Greetings to everyone! I hope everyone out there is faring well in this middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve plenty of interesting topics to cover this week. In atmospheric science, our changing climate is proving to be an obstacle in dealing with the pandemic and finding a long-term path of adaptation. We also will have some interesting weeks ahead as many areas are opening up while the pandemic statistics numbers keep increasing with no end in sight. The North American spring severe weather season is in full swing and the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season is just days away. Well take a look at some severe weather safety information and much more with this week’s picks…so let’s get started.
- Conspiracy theories: Conceived, nurtured, and spread world-wide by the dullest tools in the shed. “Cell-tower attacks by idiots who claim 5G spreads COVID-19 reportedly hit US.”
- Diplomacy on the Earth’s moon is now a reality. “NASA’s Artemis Accords aim to lay down the law of the land on the moon.”
- Since Mount St Helens erupted in 1980, changes in scientific research on volcanoes has revolutionlized our understanding of these powerful geological phenomenon. “The new science of volcanoes harnesses AI, satellites and gas sensors to forecast eruptions.“
- This is the first peer-reviewed analysis of the pandemic’s impact on emissions. “Coronavirus set to cause biggest emissions fall since second world war.“
- “Climate change is turning parts of Antarctica green, say scientists.” In some areas, the algae is so dense it turns the snow bright green & can be seen from space.
- A recent analysis of nearly 40 years of hurricane satellite imagery shows their maximum sustained winds are getting stronger. This will obviously have substantial ramifications for any tropical cyclone making landfall regardless of the location.
- Speaking of hurricanes, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic could proved to be very problematic and dangerous if we have an active 2020 Atlantic hurricane season.
- Dust bowl conditions were previously thought to occur no more frequently than every 100 years. According to new data, with our current climate change scenario, those devastating droughts could occur as often as every 40 years.
- As our global climate warms, life will become more challenging for we humans. “Global warming now pushing heat into territory humans cannot tolerate.”
- Last but not least, Dr. Ted Fujita was featured on a recent episode of PBS’s American Experience. If you missed it, you will definately enjoy watching it, especially if you have an interest in meteorology and the history of science. Dr. Marshall Shepherd has written an excellent essay on Dr. Fujita and his most important scientific work…the research on microbursts which had no doubt saved thousands of lives over the decades.
SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS
What would you consider the leading weather related killer in the USA? It’s not tornadoes, hurricanes, blizzards, or high winds. Flooding, specifically flash flooding, is the leading weather killer and most of these deaths are preventable. Knowing if you live in a flood zone is key. Also being aware of roads that are frequently flooded during heavy rain events is equally important. It takes less than a foot of water to sweep away many vehicles These NOAA infographics have good tips on staying safe in flood conditions.
Knowing where to get reliable, accurate, and timely weather information can be a daunting task, especially for folks who are new to a region that may be prone to a hurricane risk, winter storms, or episodes of severe weather (large hail, damaging straight line winds, and tornadoes). This infographic from NOAA’s National Weather Service will help you through the murky haze of disinformation. This infographic is valid year round for every kind of weather situation.
That’s a wrap for this post! I’d like to extend a warm welcome to my new followers in social media. I’m glad you’re along for the fun! If you’re on Twitter, Instagram, or Tumblr, let’s connect! Once again I’d like to thank so many of you for all the thoughtful comments I’ve received as of late regarding my prostate cancer treatment. I’m doing well and am further bolstered by your words of encouragement and support. If you’re a male over the age of 40, you should discuss getting your PSA tested with your doctor. The Prostate Cancer Foundation is an excellent website with further information. As for the coronavirus, please stay home if possible, practice good personal hygiene, mind your social distancing, stay safe, and stay healthy!
Cheers…Stay Healthy…and Good Luck!
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