Greetings everybody. As a massive winter storm sweeps across the USA affecting over 200 million people, it’s crucial to stay informed and prepared. Check out the Winter Weather Preparedness page for essential tips to keep you and your loved ones safe. Ever wondered how winter precipitation forms and why it’s such a challenge for meteorologists? Dive into the ‘When Snow Meets Science’ page to uncover the fascinating secrets behind winter weather and forecasting challenges. Don’t forget to read the latest installment of the Tornado Quest Chronicles and check your NOAA weather radio. And as always, I’ve curated several thought-provoking reads for this week to keep you informed and inspired. Stay safe, stay warm, and stay curious!
- In the first second after the Big Bang, the universe exploded from an infinitesimal, ultra‑dense point into a rapidly expanding, hot soup of particles and forces that set the stage for all the stars, galaxies, and matter we see today.
- Scientists discovered that stopping human caused carbon emissions stabilizes global temperatures, leading to worldwide net zero goals that have already reduced future warming projections.
- Just 32 companies produce over half of the world’s fossil fuel emissions, directly impacting your health, finances, and the future of your grandchildren.
- A thick blanket of snow hides a bustling hidden world beneath the surface where roots, microbes, insects and even birds stay active all winter. Unfortunately, our warming climate threatens this silent, vital ecosystem.
- Small island states successfully advocated for a global target to limit warming to 1.5°C, but achieving this goal remains challenging.
- In 2025, the Earth’s oceans absorbed more heat than ever before, highlighting the urgent need to address climate change and its far-reaching effects.
- A warming Arctic is reshaping the polar vortex which set the stage for the ongoing massive winter storm that’s bringing extreme cold, heavy snow and ice across much of the United States.
WHEN SNOW MEETS SCIENCE: WHAT EVERY NON-METEOROLOGIST NEEDS TO KNOW
WINTER WEATHER PREPAREDNESS
US DROUGHT MONITOR
Here’s this week’s US Drought Monitor. The weather across the lower 48 states has settled into a calmer pattern, with high pressure in the West and a deep trough in the East. While the western U.S. has below-average snow pack, raising concerns about summer water supplies, California’s reservoirs are above average. However, the Colorado River Basin is below average due to long-term drought. The Plains are experiencing dry weather with some snow showers and wildfire threats. Meanwhile, the East and Midwest are seeing cold weather with some snow. A significant winter storm is expected from January 23-26, bringing snow, sleet, and freezing rain to the South, with potential power outages and stress on livestock. Looking ahead to January 27-31, below-normal temperatures are expected in the East, while the West will see warmer-than-normal weather, with mostly dry conditions nationwide except for parts of Florida and Texas. The latest fire weather outlooks can be found at the Storm Prediction Center website where they are updated daily.
NOAA WEATHER RADIO
Here’s your weekly reminder to check your NOAA weather radio’s batteries, programming, settings, and reception. NOAA has a comprehensive page on NOAA weather radio…a feature of the National weather Service in the USA that has saved countless lives.
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Citizen science lets everyday people actively shape real research by sharing observations and data. Join now to make a tangible impact, discover new insights, and become part of a global community driving scientific breakthroughs!
- The CoCoRaHS project invites weather enthusiasts to become citizen scientists by submitting daily precipitation reports that support forecasting and climate research even on dry days.
- Another path into becoming a citizen scientist is using the free mPING app! Your weather reports go directly to the National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman, Oklahoma!
That’s a wrap for this week! Thanks for stopping by! See you next Saturday!
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