meteorologists

Coverage is focusing on the return of the polar vortex, the band of cold air circling the Arctic, and its influence on the coming winter. When the vortex weakens or shifts, frigid air can spill into Europe and North America, driving cold snaps and storms. Meteorologists are weighing how its behavior could shape seasonal forecasts.

A powerful nor'easter is taking aim at the US East Coast, forecast to bring heavy rainfall, coastal flooding and beach erosion in the coming days. Meteorologists are warning residents along the shoreline to prepare for hazardous conditions as the storm strengthens offshore, with impacts expected across multiple coastal states.

Meteorologists are monitoring two tropical systems in the Atlantic basin, and forecasters say one could develop into the next named storm this week. Forecasters are watching projected paths and development chances, with updates expected as conditions evolve.

A series of East Pacific hurricanes is expected to steer away from California, sparing the state their direct effects. Their moisture, however, should bring heavy rain to the interior Southwest, potentially triggering flash flooding in desert areas. Meteorologists also flag a major, long-duration autumn heatwave building afterwards across the western United States, extending unseasonably hot conditions into the region.

Meteorologist Kristen Currie reports a major weather pattern change is on the way, with heavy rain and flood risk expected this week. September will largely finish dry, but the start of October looks much wetter and significantly cooler as the new system moves in.