Weather hazard maps have nearly 100 colors including six variations of red, a "bisque," "moccasin," cornflower blue, and Dodger blue. Experts are working to simplify the alerts.

Starting Wednesday, temperatures are expected to be in the high 90s and low 100s in inland areas. Officials say now is the time to prepare.

Scattered showers and thunderstorms could bring gusty winds, lightning and heavy rainfall to Central Texas, the National Weather Service said.

Enjoy the pleasant 80-degree temperatures Thursday and Friday before a significant weather system brings storms and much cooler conditions for the weekend.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will hire as many as 450 people to shore up the National Weather Service after deep cuts this spring raised concern about dangerous understaffing.

An abrupt change in the weather this weekend has prompted the National Weather Service to issue a heat advisory for Trinity, Lake and the interior portions of Mendocino and Humboldt counties. Temperatures will likely reach triple-digits in areas from Hoopa to Garberville,

The Orlando National Weather Service warns of rough weather in Florida with a High Surf Advisory and high rip current risks. Thunderstorms and showers are likely, with heavy rainfall possible inland into early next week.

Weather Service will hire 450 people, but experts say it won't help fill critical vacancies during current hurricane and wildfire season.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Hurricane Erin is expected to create significant coastal hazards for Staten Island on Thursday and Friday, with high surf, potential beach erosion and moderate coastal flooding. The National Weather Service has issued several advisories for the area, warning residents of dangerous conditions along the shoreline.

HOUSTON — Get ready for more storms on Wednesday. That's why the KHOU 11 Weather Team has issued an hourly Weather Impact Alert that is in effect from 2 p.m. through 8 p.m. for the Houston area.

The latest streak of hot and humid weather will be coming to an end, as temperatures will likely return to the upper 80s, which is typical for this time of year in Kansas City, the National Weather Service. Even cooler air is on the way next week, which will make it feel more like fall than summer. National Weather Service in Kansas City

On Wednesday at 4:15 p.m. a coastal flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service valid from Thursday 5 p.m. until Saturday 2 a.m. for Middlesex and Monmouth counties.