Tornado Quest Top Science Links For August 20 – 27, 2022

Greetings to everyone! I hope this week’s post finds all of you doing well. For the time being, the tropical Atlantic is quiet, but that could change over the next few weeks. In the meantime, I will share some infographics on preparing an emergency kit that will be helpful in any tropical storm or hurricane scenario. This week also marked the 30th anniversary of Hurricane Andrew making landfall as a rare Category 5 storm on the Florida coast. There are many other essential and important reads to review, so let’s get started.

Category 5 Hurricane Andrew crossing the Florida peninsula on 24 August 1992. Image courtesy NOAA.

This past week marked the 30th anniversary of Hurricane Andrew making landfall as a rare Category 5 storm. NOAA has an excellent look back at this watershed event and explains how the meteorological technology has changed over the past 3 decades.
It’s no surprise that misinformation and disinformation have spread like wildfire across every form of communication imaginable. Is it possible to inoculate the general public from this rubbish?
Spruce trees are spreading into areas of Alaska and the Arctic tundra. That may sound good, but the truth is otherwise.
The lower water levels on the Danube river aren’t good, but they’ve also revealed a hidden side to 20th century history that has been under water for decades.
On the wildfire front, fires have not only been on the increase, but they’re now burning almost twice as much forest cover as they did 20 years ago.
As we enter into the USA’s fourth month of “Danger Season,” here’s a sobering look at the year so far.
Contrary to what the climate change deniers insist is truth, the real reality is that concern in the American public over climate change, present and future, is wide spread and growing.

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS

Infographic courtesy FEMA/Ready.gov/Red Cross

That’s a wrap for this post! Thanks to everyone for stopping by. A big ‘Thank You’ to my followers in social media. If you’re on Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, or Facebook, let’s connect! As for the COVID-19 pandemic, stay safe, stay positive, and test negative!

See you next Saturday!

Tornado Quest micro-podcast for August 20 – 27, 2022

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

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

Tornado Quest Top Science Links For September 18 – 25, 2021

Visible satellite view of Category 4 Hurricane Sam over the Atlantic on 26 September 2021

Greetings to all and thank you for visiting. It’s certainly been a busy week for science news across many areas of study. For North America, the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season is still with us. 2021 is proving to be another very busy year for Atlantic tropical cyclones. As of this post, Hurricane Sam is moving through the central Atlantic. This week’s post has a plethora of links to help you with hurricane preparations. There are many more weeks left in the Atlantic hurricane season, so now is the time to prepare for the storm you hope never happens. Much of western North America is still dealing with wildfires and a severe drought. As for the COVID-19 pandemic, the USA hit a very grim statistic of note this week. There are many other good science reads to review for this week, so let’s get started.

Misinformation, disinformation, conspiracies theories, and outright lies have been more than irritants to those of us in scientific fields, they also lead to unnecessary misery and death. There are paths to alleviate the lies, but it takes a robust, concerted effort.
This is a grim, morose milestone that, with vaccinations and other common sense safety measures, could have been prevented. “Covid overtakes 1918 Spanish flu as deadliest disease in U.S. history.”
Here’s a fascinating read about the weather on Mars. Not only has the Perseverance Rover detected hundreds of dust devils, it’s been hit (literally) by at least 100 of them.
A very good read on the irrevocable link between air quality and your health. “WHO Calls For Lower Limits On Air Pollution To Save Millions Of Lives.”
This is a very thought provoking read. “Hurricane Ida shows the one-two punch of poverty and climate change.”
“How climate change gave rise to a monster mosquito season.” Record-breaking storms & above-average rainfall in many states have exacerbated their numbers.
A very novel idea that will have long term benefits. “Scientists Flood Forests to Mimic Rising Seas.”
The loss of ice flows and glaciers is often focused on polar regions. These startling images from Italy give a new face to climate change and our warming planet.
However difficult it may be to ‘pinpoint’ the connection between climate change and extreme weather events, it’s still a worthy challenge to face. Unfortunately, there are scientific and financial matters to take into consideration.

HURRICANE SAFETY AND PREPAREDNESS

The official start of the Atlantic hurricane season began June 1, 2021. As is the case with most years, the late summer and autumn months comes the peak of activity. This is a list of tropical cyclone safety and preparedness links that I hope you’ll find helpful and spearhead your preparedness plan. None of the links on this page should be used for life-&-death decisions or the protection of property!

WEATHER DATA

National Hurricane Center

Tropical Atlantic

Central Pacific Hurricane Center

National Weather Service Homepage

N ational Weather Service Weather Prediction Center

NOAA Climate Prediction Center

Storm Prediction Center

National Data Buoy Center

NCAR Tropical Cyclone Guidance Project

HURRICANE SAFETY & EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION

NOAA Hurricane Preparedness

CDC Hurricane Preparedness

American Red Cross

American Red Cross Severe Weather Safety Information

American Red Cross Hurricane Safety Checklist (PDF file)

Extensive FEMA Emergency Preparedness Document (34 Page PDF File)

Ready.gov Basic Disaster Supply Kit Info

Preparing Your Pets For Disasters And Emergencies

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

Flash Flooding: Turn Around, Don’t Drown

NOAA Weather Radio

Interactive NOAA Weather Radio Coverage Map

The following infographics cover many important topics including emergency kits, staying informed, and avoiding misinformation and disinformation that are applicable to tropical cyclone scenarios. Tornadoes are also common in land-falling tropical storms and hurricanes. If in doubt, always stay with OFFICIAL sources of important information, forecasts, and warnings.

Even though this infographic is focused on winter weather, it certainly applies to weather information year round. Diligence from January through December is important to cull through misinformation, disinformation, and unfounded rumors.

Infographic courtesy NOAA/NWS Fort Worth, TX

Please keep in mind that ONLY NOAA weather radio, your local National Weather Service office, or reliable broadcast media are the BEST sources of important, timely, and potentially life-saving information on hurricane/tropical storm watches, warnings, and other related 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 we’ll continue information on hurricane preparedness and safety. A big ‘Thank You’ to my followers in social media. If you’re on Twitter, Tumblr, or Instagram, let’s connect! As for the COVID-19 pandemic, get vaccinated, sport a spiffy mask, practice good hand-washing hygiene, mind your social distancing, stay positive, and test negative!

See you next Saturday!

Podcast overview of this week’s post.

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

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

Tornado Quest Top Science Links For January 15 – 22, 2021 #science #weather #meteorology #winter #weathersafety #wintersafety #emergencyprep #climate #climatechange #criticalthinking #thinkbeforesharing #covid19 #pandemic

Winter weather across much of North America has been rather quiet in recent days. We’ve still many more weeks of cold conditions and any potential hazards that go with the weather at this time of year. 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.

Conspiracy theories have existed for as long as some humans have had trouble accepting the inevitable uncertainties that will exist in our lives. What exactly are their allure and how do these fairy tales get started?

While this infographic via European Commission focuses on the COVID-19 pandemic, it can easily be applied to a myriad of conspiracy theories.

There’s no denying the psychological toll the COVID-19 pandemic is taking on human existence the world over. Many of us, including yours truly, are struggling every day with ramifications of a virus that has claimed the lives of millions, made tens of millions ill, and affected our economy in a drastic manner. However, to deny the scientific truth and solid scientific evidence is the most cowardly thing humans can do. In a war such as this, we must do what is best for the common good of society as a whole…even if we are fighting an invisible enemy.
More on the myriad of wildfire hazards. “Wildfires having devastating effect on air quality in western US, study finds.” Researchers say air pollution caused by smoke could be just as deadly as excessive heat.
The ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic reduced carbon emissions in 2020, but not by a large amount. New data shows global emissions of carbon dioxide picked up in the second half of 2020.
Here’s a concise review of specific details on 2020’s climate records that spared no region of our planet. “2020 Climate Events Were Examples Of How Excess Heat Is Expressed On Earth.”
While on the topics of 2020’s records, here’s a very nice interactive look at where and how those climate records were felt around the globe.
Winter Storm Warnings are commonly issued by the National Weather Service throughout the winter season. However, the likelihood of one being issued depends as much on where you live as the conditions expected.

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.

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)

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.

Infographic courtesy NWS Fort Worth, Texas

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!

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Links For October 16 – 23, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #hurricane #hurricaneprep #hurricanesafety #disasterprep #climate #climatechange #recycling #environment #covid19 #pandemic

Atlantic Hurricane Epsilon shortly after reaching Category 3 status on 21 October 2020

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!

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Picks For May 22 – 29, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #severeweather #climate #climatechange #environment #recycling #weatherready #coronavirus #covid19 #pandemic #health

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.

Here’s a very intriguing astronomy read. “The sun may have formed because a small galaxy passed by the Milky Way.“
Recycling is very beneficial, but there are caveats as well as advancements that all of us who recycle on a daily basis should be aware of. “Less than 10% of all plastic trash ever produced has been recycled. Is this the breakthrough we’ve been waiting for?“
If there’s one thing that the USA has learned from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it’s how ill prepared we are as a nation for disasters of many scales, sizes, and intensities. Lessons can be learned from this life-and-death scenario…but are we willing to muster enough courage to make the necessary sacrifices?
Preparing for a pandemic or natural disaster is best done with lots of solid factual knowledge. This excellent read is one of the most comprehensive articles on staying safe against this very insidious virus. “At work, school and seeing friends: How to lower your coronavirus risk.“
Conspiracy theories and misinformation go hand-in-hand with all fields of science. Examples: tornadoes cause homes and buildings to explode and don’t cross rivers or mountains. Lightning never strikes the same place twice. Contrails are chemicals being spread across the world by the “deep state.” There are only three states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas. The rubbish goes on and on and on. Unfortunately, the current global COVID-19 pandemic is no exception.
Summer is basically here across much of the Northern Hemisphere. Many people wonder how the warmer weather will affect the COVID-19 pandemic. Truth be know, the patterns of infection, illnesses, deaths, and stress on medical facilities will be linked to our indoor environments at home, work, etc. rather than those outside.
Will our humble home remember the COVID-19 pandemic in its own unique way? For the sake of future generations, let’s hope so.
Agricultural interests have been dealing with climate change for much longer than the general population. At our current pace, many farmers will have to make substantial changes including choices regarding the kind of crops they grow.
Our planet’s Arctic region is warming rapidly and is now a global ‘hotspot’ in terms of climate change. Trees growing in the region could give scientists valuable clues as to the extent and pace of warming.
Before a hurricane makes landfall, meteorologists try their best to anticipate flooding that is almost always a major killer. Here’s an interesting read on a new tool to help with an already daunting forecast.

SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS

The criteria for a severe thunderstorm is understandably very strict. Frequent lightning and torrential downpours do not make for a severe thunderstorm. The main basis is sensibly put on straight line winds, hail, and/or a history of producing tornadoes.

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.

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

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS

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