Greetings and Happy Summer Solstice to my followers and friends in the Northern Hemisphere! Happy winter for those south of the equator! An active severe weather period has been in place across much of North America for the past few days. By the end of 2019, there will be many records set. Speaking of records, we have several links concerning climate records that are being broken globally. Plenty of other topics to cover, so let’s get started.
- For research meteorologists, studying tornadoes in the field is a dauntless and dangerous pursuit. Here’s a very unique way of studying that information. “This beastly tornado left behind captivating images and an incredible set of data.”
- With each passing year, heat records continue to be broken on a global scale. At the current rate of warming, over half of the globe will have set records by the end of the 21st century.
- Consensus on any topic when a panel of experts is involved is challenging. In this case, there was a variety of opinions, but the same general agreement.
- There’s a lot in a name. Sometimes changing that name or term can be little more than confusing process over content. In this case and whilst going by scientific data, a name change wouldn’t be out of the question. “Is it time to retire ‘climate change’ for ‘climate crisis’?”
- The USA’s EPA just changed their game when it comes to climate change…and it doesn’t look good by any measure.
- An interesting read on the many facets of the economy that are affected by climate change.
- Teaching our children about climate change can be very challenging. Here’s one schools solution to the problem.
- This is truly an astounding image and an impressive astronomical achievement. “OSIRIS-REx spacecraft captures closest ever image of asteroid Bennu.”
- For folks in the Northern Hemisphere, the summer solstice has arrived. We are aware of how these long hours of daylight affect us, but how does it affect wildlife?
- The 2019 Atlantic hurricane season has arrived…and it’s time to prepare for the storm you hope never gives you a visit.
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.
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
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! Next week, I’ll include some summer safety infographics along with hurricane preparedness information. To my new followers out there, 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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