1) Did you know that the air in the core of a lightning bolt has been estimated to be heated to as much as 54,000 degrees Fahrenheit. That happens to be about six times hotter than the surface of the sun!

Hello Everyone. Nice to correspond again. We've had some spectacular storm spotting in this past winter. Many people kept a running total of their snowfalls and it enabled the Meteorologists to adjust forecasts, time winter storm warnings, and overall create a better forecast product. Our hats off to everyone who reported the weather. Great job.

It is that time again to put the middle tubes and lids back on the rain gages. Once temperatures remain above freezing in your area, please put the tube and lid back on the gage.

Please remember with summertime thunderstorm activity it is crucial that you report the amount of rainfall and the time the rain took to get in the gage. An example would be 0.75"/30 minutes. This gives us an idea of intensity and possible flash flooding in your area. Also, the more timely the report, the better we can warn your community of the coming hazard.

With regard to our spring card drawing, please include your e-mail address on your card. If I can get the entire group to be on e-mail, my ability to communicate with you will be greatly enhanced.

Our secret Storm Spotter number remains 1-800-882-1432.

2) Did you know that sound from a bolt of lightning travels at about 1000 feet per second? As soon as you see lightning strike, count the seconds until you hear the thunder. If you count 5 seconds, the lightning is about a mile away. If they happen at about the same time, WATCH OUT! The storm is right on top of you!

Spring Drawing Contest Fun
This spring we will once again run the spring card drawing. Please fill out the card with the correct information and drop the card in the mail. You are really almost guaranteed to win a NOAA shirt or hat. The first 30 spotters picked will win. Your card must be returned within 7 days. Please take the time to update your information. Also, please include your e-mail address.

Not just yet. This winter brought high hopes. As of March 12, most snow packs across the state were well above average and we were on our way to ending the drought. Then March turned ugly, bringing high pressure and record heat to the state, the only thing that could have saved us was more moisture. But it never came. While people throughout the state enjoy the untimely warm weather, many do not realize the damage it brings to the snowpack and to our chances of escaping the drought. Because of the high temperatures and the dry climate, the snow is melting but sending little water to our reservoirs. From evaporation to infiltration, mother nature is finding ways to deplete our water supply, leaving us with the threat of a sixth straight year of drought. Our snow pack has fallen well below average since March 12. Can we still make it out of the drought this year? The possibility is very low.. We will huge storms and much cooler temperatures through April and May.