Via Twitter and email, I've had readers express concern that a hurricane is going to strike the U.S. coast this week.  While in September (the height of hurricane season) it isn't impossible, there are no  indications at this time of a hurricane threat to the U.S. between now and Saturday.  Yes, as far back as Tuesday of last week, there have been irresponsible people making forecasts well beyond atmospheric science's capability who were guessing a hurricane might occur and some of them are still at it. It is the policy of this blog not to make hurricane guesses! Especially to my two Houston-area readers: after the spring derecho and Beryl, I certainly understand why you would be anxious but there is no reason to be. Please enjoy your holiday today and if a tropical system develops and is within 5-7 days, I will let you know. Promise. 

To all of the future meteorologists, happy  National STEM Day.   A piece of (very good) advice: While math, chemistry and atmospheric science courses are vital, use your limited electives to take courses in 1) communications and 2) business -- in that order.  The fact is that, more and more, meteorology/atmospheric science jobs will be in the private sector. Did you know a private sector meteorology company is installing its own national network of gap-filler radars ? And, in the private sector, accurately communicating to clients will be critical.  Here are a couple of examples: Forecasting for cruise lines .  Tornado warning for a manufacturing plant .  You'd be genuinely surprised the variety of ways that clients want their warnings communicated. We had one auto manufacturer that wanted their tornado and thunderstorm wind warnings conveyed in numbers and not words. Communication ability is vital. I recently learned about a student taking a course in acti...