

An air traffic controller in the region said small planes have flown around the plumes from Pavlof Volcano. Ash would have to rise tens of thousands of feet to threaten larger planes.

The eruption began Monday, and a photograph shows lava spraying out from the summit of the volcano, located 625 miles southwest of Anchorage. The Alaska Volcano Observatory said clouds of ash, steam and gas have occasionally reached the 20,000-foot level and have been visible from the nearby communities of Cold Bay and Sand Point.

Onsite seismic instruments have detected an increase in the force of tremors from the 8,262-foot volcano.

"It's definitely kicking right along," John Power, the U.S. Geological Survey scientist in charge at the observatory, said Friday.

A mining camp 50 miles northeast of the volcano reported a light ash fall Tuesday evening, according to the observatory.

Residents of Cold Bay, about 40 miles from Pavlof, are concerned the ash could damage their power generators, air traffic controller John Maxwell said Friday. But so far, the wind has blown the ash away from the area, he said.

"Everybody is thinking about it," Maxwell said. "Not that anybody is afraid they're going to be like Mount Vesuvius and turned into little mummies."

Mike Tickle, manager of the local fuel terminal, said his wife woke him up Wednesday night to tell him she saw a splatter of lava spurting from Pavlof. He hustled to get his camera, but by the time he went to have a look, all that remained was a red glow.

"It's been overcast since then," he said.

RELATED ON SKYE: Stunning Aerial Photo Shows Erupting Alaska Volcano

Typically, Pavlof eruptions are gas-rich fountains of lava that can shoot up to a few thousand feet. But its ash clouds are usually less dense than the plumes of more explosive volcanoes that pose a greater hazard to aircraft, scientists say.

Pavlof is among the most active volcanoes in the Aleutian arc, with nearly 40 known eruptions, according to the observatory.

The volcano last erupted in 2007. During the 29-day eruption, Pavlof emitted mud flows and erupting lava, as well as ash clouds up to 18,000 feet high, according to Power.

In early May, Cleveland Volcano, on an uninhabited island in the Aleutian Islands, experienced a low-level eruption. Satellite imagery shows the volcano has continued to discharge steam, gas and heat in the past week. New analysis of earlier images showed a small lava flow going over the southeast rim of the summit crater, the observatory said.

There has been no new imagery in recent days because of overcast skies in the area, Power said.

No ash clouds have been detected in more than a week from Cleveland, which is not monitored with seismic instruments.

The volcano is a 5,675-foot peak on a remote island 940 miles southwest of Anchorage. Cleveland's most recent significant eruption began in February 2001 and sent ash clouds up to 39,000 feet above sea level. It also produced a rocky lava flow and hot debris that reached the sea.

PHOTOS ON SKYE: Pavlof Volcano's Breathtaking Eruption

 

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]]>co-articleEarthVolcanoesAssociated Press2013-05-18T08:19:00+00:00Photos: Surfers Ride Massive Waves at Teahupoo in Tahitihttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/photos-surfers-ride-massive-waves-at-teahupoo-in-tahiti/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/photos-surfers-ride-massive-waves-at-teahupoo-in-tahiti/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/photos-surfers-ride-massive-waves-at-teahupoo-in-tahiti/#comments

 

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]]>co-gallerygallery-wideSurfingSKYE Editors2013-05-17T18:53:00+00:0010 Hidden Dangers in Your Homehttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/10-hidden-dangers-in-your-home/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/10-hidden-dangers-in-your-home/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/10-hidden-dangers-in-your-home/#comments
  • 1 of 11

    If you're a homeowner, you undoubtedly work hard to protect your home. But homes face all sorts of threats, some less obvious than others. Being armed with knowledge about these dangers can save your house, and in some cases, even your family.

    Click through to learn about 10 hidden dangers in your home. 

  • Angela Schmeidel Randall via Flickr
    2 of 11

    Toxic Mold

    Toxic mold, or black mold, is one of the greatest dangers in homes, because it's often hidden behind walls or bathroom tiles. Its presence can cause severe illness, including headaches, flu-like symptoms and, in rare cases, death.

    The mold typically begins to accumulate where excess water is present. Water often comes from a leaking pipe, roof or even clogged gutters. You can often tell if you have toxic mold because you'll smell a musty odor. If you also have physical symptoms, you should also investigate for mold.

    If you have toxic mold, the Center for Disease Control offers guidelines for cleaning small outbreaks. But if the mold growth is extreme or if you are concerned that you can't take care of it yourself, hire a professional with mold-cleaning expertise to do the job.   

  • akeg via Flickr
    3 of 11

    Roof and Gutter Problems

    Proper gutter and roof maintenance is essential to home safety. In winter, a clogged gutter can lead to ice damming, which can cause roof leaks, as well as an overflow of water at your home's foundation. Obstructions left in a gutter during any season can cause rainwater to puddle around the edge of the roof and foundation, which can lead to leaks and flooding. Foundation cracks and rotting wood can also result from excess water. 

    Clear your gutters and drainspouts of debris regularly - at least twice a year - to avoid damage. 

  • rport via Flickr
    4 of 11

    Poor Pipe Maintenance

    Poorly maintained pipes can lead to pipes freezing, cracking and flooding, and that can cause costly damage to your home. Keep your pipes insulated with a foam sleeve, and during winter, turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets. Be sure to keep the taps open; this will relieve internal pressure in the pipes caused by temperature changes.

    Also, poorly maintained pipes can become clogged or develop cracks. A pipe with a crack as small as 1/8 of an inch can leak up to 250 gallons of water a day, while clogged pipes can become breeding grounds for dangerous molds.

    To detect plumbing problems before they become severe, schedule seasonal inspections with a licensed plumbing contractor.   

  • Velo Steve via Flickr
    5 of 11

    Faulty Wiring

    If you've experienced any of the following, it may indicate faulty wiring in your home: dimming lights, discolored or melting light socket fittings, shocks from electrical appliances, frequently blown fuses or excessive sparking when a light is turned on.

    Faulty electrical wiring can be extremely dangerous, leading to electrocution or fires. If you suspect a problem, call a licensed electrician immediately to examine and, if necessary, repair your wiring. 

  • Inkyhack via Flickr
    6 of 11

    Improper Construction Methods

    Improper house construction can lead to cracks in the foundation. These cracks can create problems that include cracking sheet rock, swelling door frames and window jams.

    Cracks in the foundation can also lead to water entering your house and causing mildew to form. The worst-case scenario is total foundation failure, in which your foundation walls bow until they give way and your home collapses.

    If you detect cracks in the foundation - even if they're minor - contact a contractor to assess the damage and make repairs.

  • AdamsDropBox via Flickr
    7 of 11

    Power Surges

    When lightning strikes occur, they can increase the electrical charge in power lines, which can send a power surge through your home's wiring, appliances and electronics, even if the strike occurred a mile away from your house.

    The surge can damage your appliances and electronics, and - in the worst cases - spark fires. To help prevent damage from surges, unplug appliances and electronics during electrical storms.

    In case you aren't available to unplug electronics, remember to keep them plugged into a surge suppressor, which diverts the heightened current into a grounding wire. But keep in mind that suppressors cannot be guaranteed to protect your electronics in the event of a lightning strike.

  • Rev. Xanatos Satanicos Bombasticos (ClintJCL) via Flickr
    8 of 11

    Dirty Chimney

    Keep your home's chimney clean, clear and well-maintained. If you don't, the consequences can be dangerous and even deadly. When there are gaps or cracks in your chimney flue, noxious gasses that contain carbon monoxide or soot can drift into your home rather than be vented out. These gasses can lead to asphyxiation.

    Additionally, if large amounts of soot have built up in your chimney, they can catch fire. To help prevent fires and other dangers, have your chimney professionally cleaned at least once a year, or more if you use it frequently.

    When hiring a chimney sweep, be sure to look for someone who is accredited with the National Chimney Sweep Guild or the Chimney Safety Institute of America. These organizations can also help you locate professional chimney inspectors and repairmen. 

  • puuikibeach via Flickr
    9 of 11

    Dryer Vent Fires

    Failure to properly clean and maintain your dryer vent can lead to fire. As lint collects in the lint trap and dryer vent, it can cause the dryer to operate at a high temperature, possibly overheating and in the worst cases, causing a fire.

    To prevent fires, clean your lint trap before and after using the dryer, and clean dryer ducts regularly. It's also important to use metal ducts rather than foil or plastic ducts, which are known to sag, trapping lint. Also, if a fire were to occur, a metal duct would be more likely to keep it contained.

    Remember to regularly clean inside, behind and underneath your dryer, because lint can also accumulate there over time.   

  • djaquay via Flickr
    10 of 11

    Gas Grills

    Before you fire up the barbecue at your next cookout, consider this: Gas grills are involved in an average of 3,400 home fires each year, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

    The liquid petroleum gas or propane used in gas grills is extremely flammable; a leaky or clogged gas-supply hose can lead to fires or explosions. Additionally, the heat and flames from a grill that's too close to a house or in an enclosed porch can pose a danger.

    To help prevent fires, check your gas-supply hose regularly for cracks and clogs from insects or grease, and always place your grill at least 10 feet from your home in an area with no overhead obstructions.    

  • Derek Keats via Flickr
    11 of 11
    Next: 10 Items to Keep in Your Car for Emergencies

    Termites

    Termites have been called a silent destroyer, because many homeowners don't realize they suffer from an infestation until it is too late.

    You can recognize the presence of termites by either seeing the creatures, finding piles of discarded wings, or by seeing mud tunnels along your home's foundation or in your crawlspace or interior walls.

    Although most people understand the dangers that termites pose, they don't often take steps to prevent termites from thriving in their home's wood.

    Most homeowner's insurance policies won't cover termite damage, but you can sometimes sign annual contracts with pest-control agencies that will inspect your home regularly and, if an infestation is discovered, treat it at a reduced cost.  

 

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]]>co-galleryHomeSKYE Editors2013-05-17T12:37:00+00:0013 Animal Photos from Nat Geo's 2013 Traveler Photo Contesthttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/13-animal-photos-from-nat-geos-travelers-2013-photo-contest/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/13-animal-photos-from-nat-geos-travelers-2013-photo-contest/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/13-animal-photos-from-nat-geos-travelers-2013-photo-contest/#comments

 

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]]>Animalsco-galleryEarthgallery-wideTravelSKYE Editors2013-05-17T12:00:00+00:00Today's 10 Must-See Photos: 5-17-2013http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/todays-10-must-see-photos-5-17-2013/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/todays-10-must-see-photos-5-17-2013/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/todays-10-must-see-photos-5-17-2013/#comments
  • Interior/Twitter
    1 of 10

    The US Department of Interior tweeted this photo of the Milky Way seen over Rocky Mountain National Park, and wrote, "A beautiful shot of the #MilkyWay over Rocky Mountain National Park. #Colorado pic.twitter.com/rFB8WwkyL3"

  • AP Photo/Star-Telegram,Ron T. Ennis
    2 of 10
    A home in Cleburne, Texas, has portions of its roof missing on Thursday, May 16. Ten tornadoes touched down in several small communities in North Texas, leaving at least six people dead, dozens injured and hundreds homeless.
  • AP Photo/Patrick Semansky
    3 of 10

    Oxbow, with an exercise rider aboard, gallops at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Friday, May 17. The Preakness Stakes horse race is scheduled to take place May 18.

  • AP Photo/Alaskan Volcano Observatory, Theo Chesley
    4 of 10
    The Pavlof volcano is seen erupting from the air southwest of Cold Bay, Alaska, on Thursday, May 16.
  • NASA/JPL-Caltech
    5 of 10

    NASA's Mars rover Curiosity's arm is seen over the drilling target "Cumberland" on May 15. The rover team plans to use Curiosity's drill to collect a powdered sample from the interior of the rock for analysis by laboratory instruments inside the rover.

  • AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty
    6 of 10

    A pair of tree swallows circle their nesting box, Thursday, May 16, at the Scarborough Marsh in Scarborough, Maine.

  • AP Photo/Ted S. Warren
    7 of 10
    A blue sky begins to emerge from early morning clouds and fog as the Simpson Tacoma Kraft Company pulp and paper mill operates along with cargo container cranes at the Port of Tacoma, Thursday, May 16, in Tacoma, Wash.
  • Cmdr_Hadfield/Twitter
    8 of 10

    Astronaut Chris Hadfield tweeted this photo of the sunrise that he took while aboard the International Space Station on May 16. He wrote, "Today's photo is sunrise, the windows glinting and solar array gilded in the unbelievably harsh morning light. pic.twitter.com/zR5zo1AsyB"

  • JoeRoche/Twitter
    9 of 10
    Joe Roche tweeted this photo of a rainbow in South Dakota on May 16, and wrote, "Wicked cool rainbow in the @BlackHills of @southdakota #IcanSeeClearlyNow pic.twitter.com/q2BemMrB2D"
  • AP Photo/Kin Cheung
    10 of 10
    Next: Today's 10 Must-See Photos: 5-16-2013
    Participants show their heads through holes in a large white fabric as part of the exhibition "A Journal of the Plague Year. Fear, Ghosts, Rebels. SARS, Leslie and the Hong Kong Story" in Hong Kong on Friday, May 17. 

 

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]]>co-gallerygallery-widePhotosSKYE Editors2013-05-17T11:24:00+00:00Photos: Pavlof Volcano's Breathtaking Eruptionhttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/photos-pavlof-volcanos-breathtaking-eruption/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/photos-pavlof-volcanos-breathtaking-eruption/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/photos-pavlof-volcanos-breathtaking-eruption/#comments
  • Theo Chesley/Alaskan Volcano Observatory/AP Photo
    1 of 6

    In this photo provided by the Alaskan Volcano Observatory, the Pavlof volcano erupts Thursday, May 16, 2013, as seen from the air from the southwest in Cold Bay, Alaska.

  • Brett Scarola/Life thru a Lens
    2 of 6

    Photographer Brett Scarola captured this image of Pavlof Volcano erupting while flying from Anchorage to Unalaska on May 15.

  • Rachel Kremer/Alaskan Volcano Observatory/AP Photo
    3 of 6

    In this photo provided by the Alaskan Volcano Observatory, the Pavlof volcano erupts Thursday, May 16, 2013, as seen from the air from the southwest in Cold Bay, Alaska. Lava fountaining is visible near the summit, and steam and ash clouds rise from the northwest flank where a lava flow advances down the slope.

  • Brandon Wilson/AP Photo
    4 of 6

    A photo made by Brandon Wilson and provided by the Alaska Volcano Observatory shows steam and the fresh lava flow on the north side of the volcano late Monday, May 13, 2013, in Alaska. Pavlof is the second Alaska volcano to erupt this month.

  • Wikimedia
    5 of 6

    Steam and volcanic gas rising from the summit crater of 8,264-ft-high Pavlof Volcano on the Alaska Peninsula. Pavlof is one of the most active of Alaska's volcanoes with nearly 40 historical eruptions.

  • USFWS
    6 of 6
    Next: Breathtaking Volcanic Eruptions Seen from Space

    This image of Pavlof Volcano in the Alaska Peninsula National Wildlife Refuge was taken on July 7, 2004.

 

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]]>co-galleryPhotosSKYE Editors2013-05-17T10:35:00+00:00Severe Weekend Weather Threat for the Plainshttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/severe-weekend-weather-threat-for-the-plains/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/severe-weekend-weather-threat-for-the-plains/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/severe-weekend-weather-threat-for-the-plains/#comments

Severe weather will continue into the weekend across the Plains.

Thunderstorms will develop in South Dakota and Nebraska late in the day Friday and will continue into Friday night as an area of low pressure gathers in the Plains.

These thunderstorms will be capable of producing torrential downpours, large hail and damaging wind gusts.

Heavy downpours from these storms can lead to localized flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas and areas with poor drainage.

Tornadoes are not expected with these storms; however, wind gusts up to 65 mph may knock over trees and power lines.

The threat of severe weather will expand across the Plains heading into the weekend as the area of low pressure continues to develop.

The area that will be affected by severe weather on Saturday will stretch from South Dakota down into the Texas Panhandle.

RELATED:
Six Dead, Dozens Injured From Massive Texas Tornado
AccuWeather.com Severe Weather Center
Texas Outbreak Shows It Only Takes One

The severe weather threat Saturday will be similar to that of the storms Friday, producing hail and damaging winds.

This area of severe weather will shift east Sunday with hail, damaging winds and the added threat of tornadoes.

 

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]]>co-articleAccuWeather2013-05-17T08:52:00+00:00Christie Unveils Buyout Offer to NJ Flood Victimshttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/christie-unveils-buyout-offer-to-nj-flood-victims/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/christie-unveils-buyout-offer-to-nj-flood-victims/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/christie-unveils-buyout-offer-to-nj-flood-victims/#comments
This Oct. 30, 2012, file photo shows an aerial view of damage to the New Jersey shoreline following Superstorm Sandy. (AP Photo/U.S. Air Force, Master Sgt. Mark C. Olsen, File)

SAYREVILLE, N.J. (AP) - Some 350 homeowners in the central New Jersey towns of Sayreville and South River whose properties have flooded repeatedly will be eligible to sell their homes in the first phase of a new federally funded buyback program, Gov. Chris Christie announced Thursday.

Christie returned to the community of Sayreville, which was heavily flooded during Superstorm Sandy, to announce the $300 million buyback. The money will be enough to buy back nearly 1,000 homes in targeted communities along the Raritan River, Passaic River basin and the Jersey Shore. The homes that the government buys will be razed and the property maintained as wetlands to help protect against future floods. The program is voluntary.

A second round of funding is expected in September, Christie said. It will allow the program to expand to other flood-prone areas. Woodbridge was one community mentioned, where 200 willing homeowners have already applied.

Christie said Environmental Protection Department would target clusters of homes or whole neighborhoods, not individual homes, so neighbors might need to get together, perhaps throw a party, to convince holdouts in the target zone to go along.

"I think you know what I'm saying," the governor told the capacity crowd at an elementary school, "use the gentle persuasion that New Jerseyans are known for to get things going.'"

Property appraisals will begin in June, the governor said. Offers to willing sellers will start in July and all closings will happen within a year. Christie did not say how much homeowners would be offered, other than that they would be given "fair value."

The buyout program will begin with about 350 eligible properties in Sayreville and neighboring South River.

Sayreville, surrounded by the Raritan River, Raritan Bay and the South River in Middlesex County, was among the first towns Christie visited after Superstorm Sandy in late October. About 270 homes in the town were destroyed or severely damaged, and a wastewater pumping station was wrecked.

Christie said when he toured the wreckage afterward, devastated homeowners told him, "Get us out of here. We can't take it anymore."

"When the folks of New Jersey tell you that, you have to listen," Christie said.

On the other hand, no one will be forced to sell and no community will be required to participate.

"It's up to these communities to make the tough decisions on whether to sell or rebuild," DEP Commissioner Bob Martin said. He said the decision is personal and emotional for people "who were decimated by Sandy and may have also suffered damage in previous storms, but who still love where they live."

Christie, who wore a trademark fleece jacket in the days after Superstorm Sandy, was presented with a fleece Thursday by Elaine Konopka, who attended the town hall. She said she was "really appreciative" of the governor's efforts in the aftermath of the storm.

The buyback will be part of the state's Blue Acres program, which was established more than 15 years ago to buy lands in the Delaware, Passaic and Raritan river basins.

RELATED ON SKYE: 25 Indelible Images from Superstorm Sandy
Superstorm Sandy

 

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]]>co-articleAssociated Press2013-05-17T08:28:00+00:00Firefighters Battle Flames, Terrain, North of LAhttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/firefighters-battle-flames-terrain-north-of-la/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/firefighters-battle-flames-terrain-north-of-la/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/firefighters-battle-flames-terrain-north-of-la/#commentsUpdated Friday, May 17, 2013, 6:06 p.m. ET

A firefighter watches a backfire set in Hungry Valley State Park to halt the progress of the Grand fire, which charred more than 3,000 acres of wildlands near Frazier Park on Wednesday, May 15, 2013. (AP Photo/Los Angeles Times, Luis Sinco)

FRAZIER PARK, Calif. (AP) - Firefighters had to battle terrain as much as flames as they worked to surround a wildfire burning for a third day in harsh hills and mountains north of Los Angeles.

Temperatures dipped Thursday and remained cool Friday, but winds exceeding 20 mph continued to swirl, and much of the blaze that has blackened more than 6 square miles was in rocky, rugged, difficult-to-reach places, making containment a challenge.

After a heavy aerial firefighting effort, the blaze was 35 percent contained Friday.

Meanwhile, 30 miles away, a second blaze broke out Friday afternoon in rural Castaic, briefly threatening an elementary school.

Although it quickly grew to consume 40 acres of light brush, firefighters attacking the flames from the ground and air steered it away from Northlake Hills Elementary School.

The campus was put on lockdown and buses were put on standby for a time in case hundreds of kindergarten through fifth-grade students needed to be evacuated.

After the flames were redirected, Los Angeles County sheriff's Sgt. Brian Allen said the students were released to their parents without incident.

Firefighters didn't immediately know how the blaze started.

The Frazier Park fire broke out near Interstate 5 on Wednesday when temperatures were in the 80s, and though they have since cooled, winds have continued to be a problem.

"It's definitely gusty, but we're lucky, the winds are blowing away from homes," Kern County Fire Department spokesman Corey Wilford said Friday. "It would be better if we didn't have winds at all though."

Lower temperatures were expected to persist into the weekend.

The fire has spread to three counties - Los Angeles, Kern and Ventura - but burned in mostly unpopulated areas and threatened no homes or buildings.

A Kern County high school was closed as a precaution.

The fire started early Wednesday afternoon and initially burned thick brush, seasonal grasses and sage, but then moved into trees.

The cooler weather helped firefighters overnight clear brush and create breaks in hopes of slowing the blaze. Efforts Thursday were focused on the southern edge of the fire.

The cause of the fire was under investigation.

RELATED ON SKYE: Incredible Natural-Disaster Photos from Space

 

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]]>co-articleAssociated Press2013-05-17T08:23:00+00:00Some Lost Everything to North Texas Tornadoeshttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/some-lost-everything-to-north-texas-tornados/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/some-lost-everything-to-north-texas-tornados/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/17/some-lost-everything-to-north-texas-tornados/#comments#fivemin-widget-blogsmith-image-387468{display:none;} .cke_show_borders #fivemin-widget-blogsmith-image-387468, #postcontentcontainer #fivemin-widget-blogsmith-image-387468{width:570px;height:411px;display:block;} Crews Assess Texas Tornado Damage
GRANBURY, Texas (AP) - Raul Rodriguez counts himself a lucky man.

For two years, the 42-year-old auto mechanic and his family have enjoyed life in his house in the Rancho Brazos Estates subdivision of Granbury, a North Texas town 40 miles southwest of Fort Worth. Built by volunteers for Habitat for Humanity, it was the first home Rodriguez has ever owned.

On Wednesday evening, he was home with his wife and three children when a storm began to rage.

"I looked out the window and thought, 'It doesn't look good,'" he said.

He gathered his family into a hall closet as a savage tornado roared over his neighborhood. All he could hear above the storm's din was the sound of every window in his home shattering.

Photos: Tornadoes Tear Through North Texas

After the storm passed, he and his family emerged to find his home damaged but still standing.

"I'm surprised. I can't believe it. My wife was the first person out, and injured people, bloody people, started coming to our house, asking us to call 911," he said.

Habitat for Humanity spent years in Granbury's Rancho Brazos Estates subdivision, helping to build many of the 110 homes in the low-income area. But its work was largely undone during an outbreak of 16 tornadoes Wednesday night that killed six people and injured dozens.

Hood County Sheriff Roger Deeds said Thursday afternoon that two of the dead were women and four of them men; one man and one woman were in their 80s. Six or seven people have not been accounted for, he said at a news conference.

"I'm very confident we'll find those people alive and well," Deeds said, adding that 37 injured people were treated at hospitals. "We're going to keep looking. We're not going to give up until every piece of debris is turned over."

Granbury bore the brunt of the damage. The weather service said the preliminary storm estimate for the Granbury tornado was an EF-4, based on the Fujita tornado damage scale. An EF-5 is the most severe, but an EF-4 tornado has wind speeds of 166 to 200 mph.

Another tornado in nearby Cleburne cut a mile-wide path through part of the city Wednesday. The weather service said it was estimated as an EF-3, which has winds between 136 and 165 mph. No deaths or severe injuries were reported from that tornado.

Harold Brooks, a meteorologist at the weather service's severe storm lab in Norman, Okla., said May 15 is the latest into the month that the U.S. has had to wait for its first significant tornadoes of the year. Brooks said he would expect 2013 to be one of the least lethal tornado years since the agency started keeping records in 1954.

Habitat for Humanity's website describes the international organization as a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian ministry that has helped build or repair more than 600,000 houses for more than 3 million people who otherwise could not afford home ownership. The ministry was brought to prominence by the participation of former President Jimmy Carter and former first lady Rosalynn Carter.

Habitat for Humanity homes, built for low-income buyers using volunteer labor and donations, are financed with affordable loans. The nonprofit selects homeowners based on their level of need, willingness to become partners in the program and ability to repay their loan. Homeowners invest their own time into building the homes as well.

Of the homes in the Rancho Brazos Estates, 61 of them were built by Habitat for Humanity, according to Gage Yeager, executive director of Trinity Habitat for Humanity in Fort Worth. He said most of those homes were damaged, including at least a dozen that were destroyed.

On Thursday, authorities combed through debris in Granbury, while residents awaited the chance to see what was left of their homes. Witnesses described the two badly hit neighborhoods as unrecognizable, with homes ripped from foundations and others merely rubble.

"I tell you, it has just broken my heart," said Habitat for Humanity volunteer Elsie Tallant, who helped serve lunch every weekend to those building the homes in a Granbury neighborhood and those poised to become homeowners.

"We were going to dedicate a house this weekend, and her home was destroyed," she said.

The homes, built primarily for low-income people, were insured and can be rebuilt, said Habitat for Humanity volunteer Bill Jackson.

Raul Rodriguez said he will rebuild. Aside from shattered windows, lost roof shingles and a garage that caved in on his car, Rodriguez feels fortunate.

"My neighbors to the right, they lost everything," he said.

RELATED ON SKYE: Photos: Tornadoes Tear Through North Texas

 

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]]>co-articleAssociated Press2013-05-17T08:11:00+00:00Stunning Aerial Photo Shows Erupting Alaska Volcanohttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/stunning-aerial-photo-shows-erupting-alaska-volcano/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/stunning-aerial-photo-shows-erupting-alaska-volcano/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/stunning-aerial-photo-shows-erupting-alaska-volcano/#commentsUpdated Friday, May 17, 8:45 a.m.
Pavlof Volcano Erupts
Photographer Brett Scarola captured this image of Pavlof Volcano erupting while flying from Anchorage to Unalaska on May 15. (Brett Scarola/Life thru a Lens)

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) - A remote Alaska volcano continues to erupt, spewing lava and ash clouds.

The Alaska Volcano Observatory said Thursday a continuous cloud of ash, steam and gas from Pavlof Volcano has been seen 20,000 feet above sea level. The cloud was moving to the southeast Thursday.

John Power, the U.S. Geological Survey scientist in charge at the observatory, estimates the lava fountain rose several hundred feet into the air.

Onsite seismic instruments are picking up constant tremors from the eruption at Pavlof, located about 625 miles southwest of Anchorage.

Residents of Cold Bay, 37 miles away, have reported seeing a glow from the summit.

Pavlof is among the most active volcanoes in the Aleutian arc, with nearly 40 known eruptions, according to the observatory.

PHOTOS ON SKYE: Pavlof Volcano's Breathtaking Eruption

 

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]]>co-articleAssociated Press2013-05-16T20:18:00+00:009 Breathtaking Photos of Star Trails Over the Rocky Mountainshttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/9-breathtaking-photos-of-star-trails-over-the-rocky-mountains/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/9-breathtaking-photos-of-star-trails-over-the-rocky-mountains/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/9-breathtaking-photos-of-star-trails-over-the-rocky-mountains/#comments

 

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]]>Adventureco-galleryEarthStargazingSKYE Editors2013-05-16T15:14:00+00:0020 Inspiring Photos of America's National Parkshttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/20-inspiring-photos-of-americas-national-parks/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/20-inspiring-photos-of-americas-national-parks/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/20-inspiring-photos-of-americas-national-parks/#comments
  • interior/Twitter
    1 of 20

    The U.S. Department of the Interior has been tweeting amazing photos of American wilderness areas. Click through to see some of our favorites.

    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on May 7 and wrote, "One of the most spectacular #lightning strikes we have ever seen. Near the South Rim @GrandCanyonNPS. pic.twitter.com/QGLIw0l87j"

  • interior/Twitter
    2 of 20
    The U.S. Department of the Interior tweeted this photo on May 7 and wrote, "It seems everyone loved the #lightning photo @GrandCanyonNPS. We have another that's just as amazing. Enjoy! pic.twitter.com/dbe1rny8D8"
  • interior/Twitter
    3 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on May 8 and wrote, "We have posted a couple of severe weather photos lately, so here's a gorgeous #sunrise @CanyonlandsNPS. #Utah pic.twitter.com/Yuz1QhURD9"
  • interior/Twitter
    4 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of Interior tweeted this photo on May 14 and wrote, "Another stunning sight on America's public lands. A #rainbow in the distance over Rocky Mountain NP. @RMNPOfficial pic.twitter.com/kKbwoqJaqh"
  • interior/Twitter
    5 of 20
    The U.S. Department of the Interior tweeted this photo on May 3 and wrote, One of the most stunning photos of #OldFaithful @YellowstoneNPS we have ever seen. RT if you agree! pic.twitter.com/REW1K9FuFB"
  • interior/Twitter
    6 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on April 24 and wrote, "Hiking in @HaleakalaNPS could bring you this stunning view of #sunset above the clouds over #Maui. pic.twitter.com/g8fIywNy2K"
  • interior/Twitter
    7 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on April 28 and wrote, "This stunning view of the night sky is waiting for you @ArchesNPS. #utah #travel pic.twitter.com/4l0VT6jdNb"
  • interior/Twitter
    8 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on April 24 and wrote, "2 more days of free admission 2 celebrate National Park Week! Enjoy beauty found in places like Isle Royale. pic.twitter.com/MSki8owXfR"
  • interior/Twitter
    9 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on May 1 and wrote, "Did u know @GoldenGateNPS is 1 of the largest urban parks in the world? It includes this gorgeous view of San Fran. pic.twitter.com/MSnDOTtf6I"
  • interior/Twitter
    10 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on May 8 and wrote, "You probably won't see this on your commute home. The evening lava glow at #Hawaii #Volcanoes National Park. pic.twitter.com/NTrwVY1N0w"
  • interior/Twitter
    11 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on May 10 and wrote, "Let's end the week right with this fantastic photo of @PicturedRocksNL in #Michigan. pic.twitter.com/BY4DXyyGos"
  • interior/Twitter
    12 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on April 22 and wrote, "Happy Earth Day from one of the most beautiful places in the world. #Sunrise over Half Dome @YosemiteNPS pic.twitter.com/EW0IeFE8oQ"
  • interior/Twitter
    13 of 20
    The U.S. Dept of the Interior tweeted this photo on April 29 and wrote, "It's not every day you see a double #rainbow and lightning over #Badlands National Park. pic.twitter.com/Bph4Yakmcj"
  • interior/Twitter
    14 of 20
    The U.S. Dept of the Interior tweeted this photo on May 15 and wrote, "Some sights are too beautiful for words. Like the view from Glacier Point overlooking Half Dome @YosemiteNPS pic.twitter.com/DeFSp6jazi"
  • interior/Twitter
    15 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on April 22 and wrote, "One more stunning photo in celebration of #EarthDay. #Sunset over @GrandTetonNPS. pic.twitter.com/rOYfAGjYm9"
  • interior/Twitter
    16 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on April 30 and wrote, "Sometimes photos just scream 'wow.' A Humpback Whale shows how to be the center of attention at Kenai Fjords NP. pic.twitter.com/q5pjWr6fhG"
  • interior/Twitter
    17 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on April 23 and wrote, "#EarthDay might be over, but we celebrate America's public lands every day of the year. #Sunrise over Olympic NP. pic.twitter.com/0dvitiNjYB"
  • interior/Twitter
    18 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of Interior tweeted this photo on May 13 and wrote, "A foggy & misty spring morning begins in America's most visited National Park, Great Smoky Mountains NP. pic.twitter.com/yUx5crZRKc"
  • interior/Twitter
    19 of 20
    The U.S. Dept. of Interior tweeted this photo on May 3 and wrote, "Thanks to @studebiker for suggesting a photo from @DeathValleyNPS. We think you'll agree with the choice as well. pic.twitter.com/B8SgVq45QP"
  • interior/Twitter
    20 of 20
    Next: 10 Amazing Underwater Surfing Photos

    The U.S. Dept. of the Interior tweeted this photo on May 2 and wrote, "Glen Canyon has some of the most beautiful geologic formations in the world. The sunsets aren't bad either. pic.twitter.com/fM9cSYG6lx"

    Note: Glen Canyon isn't a national park but a national recreation area.

 

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]]>co-galleryEarthNational ParksTravelSKYE Editors2013-05-16T13:55:00+00:00Fire Burns 3,500 Acres in Calif. National Foresthttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/fire-burns-3-500-acres-in-calif-national-forest/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/fire-burns-3-500-acres-in-calif-national-forest/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/fire-burns-3-500-acres-in-calif-national-forest/#comments
The Grand fire releases a large plume of smoke as it burns more than 3,000 acres of wildlands near Frazier Park on Wednesday, May 15, 2013. (AP Photo/Los Angeles Times, Luis Sinco)

FRAZIER PARK, Calif. (AP) - Cooler temperatures and lighter winds gave hundreds of firefighters a slight reprieve Thursday with a 3,500-acre wildfire that has blackened rugged terrain in the Los Padres National Forest.

The fire that broke out Wednesday charred 3,500 acres of dry, thick trees, despite a heavy aerial effort to beat back flames in the largely unpopulated area.

The blaze was 15 percent contained.

No structures were threatened although a high school was evacuated as a precaution. No injuries have been reported.

The fire near Interstate 5 through Frazier Park, where Kern and northern Los Angeles counties meet, could be fanned by winds that may reach up to 35 mph Thursday. The blaze started just before 1:30 p.m. Wednesday and initially burned thick brush, seasonal grasses and sage, but then moved into the trees.

The cooler weather helped firefighters overnight clear brush and create breaks in hopes of slowing the blaze. Efforts on Thursday will be focused on the southern edge of the fire and an aerial assault of helicopters and tankers will help snuff out flames that can't be reached by ground crews, authorities said.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

 

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]]>co-articleAssociated Press2013-05-16T11:40:00+00:00Today's 10 Must-See Photos: 5-16-2013http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/todays-10-must-see-photos-5-16-2013/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/todays-10-must-see-photos-5-16-2013/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/todays-10-must-see-photos-5-16-2013/#comments
  • AP Photo/Mike Fuentes
    1 of 10
    Johnny Ortiz (left) and James South (right) carry Miguel Morales, who was injured in a tornado, to an ambulance in Granbury, Texas, on Wednesday, May 15. Officials report the tornado caused multiple fatalities as it tore through two neighborhoods of a North Texas town.
  • Interior/Twitter
    2 of 10

    The US Department of Interior tweeted this photo of Glacier Point and Half Dome in Yosemite National Park on May 15, and wrote, "Some sights are too beautiful for words. Like the view from Glacier Point overlooking Half Dome @YosemiteNPS pic.twitter.com/DeFSp6jazi"

  • AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky
    3 of 10
    Oleksiy Pinko, a circus artist, dances with a lion during presentation of the new program in Ukraine's National Circus in Kiev, Ukraine, Wednesday, May 15. 
  • © George Kourounis, georgekourounis/Twitter
    4 of 10

    Storm chaser George Kourounis tweeted this photo of lightning near Crowell, Texas, on May 14. He wrote, "Intense lightning storm near Crowell, Texas. pic.twitter.com/3lUKptmnqc"

  • AP Photo/Anja Niedringhaus
    5 of 10
    An Afghan National Police officer mans a checkpoint on the outskirts of Maidan Shahr, Wardak province, Wednesday, May 15.
  • NASA
    6 of 10

    This composite image of a galaxy released by NASA on May 16 illustrates how the intense gravity of a supermassive black hole can be tapped to generate immense power. The image contains X-ray data from NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory (blue), optical light obtained with the Hubble Space Telescope (gold) and radio waves from the NSF's Very Large Array (pink).

  • Cmdr_Hadfield/Twitter
    7 of 10

    Astronaut Chris Hadfield tweeted this photo of the Mongolian highlands that he took while aboard the International Space Station on May 15. He wrote, "Today's photo is from the Mongolian highlands. Surreal to see a frozen lake surrounded by sand dunes. pic.twitter.com/InfNHUMc5p"

  • earthXplorer/Twitter
    8 of 10

    JD Andrews tweeted this photo of sunset in Roswell, N.M., on May 15. He wrote, "The sunsets in #roswell aren't too bad. What do you think? #NewMexicoTrue http://instagram.com/p/ZW6w0zM0Tp/"

  • AP Photo/A.M. Ahad
    9 of 10
    A Bangladeshi volunteer walks along the Bay of Bengal coast to evacuate people from Chittagong, Bangladesh, Thursday, May 16. Cyclone Mahasen struck the southern coast of Bangladesh on Thursday, lashing remote fishing villages with heavy rain and fierce winds that flattened mud and straw huts and forced the evacuation of more than 1 million people. 
  • NASA
    10 of 10
    Next: Today's 10 Must-See Photos: 5-15-2013

    Expedition 35 Flight Engineer Chris Cassidy, who currently is living and working aboard the International Space Station, is seen in the Quest Airlock prior to a spacewalk, in this photo released by NASA on May 16.

 

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]]>co-gallerygallery-widePhotosSKYE Editors2013-05-16T11:34:00+00:00Photos: Tornadoes Tear Through North Texashttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/photos-tornadoes-tear-through-north-texas/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/photos-tornadoes-tear-through-north-texas/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/photos-tornadoes-tear-through-north-texas/#comments
  • George Kourounis/twitter
    1 of 12

    A series of tornadoes tore through several small communities in North Texas Wednesday night, leaving at least six people dead, dozens more injured and hundreds homeless.

    Storm chaser George Kourounis tweeted this photo of a tornado in Millsap, Texas, on May 16 and wrote, "#Tornado at Milsap, Texas. It was close enough to hear it clearly. pic.twitter.com/AAUG2FcHRS"

  • Kelly7News/twitter
    2 of 12
    Morning news producer Kelly Schuberth tweeted this photo of a Texas tornado on May 16 and wrote, "#BREAKING PHOTO: Cleburne, Texas (near Dallas) declared disaster area after reported tornado. -@OmarVillafranca pic.twitter.com/xO4rubeQ8b"
  • 3 of 12
  • GrantJNBC5/twitter
    4 of 12
    Meteorologist Grant Johnston tweeted this photo of the Texas tornado aftermath on May 16. He wrote, "Tornado damaged home in #Granbury from Chopper5.  Notice the clothes still hanging in the closet. @NBCDFW pic.twitter.com/1GDoWUx7tr"
  • AP Photo/The Dallas Morning News, Michael Ainsworth
    5 of 12
    Pete Alaniz looks for items on Thursday, May 16, to salvage after a tornado hit his home in Cleburne, Texas. His family of four and three dogs hid in his closet while the tornado destroyed his home.
  • AP Photo/The Dallas Morning News, Tom Fox
    6 of 12
    Storm chaser Travis Schafer looks at tornado damage to a house on Hyde Park Lane at Country Club Rd. in Cleburne, Texas, Wednesday night. Cleburne Mayor Scott Cain early Thursday declared a local disaster as schools canceled classes amid the destruction.
  • Nichole Tomlin/AP
    7 of 12
    This May 16 photo shows the backyard of Nichole Tomlin's home in Granbury, Texas, where Tomlin says there used to be a neighborhood.
  • thestormreport/twitter
    8 of 12
    The Storm Report retweeted this photo of the Texas tornado aftermath on May 16 and wrote, "RT @NewsBreaker: NEW PHOTO: Aerial view of tornado damage in Granbury, TX pic.twitter.com/5NFDdOIIyg - @NBCDFW"
  • Mike Fuentes/AP Photo
    9 of 12
    Johnny Ortiz, left, and James South, right, carry Miguel Morales, center, who was injured in a tornado, to an ambulance in Granbury, Texas, on Wednesday, May 15. 
  • SimonStormRider/twitter
    10 of 12
    Storm chaser Simon Brewer tweeted this photo of giant hail on May 15 and wrote, "3 inch diameter hail in Ringold TX minutes before big tornado developed @JustonStrmRider #StormRiders pic.twitter.com/wKI0jJ6l9O"
  • 11 of 12
  • Mike Fuentes/AP Photo
    12 of 12
    Next: 18 Incredible Photos of Tornadoes
    An unidentified injured person is carried to an ambulance in Granbury, Texas, on Wednesday May 15.

 

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]]>co-galleryTornadoesSKYE Editors2013-05-16T11:16:00+00:00Is the North Pole Moving South?http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/is-the-north-pole-moving-south/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/is-the-north-pole-moving-south/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/is-the-north-pole-moving-south/#comments
A true-color image taken on May 5, 2000, by an instrument aboard NASA's Terra spacecraft, over the North Pole, with sea ice shown in white and open water in black. (Credit: Image by Allen Lunsford, NASA GSFC Direct Readout Laboratory; Data courtesy Tromso receiving station, Svalbard, Norway)

The North Pole's surprise trip toward Greenland is due to Earth's rapidly melting ice sheets, a new study finds.

The distribution of mass across the planet determines the position of Earth's poles. Because Earth is a bit egg-shaped, the North Pole is always slightly off-center. It's also been slowly drifting south, responding to long-term changes since the last Ice Age, as the enormous ice sheets that once covered large swaths of the planet melted and parts of the Earth rebounded from the lost weight.

But in 2005, the pole suddenly started making a beeline east for Greenland, moving a few centimeters eastward each year. The cause? Rapid melting of the Greenland Ice Sheet, finds a study published May 13 in the journal Geophysical Research Letters. Ice loss and the associated sea-level rise account for more than 90 percent of the polar shift, Nature News reported.

Melting ice moves mass around by adding water to the oceans and lightening the load on ice-covered crust. Although global ice melt plays a role in the pole's shift, Greenland itself is the primary contributor to the eastward movement, the researchers found. "Both of [those factors] are contributing, but now we can say glacial melting in Greenland produces an observable polar motion," said Clark Wilson, a study co-author at the University of Texas, Austin.

The change is small, dwarfed by the pole's broad wandering circles, which are caused by Earth's bulging midriff (the 14-month Chandler wobble) and an annual wobble related to seasonal shifts. However, "if you remove those effects, you'll see a long-term drift," Wilson told LiveScience.

Using data from NASA's GRACE satellite, which measures Earth's gravity field, the researchers tested whether Greenland's ice loss changed the pole position. The data can track how water and ice shift across the planet. "Mass is moving around all the time," Wilson said.

Knowing the precise location of the North Pole has become a critical part of modern life. It's the foundation of GPS, which guides people with mapping apps, as well as military systems and planes.

Email Becky Oskin or follow her @beckyoskin. Follow us @livescience, Facebook & Google+. Original article on LiveScience.com.

Copyright 2013 LiveScience, a TechMediaNetwork company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

RELATED ON SKYE: Breathtaking Photos of Antarctica

 

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]]>co-articleValerie Conners2013-05-16T09:02:00+00:00Wisconsin Wildfire Destroys 8,700 acreshttp://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/wisconsin-wildfire-destroys-8-700-acres/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/wisconsin-wildfire-destroys-8-700-acres/http://weather.aol.com/2013/05/16/wisconsin-wildfire-destroys-8-700-acres/#comments
This Wednesday, May 15, 2013, photo shows all that remains of a home on Sand Lake near Barnes, Wis., after Tuesday's wildfire. (AP Photo/The Duluth News-Tribune, Bob King)

MILWAUKEE (AP) - Authorities are investigating whether logging operations may have sparked a massive wildfire in northwestern Wisconsin that destroyed dozens of buildings and forced at least 60 people from their homes, state officials said Wednesday.

The wildfire has consumed about 8,700 to 9,000 acres in Douglas and Bayfield counties but is about 95 percent contained, meaning firefighters have largely arrested the spread of the fire, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

"I would say we are really close to having this fire in hand," DNR spokesman Robert Manwell said Wednesday afternoon. "We are probably going to be here for another 36, 48 hours doing mop up, taking care of hotspots, things of that kind."

No injuries have been reported in the largest forest fire to hit northern Wisconsin in 33 years, according to the DNR.

Winds were expected shift from northwest to west, which could help push fire from more populated areas, according to the DNR.

The DNR was even expected to start taking people back to their properties Wednesday to check on damage and retrieve pets and supplies, Manwell said.

Gov. Scott Walker was scheduled to survey wildfire damage and visit with first responders and local officials Thursday. Walker will be accompanied by Adjutant General Donald Dunbar of the Wisconsin National Guard, DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp and Wisconsin Emergency Management officials.

Officials were investigating whether a spark from logging equipment could have started the fire around 2:30 p.m. near Simms Lake in Douglas County, said DNR spokesman Ed Culhane said.

At least 60 people have evacuated their homes and 22 of them stayed overnight at a high school in Drummond, 60 miles southeast of Duluth, Minn., the DNR said. Forty-seven structures were destroyed, including 17 homes, but firefighters were able to save 77 other buildings, according to the DNR.

Danny Archambeau told the Duluth News Tribune Wednesday morning that he evacuated his home near Ellison Lake at 8 p.m. Tuesday. He didn't know at that time if his house had damage.

"We thought the fire was going to go north of us," he said, "but when the wind switched it came at us so fast we had to run. I grabbed my guns, my mother-in-law and my wife - in that order - and we got out."

DNR spokeswoman Catherine Koele said they planned work throughout Wednesday night on the fire and monitor the fire line and put out hot spots on Thursday. She said they would also continue investigating the fire's cause. Winds were expected to be calmer Thursday, which would help but conditions are expected to be dry, she said.

She said expected the evacuation center at Drummond High School to be open for a second night Wednesday for evacuees in need of a place to stay.

Continued dry and windy weather pushed much of the state into the "very high" wildfire danger range prompting the DNR to suspend burning permits statewide. The DNR and National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for Florence and Marinette counties, which means large forest fires were possible due to the weather conditions.

"We're urging extreme caution in all outdoor activities," Trent Marty, director of DNR Bureau of Forest Protection, said in a news release.

"We cannot afford another big fire today," he said.

The last major forest fire in northern Wisconsin happened on April 22, 1980 and consumed nearly 11,500 acres of forest. A central Wisconsin fire in May 2005 also burned more than 3,400 acres.

A shelter and a fire command post were set up in the village of Barnes Tuesday evening, but they were moved as the fire grew. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation closed state Highway 27 after the fire hopped over it northwest of Barnes Tuesday. The highway was reopened Wednesday.

Manwell said two Black Hawk helicopters from the Wisconsin Army National Guard and two "water bombers" fixed-wing aircraft from Canada were assisting firefighter with aerial support Wednesday. Crews from 19 fire departments and 52 fire trucks are in the field, the DNR has said.

Kyle Kriegl, regional executive officer at the Red Cross, said mental health professional services were available for evacuees at the high school.

"It's a range of emotions that people go through, especially when you are not sure whether your home is being destroyed," he said.

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]]>co-articleValerie Conners2013-05-16T08:47:00+00:00