Elyse Smith
Growing up in the Chicagoland area, Elyse's interest in weather was sparked by a tornado siren that was next to her backyard at her childhood home. Her curiosity for the weather never ceased, eventually leading her to Valparaiso University in Northwest Indiana from which she graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Meteorology with minors in Mathematics & Theatre in 2017. While attending Valpo, Elyse gained experience through her internships with James Spann and Tom Skilling, and served as the Social Chair, Vice President, and President of the Northwest Indiana Chapter of the AMS/NWA. After graduation, she stayed involved with both the American Meteorological Society (AMS) and National Weather Association (NWA), volunteering on several boards and even presenting at national conferences. Elyse is currently serving as the Program Chair of the AMS Early Career Leadership Academy, from which she is a graduate of as well.
And when she's is not at the office or out in the stormy weather, Elyse enjoys yoga, reading a great book, and attempting new recipes. Her favorite sport is football, but don't blame her if her NFL team loyalties lie outside of Texas. And as an avid cruiser, she's ready to plan a vacation from Galveston! Elyse is looking forward to exploring Houston and discovering what this part of the world has to offer.
Elyse's Stories
Record quiet stretch in the Atlantic basin continues
Locally we look good for at least another week, but the Pacific remains active.
Heat and isolated storms this weekend
Another round of hit-or-miss thunderstorms will push through Southeast Texas Saturday. It'll be super hot as well.
An active Pacific hurricane season? It's a sign of a strong El Niño
It's been an active season already for the eastern and central Pacific with 15 named storms, six hurricanes with four for those becoming major hurricanes. That is above normal activity for named storms at this point in the Pacific season.
How climate change is impacting when mosquitos can impact Houstonians
A new study from Climate Central found that much of the United States is witnessing a seasonal mosquito boom related to climate change.
How hot summer days can lead to flight delays
A recent report from the Associated Press finds that rising temperatures on these hot summer days can lead to flight delays too.
New study shows more Americans are losing sleep due to the heat than ever before
The new study from Climate Central details how climate change is impacting people's sleep.
What parents should know about the wet bulb globe temperature and heat safety
And with this being the first week when students can practice, ABC13 Meteorologist Elyse Smith has more on what parents should know about the impact this change can have on their student athlete.
Understanding wet bulb globe temperature to discern heat risk
The University Interscholastic League announced new heat safety protocols for high school athletes in Texas, using a measurement called the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature to dictate if weather conditions are deemed safe.
How Houston's rainfall rates are changing, increasing local flood risk even more
A new study highlights the increasing risk of flooding with how those heavy rainfall rates have changed over time.
How the weather can impact the air quality in Houston
It's on hot, dry, and calm summer days when the air quality across Houston can dip into unhealthy levels for residents.