At the Eye of the Storm: Inside NWS Wilmington’s Battle with Extreme Weather

Semilla Magazine - Featuring Issue August 2025.

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In the peak of heat and hurricane season, Semilla Magazine takes you inside the National Weather Service (NWS) Wilmington, where Meteorologist-in-Charge Steven Pfaff and his team work tirelessly to protect the Carolinas. From hurricanes Florence and Floyd to today’s rising climate challenges, the office blends cutting-edge technology with an “orchestra” of meteorologists, citizen scientists, and emergency managers to deliver life-saving forecasts.

August marks the height of both hurricane threats and extreme heat, demanding constant vigilance. Pfaff shares not only the science behind forecasting but also the human side—how preparation, communication, and community collaboration save lives. He calls on the next generation to get involved, volunteer, and connect with local weather networks, reminding us that readiness starts long before the storm arrives.

Read the full story in our latest issue and meet the guardians of our coast.