Tornado Quest Top Science Links For May 15 – 22, 2021 #science #weather #meteorology #severeweather #weatherready #weathersafety #tornado #hurricane #climate #climatechange #environment #pollution

Greetings to everyone! I hope this week’s post finds you happy, healthy and the weather is to your liking wherever you are. Across much of the western contiguous USA, drought conditions conditions to worsen. The climatological peak of the severe weather and tornado season has arrived across the North American great plains. If you’d like a detailed review of tornado and severe weather safety, please review posts from March and April as these have a plethora of severe weather, tornado, and flooding safety information. It’s also important to remember that the Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on June 1. In two weeks, we’ll take a look at hurricane safety. This week, there are many good science reads to review, so let’s get started.

Finding a location with exceptionally dark night skies is not easy in today’s world. Fortunately, there are the Canary Islands.
Pollution from plastics is a problem that won’t go away easily. “World to waste one trillion more plastic bottles and bags by 2025 as production ramps up.”
Startling imagery here with a view of the world’s largest iceberg breaking off an ice shelf.
Wildfires that we are familiar with are hazardous enough. Here’s an interesting read on ‘zombie fires’ that can linger even under winter snow.
This comes as no surprise. “Climate change to blame for $8 billion of Hurricane Sandy damages.” Sandy destroyed half a million homes, killed 159 people, & caused $62.5 billion in damages.
Yet another example of the ravages that result from climate change. This new study, released by NOAA, shows how droughts are intensified and lengthened by greenhouse aerosol and gas emissions.
The annual Atlantic hurricane season outlook has just been released by NOAA. A busier than normal tropical cyclone season is predicted.

A TORNADO SAFETY REMINDER

PREPARING A SEVERE WEATHER EMERGENCY KIT FOR HOME, VEHICLE, AND WORK

This handy checklist 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.

Where you get your weather forecasts, warnings, and other important information is as important as being informed. Discretion is of the upmost importance when you’re trying to stay weather aware. As of late, it’s been brought to my attention that there have been amateur ‘forecasters’ using graphics with the intention of appearing as professional and official sources of information on Twitter, Facebook, et al. They should NOT be taken as official sources of potentially life-saving warnings and weather forecasts and updates.

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 types of weather year round.

Infographic courtesy NWS Fort Worth, Texas

That’s a wrap for this post! As I mentioned in the introduction, if you’d like a detailed review of tornado and severe weather safety, please review the previous posts for further details. Starting 5 June 2021, we’ll take a look at hurricane preparedness. I’d like to extend a big ‘Thank You’ 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, practice good hand-washing hygiene, mind your social distancing, stay safe, and stay healthy!

See you next Saturday!

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Please note: queries regarding promotions, marketing schemes, prizes, or papers that have not been under & approved by scientific peer review WILL NOT be accepted.

Tornado Quest Top Science Links For February 12 – 19, 2021 #science #weather #meteorology #thunderstorms #lightning #winter #winterstorm2021 #wintersafety #climate #climatechange #pollution #airquality #health #nasa #perseverance

Much of North America is in the grip of or recovering from a very potent cold wave with many locations seeing record snowfall amounts, low temperatures, wind chills, electric power grid failures and water that is either in short supply or nonexistent. This is a stark reminder of just how vulnerable the USA’s infrastructure is when dealt a blow from weather and climate. The very cold temperatures across much of the contiguous USA were responsible for much of the ongoing challenges. Below are several important infographics addressing wild chill and how to dress properly to best handle cold weather and retain body heat. Speaking of winter weather, we’ll explore more on winter weather safety with plenty of information for the next two weeks. Afterwards, we’ll turn our attention to severe weather (thunderstorms, tornadoes, flash floods, et al.) preparedness. There are several interesting stories to review, so let’s get started.

Visible Satellite image on 19 February 2021 of widespread snow cover in Oklahoma and adjacent parts of Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Texas.

NASA successfully landed the Mars Perseverance Rover on the ‘red planet’ this week. Here’s a great website from NASA with a plethora of information on this watershed mission.
While on the topic of Mars, here’s a stunning display of some of the most incredible photographs taken on this planet…including the first photo from July 1976.
“Life found beneath Antarctic ice sheet ‘shouldn’t be there.” This find is significant because it suggests that life in Antarctica’s harshest environments is more adaptable & more diverse than thought.
Ocean pollution has ramifications that run far and wide…and human health is no exception.
While on the topic of pollution, here’s more evidence of the irrevocable link between local air quality and public health. “Wood burning at home now biggest cause of UK particle pollution.”
“Weather forecasts can protect animals too.” Weather forecasts have the potential to be an important conservation tool, say meteorologists.
The more we learn about thunderstorms, the more questions and mysteries arise. “Thunderstorms spew out gamma rays — these scientists want to know why.“
Weather and climate is often confused. The USA’s winter storm of February 2021 will be discussed for some time. Chances are very good that climate change played a major factor in the severity of this event. Regardless, it will be an interesting topic of science-based discussion for some time. “Climate change may be why frigid weather has slid so far south, experts say.“

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.

This NOAA winter weather page has a myriad of links beneficial to organizations such as public services, schools, organizations, etc.

UNDERSTANDING WIND CHILL AND DRESSING FOR WINTER WEATHER

PREPARING AN EMERGENCY KIT FOR HOME, VEHICLE, AND WORK

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.

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 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!

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Science Links For January 1 – 8, 2021 #science #weather #meteorology #weathersafety #wintersafety #windchill #climate #climatechange #criticalthinking

The winter weather over the contiguous USA has been rather tranquil as of late. We’ll explore more on winter weather safety with plenty of information for the next several weeks. Please note that effective 1 January 2021, I will only post the top science links rather than pick ten. Quite often there are not enough quality stories to pass along and, like other media outlets, they present top stories but don’t go to the trouble of finding a specific number each week. This change allows me to share only the best with you. Let me also take a moment and wish all of you a happy and healthy 2021 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.

When one takes into consideration the recent trends & current hot topics, a dose of this is badly needed. “Introduction to Critical Thinking.”
After the dumpster fire on steroids that 2020 was, this year has plenty of catching up to do. “The science events to watch for in 2021.”
By some accounts, the devastating wildfires that occurred in Australia in 2019 and 2020 are a wake up call that can’t be ignored in the future.
With a myriad of changes taking place, including a changing climate, the Antarctica that we’ve known has the potential to look very different in the near future.
One of the most fascinating and enigmatic phenomenons of meteorology are the snowflakes that make for a winter wonderland. Here’s a great read on their formation and tips on how to study them on your own.
2020 was a remarkable year in so many respects…and climate was certainly a factor. “Climate crisis: 2020 was joint hottest year ever recorded.” Global heating continued unabated despite Covid lockdowns with record Arctic wildfires & Atlantic tropical cyclones.
Last but not least, here’s a preliminary look at the record setting Atlantic hurricane season from the National Hurricane Center. With so many storms having occurred, it will be some time before summaries on each storm is complete.

Graphic courtesy NOAA/National Hurricane Center

WINTER WEATHER SAFETY AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

This NOAA winter weather page has a myriad of links beneficial to organizations such as public services, schools, organizations, etc.

NOAA also has an excellent printable publication that covers winter weather safety which is one of the most underrated weather hazards. (12 page PDF file)

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.

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, 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! Here’s to a happier and healthier 2021!

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Links For November 6 – 13, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #weathersafety #wintersafety #climate #climatechange #environment #astronomy #covid19 #pandemic #wearamask #scicomm

This past week saw Tropical Storm Theta as the 29th named storm of the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season…a season which will go in the record books. With the changing of the seasons in the northern hemisphere, attention will shift to winter weather safety. We’ll touch on that topic with plenty of information this week and in the weeks to come. There are many other good stories to cover this week, so lets get started.

A very timely read on a topic that has been around for centuries…the discrediting of science at any cost. “The Denialist Playbook. On vaccines, evolution, & more, rejection of science has followed a familiar pattern.“
As the global COVID-19 pandemic worsens across several continents and spirals out of control in the USA, there’s one important action that many of us can take to help ourselves, our loved ones, and medical workers…get an influenza vaccine.
Meteorites are more than just a rock that fell from space. They have wealth of information within them that can give us incredible insights into the formation and changes that have taken place in our solar system over billions of years.
An important read on the irrevocable link between health & pollution. The quality of the air you breathe is as important as what you eat. “Being Around Cars is Bad For Your Mental Health.“
“Arctic tundra emits more methane during autumn freeze than spring thaw.” Warmer temperatures accelerate soil organic carbon decomposition in permafrost soils & resulting in larger net methane emissions.
This is an interesting and very informative read on the role that upper level wind patterns play in melting large patches of Antarctic sea ice.
Florida certainly gets its share of rainfall, much of which comes from thunderstorms. This new study looks at how a warming Atlantic Ocean will affect late summer Florida rainfall events which coincide with the year’s highest high tides.
When this article was written, Tropical Storm Theta hadn’t yet formed to become the 29th named storm of the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season. Regardless, the point it makes is very clear. “In 2020, Record-Breaking Hurricanes Arrived Early—and Often.“
Here’s a look back at October 2020 from NOAA. Overall, for the contiguous USA, it was a year of wide swings with drought, wildfires, and tropical cyclones taking center stage.

Drought conditions for the contiguous USA in October 2020. Data courtesy NOAA

Winter weather safety should never be taken for granted. With the arrival of autumn, weather concerns for many areas turn to winter weather safety. NOAA has an excellent publication that covers one of the most underrated weather hazards. (12 page PDF file)

WINTER WEATHER AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season will officially end on 30 November 2020. This year will go down in the record books for having many elements of an extraordinary year. Now, across much of the northern hemisphere, attention turns to winter weather hazards. The same preparedness plans and supplies that are helpful for tropical cyclones 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.

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.

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!

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Links For September 25 – October 2, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #tornado #hurricane #hurricaneprep #hurricanesafety #disasterprep #climate #climatechange #environment #astronomy #prostatecancer

A visible satellite view of the busiest segment of the 2020 eastern Pacific and Atlantic tropical cyclone season.

The wildfires in California are, as of this post, showing no signs of letting up. In the meantime, the Atlantic tropical cyclone season is much quieter, but many more weeks remain. As usual, there are several good stories to cover this week including a good read on a shift in tornado occurrence patterns, so lets get started.

In spite of the fantastic voyages to Mars that humans have been capable of and the incredible data they’ve gathered, there’s always something new to learn about this incredible planet. Here’s a fascinating read on the discovery of three buried lakes.
A very thought provoking read regarding our planet’s environment, renewable/sustainable energy, and climate change. “Dawn of the Heliocene – Issue 90: Something Green.” This covers the reasons why the next geological epoch should be named for when we tapped the sun’s energy.
This is an obligation humans must embrace for the benefit of future generations. “World leaders pledge to halt Earth’s destruction ahead of United Nations summit.“
Our planet has many complex natural systems that are interconnected. Taking a look at the big picture is imperative to understanding local events. “6 Graphics Explain The Climate Feedback Loop Fueling US Fires.”
While much attention has been given to the Arctic as of late, the climate change related topics for Antarctica are equally important.
Disastrous duo of heatwaves and droughts have become increasingly frequent across North America. Periods of dry and hot weather, which can make wildfires more likely, are becoming larger, more intense, and more frequent because of climate change.
The nightmare of seeing an out-of-control wildfire is a terror that only a few have experienced. With no doubt, it’s something they’ll never forget.
Could we soon have reliable weather forecasts up to 3 weeks in advance? Some say it’s possible. “A Hopeful Forecast: More Accurate Long-Term Weather Predictions.”
If hurricane seasons in recent years seem to keep getting worse in terms of human impacts, you’re not imagining things. For decades, climate researchers using computer models have predicted that the warming ocean and atmosphere would likely increase the intensity of natural disasters like hurricanes.
If have taken note of a noticeable change in USA tornado events in the past few years, you’re not alone. This is an important and thought provoking read on shifting patterns in tornado occurrence across the USA. In recent years, there’s been a notable shift in tornado frequency from the traditional ‘Tornado Alley’ to the southern states. With that shift has come a significant increase in tornado related deaths.
Last but not least, something quixotic…and not a little insane. There have been many ‘suggestions’ in the past for ways to dissipate tornadoes and (in this case) hurricanes, but this takes the cake.

HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

The Atlantic and central Pacific have become quite active with several tropical cyclones this year. In the central and eastern Pacific, several named storms have taken place. The Atlantic has been unusually active with, as of September 18th, twenty-two named storms having taken place so far in 2020 with several more weeks in the hurricane season left to go. 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.

SEPTEMBER IS PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH!

September may have come to an end, but that doesn’t mean an end to the need for prostate cancer awareness. Prostate cancer has touch my life and, as a result, changed my outlook on life forever. It’s not an ‘old man’s’ disease. Many men in their forties are diagnosed with prostate cancer. For men, it’s the second leading cause of death by cancer. My diagnosis came about as a result of a routine PSA test from my general practitioner. Regardless of your family history, race, ethnic background, socioeconomic status, etc., don’t think it can’t happen to you. 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. Make sure you educate yourself as much as possible about this disease. You may save your life or the life of a loved one.

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, please stay home if possible, practice good personal hygiene, mind your social distancing, sport a spiffy mask, stay safe, and stay healthy!

Cheers…Stay Healthy…and Good Luck!

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Links For August 28 – September 4, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #hurricane #hurricaneprep #hurricanesafety #disasterprep #climate #climatechange #environment #pollution #astronomy #covid19 #pandemic #prostatecancer

The past week has been a busy and historic one for the USA. Record breaking wildfires have ravaged many areas of the western USA with millions of acres torched. Hurricane Laura made landfall in Louisiana as a high-end Category 4 storm. From its humble beginnings as a cluster of thunderstorms moving off the coast of western Africa, what would become Laura traveled thousands of miles across the Atlantic, entered the Caribbean region, crossed Puerto Rico and Cuba, then emerged into the Gulf of Mexico where it underwent explosive intensification in less than twenty-four hours. Recovery from these wildfires and Hurricane Laura will take years. We’ve still several weeks left in the Atlantic hurricane season, so I have included information on hurricane and disaster preparedness. There are several other good stories to cover this week, so lets get started.

Hurricane Laura approaches the Louisiana coast on 26 August 2020

The road to being a good scientist, regardless of the field of specialty, is a long one. While one should never consider their education complete, there are certain characteristics that make one stand out. Here’s an excellent essay on four lessons that every good scientist must learn.
Black holes are one of most enigmatic topics in astronomy. This recent news just raised the bar on changing the way we view our universe. “‘It’s mindboggling!’: astronomers detect most powerful black-hole collision yet.”
Summer heat and air quality can have deleterious effects on ones health. Add to that more extreme variations due to climate change and we have a serious public health problem on our hands.
There’s no doubt that California wildfires are getting worse. As our climate warms and droughts and heat in the western states become more commonplace, the daunting challenges posed by intense wildfires increases exponentially.
“Sea level rise from ice sheets track worst-case climate change scenario.” Melting rates in Greenland & Antarctica are matching the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s worst-case climate warming scenarios.
While on the topic of sea ice melt, here’s another scenario with links to the warming of our climate. “Winter ice in the Bering Sea is doomed to disappear within decades.“
Ice melt is also occurring elsewhere. The stability of the lakes that are filling up with the water from the melting ice is in question.
Lightning presents a significant threat to people and structures year round. In tropical regions, it’s responsible for the deaths of millions of trees annually.
Here’s a sobering listen on the beginning of the recovery effort in the wake of Hurricane Laura. The daunting task ahead for people in the wake of this powerful storm is made worse by a pandemic that is raging out of control.
“‘Hurricane amnesia’: Why we might forget the lessons from Hurricane Laura.” During the quiet stretches between tropical cyclones, the fear of a hurricane will often dissipate.

HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

The Atlantic and central Pacific have become quite active with several tropical cyclones this year. In the central and eastern Pacific, several named storms have taken place. The Atlantic has been unusually active with, as of August 28th, thirteen named storms having taken place so far in 2020 with several more weeks in the hurricane season left to go. 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.

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 always an excellent source with potentially life-saving information that is specific to your local situation. Bottom line: use discretion very carefully and avoid hypesters, shills, and attention-seekers at all cost…and think before you click.

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month!

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. September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Make sure you educate yourself as much as possible about this disease. You may save your life or the life of a loved one. As for COVID-19, please stay home if possible, practice good personal hygiene, mind your social distancing, sport a spiffy mask, stay safe, and stay healthy!

Cheers…Stay Healthy…and Good Luck!

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Links For August 7 – 14, 2020 #science #climate #climatechange #weather #meteorology #droughtmonitor #hurricane #hurricaneprep #disasterprep #antarctica #iceshelf #astronomy

A trio of tropical cyclones in the Atlantic basin and Gulf of Mexico. Image courtesy NOAA/NWS

Greetings to everyone! I hope everyone out there is staying healthy and faring well in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve plenty of interesting topics to cover this week. In atmospheric science, our changing climate is a daunting challenge and finding a long-term path of human adaptation is far easier said than done. The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season has also gotten off to an active start with, as of this post, nine named storms for the 2020 season. We’ll also take a look at a checklist for assembling an emergency kit and hurricane preparedness…so let’s get started.

What does our solar system look like? It’s not a shape that you’d expect!
Space weather gives our planet a bittersweet scenario. On one hand, solar flares can play havoc with tech/infrastructure while simultaneously putting on spectacular aurora displays. Forecasting these solar flares is essential to us protecting the most vulnerable of our technology that we depend on daily.
Scientific research in Antarctica is crucial to understanding our planet. For the time being, that continent has no cases of COVID-19 and scientists want to keep it that way.
Dust storms are not often associated with air quality and public health, but the connection is very clear. “Dust Storms Associated With Increase In Critical Care Visits.“
Derechos can spread a wide path of damage for hundreds of miles. The derecho event of 10 August 2020 across the USA”s Midwest left behind billions in damage and a vast amount of ruined crops.
Here’s a review of the climate for the USA from NOAA. “The July 2020 contiguous USA temperature was 75.7°F, 2.1°F above the 20th-century average and ranking 11th warmest in the 126-year record. For the year-to-date, the national temperature was 53.6°F, 2.4°F above average, ranking seventh warmest on record.“
“Satellite record gives unprecedented view of Antarctic ice shelf melt pattern over 25 years.” This includes a considerable amount of data from NASA and the European Space Agency.
Our modern day climate change is happening simultaneously across that globe. That is one of many reasons why it is so different and dangerous from warming or cooling events of the past few thousands of years.
The latest US Drought Monitor is out. As of August 5-11, 2020, 28.8% of the USA’s land area was experiencing some degree of drought conditions.
With knowledge being power, knowing all you can learn about tropical cyclones that could affect the area you live is to your advantage. If this year’s active hurricane season has piqued your interest in tropical cyclones, NOAA has an excellent educational website that explains how these powerful storms develop and operate.

HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

The Atlantic and central Pacific have become quite active with several tropical cyclones this summer. In the central and eastern Pacific, several named storms have taken place. The Atlantic has been unusually active with nine named storms having taken place to date…and the peak of hurricane season is still ahead. 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, now is the time to assemble your kits for home and your place of work.

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 always an excellent source with potentially life-saving information that is specific to your local situation. 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! 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 COVID-19, please stay home if possible, practice good personal hygiene, mind your social distancing, sport a spiffy mask, stay safe, and stay healthy!

Cheers…Stay Healthy…and Good Luck!

Tornado Quest on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tornadoquest

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Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Picks For May 29 – June 5, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #severeweather #hurricane #climate #climatechange #environment #weatherready #covid19 #pandemic #astronomy

Greetings to everyone! I hope everyone out there is faring well in this midst of the ongoing 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. The North American spring severe weather season is peaking 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.

For the first time in over a decade, American astronauts took to space in an American made rocket from American soil. The trampoline is working very well!
While on the topic of American spacecraft, we can look forward to many more in the next few years.
The more scientists study our universe, the more discoveries we make. “Astronomers Watch as Planets Are Born.“
Satellites are an invaluable tool for a wide myriad of applications. In a few instances, they can get in the way of your view of some astronomical events.
Over the years, I”ve always enjoyed attending science conferences for various reasons. The COVID-19 pandemic will change how many of us convey knowledge and network with our peers.
Considering the mosquito is the critter that poses the most dangers to humans, this is some important info. “7 reasons mosquitoes bite some people more than others.”
For astronomers, both professional and amateur, light pollution has been an irritant for many years. “Psychedelic skies over Chile reveal the full extent of light pollution.“
In spite of our world coming to a crawl due to the COVID-19 pandemic, CO2 levels remained high in our atmosphere. What will happen after the pandemic remains to be seen.
Ice sheets have been melting in Antarctica for some time, but recent events don’t paint a rosy picture for future ice sheet status as our planet continues to warm.
The Atlantic hurricane season has officially commenced for North America. Flooding is almost always an issue upon landfall even with modest tropical storms. Unfortunately, many people living in areas prone to the effects of tropical cyclones do not have flood insurance.

SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS

Doppler radar has revolutionized the warning process in less than thirty years. This timeline and concise overview of how the National Weather Services network of radars work will convey just how important this invaluable tool is regardless of the weather or climate.

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 misinformation and hype and 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!

Tornado Quest on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tornadoquest

Tornado Quest on Instagram: https://instagram.com/tornadoquest

Tornado Quest on Tumblr: http://tornadoquest.tumblr.com

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Picks For May 15 – 22, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #severeweather #tornado #climate #climatechange #environment #pollution #weatherready #coronavirus #covid19 #pandemic #health

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!

Tornado Quest on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tornadoquest

Tornado Quest on Instagram: https://instagram.com/tornadoquest

Tornado Quest on Tumblr: http://tornadoquest.tumblr.com

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Picks For May 1 – 8, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #severeweather #tornado #climate #climatechange #environment #weatherready #coronavirus #covid19 #pandemic #health

Greetings once again to one and all! Plenty of interesting topics to cover this week. In atmospheric science news, our changing climate is front and center and will be for many years as humanity grapples with the best path of adaptation. The coronavirus and Covid-19 situation is foremost on everyone’s mind with a world-wide pandemic that’s like nothing the world’s current population has ever seen. Additionally, the spring severe weather season is in full swing across the contiguous USA.. We’ve some tornado safety information and more with this week’s picks…so let’s get started.

If you’re interested in citizen science and are looking for projects in weather and climate, check out the mPING project and help National Severe Storms Laboratory scientists collect weather data. The CoCoRaHS project is a citizen science endeavor that is well established. I’ve been an observer for many years. Your daily reports of precipitation, or lack of, is very important to long-term climate data records. The apps for mPING and CoCoRaHS are free and available for both iOS and Android.
This is an excellent long-read that’s worth the time. “Why Weren’t We Ready For The Coronavirus?”
A fascinating astronomy read on our planet’s only local companion. “The moon is emitting carbon, raising questions about how it was formed.”
Microplastics are almost everywhere on our planet. Small and strange looking creatures in our oceans are even using them to make ‘shelters.’
Scientists and the general public have taken note of the startling drop in air pollution and urban noise during the ongoing pandemic. “Rather than let this time be forgotten, the United Nations and environmental campaigners are urging governments to “build back better, to invest in the future not the past”, to ensure that our global recovery has sustainable legacy.“
After consideration, this really makes perfectly good sense. “Forget the TP: Here’s what you really need to get through a disaster.”
The pestilence of pseudoscience runs rampant among many science topics, including weather and climate. When it comes to COVID-19, it has taken on absolutely bizarre dimensions.
A new state of the art NASA satellite has taken a good look at Greenland and Antarctica. The data doesn’t lie. Both are losing billions of tons of ice into the ocean each year and that contributes significantly to global sea-level rise.
This new climate change study takes a look at how it affects the human habitat. “One billion people will live in insufferable heat within 50 years.”
One of the biggest earth science stories as of late has been the opening of the ozone hole over the North Pole. New data shows that after nearly a month, that hole has now closed.

SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS

Here’s a concise reminder on taking shelter during a tornado warning. Where you take shelter is quite often a matter of life and death or serious injury.

An emergency kit is also an essential part of severe weather preparedness. This handy checklist from the American Red Cross will help you get started. Since severe weather and other weather-related disasters can occur year round, it’s an excellent idea to have this at the ready regardless of where you live or the month/season.

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, so am I and I invite you to enjoy me. Once again I’d like to thank so many of you for all the thoughtful comments I’ve received as of late. Cancer does not have to be an automatic death sentence and I have no intention of giving up this fight and will accept nothing but absolute and total victory. 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!

Tornado Quest on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tornadoquest

Tornado Quest on Instagram: https://instagram.com/tornadoquest

Tornado Quest on Tumblr: http://tornadoquest.tumblr.com

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

A TORNADO SAFETY REMINDER

PREPARING A SEVERE WEATHER EMERGENCY KIT FOR HOME, VEHICLE, AND WORK

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WINTER WEATHER SAFETY AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

UNDERSTANDING WIND CHILL AND DRESSING FOR WINTER WEATHER

PREPARING AN EMERGENCY KIT FOR HOME, VEHICLE, AND WORK

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WINTER WEATHER SAFETY AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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WINTER WEATHER AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

SEPTEMBER IS PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH!

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HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS

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