The Emergency Management Network Podcast

Todd T. De Voe

This podcast features strategies and advice from today’s leaders and experts in emergency management. Its purpose is to empower and enrich current and future leaders. emnetwork.substack.com

  1. 15H AGO

    Emergency Management: Navigating Wildfires and Winter Storms

    Wildfire response constitutes the primary national concern as we delve into the developments surrounding the ongoing fires in the Southern Plains, particularly in Oklahoma’s Panhandle and its western counties. The Ranger Road Fire, which has expanded significantly into Kansas, exemplifies the critical nature of this situation, with emergency management reporting substantial acreage affected and a mere 15% containment. Additionally, the state of Texas has received federal assistance for the Eight Ball fire, underscoring the severity of the crisis and the necessity for coordinated firefighting efforts. Concurrently, winter weather impacts persist in the Upper Midwest, complicating travel and safety for residents in those regions. As we navigate these pressing issues, it is imperative to remain informed about local conditions and heed official advisories to ensure personal safety and community resilience. Takeaways: * The ongoing wildfire response remains a paramount national concern, particularly in Oklahoma and Texas. * In Oklahoma, the Ranger Road Fire has reached an alarming 283,283 acres with only 15% containment. * Winter weather advisories in the Upper Midwest forecast hazardous travel conditions due to accumulating snow. * California experiences cold conditions prompting freeze warnings, necessitating protective measures for vulnerable entities. Sources [NWS Sacramento | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=CAZ216&lat=39.732&local_place1=Chico+CA&lon=-121.842&product1=Flash+Flood+Watch&warncounty=CAC007&warnzone=CAZ016] [Kansas Dept. of Agriculture | https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/Home/Components/News/News/629/17] [Oklahoma OEM | https://oklahoma.gov/oem/news/newsroom/wildfire-situation-update-2---feb-18-2026.html] [NWS Duluth | https://www.weather.gov/dlh/] [NWS Hazard Info | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=MNZ012&lat=47.796&local_place1=10+Miles+NW+Schroeder+MN&lon=-91.112&product1=Winter+Storm+Warning&warncounty=MNC075&warnzone=MNZ012] [Oklahoma OEM | https://oklahoma.gov/oem/news/newsroom/wildfire-situation-update-2---feb-18-2026.html] [TDEM | https://www.tdem.texas.gov/press-release/2-19-26] [TDEM Disaster Page | https://tdem.texas.gov/disasters/26-0001-february-wildfires] [NWS WWA Text | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=mpx&wwa=winter+weather+advisory] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

    4 min
  2. 1D AGO

    Critical Fire Weather Conditions Threaten Southern Regions

    The primary focus of this podcast episode is the extensive and multifaceted weather hazards affecting the lower 48 states as we approach the weekend. A formidable storm system is advancing, bringing wintry conditions from the Northern and Central Plains to the Great Lakes and the Northeast, while simultaneously posing severe thunderstorm and tornado risks in the mid-Mississippi and Ohio valleys. Additionally, California faces another bout of heavy snowfall in the Sierra, accompanied by periods of significant rain and isolated thunderstorms in Southern California. The episode also highlights critical fire weather concerns in the Southern Plains, wherein warm, dry, and windy conditions facilitate the rapid spread of fires. We conclude our report with a brief overview of state-specific weather developments, emphasizing the necessity for vigilance and preparedness in light of these evolving conditions. Takeaways: * The current weather pattern is characterized by significant activity across the continental United States, indicating a need for preparedness. * A severe storm system is expected to bring wintry conditions and potential severe thunderstorms to various regions. * Fire weather concerns are notably acute in the Southern Plains due to dry and windy conditions conducive to rapid fire spread. * States such as Iowa and Missouri face multiple hazards, including snowfall and severe thunderstorms, necessitating caution for travelers. Sources [WPC | https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/discussions/hpcdiscussions.php?disc=pmdspd] [WA Governor | https://governor.wa.gov/news/2026/governor-ferguson-requests-fema-assistance-repair-1823m-infrastructure-damaged-historic-december] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

    4 min
  3. 2D AGO

    Critical Weather Alerts: Tracking Storms and Wildfires Across the Nation

    The episode elucidates the prevailing national risk landscape characterized by a rapidly advancing multi-hazard storm on February 18, 2026. We delve into the severe winter storm and blizzard conditions affecting the upper Midwest and Great Lakes, juxtaposed with critical fire weather conditions across the High Plains. The National Weather Service has issued multiple warnings for blizzard and winter storm conditions, particularly around western Lake Superior, where hazardous travel is imminent. Furthermore, we examine the dire situation in Northern California, with significant travel disruptions and ongoing search and rescue operations following an avalanche incident. Our analysis extends to various states, detailing the complex interplay of winter weather and fire hazards, underscoring the necessity for vigilance and preparedness amidst these perilous conditions. Takeaways: * The podcast emphasizes the severity of the multi-hazard storm impacting various regions across the nation. * Blizzard and winter storm warnings are active in the upper Midwest, affecting travel and safety. * Critical fire weather conditions are prevalent in the High Plains, particularly impacting states like Colorado and Nebraska. * Winter storm warnings in Northern California have led to significant travel disruptions and highway closures. * Local authorities report ongoing rescue operations following an avalanche incident in the Sierra region. * Oklahoma is facing a serious wildfire situation with coordinated emergency response efforts underway. Sources [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=blizzard+warning] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?zoneid=CAZ069] [NWS | https://www.weather.gov/sto/] [ABC7 / AP | https://abc7news.com/post/rescue-underway-missing-skiers-reported-avalanche-castle-peak-area-sierra-nevada-sheriffs-office-says/18612994/] [ABC10 | https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/california-winter-storm-interstate-80-traffic-sierra-avalanche-warning-outage/103-d82bfe99-61b2-425c-a4ce-e25e71521343] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+storm+warning] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=bou&wwa=red+flag+warning] [Colorado Sun | https://coloradosun.com/2026/02/17/fires-evaucations-eastern-plains/] [CBS Colorado | https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/video/fire-that-burned-over-5000-acres-on-colorados-eastern-plains-is-now-contained/] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+storm+warning] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+weather+advisory] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=red+flag+warning] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=NEZ080&lat=40.2347&local_place1=2+Miles+W+Culbertson+NE&lon=-100.8782&product1=Fire+Weather+Watch&warncounty=NEC087&warnzone=NEZ080] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=MIZ003&lat=47&local_place1=Toivola+MI&lon=-88.74&product1=Winter+Storm+Watch&warncounty=MIC061&warnzone=MIZ003] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=MIZ016&lat=45.9706&local_place1=3+Miles+N+Rapid+River+MI&lon=-86.972&product1=Winter+Storm+Watch&warncounty=MIC041&warnzone=MIZ013] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=blizzard+warning] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=dlh&wwa=winter+storm+warning] [NWS | https://www.weather.gov/ggw/] [NWS | https://www.weather.gov/byz/montana_statewide_information] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=NEZ080&lat=40.2347&local_place1=2+Miles+W+Culbertson+NE&lon=-100.8782&product1=Fire+Weather+Watch&warncounty=NEC087&warnzone=NEZ080] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=red+flag+warning] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=MNZ008&lat=48.3003&local_place1=10+Miles+E+Holt+MN&lon=-95.9822&product1=Winter+Storm+Watch&warncounty=MNC089&warnzone=MNZ008] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=NDZ010&lat=48.3124&local_place1=Stanley+ND&lon=-102.3928&product1=Winter+Storm+Watch&warncounty=NDC061&warnzone=NDZ010] [OK OEM | https://oklahoma.gov/oem/news/newsroom/wildfire-situation-update-1---february-17--2026.html] [KOCO | https://www.koco.com/article/oklahoma-wildfire-woodward-evacuations-forgan-fire-beaver-county/70397791] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+storm+warning] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=red+flag+warning] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+weather+advisory] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=WIZ002&lat=46.7163&local_place1=6+Miles+SSE+Cornucopia+WI&lon=-91.0496&product1=Winter+Storm+Warning&warncounty=WIC007&warnzone=WIZ002] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

    6 min
  4. 3D AGO

    Navigating Winter Weather: Alerts and Advisories Across the Nation

    This podcast episode provides a comprehensive overview of the current weather conditions impacting various regions across the United States. The primary focus centers on the significant winter weather hazards affecting the upper Midwest and California, where winter storm warnings have been issued due to heavy snowfall and strong winds. Additionally, concerns about flooding and debris flows in Southern California are addressed, particularly in areas near recent burn scars. Notably, localized boil water advisories are highlighted in several states, including Florida, Georgia, and Virginia, due to water main breaks. As we navigate these pressing weather-related issues, it remains imperative to stay informed through official alerts and advisories. Takeaways: * The National Hurricane Center has reported no active tropical cyclones in the Atlantic or Eastern Pacific regions. * Currently, winter weather dominates the narrative with significant impacts across the upper Midwest and West Coast. * California is facing substantial flood and winter weather challenges, particularly affecting Los Angeles and Ventura counties. * Florida is dealing with a water main break in Lehigh Acres, leading to a precautionary boil water advisory for residents. * Minnesota is currently under a winter storm warning due to adverse weather conditions that may hinder travel safety. * Virginia has issued a citywide boil water advisory in Danville, urging residents to utilize boiled or bottled water for consumption. Sources [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+weather+advisory] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?firewxzone=CAZ368&lat=33.9071&local_place1=Norwalk+CA&lon=-118.077&product1=Flash+Flood+Warning&warncounty=CAC037&warnzone=CAZ368] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=LOX&wwa=winter%2520storm%2520warning] [FGUA | https://www.fgua.com/outages_notices/water-main-break-boil-water-advisory-317-main-road-2-16-2026/] [City of Fayetteville, GA | https://www.fayetteville-ga.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=752] [NWS | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+storm+warning] [City of Medford | https://www.medfordoregon.gov/News-Articles/Severe-Weather-Shelter-Open-in-Medford-Feb.-16-17] [WTAE | https://www.wtae.com/article/shaler-township-police-residents-water-main-break-boil-advisory/70386197] [WSET | https://wset.com/news/local/danville-virginia-issues-citywide-boil-water-advisory-february-2026] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

    3 min
  5. 4D AGO

    California's Peril: Flash Flooding and Heavy Snow Forecasted

    The principal focus of today’s discussion pertains to the imminent Pacific Storm Train and its associated risks, particularly concerning flash flooding and fire weather conditions. We commence with a forecast highlighting a slight risk for excessive rainfall and flash flooding across Central and Southern California, with the most significant impacts anticipated during the late morning to early evening hours. Furthermore, the storm system is poised to generate heavy mountain snow, thereby complicating travel in the Sierra Nevada and adjacent western ranges through midweek. As we traverse the landscape of weather alerts, we underscore the critical fire weather concerns emerging in the Central High Plains, where heightened vigilance is essential due to increasing winds and low humidity. In summary, the episode delineates the multifaceted weather challenges that warrant close attention and preparedness across various regions. Takeaways: * The Pacific Storm Train presents significant risks, notably in California, where flash flooding is a concern. * Heavy mountain snow and challenging travel conditions are expected in the Sierra Nevada region through midweek. * Fire weather poses a critical risk in the Central High Plains, necessitating operational support on Tuesday. * Tornado watches and damaging winds have been reported in the Southeast, particularly affecting Louisiana and Mississippi. * The Weather Prediction Center forecasts excessive rainfall and rapid runoff impacts in urban areas of Southern California. * Ongoing storm systems are likely to produce hazardous conditions across various states, warranting vigilance and preparedness. Sources [WPC ERO Day 1 | https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/qpf/ero.php?day=1&opt=curr] [Cal OES | https://www.news.caloes.ca.gov/emergency-resources-prepositioned-ahead-of-state-wide-storm/] [NOAA NCO CWD | https://www.nco.ncep.noaa.gov/status/cwd/] [AP (SE storms) | https://apnews.com/article/ed98b3ad57a2a59b0c61f4fc98e2b4d1] [SPC Day 2 Convective Outlook | https://origin-west-www-spc.woc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/day2otlk.html] [AP (SE storms) | https://apnews.com/article/ed98b3ad57a2a59b0c61f4fc98e2b4d1] [SPC Day 2 Convective Outlook | https://origin-west-www-spc.woc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/day2otlk.html] [NOAA NCO CWD | https://www.nco.ncep.noaa.gov/status/cwd/] [AP (SE storms) | https://apnews.com/article/ed98b3ad57a2a59b0c61f4fc98e2b4d1] [WPC Short Range Discussion | https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/discussions/hpcdiscussions.php?disc=pmdspd] [NOAA NCO CWD | https://www.nco.ncep.noaa.gov/status/cwd/] [NOAA NCO CWD | https://www.nco.ncep.noaa.gov/status/cwd/] [NWS Norman (hazards) | https://www.weather.gov/oun] [WPC Short Range Discussion | https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/discussions/hpcdiscussions.php?disc=pmdspd] [NOAA NCO CWD | https://www.nco.ncep.noaa.gov/status/cwd/] [NWS Fire Weather (portal) | https://www.weather.gov/fire/] [WPC Short Range Discussion | https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/discussions/hpcdiscussions.php?disc=pmdspd] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

    6 min
  6. FEB 13

    Earthquake Reports: Alaska and Montana Shake but Remain Unscathed

    This podcast episode provides a comprehensive overview of the current meteorological conditions affecting various regions across the United States, emphasizing a marginal risk for severe thunderstorms in the Southern Plains. We meticulously detail the potential for isolated hail and gusty winds, particularly during the evening and overnight hours. Moreover, the episode highlights the risk of excessive rainfall, which may lead to broader flooding threats extending eastward over the weekend. We also caution listeners about hazardous conditions, including low water crossings along the California and Oregon coasts, as well as significant beach hazards characterized by powerful rip currents and sneaker waves. Conclusively, we urge our audience to remain vigilant and prioritize safety as we navigate these adverse weather conditions. Takeaways: * The Storm Prediction Center has issued a marginal risk for severe thunderstorms in the Southern Plains today. * Isolated hail and gusty winds are anticipated this evening and overnight in affected regions. * A broader threat of heavy rain and flooding is expected to expand eastward over the weekend. * Hazardous conditions may arise at low water crossings along the California and Oregon coasts this weekend. * Beach hazards are in effect due to sneaker waves and strong rip currents on northwest facing beaches. * A notable earthquake occurred near Ivanoff Bay, Alaska, but no tsunami alert was issued. Sources [USGS | https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/map/?extent=-89.50704%2C-547.03125&extent=89.50096%2C577.96875&listOnlyShown=true&timeZone=utc] [NWS SF Bay Area | https://www.weather.gov/mtr/] [NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard | https://www.weather.gov/lox/] [NWS Tampa Bay | https://www.weather.gov/tbw/] [NWS Melbourne | https://www.weather.gov/mlb/] [USGS Event Page | https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us6000s8ml/executive] [SPC | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?format=txt&issuedby=DY1&product=SWO&site=JKL&version=1] [NWS Portland | https://www.weather.gov/pqr/] [NWS Houston/Galveston | https://www.weather.gov/hgx/] [SPC Day 1 Outlook | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?format=txt&issuedby=DY1&product=SWO&site=JKL&version=1] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

    3 min
  7. FEB 12

    High Surf Advisory: Hawaii's Dangerous Shoreline Conditions

    The primary focus of today’s discussion centers on the severe weather conditions impacting various regions across the United States, with particular emphasis on the blizzard warnings currently in effect for Alaska. I delineate the perilous situation along the Bering Strait coast, where visibility has been markedly reduced, creating treacherous travel conditions. Furthermore, I address the persistent lake effect snow advisories affecting parts of central New York, which pose significant challenges during the morning commute. We also touch upon the high surf advisory in Hawaii, cautioning against strong currents that may endanger those on the east-facing shores. Additionally, I highlight the recent updates issued by FEMA concerning flood maps for Cochise County, Arizona, urging residents to familiarize themselves with the new information to better understand their flood risk. Takeaways: * Alaska currently faces severe blizzard warnings, significantly impairing visibility and travel safety. * The Great Lakes region continues to experience persistent lake effect snow, affecting morning commutes. * In Hawaii, a high surf advisory is in effect, creating hazardous conditions along east facing shores. * FEMA has issued updated flood maps for Cochise County, necessitating local residents to review their risk assessments. * The National Weather Service anticipates additional winter weather advisories for Central New York into the afternoon. * Overall, there are no significant updates from other states affecting national weather conditions today. Sources [NWS Fairbanks Blizzard Warnings | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=blizzard+warning] [NWS Map (example: Gambell) | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=63.37539&lon=-171.715146] [FEMA — Cochise County Flood Maps Update | https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20260211/fema-updates-flood-maps-cochise-county] [NWS Honolulu — Coastal Hazard Message | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=HFO&product=CFW&site=hfo] [NWS (Albany text feed for advisory counties) | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=aly&wwa=winter+weather+advisory] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

    3 min
  8. FEB 11

    Earthquake Reports and Weather Advisories: Essential Information for Residents

    This morning, I present significant weather developments across Alaska and the contiguous United States, particularly highlighting the blizzard and winter weather advisories issued by the National Weather Service. As we navigate through perilous travel conditions and potential whiteout scenarios, it is imperative to remain vigilant, especially in areas affected by strong southerly winds and gusts reaching up to 70 mph in Southern California. Additionally, I will provide an overview of recent seismic activity, which remains minimal, with a recorded minor earthquake near Toya, Texas, that has not resulted in any reported damage. We will also discuss the updated assistance information from FEMA regarding Hurricane Helene, urging survivors to review program details and impending deadlines. Throughout this briefing, we shall continue to monitor and relay active alerts and official updates to ensure public safety and preparedness. Takeaways: * The National Weather Service has issued blizzard warnings for various regions in Alaska, indicating severe weather conditions. * California is experiencing strong southerly winds that may lead to downed limbs and hazardous travel for high-profile vehicles. * FEMA has updated its Hurricane Helene assistance page, providing essential information for survivors seeking support. * New York is under winter weather advisories due to lake effect snow, impacting travel and road conditions significantly today. * A minor earthquake was recorded in Texas, though no significant damage or impacts were reported in the area. * Active weather alerts will be monitored throughout the day to ensure public safety and awareness. Sources [NWS San Diego | https://kesq.com/weather/alerts-weather/2026/02/11/high-wind-warning-issued-february-11-at-324am-pst-until-february-11-at-100pm-pst-by-nws-san-diego-ca/] [NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard — Watches/Warnings | https://www.weather.gov/lox/] [NWS Fairbanks — DSS Winter | https://www.weather.gov/afg/dsswinter] [NWS Juneau — Hazards | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=59.6702&lon=-135.5379] [NWS Buffalo — Advisory | https://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?product1=Winter+Weather+Advisory&warnzone=NYZ006] [NWS Albany — Advisory | https://www.weather.gov/aly/winterheadlines] [USGS Latest Earthquakes | https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/map/] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

    2 min
5
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

This podcast features strategies and advice from today’s leaders and experts in emergency management. Its purpose is to empower and enrich current and future leaders. emnetwork.substack.com