The winter weather over the contiguous USA has been rather tranquil as of late save for a second round of snow for central Texas. Not unheard of, but still rather unusual. Speaking of winter weather, we’ll explore more on winter weather safety with plenty of information for the next several weeks. I’d also like to take a moment and share my hopes for the year of 2021 to be a better one for all of us and let you know how much I appreciate all of the support so many of you have given me over the past year. All of you are deeply appreciated. Having said that, lets get started.
- Unfortunately, this is no surprise. Along with many other colleagues, I saw this coming from a hundred miles away. “Climate Deniers Moved Rapidly to Spread Misinformation During and After Attack on US Capitol.“
- Solar activity is an area of astronomy that is fascinating to study and carefully observe. “Will Solar Cycle 25 Dazzle or Fizzle in 2021?“
- The many facets of climate change will have an irrevocable effect on many aspects of our lives and the atmospheric hazards we face. Flooding is no exception. This new study explains how the rising costs of frequent floods is clearly linked to climate change.
- Here’s a fascinating read for my fellow cloud enthusiasts on one of the more rare and unique types of cloud that you will ever see in our skies. “These Bizarre Cloud Patterns are von Kármán’s Vortices, Caused by the air Wrapping Around Tall Islands.“
- The Polar Vortex is an atmospheric phenomenon that has seen a great deal of discussion as of late. Here’s a concise overview of what the Polar Vortex is and how it effects our weather and climate.
- Yet more evidence that as far as climate, 2020 was another record breaking year according to NOAA data. It was also the sixth year in a row that the USA experienced more than ten individual billion dollar disasters.
WINTER WEATHER SAFETY AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
With cooler temperature, snow, ice storms, et al. having settled in across much of the northern hemisphere, folks attention appropriately turns to winter weather hazards. The same preparedness plans and supplies that are helpful for tropical cyclones, tornadoes, flooding, etc. are beneficial to have for winter weather. NOAA has a very nice Winter Weather Safety website to help you get ready with plenty of helpful tips and information you may need.
The handy checklist below from the American Red Cross will help you put together an emergency kit for a variety of weather scenarios. A kit like this is very helpful in a variety of other difficult scenarios from wildfires to blizzards to tornadoes and hurricanes.
Misinformation and disinformation is running rampant across social media platforms of all kinds as of late. 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. Here’s an excellent and concise video on spotting misinformation you might see online. Bottom line: use discretion very carefully and avoid hypesters, shills, and attention-seekers at all cost…and think before you click.
Social media is a very useful tool that can be misused for misinformation, disinformation, and hype. While this infographic is geared towards, winter weather, it certainly applies to all kinds of weather year round.
That’s a wrap for this post! I’d like to extend a warm welcome and Happy New Year to my followers in social media. I’m glad you’re along for the fun! If you’re on Twitter, Tumblr, or Instagram, 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! Here’s to a happier and healthier 2021!
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