After many weeks of extraordinary activity, the tropical Atlantic is considerably quiet as the hurricane season slowly winds down. The lone exception is Hurricane Epsilon which reached major hurricane status on 21 October 2020 as a late season Atlantic tropical cyclone. 2020 will go in the record books as a very extraordinary year. Wildfires and drought continue to plague much of North America with no immediate relief in sight. There are many other good stories to cover this week including a successful spacecraft mission to and asteroid, so lets get started.
- Science frequently becomes the target for ad hominem attacks, ridiculous conspiracy theories, et al. Here’s a concise examination of eight persistent COVID-19 myths and the often unpredictable reasons why people believe them.
- The concept of ‘herd immunity’ is a disaster from the start and will lead to nothing than the illnesses and deaths of millions across our planet.
- For a refreshing change, here’s some good news on the astronomy front. “Success! OSIRIS-REx Touches Asteroid Bennu to Collect Samples.“
- This is truly a spectacular view. “The Most Comprehensive 3D Map of Galaxies Has Been Released.“
- A very novel idea that needs to be implemented as soon as possible. “If recycling plastics isn’t making sense, remake the plastics.“
- This is a concept that deserves many chances to work. “Superwhite paint can cool buildings even in hot sunlight.“
- This concise read covers many topics regarding wildfires including the climate/wildfire connection.
- Based on recent data from NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, over forty-five percent of the contiguous USA is currently experiencing drought conditions.
- The challenges that USA cities face dealing with climate change are daunting, but success hasn’t been achieved and may not for some time.
- Carrying on a conversation with someone who has no concerns, interests, or ability to handle the science behind climate change can be very challenging and frustrating. With active listening and scientific facts, this conversational challenge can be easier.
HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
2020 continues to be on track as a record year for the Atlantic hurricane season. Fortunately, the official end of the Atlantic tropical cyclone season is coming soon. Regardless, it’s important to not let your guard down. Late season tropical storms and hurricanes can occur and catch people off guard who think the danger is over for the year. NOAA has a great website to help you get ready with plenty of helpful tips and infographics to help you get the supplies you may need.
This handy checklist from the American Red Cross will help you put together an emergency kit for a variety of weather scenarios. For folks living in regions prone to hurricanes, it’s not too late to assemble your kits for home and your place of work. A kit like this can also be helpful in a variety of other difficult scenarios from wildfires to blizzards to tornadoes.
I would be remiss to not remind folks to stick with trusted and reliable sources for your weather information. A NOAA weather radio is essential and should be as common in homes and workplaces as smoke detectors…regardless of where you live in the USA and its territories. Of course, broadcast meteorologists of your choice are often equipped with sources of important information that is specific to your locale. Bottom line: use discretion very carefully and avoid hypesters, shills, and attention-seekers at all cost…and think before you click.
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! As for the COVID-19 pandemic, sport a spiffy mask as often as you can, practice good hand-washing hygiene, mind your social distancing, stay safe, and stay healthy!
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