Tornado Quest Top Science Links For May 29 – June 5, 2021 #science #weather #meteorology #severeweather #weatherready #weathersafety #hurricane #hurricaneprep #hurricanesafety #climate #climatechange #environment #publichealth #covid19

Greetings to everyone! I hope this week’s post finds you happy, healthy and the weather is to your liking wherever you are around the world. Across North America, the severe weather season continues. If you’d like a detailed review of tornado and severe weather safety, please review posts from March and April. You’ll find a plethora of severe weather, tornado, and flooding safety information. The Atlantic hurricane season officially began on June 1. This week, I will start posting a series of hurricane safety infographics. There are many good science reads to review for this week, so let’s get started.

As human being are want to do, we are subject to biases, trusting sensationalist rumors over experts, misinformation, and disinformation. Once we acknowledge that fact, the real work begins. “Can we keep human inconsistency from confusing expert advice?“
The scientific story behind the origins and ravages of the COVID-19 pandemic are complicated. Here’s a look at five different charts that help to put the ongoing pandemic into an objective perspective.
Here’s some very good astronomy news. NASA will be going back to Venus for the first time in almost thirty years.
“Prepare for the worst: 10 steps to get ready for wildfire smoke.” People are outdoors more due to ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Since most #wildfires are caused by human activity, the summer of 2021 has the potential to be worse than any season before it.
A town in Norway is feeling the effects of climate change in a multitude of ways. “The World’s Northernmost Town Is Changing Dramatically.”
This is certainly an eye opening read. “Here Are America’s Top Methane Emitters. Some Will Surprise You.”
The threat of climate tipping points going down like a row of dominoes is a very real threat. The effects are substantial and would be long-lasting.
An ounce of prevention is far less expensive than a pound of cure in many disaster scenarios. “Beleaguered by disaster damages, the USA may finally start spending on resilience.”
In case you missed it, the annual Atlantic hurricane season outlook has been released by NOAA. A busier than normal tropical cyclone season is predicted. We’ve already had our first named storm for the Atlantic. Current outlooks indicate we could be in for a very busy season.

THE BASICS OF HURRICANE SAFETY

PREPARING A HURRICANE EMERGENCY KIT FOR HOME, VEHICLE, AND WORK

This helpful checklist from the American Red Cross will help you put together an emergency kit. This is essential in a variety of dangerous scenarios from hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, wildfires, and blizzards.

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. Next week, we’ll take a look at more 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, get vaccinated, 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 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 February 5 – 12, 2021 #science #weather #meteorology #winter #wintersafety #weathersafety #climate #climatechange #pollution #environment

Much of North America is getting quite a blast of Arctic cold air this week. Some regions of the southern USA are seeing temperatures up to 30F lower than normal. Below are two very important infographics with one addressing wild chill and the other showing how to dress properly to best handle the 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 several weeks. There are several interesting stories to review, so let’s get started.

We’ll be wearing masks to help with controlling the spread of COVID-19 for some time. I’ve been double masking for over a month. The challenge is avoiding the critical ‘side gap.’
There are many misconceptions about wildfires that are quite pervasive and difficult to eradicate. This video is an interesting look at those wildfire misconceptions and how they help fuel…literally…wildfires.
Because plastics are forever. “Microplastics are everywhere. Here’s what that means for our health.”
Here’s an interesting read on the connection between economic growth and large variations in daily temperatures.
A major win for the international treaty that protects the ozone layer. “Illegal CFC emissions have stopped since scientists raised alarm.”
Folks who deal with seasonal allergies are miserable enough. Here’s the rub…climate change may make their symptoms worse.

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.

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 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

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, 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 11 – 18, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #weathersafety #wintersafety #windchill #climate #climatechange #arctic #environment #wildfire #scicomm #criticalthinking

As 2020 winds down, it’s time to take pause and look back on an exceptional year. We’ve two links that touch on the past twelve months. There are many important climate change stories to review as well. We’ll explore more on winter weather safety with plenty of information for the next several weeks. There are many other good stories to cover, so lets get started.

Here’s a glimpse at some scientific silver linings. “2020 Has Been a Huge Year for Understanding the Process of Science.” For COVID-19, climate, dinosaurs, & more, we’re seeing how science works.
Speaking of how science works, there are plenty who think it doesn’t…especially when it comes to climate science. “Big Name Climate Deniers Aren’t Joining Conspiracy Theory-Friendly Parler — Yet.”
Wildfires are known for sending large amounts of smoke into the earth’s atmosphere and often result in a cloud formation called pyrocumulonimbus. Large fires in Australia formed substantial amounts of pyrocumulonimbus clouds…and some of that smoke is still circling the globe almost twelve months after these events.
Lapland is a spectacular and gorgeous region of Scandinavia. Unfortunately, it’s not escaped the wrath of climate change.
2020 has been an exceptional year in so many ways. Here’s a month-by-month review of the biggest climate stories of the year.
At one point, it was thought that plant life on our planet would absorb a tremendous amount of CO2. Recent research has shown that those hopes may not come to fruition.
Here’s a very important analysis from Carbon Brief on climate change and when our planet might reach 1.5C and 2C of global warming.
The changing climate in the Arctic region is nothing new. Some weather phenomenon, like lightning, isn’t very common but is becoming more so. More data is needed, but this may be yet another sign of our planet’s changing climate.
There’s a fine art to accurately measuring snowfall amounts. If you’re a member of CoCoRaHS, it’s especially important that you give very accurate measurements. This excellent infographic from NOAA/NWS gives spot on tips for getting good data.

Last but not least, here’s a good listen from NPR on staying warm that’s a nice segue into our winter weather safety links.

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)

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 DECEMBER 4 – 11, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #weathersafety #wintersafety #windchill #climate #climatechange #stateoftheclimate #drought #wildfire #environment #scicomm #criticalthinking

An exceptional weather year is quickly winding down but not before setting many records with wildfires and Atlantic tropical cyclones taking center stage. With the changing of the seasons in the northern hemisphere, attention will shift to winter weather safety. The infographic above shows you how to dress according to winter weather temperatures. We’ll touch more on winter weather safety with plenty of information for the next several weeks. There are many other good stories to cover, so lets get started.

With misinformation and disinformation getting some well deserved attention, here is a very timely and informative read on how our brains process information and respond to dialog that conveys possibility.
This is nothing less than an astounding image. “Best map of Milky Way reveals a billion stars in motion.“
If you haven’t thought about this before, it’s certainly an eye opening thought. “Human-Made Stuff Now Outweighs All Life on Earth.“
Public health and climate patterns go hand in hand. The medical community has known about this for quite some time. Overall, the human population has been getting healthier. But with climate change taking place right before our eyes, there’s a danger of decades of public health advances being erased.
California’s ancient redwood trees are one of the natural wonders of the world. Sadly, as is so much the case across the globe, they are being affected in a detrimental manner by climate change.
In spite of the cooler temperatures, wildfires are very common during the winter months. Add climate change to the equation, and we have a particularly volatile combination.
The concept of climate change is not really new. Many of my meteorological mentors mentioned how our use of fossil fuels could have long term ramifications…and this was in the late 1970’s. This information, originally published in 1978, addresses climate change concerns that go back a few decades.
The western and northwestern USA has been subjected to a variety of weather extremes as of late. “From Alaska to California, the climate is off-kilter in the West.”
The Arctic region of our planet is changing rapidly. In a matter of a few decades, will look nothing like it does today.
Lastly, NOAA has just released their November 2020 Climate Report. A myriad of records were set from tropical cyclones to precipitation and temperature.

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)

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.

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.

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.

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Links For October 30 – November 6, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #tornado #weathersafety #wintersafety #climate #climatechange #environment #astronomy #covid19 #pandemic #wearamask

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.

If, like me, you’re in favor of staying with standard time and dumping the anachronistic daylight saving time, you’ll enjoy this read. “The Father of Standard Time Had Bigger Ideas.” However, as most weather geeks like myself do, we pretty much live our lives by UTC!
“How Geologists Reveal the Secrets of the Solar System.” Rocks that have fallen to Earth or been brought here deliberately are practically the only way we can study planets & asteroids up close.
Life aboard the International Space Station may seem glamorous, exciting, and a never ending adventure. Truth be know, there are some unsavory elements with which you will also have to contend with.
It all comes down to human behavior & the ‘3 W’s.’ “Hot or cold, weather alone has no significant effect on COVID-19 spread.” Apparently, temperature & humidity do not play a significant role in the spread of coronavirus.
While on the topic of COVID-19, here’s yet more evidence that air pollution in the USA can be held responsible for increasing the risk of dying of this most insidious virus.
The world’s oceans and many beaches are awash in plastic trash. Which countries are responsible for all of that pollution is a hotly debated issue.
The United States officially pulled out of the Paris Climate Accord on 4 November 2020. What’s next for the USA as other countries aim at targets to reduce emissions?
Studying high winds generated in all kinds of storms isn’t easy. The next obvious solution is to generate winds in a laboratory setting that might represent to a degree those found in nature.
In spite of autumn having arrived across the Northern Hemisphere, it’s never too early to hone your forecasting skills, especially when it comes to severe weather…which is certainly not limited to the spring months. Here’s an excellent read by US Tornadoes on several common and pervasive myths that can bust your forecast.
With autumn having settled in across the northern hemisphere, 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 has officially come to an end. Though tropical cyclone activity can still occur, statistically we’re entering the end of the season. 2020 will go down in the record books for many facets 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.

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Links For October 9 – 16, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #thunderstorm #drought #hurricane #hurricaneprep #hurricanesafety #disasterprep #climate #climatechange #covid19 #pandemic

Hurricane Delta intensifying over the Gulf of Mexico on 6 October 2020.

A very busy episode in the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season is taking a respite, which is very good news. Hurricane Delta made landfall as a Category 2 tropical cyclone only a few miles from where Hurricane Laura moved inland only six weeks earlier. Drought conditions and western USA wildfires are also making headlines with no relief in sight for that parched region. There are many other good stories to cover this week, so lets get started.

The abundance of misinformation and disinformation that is present in social media and many mainstream media outlets is astounding, but not surprising. Fallacies, conspiracy theories, rumors, and outright lies run rampant with every field of science with weather and climate being no exception. Considering the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic, this kind of nefarious misinformation/disinformation has many lethal ramifications.
Like it or not, the connection between science and politics is irrevocable. “We are in the midst of a pandemic and a climate crisis, both solvable by centering scientific expertise. When our government ignores scientists, the consequences can be fatal. More than 200,000 Americans have died from COVID-19. Yet, as our nation grapples with the pandemic, our current administration believes that “science shouldn’t stand in the way” of business as usual.
Carrying on a conversation with someone who has any concerns, or lack thereof, on climate change can be very challenging. With active listening and scientific facts, that conversational challenge can be easier.
Climate change has many facets that affect our daily lives. In the case of medical residents, it’s now a part of their training to treat people with afflictions that are climate related and becoming more common.
This has been a long time coming. “New poll on climate change: Denial is out, alarm is in.“
As our oceans warm, the ramifications around the world is significant. With marine heatwaves becoming hotter, larger, and lasting longer, scientists say the trend has major ecological consequences, from altering fish and plant populations to forcing whales into hazardous waters.
The fact that extreme weather events have increased in frequency and intensity in the last twenty years is well documented. For humans, one extreme weather event will overlap another and influence others therefore test our resilience.

Graphic credit: United Nations Office For Disaster Risk Reduction

Here’s an interesting read on some new research on thunderstorms and lightning. Meteorology, like all other sciences, is in a constant state of flow and ebb, changing with each new bit of solid research.
The latest US Drought Monitor is out and the news is not good. Just under 40% of the USA is experiencing drought conditions.

The NOAA climate assessment for September 2020 is out. For the contiguous USA, the end of the month saw 2020’s year-to-date total of sixteen weather and climate disaster events with losses exceeding $1 billion.

HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

2020 is on track to be a record years for the Atlantic hurricane season. Hurricane Delta, the latest tropical cyclone to affect the USA, made landfall just a few miles from the landfall point of Hurricane Laura which devastated a significant part of southern Louisiana just seven weeks ago. In the central and eastern Pacific, several named storms have also taken place. With several more weeks in the hurricane season left to go, it’s important to not let your guard down. 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, please stay home if possible, practice good personal hygiene, mind your social distancing, sport a spiffy mask, stay safe, and stay healthy!

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Links For October 2 – 9, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #hurricane #hurricaneprep #hurricanesafety #disasterprep #climate #climatechange #wildfire #astronomy #covid19 #pandemic

Whether it’s a hurricane, a tornado, or winter storms, your NOAA weather radio should be at the ready year round. Graphic courtesy NOAA/NWS

As of this post, all eyes are on Hurricane Delta, the second hurricane of the Atlantic 2020 to make landfall on the central USA Gulf Coast. Delta is a perfect example of a hurricane that has achieved major status during it’s life cycle after starting out with very humble origins. This kind of rapid intensification is something we’ll be seeing more often. This week’s post includes information and links on hurricane preparation. In addition, western USA wildfires continue to rage out of control and a gigafire…the first million acre wildfire on record, has taken place. As a result, air quality for many regions far from the fires has become a significant public health issue. There are many other good stories to cover this week, so lets get started.

This is a very thought provoking read on the current state of the societal attitude towards the COVID-19 pandemic. “As troubling as our pandemic response has been, the largest gap may not be between our performance and that of other countries but between our pre-pandemic understanding of America and what we now see revealed.”
While on the topic of the COVID-19 pandemic, here’s a spot-on essay that has been a long time coming and pulls no punches where they are deserved. “Dying In A Leadership Vacuum.“
The time to reevaluate the USA’s position as a leader in scientific endeavors has come. “Is America Finally Ready To Become A Scientific Nation?“
“Life on Venus? Scientists hunt for the truth.” The surprise discovery of gas that could be a sign of life on Venus has reignited scientific interest in Earth’s closest neighbor.
Speaking of our solar system, here’s a solid read on the origins of our universe.
As wildfires continue to ravage many western USA states, air quality has become a major public health issue. Fortunately, there are new apps and sensors to help people assess their personal risks.
Over four million acres have burned in California during 2020. While that number is useful, it may not be the most important number for us to focus on.
Gigafire is the new term for wildfires this bad. “Scientists didn’t expect wildfires this terrible for another 30 years.“
Now that a million acre wildfire known as a gigafire has taken place, what are the long-term implications for such an unprecedented event?
Last but not least, some good news in 2020. The USA may see the fewest lightning deaths in a single year in recorded history.

HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

Hurricane Delta is, as of this post, forecast to make landfall on the USA’s Gulf Coast. 2020 is on track to be a record years for the Atlantic hurricane season. 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.

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, please stay home if possible, practice good personal hygiene, mind your social distancing, sport a spiffy mask, 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.

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

THE BASICS OF HURRICANE SAFETY

PREPARING A HURRICANE EMERGENCY KIT FOR HOME, VEHICLE, AND WORK

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WINTER WEATHER SAFETY AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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WINTER WEATHER SAFETY AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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WINTER WEATHER SAFETY AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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WINTER WEATHER SAFETY AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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WINTER WEATHER AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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WINTER WEATHER AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

SEPTEMBER IS PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH!

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