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Articles by Tony Laubach
Recovery efforts begin after Hurricane Ian slammed South Carolina coast
Just one day after Hurricane Ian ushered in a catastrophic storm surge and promoted multiple water rescues, conditions have “dramatically” improved. On Saturday, recovery efforts promptly began along the Southeast coast. By AccuWeather staff writer One day after Hurricane Ian made its third and final U.S. landfall on South Carolina’s shore, conditions dramatically improved Charleston and points northward. Now a long road of recovery stands in front of storm survivors from Florida to North Carolina.
Ian brings 'catastrophic' flooding along South Carolina coast Original
While Ian had weakened considerably after slamming Florida, the hurricane ushered in catastrophic storm surge that prompted multiple water rescues in areas along the South Carolina coast. By AccuWeather staff writer As scenes of Hurricane Ian's apocalyptic destruction across Florida continued to unfold, the massive storm took aim at South Carolina's shore.
Motorists stranded across Denver as heavy rains trigger flash flooding
Rainfall of as much as 2 inches in just an hour left roadways completely under water and prompted drivers to abruptly abandon vehicles. By AccuWeather Meteorologist Numerous roadways were shut down in Denver on Sunday evening after torrential rain fell across the region triggering flash floods and stranding motorists. The Denver Fire Department said that crews rescued at least 19 people stranded in vehicles in flooded streets, including multiple children and a baby.
Severe storms and snow possible in KAKEland
WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) - A fast-moving system will race across KAKEland, bringing the potential for severe storms and blizzard-like conditions. Storm chances increase after 10 p.m. Tuesday along the Kansas-Oklahoma state line, with storms spreading northeast into parts of southwest into south-central Kansas. Strong to severe storms are possible, with the main threats being large, damaging hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter and damaging wind gusts in excess of 60 mph.
Some parts of Kansas may get 10+ inches of snow
New data has been coming in and continue to show some hefty snow totals across north-central Kansas in excess of 10". Meteorologist Tony Laubach said he added that to projections, with many in that region seeing 10" or more with half-a-foot or better in the purple shaded areas. As you go south along I-135, those totals will drop very quickly. There may be a ribbon of freezing rain before the snow transition which will add to an already precarious travel situation heading into Monday morning.
Big Changes on the Way to KAKEland
Big changes on the way for KAKEland. After a majority of the state enjoyed highs in the 60s on Saturday, winter weather is expected to return as early as Monday morning with a large, sloppy storm system making its approach to the central part of the US. For Greater Wichita and south-central Kansas, we'll squeeze one more above-average day Sunday as highs will get into the low-to-mid 50s. Clouds will increase overnight through Monday as the storm makes its approach.
Winter storm to bring all types of precipitation to KAKEland
No significant changes in the forecast since yesterday... Freezing rain still expected to move into southern Kansas after midnight tonight and fill in across the southern half of KAKEland through the morning. While accumulations are not expected to be big, this will create a slick commute on Tuesday morning. Freezing rain will change to rain from south to north through the morning into the early afternoon with rain getting up to I-70 shortly after noon.
More snow on the way for KAKEland
More snow on the way to KAKEland beginning late Monday afternoon up across northwest Kansas and spreading across the state overnight into Tuesday. Initial snow, and likely the potential for the heaviest accumulations, will begin in northwest Kansas late this afternoon into the overnight hours. Snow will generally be pretty light, but some moderate snow and blowing snow is also possible.
Severe weather and snow possible in Kansas between now and Frida
WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) - SEVERE WEATHER: Overnight tonight into early Thursday morning, there is the potential for a couple strong-to-severe storms across south-central, central, and northeast Kansas. While some of the parameters are impressive, I don't think this will be a significant severe weather event. But because this will occur overnight during the time most people are sleeping, we are strongly advising that you have MULTIPLE ways to receive warnings that will WAKE YOU UP.
Rain, storms, snow, wind to move into KAKEland
WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) - Severe storms, heavy rain, flooding, and accumulating snow are all possible Sunday through Tuesday. A storm or two is also possible Sunday afternoon, mainly across far southwest into south-central Kansas where a marginal severe storm is not out of the question with hail approaching an inch in diameter and maybe a slim chance of a brief spin-up. As storms move north of the highlighted area below, they will quickly weaken and transition to just rain.
Rain, storms, snow, wind to move into KAKEland
WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) - A whole slew of weather to talk about today (welcome to Kansas)... really three things of note to discuss in regards to the weather today into Monday. Quick and dirty... areas across the southern half of Kansas could be in line to receive an inch or more of rain into tonight leading to some minor flooding concerns.
From record warmth to snow in 48 hours
WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) - Many areas in KAKEland will see near-to-record breaking warmth on this Super Bowl Sunday, and within 48 hours, many of those same areas could be sitting under several inches of snow. Wichita hit 76 degrees on Sunday, breaking the record of 73 set in 1924. Most areas in KAKEland saw temperatures get into the 70s Sunday afternoon, and for many, those high will be new daily records.
Winter Weather Advisory issued for much of Kansas
WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) - Rain and snow are on the way to KAKEland. Rain showers have already moved into western Kansas and will continue to spread east into the evening and overnight hours. As temperatures cool this evening, that rain will change to snow and will continue into Wednesday morning before turning back to rain as the system exits on Wednesday afternoon. Winter Weather Advisories are in effect until noon Wednesday for greater Wichita, Hutchinson, and central Kansas.
Snow and wintry mix on the way to KAKEland
WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) - Friday AM Update After a Spring-like feeling day on Friday, cold air will return ahead of the potential for some winter weather starting as early as Saturday night. A strong storm system moving in from the west will bring a chance of snow across a large area of KAKEland. There is still a wide range of numbers in terms of how much snow, but the timing and track are coming into better focus as we approach the weekend.
High wind warnings in store for Kansas Saturday
It's been an active week across KAKEland, perfectly themed for Thanksgiving because we had a little bit of everything. From blizzards and freezing fog to heavy rain and even some thunder. But the smorgasbord of weather will continue into the weekend as very high winds will take center stage here in KAKEland. The strongest winds will be felt Saturday into Sunday, particularly across northwest Kansas where a high wind warning will go into effect Saturday morning.
More rain and snow on the Thanksgiving menu for KAKEland
WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) - Thursday 9:30 AM ***UPDATED*** Mother Nature is hosting her own Thanksgiving meal with a full menu of precipitation across KAKEland early today. Widespread light to moderate snow will continue across northern, central, and western Kansas into the early afternoon hours. Check the radar here. As of 8 a.m, two inches of snow has been reported at Hugoton and Satanta in southwest Kansas and an inch reported at Dodge City.
More storms on the menu for KAKEland
WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) - Storms are expected across KAKEland starting this afternoon into the overnight hours, and some severe weather is possible, especially across northwest into north-central Kansas later this evening into the overnight hours. Storms will begin to form mid-afternoon across many areas in KAKEland, and some storms across far western Kansas may be strong to borderline severe. Storms forming further east could get strong, but widespread severe weather is not anticipated further east.
More thunderstorms, high winds on the way to KAKEland
WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) - Another wave of showers and thunderstorms is expected to move across KAKEland early this evening through the overnight hours and into Wednesday morning. The window for the heaviest rains will be during this time as the main center of low pressure moves out of the Rockies and into the plains. As that system approaches, expect the winds to increase with gusts exceeding 60 mph at times through late Wednesday.
Severe weather expected in western Kansas
The KAKE First Alert Weather Center will be watching the potential for strong to severe storms across the western half of KAKEland later this afternoon through tonight. The initial storms will form across portions of southwest Nebraska and northeast Colorado and move into the extreme northwest portions of KAKEland late this afternoon. Those storms will initially be isolated supercells capable of very large hail, some greater than two inches in diameter, and a few tornadoes.
Ellis County suffers damage after storm
Severe storms moved across the KAKEland Wednesday evening bringing torrential rains and damaging winds. In Ellis, significant damage occurred to St. Mary's School on Monroe Street. The roof was ripped from the building and scattered nearby. The back wall of the school partially collapsed, leaving piles of brick on the ground. The St. Mary's Church next door was damaged by the debris of the school, breaking several windows. Across town, numerous large tree limbs were downed in yards.
Severe weather threat returns to KAKEland
Severe weather returns to the forecast over the next few days, starting with Friday. A line of storms, some expected to be severe with damaging winds in excess of 70 mph, will move across northwest Kansas and sink southeast through the late afternoon and evening. Those storms should reach the Wichita area after sunset, a few still being strong. Large hail and a couple of tornadoes are possible early in the event with any storms that can remain isolated, that threat mainly across far western Kansas.
More severe weather possible in KAKEland
More severe weather is possible Tuesday across parts of KAKEland, with storms firing as early as late afternoon. The main threat will be focused across the southern half of the region from late afternoon through Wednesday morning. One area of focus will be south-central Kansas where storms may fire by late afternoon bringing the chance of damaging winds and hail over one inch in diameter. The tornado threat is low, but there is a brief window early where an isolate brief tornado is possible.
Severe weather possible Monday and Tuesday
Severe weather is creeping back into the forecast the next couple of days, with the first round expected later Monday afternoon along and east of I-135. A line of storms will form and slowly push south through the evening, bringing with it the chance for damaging winds in excess of 70 mph along with the potential for some very large hail over two inches in diameter. A couple of tornadoes are also possible as the storms move through. The threat should start to wind down after midnight.
Dangerous heat settles into KAKEland
Temperatures in the 90s to near 100 degrees on Friday will combine with the humidity for some oppressive heat leading into the weekend. A Heat Advisory is in effect though Friday evening for heat index values between 105 and 110 degrees. Those outdoors today should prepare for the excessive heat. Temperatures will cool slightly through the weekend, with readings in the greater Wichita area dropping into the mid to upper 80s by Sunday.
Storm Story Sunday 12-3-17 - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- Weather Warrior Tony Laubach lists his favorite three storm chases of the year on this week's Storm Story Sunday. Number 3 on this list starts off right here at home back on April 26 just west of Pinckneyville. Those storms were reported to have some intense winds, but little did I know exactly how intense. Those winds were clocked at near 80mph and were enough to bend trees halfway to the ground as well as snap a large pine tree.
Storm Story Sunday 11-19-17 - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- November can be a busy month for severe weather, and News 3's Weather Warrior Tony Laubach remembers major chase in Kansas with a mile-wide tornado. My final chase in the November trio was two years ago on what ended up being the largest single tornado outbreak that far west in the month of November. I drove out from Illinois the night before and was targeting southwest Kansas. I ended up getting on a storm at birth just south of the Kansas border in the Oklahoma Panhandle.
Storm Story Sunday 11-12-17 - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- From last week to years ago, Weather Warrior Tony Laubach has seen some major storms in the month of November. Here's his account: Last Sunday's chase was my second November chase here in the Midwest. Back in 2013, I chased part of the major outbreak that hit back in 2013, intercepting several storms in central Illinois before crossing the border into Indiana.
Storm Story Sunday 10-29-17 - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- Weather Warrior Tony Laubach prepares for November by looking back at some of his favorite storm chases from the month over the years. November is the last month of what I consider to be the chasing post-season, that mini-second season that comes in the fall. I don't get to chase it often, but when I do, the month has come through some some very big events. In 2011, on my first ever November chase, I saw four tornadoes in southwest Oklahoma.
Storm Story Sunday 10-22-17 - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- In this week's Storm Story Sunday, Tony Laubach remembers his time on the Discovery Channel's Storm Chasers. I'm no stranger to TV, and if you've watched any number of TV shows about storm chasing over the years, you've probably seen me more than you'd care to. I've made a couple appearances on early storm chasing shows for Women's Entertainment, and later on the National Geographic Channel, both back when I had four eyes.
Storm Stories 10-15-2017 - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- Weather Warrior Tony Laubach recounts some of his most memorable October storms. October chasing is nothing new for me, having chased in various places around the country many times over the years and having seen some pretty hefty storms. Tuesday's chase across southern Illinois didn't offer up too much for this storm chaser beyond some scary looking clouds, a few lightning strikes and enough rain to fill a few streets.
Weather Warrior Tony Laubach on his first total solar eclipse - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- Weather Warrior Tony Laubach describes how a total solar eclipse was completely awe-striking for him. The total solar eclipse, one of the coolest events I will ever see in my lifetime. And one of the few events I am actually hoping for clear skies. This is my first total solar eclipse, but in terms of actual eclipses, this is not my first rodeo.
Weather Warrior Tony Laubach sees his first total solar eclipse - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- Weather Warrior Tony Laubach describes how a total solar eclipse was completely awe-striking for him. The total solar eclipse, one of the coolest events I will ever see in my lifetime. And one of the few events I am actually hoping for clear skies. This is my first total solar eclipse, but in terms of actual eclipses, this is not my first rodeo.
New features bring Pokemon Go players back - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
JACKSON CO. -- A new challenge in the app Pokemon Go sparked players to hit the streets of Jackson County Wednesday. Pokemon Go has dropped in popularity since its release last year, but new additions to the game, namely two new legendary Pokemon, have brought players back in hordes, and offer a new and extremely difficult challenge in catching these creatures. "It took me 13 legendary raids to finally catch one Articuno. I still have not caught Lugia.
Pokemon Go players brave the heat for one year anniversary - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
CARBONDALE -- It was a big weekend for gamers as Pokemon Go celebrated its one year anniversary. Celebrations included a huge event in Chicago, but local Pokemon players also took part in the fun. Over a dozen trainers endured the afternoon heat to catch a variety of digital creatures at SIU's Campus Lake. They had to do it in three 30-minute windows, and if enough creatures are caught by players around the world, new features and challenges will be unlocked.
How downbursts work - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
JACKSON CO. -- A storm left quite a mess in Jackson County Monday afternoon. Strong winds blew down trees, dropping some on top of cars. Thunderstorms don't always have to be severe to cause damage. In fact, some storms do the most damage as they are weakening. This can occur in just about any thunderstorm. Rising air, or updrafts, form the storm. Rain starts to develop and falls to the ground, this we call downdrafts.
Alexander County hit hard by recent floods - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
ALEXANDER CO. -- Flooding continues to worsen across the region as the Mississippi River continues to rise. Folks across Alexander County have been watching the water levels, and flood waters have started to affect many across the region. While the rain has cleared and the sun has returned to southern Illinois, flood waters continue to threaten residents across Alexander County. The town of Thebes has already seen several buildings overtaken by the rising waters.
Big Muddy River crests in Murphysboro - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
JACKSON CO. -- The Big Muddy River in Murphysboro crested over 38 feet Thursday afternoon, the highest recorded level since 2011, and two feet below the all time record of 40.5 set that year. Water levels have come up nearly 4 feet since Monday, and on Wednesday, the water levels had reached the bottom of the Route 127 bridge. It was a sight that brought a few folks out for pictures.
Flooding prompts closure of Chester Bridge - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
RANDOLPH CO. -- The Mississippi River running along Randolph County has been rising steadily since Saturday and was approaching major flood stage Tuesday evening. The high waters have already lead to the closure of Illinois Route 3 from the Jackson/Randolph County line to the Mary's River crossing southeast of Chester, where in the town, water was already making problems.
Harrisburg flooding threatens businesses - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- Over six inches of rain fell in Harrisburg this weekend, and water levels around the town are still rising even as the rain has ceased. That water is now threatening many businesses in town. Mayor John McPeek said Taco Bell and Walmart were closing on Sunday night because of flooding concerns. Earlier in the day, the city sprang to action as dozens of volunteers gathered to fill sandbags just in case floodwaters get much higher. "We're trying to save businesses, streets, and homes.
Multiple rounds of storms hit southern Illinois - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- Multiple rounds of storms rolled through southern Illinois Wednesday, starting with two rounds across Perry and Franklin Counties. Winds up to 80mph took down a few trees outside Pinckneyville, and bent nearly every other one to the ground. A second round of severe storms hammered areas in Franklin County, flipping a semi truck into the ditch off Rt. 154. More minor damage was done in Du Quoin and needed to be cleaned up.
Severe weather leaves its mark on southern Illinois - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- Severe thunderstorms raced across southern Illinois Wednesday afternoon, leading to numerous reports of wind damage all across the region. The first storms took aim on parts of Randolph and Perry counties, moving in fast. Winds gusting up to 80mph were responsible for knocking down numerous trees in Perry County west of Pinckneyville along Rt. 154.
Rain poses challenge for River to River racers - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
UNION CO. -- Runners from across the region are geared up for the annual River to River Relay. This year, the athletes will deal with some extra challenges. Runners participating in Saturday's River to River Relay will be running in some less than ideal weather. Rainy conditions are expected to continue through most of the event, and race officials have been preparing to deal with the wet weather. "We've been prepping all week putting multiple backup plans in place.
Storms damage trees, property in White County - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WHITE CO. -- Strong storms hit parts of eastern Illinois near I-64 Wednesday afternoon, several of them reaching severe limits and even getting a tornado warning. One of those storms hit west of Carmi in the town of Enfield, where National Weather Service reported a funnel cloud as the storm passed through town. Scattered damage occurred in town, including several roofs being ripped off. Numerous carports were damaged, several completely destroyed.
Weather Warrior: 2016 roundup - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- Nearly 30,000 miles and 30 tornadoes later, our Weather Warrior Tony Laubach says his 2016 chasing season made for one of his best ever. WSIL -- Nearly 30,000 miles and 30 tornadoes later, our Weather Warrior Tony Laubach says his 2016 chasing season made for one of his best ever. UNION CO. -- The Sheriff's office is the latest department to join the ranks of other southern Illinois law enforcement putting body cameras on officers.
Weather Warrior: Week 7 - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD -- What was really a game of hurry up and wait for state lawmakers proved to be fruitful as promising bills are expected to be called on the chamber floors Thursday. SPRINGFIELD -- What was really a game of hurry up and wait for state lawmakers proved to be fruitful as promising bills are expected to be called on the chamber floors Thursday.
Weather Warrior: Kansas tornadoes - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
CAPE GIRARDEAU -- The Major Case Squad is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in the homicide of Domorlo McCaster.CAPE GIRARDEAU -- The Major Case Squad is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in the homicide of Domorlo McCaster.
Weather Warrior: Week 4 - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
WSIL -- Five different states spanning from Michigan to Texas reported 26 tornadoes Tuesday. Several of those ripped through Kansas. This week, News 3's own Weather Warrior Tony Laubach gets us up close and personal with the twisters.
Weather Warrior: Week 3 - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Lawmakers scrambling to find money to fix Illinois' multi-billion dollar deficit are looking to sugary drinks as one potential source of revenue.SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Lawmakers scrambling to find money to fix Illinois' multi-billion dollar deficit are looking to sugary drinks as one potential source of revenue.
Weather Warrior: Week 2 - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
JOHNSON CO. -- The Johnson County Sheriff's Department offers a program where the elderly call-in every day to let deputies know they're okay. The program is called S.A.L.T., Seniors and Law Enforcement Together.JOHNSON CO. -- The Johnson County Sheriff's Department offers a program where the elderly call-in every day to let deputies know they're okay. The program is called S.A.L.T., Seniors and Law Enforcement Together.
Weather Warrior: Week 1 - WSIL-TV 3 Southern Illinois
ABC NEWS -- CRF Frozen Foods of Pasco, Washington, has expanded a voluntary recall for some of its products, which included organic and non-organic fruits and vegetables because of the risk of Listeria, according to the company's statement. ABC NEWS -- CRF Frozen Foods of Pasco, Washington, has expanded a voluntary recall for some of its products, which included organic and non-organic fruits and vegetables because of the risk of Listeria, according to the company's statement.
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