Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Links For November 20 – 27, 2020

#science #weather #meteorology #weathersafety #wintersafety #climate #climatechange #environment #renewables #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 for the next several weeks. There are many other good stories to cover, so lets get started.

Communicating scientific data to the general public is a daunting task…even for the most seasoned scientist who is used to dealing with public relations. How that information and data is conveyed is just as important as the content. “Five rules for evidence communication.”
2020 is a rough year for most of us no matter what your perspective is. To put it in a historical perspective makes a great deal of difference. Here’s a timely and thought provoking essay that does just that.
Ignorance, whether with the pandemic or a tornado warning, isn’t bliss…or clever. “This Pandemic Must Be Seen.” If we could watch what’s really going on in hospitals, there would be no more complacency
For some time astronomers have known that water once flowed on Mars. Here’s a look at evidence of a ‘megaflood’ that occurred on the planet.
The Earth’s atmosphere hasn’t always been like the sky and weather that we see every day. In fact, at one point it may have more closely resembled the toxic and hot atmosphere on Venus.
There’s a substantial amount of rebuilding to do after a devastating USA wildfire year. However… “Rebuilding After A Wildfire? Most States Don’t Require Fire-Resistant Materials.”
Not even Earth’s highest mountain is free of this pestilence. “Microplastic pollution discovered near the top of Mount Everest.”
Rising sea levels present a substantial danger along low lying coastal areas. According to new research, some areas as far as 50 miles inland are under great danger as well.
Here’s a very sound concept with long term benefits if it comes to fruition. “We Need a National Institute of Climate Change & Health.” 2020 reinforced a very powerful lesson. If we don’t prepare for health disasters & manage them skillfully, informed by the best evidence, then people suffer & die needlessly.
The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season is one that won’t be forgotten soon. So many records were broken that it’s hard to fathom just how active a year it was. Here’s a fantastic NOAA infographic looking at a remarkable year by the numbers.

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

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.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is red-cross-emergency-preparedness-checklist.jpg — Graphic courtesy American Red Cross

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.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is img_1223-1.jpg — Graphic courtesy NOAA/NWS

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 July 31 – August 7, 2020 #science #climate #climatechange #weather #meteorology #hurricane #hurricaneprep #disasterprep #spacex #nasa #astronomy #mars

Hurricane Katrina approaches the central USA Gulf Coast on 28 August 2005. Satellite image courtesy NOAA.

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 a historic 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.

Let’s start with some good news in an otherwise challenging current events scenario. “SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule makes splashdown with NASA astronauts.“
Astronomers know that Mars once was partially covered by water. New data shows that glaciers may have played a part in forming the Martian landscape.
As a former HVAC tech, this concerns me greatly. “Why Aren’t We Talking More About Ventilation?” Furthermore, how is it that six months into a global respiratory pandemic, we’re still doing so little to mitigate airborne transmission?
While on the topic of pandemics, the unnecessary rancor over facial masks was also a hot-button topic during the 1918 influenza pandemic that killed hundreds of thousands of people. Sad to say that in spite of sound scientific evidence, some people still don’t get it.
The Arctic region has been plagued by wildfires in recent years. “Data by the European Union’s Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) shows that in June and July 2020, Arctic fires released 204 megatons of carbon dioxide, far exceeding last year’s 140 megatons and eclipsing the annual emissions of Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland combined.”
Forecasting tropical cyclones is one of the most daunting tasks that a meteorologist will ever face. Here’s a very interesting take on forecasting one of the most dangerous atmospheric phenomenons. “Application of machine learning can optimize hurricane track forecast.“
When it comes to climate change, individual acts alone may not have a substantial effect. Many experts with a substantial knowledge of climate change and related topics have some very encouraging words.
One of the most underrated weather hazards is heat and the effects heat waves have on life on our planet. This suggestion by experts is a novel one…name heatwaves in the same manner that we name hurricanes.
If the active Atlantic hurricane season has piqued your interest in tropical cyclones, NOAA has an excellent educational website that explains how these powerful storms develop and operate.
The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season has been very busy with, as of this post, nine named storms…and the peak of the season is still weeks away. NOAA has revised their Atlantic basin hurricane outlook for what could be an ‘extremely active’ season.

HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

The Atlantic and central Pacific have become quite active with several tropical cyclones this summer. In the central Pacific, Douglas took a swipe at Hawaii. Hanna made landfall in Texas and Isaias on the USA’s east coast. The Atlantic has been unusually active with nine named storms having taken place by the end of July…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 as well. 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

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 Links For July 24 – 31, 2020 #science #perseverance #mars #climate #climatechange #weather #meteorology #hurricane #hurricaneprep #disasterprep

Greetings to everyone! I hope everyone out there is staying healthy and faring well in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As usual, we’ve plenty of interesting topics to cover this week. In atmospheric science, our changing climate is proving to be a continuing 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 a historic start with, as of this post, eight named storms for the 2020 season. We’ll also take a look at heat safety and a checklist for assembling an emergency kit…so let’s get started.

Looking into the eye of the best. A common feature of a powerful hurricane is a well developed eye. Photo courtesy NOAA/NWS.

Let’s start off with some very good news…and get excited over anticipating the future discoveries of Perseverance. “NASA has launched the most ambitious Mars rover ever built: here’s what happens next.“
Lightning is a dangerous atmospheric phenomenon that takes place year round all over the planet. This study takes a look at how lightning has an effect on ecosystems in tropical regions.
As strange as it may seem, facts & data may not be enough. “The surprising reasons why people ignore the facts about climate change.”
While on the topic of climate change and social psychology, it may appear that media coverage of climate change is skewed towards deniers while pro-climate information is scarce. If it looks that way to you, you’d be correct.
A new study on climate change takes a look at best and worst case scenarios with a conclusion that a middle ground is a very likely outcome.
Arctic wildfires have been raging through parts of Siberia as of late…and what is called an area of “blocking high pressure aloft” is largely to blame.
A new study says sea level rise, storm surges, and high tides will put trillions of dollars of assets at risk around the world by the end of the century. “Extra 23 million people could face coastal flooding within 30 years even with emission cuts.”
Here’s a very interesting read on getting weather satellites into a lower orbit. “Earth Observation Satellites Could Be Flown Much Lower Than Current Altitudes And Do Better Science.“
If the Earth’s atmosphere could make a sound, it would vibrate like a giant bell with, “various large-scale resonant waves traveling in both directions around the globe.”
Here’s a very important climate read from NOAA. “National Climate Assessment: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions will save thousands of lives in the U.S.” This further proves the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS

The Atlantic and central Pacific have become quite active with several tropical cyclones in July. In the central Pacific, Douglas took a swipe at Hawaii. The Atlantic has been unusually active. Hanna made landfall in southern Texas. As of this post, Hurricane Isaias is approaching the Southeastern USA coast as it intensifies. Time is running out on preparations that are further made more difficult by the pandemic conditions in Florida and several surrounding states. 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 those in regions prone to hurricanes, now is the time to assemble your kit for home and/or your place of work.

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 Reads For June 19 – 26, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #summersafety #heatsafety #climate #climatechange #environment #weatherready #covid19 #pandemic

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 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 has slowed a bit, but and uptick in activity will inevitably take place. The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season has also gotten off to a historical start. We’ll also take a look at summer heat safety information and much more with this week’s picks…so let’s get started.

A vast dust plume from the Sahara Desert in Africa starts a trek across the Atlantic towards the Americas. Image courtesty NOAA

Many a youngster during the late 1960’s and early 1970’s had dreams of becoming an astronaut during the height of the USA’s Apollo mission program. Many more dreamed of becoming one with the advent of the Space Shuttle. That dream continues today for many. Question is, do you have what it takes?
We’re very familiar with dust storms on our own planet. Studying dust storms and how they for on Mars is another story.
Misinformation, pseudoscience, & conspiracy theories run amok for almost every field of science. Weather and climate are prime examples. The current COVID-19 pandemic is another very apt example. “Coronavirus misinformation, & how scientists can help to fight it.”
To say that the USA has been brought to its knees by the COVID-19 pandemic is an understatement. To add insult to injury, as of this post, the states are in the worst shape so far in this horrible health crisis.
“What greater good? COVID-19 is unmasking America’s collective action problem.” Face masks can slow the spread of COVID-19. The issue? Mask-wearing has become a giant collective action problem & many Americans refuse to cooperate hence the dramatic increase in cases in the past few days.
As if the ongoing global pandemic isn’t enough, the smoke from wildfires that may happen this summer across much of North America will pose additional health hazards to many people.
This is a mammoth and time-consuming task, but it’s very important. “One-fifth of Earth’s ocean floor is now mapped.”
A recent summer temperature record was set in Siberia. If verified, this would be the northernmost 100-degree reading ever observed, and the highest temperature on record in the Arctic.”
Imagine if you will a lightning bolt that’s 440 miles long or last just over 16 seconds. The World Meteorological Organization has identified two megaflash events in South America.
A very good read from The New Yorker archive that will give you a renewed appreciation of the hard work of meteorologists. “Why Weather Forecasting Keeps Getting Better.”

SUMMER HEAT SAFETY AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Is it heat exhaustion or heat stroke? Both are dangerous…and heat stroke is all to often fatal. Here’s the difference.

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, 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 April 10 – 17, 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’ll cover that topic and more with this week’s picks…so let’s get started.

This is a challenge that will be easier said than done. “Revealed: How a spacecraft will bring Mars rocks to Earth.”
Whether it’s climate change, the potential for severe weather, a land-falling hurricane, an earthquake, or a global pandemic that takes no prisoners, the tendency for humans to choose no news over bad news is strong.
As humans have wisely sheltered in place, our planet has grown quiet. And, seismologists can tell.
This should come as no surprise. Even the smallest amount of air pollution or bad air quality can drastically worsen COVID-19.
I was afraid something like this could possibly come to fruition. But, maintaining social distancing is far more important. “How COVID-19 could ruin weather forecasts and climate records.”
The Earth’s planetary wind current carry a tremendous amount of dust across the globe. Recent research shows that it carries far more dust than was previously thought.
Greenland had a substantial amount of ice melt take place in the summer of 2019. Here’s an excellent read on why it happened and if it will occur again.
The western states in the USA have been dealing with drought conditions for some time. According to new research, the current drought conditions are about to worsen.
During a pandemic, maintaining social distancing while taking shelter from a tornado can be very challenging. Fortunately, the American Meteorological Society has some very good guidelines to follow during the COVID-19 pandemic.
While on the topic of tornado safety, here’s an excellent source of information on sheltering during a tornado warning from the Storm Prediction Center.

SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS

This simple guideline to sheltering can save your life. Even in the weakest of tornadoes, worst and bad options can result in serious injury or death.

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

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Picks For February 28 – March 6, 2020 – #science #weather #meteorology #tornado #severeweather #tnwx #climate #climatechange #environment #citizenscience #citsci #weatherready #astronomy

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. On a more personal note, I appreciate the continued best wishes for recovery and good health during my rehabilitation from prostate cancer surgery. You folks are awesome! Now…let’s get started on this week’s reads.

One way that non-scientists can help professional scientists is through ‘citizen science’ projects. These projects gather significant amounts of priceless data. Here’s an excellent read on why we need citizen scientists and how they can increase public understanding of many complex scientific topics.
The Curiosity Mars rover recently snapped a fantastic high resolution image of Mars that has to be seen to be believed.
Keeping any data base and vast amounts of maps up to date can be quite a challenge. Unfortunately, these maps are flood plains in the USA that are badly out of date. You may live in a flood zone…and not even know it.
This is a no-brainer and more than a little obvious. “Yes, Climate Change Did Influence Australia’s Unprecedented Bushfires.”
The major news networks have quite a job on their hands handling all of the current events. By this account, their coverage of climate change in 2019 was lacking.
While climate change is a well established fact, many of the subtle nuances have still to be worked out. “Will future East Coast winters be freezing or balmy? Scientists can’t agree.”
At this rate and lack of competence and progress, this is bad news all around. “Net zero emissions target in peril as tropical forests absorb less CO2.”
Here’s the latest as of 6 March 2020 from the Nashville, TN National Weather Service on the deadly Tennessee tornadoes that killed over 20 people and heavily damaged much of the Nashville metro and neighboring counties. A review of the Storm Prediction Center’s outlooks, watches, and preliminary storm reports can be found here.
Will 2020 be an active tornado year across the USA? There are many variables involved and forecasting weeks and even months out while dealing with fluid dynamics is almost impossible. Here’s a very thorough look at some interesting data from US Tornadoes on what 2020 may…or may not…bring.
While on the topic of severe weather events, it’s important to remember that knowledge is power…and can save your life. Over the next few weeks I’ll post helpful National Weather Service infographics concerning severe thunderstorms, lightning, flooding, and of course, tornadoes. This week, lets take a look at the severe weather probabilities categories issued by the Storm Prediction Center.

Storm Prediction Center Severe Weather Risk Categories And Associated Hazards.

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.

Cheers…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 Reads For February 21 – 28, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #climate #climatechange #environment #astronomy #cawx #kswx #weatherforecasting #winter #scicomm

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. On a more personal note, I appreciate the continued best wishes for recovery and good health during my rehabilitation from prostate cancer surgery. You folks are awesome! Now…let’s get started on this week’s reads.

The Earth isn’t the only planet where vorticies form. Here’s a fascinating read on dust devils on Mars and the paths they leave behind.
An interesting look back at the last Ice Age. “Huge stores of Arctic sea ice likely contributed to past climate cooling.”
While on the topic of sea ice, here’s a look at how Antarctica is changing as polar climates warm and ice melts revealing ‘new’ land masses.
The Great Barrier Reef has gone through substantial bleaching in the past. Now, it’s showing signs of another major bleaching event.
I have never been in favor of deliberate ‘weather modification’ in any way, shape, or form. If this continues…in spite of its third-rate first-rate failure, nothing good will come of it. Regardless of what the ‘experts’ say, I stand behind every word I’ve said about this over the years.
In a ‘normal’ year, the month of February is often one of the wettest months of the year for parts of California. This year, parts of the state that desperately need rain haven’t seen a drop all month.
This has to be seen to be believed…and also illustrates the exceptionally daunting challenges that meteorologists face when forecasting winter weather events.
Climate change and global warming affects life in the USA in a wide variety of ways. Here’s a sobering look at just a few changes that are quite likely now the new norm.
Communicating scientific data to the general public can be very difficult. Quite often, the process is given a back seat to scientifically technical content. “Want people to care about climate change? Skip the jargon.”
A quick and concise review of a climate news story you may have missed, but is very important. Yet another record warm month is now in the record books. “January was warmest on record for the globe.“

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 over the past few weeks. I’m still recovering well from surgery. 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.

Cheers…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 Reads For February 14 – 21, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #tornado #climate #climatechange #environment #pollution #airquality #health #noaa #nasa #antarctica #astronomy

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. On a more personal note, I appreciate the continued best wishes for recovery and good health during my rehabilitation from prostate cancer surgery. You folks are awesome! Now…let’s get started on this week’s reads.

The more we study Mars, the more amazing discoveries we make about this spectacular planet.
A look at the vast changes recent brushfires have brought about. “The End of Australia as We Know It.”
The importance of indoor air quality can never be underestimated. “Opening your windows doesn’t help reduce indoor air pollution.”
In case you missed it, this is one of the biggest nuggets of climate news from NOAA in recent months. “January 2020: Earth’s Warmest January on Record.”
Speaking of warmth, this is a disconcerting read on research that’s ongoing at Antarctica’s Thwaites Glacier. What scientists observed dramatically increased fears of a collapse that could raise global sea levels by more than half a meter.
A very disturbing scenario that clearly illustrates how low climate change deniers will go. “Don’t @ Me: What Happened When Climate Skeptics Misused My Work.”
Just as people often confuse climate and weather, there’s a great deal of confusion over the difference between climate change and global warming. Here’s an excellent explanation from NASA.
As of 21 February 2020, the year has gotten off to an active start in the USA for tornado activity. U.S Tornadoes has a comprehensive look at a year that may well be above average in tornado occurrence.
Here’s some excellent news from NOAA that’ll put the USA back on top! “U.S. to triple operational weather and climate supercomputing capacity.”
Finally, here’s one of the coolest maps you’ll ever see of our planet. Take a look at the winds whipping around our world in this amazing interactive global wind map!

With the recent increase in severe weather activity across parts of the contiguous USA, now’s the time to make sure your NOAA weather radio is in good working order. Regardless of where you live, be sure it’s at the ready year round. Infographic courtesy NOAA/NWS

Cheers…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 Reads For December 13 – 20, 2019 #weather #climate #climatechange #environment

Greetings once again to one and all! If the December holidays are a part of your life, I hope the season’s going well for you. Here’s a more concise overview of my intro from the last few weeks. After a few months on hiatus for health reasons, I’ve decided to resume this weekly blog of my choice of top ten science reads from the past week. This will be published every Friday between 2:00pm and 3:00pm Central USA Time (2000 UTC to 2100 UTC). On a personal note, I appreciate the many best wishes for a speedy recovery during my rehabilitation from prostate cancer surgery. To say it is a daunting challenge is an understatement. A medical situation such as this certainly has made me take pause and reevaluate the priorities in my life. On that note, let’s get started on this week’s reads.

The planet we know more about that any other in our solar system has something in common with Earth…Mars has auroras too!
The COP25 climate talks ended recently. At best, it came to an end in a stalemate with few countries that are contributing the lions share of global CO2 emissions willing to compromise.
Sometimes it takes bad news to get things in motion. Let’s hope we’re not too late. “A year of big numbers startled the world into talking about nature.”
We may know a great deal about our planet’s atmosphere, but occasionally there’s a new discovery that potentially can have significant impacts on our quality of life.
Air quality is often a highly underrated variable in our health. We wisely concern ourselves with what we eat, drink, and items that food/drink come in contact with. Here’s another good read with a sound study behind it on air quality. What we breathe into our lungs is just as important as what we consume by mouth.
Speaking of air quality, a recent study showed that the United States is (unfortunately) among the top ten countries for pollution related deaths. The air pollution we’re exposed to is a significant cause of death & disability linked to cardiovascular & respiratory diseases, strokes, & cancers.
Pyrocumulonimbus (pyroCB) for during particularily large and intense brushfire/wildfire scenarios. The dangers of these can be significant, even some distance from the fire.
Here’s the November 2019 State Of The Climate report. As you can see, it was yet another record setting month across the globe.
I love a good snowstorm and I REALLY love snow squalls! Recently, one rolled over Manhattan, NYC and was captured in time-lapse by several cameras doing what snow squalls do best, look spectacular!
Finally, let’s wrap up this week with a look at wind chill. Even in relatively temperate regions, wind chill can be a substantial winter safety factor. This chart will help you understand just how important wind chill is during the winter months.

That’s a wrap for this post! If you’re on Twitter, Instagram, or Tumblr, so is Tornado Quest. I’d like to thank so many of you again for all the thoughtful comments I’ve received over the past few weeks. As of this post, I’m still recovering well from surgery. 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 only one of many reputable sites with further information.

Cheers…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

#science #weather #meteorology #weathersafety #wintersafety #climate #climatechange #environment #renewables #covid19 #pandemic #wearamask

WINTER WEATHER AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

Share this:

Like this:

HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

SEPTEMBER IS PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH!

Share this:

Like this:

HURRICANE AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

Share this:

Like this:

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS

Share this:

Like this:

SUMMER HEAT SAFETY AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Share this:

Like this:

SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this: