Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is one of the rising stars in the new wave of digital storm coverage. His livestreams have gained national attention for their accuracy, clarity, and his calm demeanor under pressure. He's part of a growing cadre of content creators that are changing how people experience severe weather in real time. He also recently graduated with a degree in Meteorology. Max Velocity, welcome to WeatherBrains!
Also joining us is show regular and Birmingham NWS Science and Operations Officer Kevin Laws. He brings extensive experience in the field and has an impeccable track record of keeping the public safe and informed when dangerous weather threatens. Kevin, welcome back to the show!
Friend of the podcast Ben Luna from Tennessee Valley Weather also joins us as Guest Panelist # 2 and participates in the discussion concerning severe weather coverage and changing methods of communication. It's great to see you Ben!
Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: email@weatherbrains.com.
- Early history of Max Velocity's story (11:15)
- Challenges and philosophy for covering the entire country during severe weather (23:00)
- Differences of NWS Birmingham warning philosophy compared to other offices (24:45)
- QLCS warning inconsistency among offices across the country (26:45)
- Maintaining/sustaining energy and voice during long streams/severe weather events (30:30)
- Communicating information above and beyond what is available to the NWS (38:40)
- Local vs National coverage differences and tornado warning fatigue (40:45)
- Continuing issues/disconnect with the public and weather safety (01:02:30)
- Max Velocity's future and vision for the upcoming years (01:14:20)
- Regional differences in weather literacy (01:18:00)
- The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:26:47)
- This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:29:07)
- E-Mail Segment (01:30:20)
- and more!
Web Sites from Episode 1012:
Picks of the Week:
Max Velocity - 119 mph microburst NE of Midland, TX on 6/8/25
Kevin Laws - NWS: How to Avoid Getting Caught in a Rip Current
James Aydelott - James Aydelott Team Coverage photo
James Aydelott - Tornado Warnings by NWS office so far in 2025
Jen Narramore - KAKE original: Echoes of the Storm
Rick Smith - New high-speed camera captures hail in free fall to improve public safety
Troy Kimmel - Foghorn
Kim Klockow-McClain - Bipartisan bill aims to restore NWS ravaged by cuts
John Gordon - Iceberg Finder
Bill Murray - Foghorn
James Spann - Caiden Dinkins photo of tornado damage to roof of KTXS 12 TV
The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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