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Pacific Storms Continue to Impact the West; Severe Thunderstorms Forecast Thursday in the South

A series of Pacific storm systems will continue to impact the Northwest U.S. into this coming weekend with periods of gusty winds, high surf, low elevation rain, and heavy mountain snow. Severe thunderstorms will be possible on Thursday across central/east Texas into western Louisiana and possibly the ArkLaTex and southeast Oklahoma. Read More >

How did you become interested in your profession?

I knew I wanted to be a meteorologist as early as 6th grade. My uncle woke me up late one night to watch the snow fall. It doesn't snow very often in East Texas so I was fascinated by this unexpected event knowing it was too warm for snow when I went to bed that evening.

 

What led you to a career with the NWS (National Weather Service)?

I really wasn't interested in TV meteorology so the NWS was the logical choice.

 

How did you end up in Pendleton?

I stared by career in the NWS at Midland, Texas as an intern. By the mid 90s, modernization of the NWS was in full swing so I got a journeyman position in Midland. In 1998, lead forecaster positions opened up across the country, and I was selected for one of the five positions at Pendleton.

 

What do you enjoy most about working for the NWS?

The challenge of forecasting in complex terrain.

 

What is your favorite type of weather and why?

I enjoy watching and photographing thunderstorms.

 

What is the most memorable weather event you've ever experienced?

While working in Midland, Texas, there was a severe thunderstorm outbreak in May 1995. I issued numerous warnings that day, but the most impactful storm hit Big Spring producing softball sized hail.

 

What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?

I enjoy photography and hiking.

 

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

I hope to be retired as I started my career in the NWS back in 1990.