Greetings to one and all! We’ve a plethora of topics to cover this week including hurricane preparation tips, so let’s get started.
- On the current path to climate change, large USA cities will be dealing with the daunting and potentially deadly aspects of heat waves.
- Since the middle of the 18th century, humans have been responsible for the extinction of almost 600 plant species.
- Will the risk of conflict between countries increase in a warming world? “How 11 experts spent 2 days trying to find consensus on climate and conflict.”
- Many of us are well aware of the devastating effects of drought. Here’s a sobering read on what may be in store for much of the planet in the years to come. “Creeping Toward Permanent Drought.”
- An exceptionally disconcerting read. “Temperatures leap 40 degrees above normal as the Arctic Ocean and Greenland ice sheet see record June melting.”
- At the other end of the precipitation spectrum, recent droughts across many USA states have been exceptionally devastating and records have been broken in several locations. Why is so much of the USA experiencing flooding right now?
- The dangers of mosquitoes are highly underrated and very common. People freak out about sharks, snakes, lions, tigers, and bears, etc…but none can come close to the lethal dangers of the mosquito. As our climate changes and warms, there’s a high likelihood that the potentially lethal Dengue Disease will spread across parts of the USA with the southern states being the most vulnerable.
- Here’s a very cool astronomy read. “Perfect Example of a Barred Spiral Galaxy, Seen Face On. This is What Our Milky Way Might Look Like.
- This should come as no surprise. Just a couple of hours spent outdoors weekly is good for your health. Don’t forget to look up and admire the clouds!
- Last but not least, the arrival of June brings the official beginning of the Atlantic hurricane season. Here’s an excellent site that is a great starting point to help you prepare for the storm you hope never happens.
SEVERE WEATHER SAFETY AND PREPAREDNESS
Here are some links and infographics that will provide a starting point for gathering online severe weather information. I hope you find plentiful information here that will help you become better prepared as we navigate one of the most volatile climactic seasons on our planet.
Testing your NOAA weather radio year round is one of the best ways to stay informed on weather conditions for your area regardless of the season. Many National Weather Service offices conduct weekly tests. It’s also a good idea to replace the batteries in your NOAA weather radio when you change batteries in your smoke/carbon monoxide detectors.
When severe weather is forecast, it is assigned a risk category. Hazards exist in all categories, hence it’s important to be aware of all of them. Note: tornadoes can and do occur even in Marginal Risk areas…and a Slight Risk does not mean that storms will be “slightly” severe.
After thunderstorms form, they are carefully observed with Doppler Radar. This infographic explains how this amazing technology works and how its progressed over the years.
When severe weather is anticipated, a Severe Thunderstorm or Tornado Watch will be issued. It’s very important to know the difference between a Watch and a Warning.
If a TORNADO WARNING is issued, it means you need to take cover immediately. Where you take cover can sometimes be a life-or-death situation.
If a TORNADO WARNING is issued and you are in the warned area, there are good options and bad options for taking shelter. The choice can sometimes be a life-and-death decision. Bad options have killed countless people in recent years. One of the most onerous and dangerous behaviors during severe weather is the practice of “sheltering’ under an overpass. Under no circumstances should anyone engage in this life-threatening activity.
One of the most onerous and dangerous behaviors during severe weather is the practice of “sheltering’ under an overpass. Under no circumstances should anyone engage in this life-threatening activity.
Flash flooding is the number one killer related to severe thunderstorms. Here are some very important flash flood safety tips to remember.
Perhaps the factor that leads to more flash flood deaths than anything else is underestimating the power of water.
Here are more links that will help you prepare and stay informed during the severe weather season.
National Weather Service Homepage
National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center
Interactive NOAA Weather Radio Coverage Map
Tornadoes, Lightning, & Thunderstorms: Nature’s Most Violent Storms (PDF file)
Tornado Safety Rules from the Storm Prediction Center
Highway Overpasses As Tornado Shelters (Slide Presentation)
American Red Cross Severe Weather Safety Information
Flash Flooding: Turn Around, Don’t Drown
Preparing Your Pets For Disasters And Emergencies
Ready.gov Basic Disaster Supply Kit Info
This excellent Emergency Kit checklist from the American Red Cross is very helpful in assisting you while you compile items for your kit. A kit like this should be available year round…there are many winter weather scenarios where the same items will come in handy.
Please keep in mind that ONLY your local National Weather Service office, NOAA Weather Radio, or reliable broadcast media are the BEST sources of important, timely, and potentially life-saving weather information, watches, and warnings! None of the links on this page should be used for life-&-death decisions or the protection of property!
That’s a wrap for this post! To my new followers, I’d like to extend a very sincere “Welcome” and thank you for being a part of the fun. For my long-time followers, your loyalty is deeply appreciated. Thanks so much for the support and kind words!
Cheers!
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