Tornado Quest Top Science Links For 18 – 25 February 2023 #science #weather #climate #climatechange #wildfire #earthquake #astronomy

Greetings everyone, it’s good to see you. The big weather story for North America this week has been the significant winter storm across many northern states. Even though it’s late February, we’ve many more weeks of winter ahead. Our winter weather safety information has good information to keep you safe including a wind chill chart. There are many other interesting science links to check out. Let’s get started.

Let’s start with a fascinating astronomy read on the spectacular results that take place when two neutron stars collide.
The recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria have reminded us as to the lethal nature of this natural event. Earthquakes are notoriously difficult to predict, but there are precautions that can be taken to make them less deadly.
If there is an advantage to earthquakes, it’s the view they give us of the inner structure of our planet.
Many areas around the globe are prone to grassfires. Australia is no exception. With climate change (literally) fueling the fires, events like never seen before are inevitable.
While on the topic of wildfires, here’s a fascinating read from NOAA on how large wildfire clouds have a significant impact on our planet’s stratosphere.
Here is this week’s update on the USA Drought Monitor. Conditions east of the Mississippi river and in many western states have improved significantly this past week. Some relief has occurred in the plains states however, extreme or exceptional drought conditions exist from Nebraska to Texas and much of the western states are seeing increased dry contitions.

WINTER WEATHER PREPAREDNESS AND SAFETY

If you’re looking for winter weather preparedness and safety information, here’s an excellent website for everything you need to know for before and after the storm. This all inclusive website from NOAA and the National Weather Service will help you prepare for the storm and tell you how to stay safe afterwards. Here’s some more winter safety information from OSHA geared towards those who have to work outdoors in the cold. The infographics have tips on dressing for the cold and five things to keep in mind during the coldest months of the year.

Infographic courtesy NWS Mobile, Alabama

That’s a wrap for this post! Thanks to everyone for stopping by. A big ‘Thank You’ to all of you who pay this website a visit and follow Tornado Quest in social media!

See you next Saturday!

Tornado Quest micro podcast for 18 – 25 February 2023

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 4 – 11, 2021

Hurricane Laura approaches the Louisiana coast on 26 August 2020.

The past week has seen many big science stories come across our news feeds. From Hurricane Ida and the devastation in its wake to the COVID-19 pandemic to the rapid increase in climate change, there has been no shortage of stories. For North America, the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season is upon us. 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. There are many other good science reads to review for this week, so let’s get started.

This week marks the twentieth anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States. This gallery contains images that, for many of us, will forever be indelibly etched into our memory of that horrible day.
Here’s a very timely read that has validation for not only the ongoing pandemic, but many areas of science. “Prebunking Health Misinformation Tropes Can Stop Their Spread.”
Misinformation & disinformation are a plague that feeds on fear & superstition. “Free Speech In A Pandemic Congress Wrestles With Drawing A Line.”
This is a very thought provoking read on how the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change have some very solid links and a reminder of how every person is globally connected.
It’s one thing to be in denial of climate change or the substantial threat of the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s quite another matter to accept these threats to human existence…and feel the need to do nothing about it.
In all honesty, many of these populated areas shouldn’t populated with humans. Many vulnerable cities exist in areas where they shouldn’t…and that is why we have this…”Hurricane Ida May Spark Mass Migration.”
Extremes in winter weather may not sound like it’s associated with climate change and global warming, but there are clear climatological connections.
Speaking of extremes…Texas, do you remember that bitter cold snap of February 2021? “Scientists See Link Between Arctic Warming & Texas Cold Snap.”
Wildfires present significant threats on their own. New studies and data show that the smoke created by these massive fires has a lethal component that claims tens of thousands of lives every year.
The COVID-19 pandemic presents a global health crisis that is nothing like we’ve seen in a century. However, in the long run, a recent medical journal editorial published in more than 200 medical and health journals worldwide places climate change as the biggest threat to global public health.
While on the topic of public health, it’s time to reexamine the importance of air quality and staying healthy.
The Atlantic hurricane season has been a busy one for 2021. Hurricane Ida will certainly go down in the history books. As of this post, Hurricane Larry is still going strong in the Atlantic. In August 2021, NOAA’s National Hurricane Center updated the official Atlantic hurricane season outlook. “Atlantic Hurricane Season Shows No Signs Of Slowing.”

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!

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 July 17 – 24, 2021

Greetings to one and all! I hope this week’s post finds you health and happy. Across much of the North American continent, a persistent drought and devastating wildfires continue with much of the smoke traveling thousands of miles. Meanwhile in the Atlantic, all is quiet for now. For 2021, an active Atlantic hurricane season is forecast. So far in 2021, we’ve had five named storms in the Atlantic basin including two hurricanes. There’s a complete section of information on hurricane safety in this week’s post. We’ll also continue our review of summer heat safety. There are many other good science reads to review for this week, so let’s get started.

From California to British Columbia, vast amounts of wildfire smoke are blown east across Canada and the USA on 22 July 2021.

The Delta virus variant that is now the dominant variation worldwide is a completely different viral monster than what we saw a year ago. “How the Delta variant achieves its ultrafast spread.”
Here’s some good news for a change. NASA has fixed problems with the Hubble telescope that’s kept the instrument silent for many weeks.
Monitoring greenhouse gas emissions worldwide is a daunting task. “Huge gaps in detection networks plague emissions monitoring.”
Yet more studies on the irrevocable link between air quality and health. “Doctors issue official guidance on effects of air pollution and bushfire smoke on pregnancy.”
Considering the extent of the ongoing USA wildfires, air quality and public health is now an issue. “The Western Wildfires Are Affecting People 3,000 Miles Away.”
North America isn’t the only region being affected by wildfires. The extent of the fires also has spread to Siberia.
For specific USA drought condition data, visit the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS) website.
As for recent European flooding, the effects of climate change are stark. “On the heels of Europe’s devastating floods, scientists warn more is yet to come.” A new study finds that slow-moving, low-pressure storms could become 14 times more frequent in Europe over the next century.
Beginning on 2 August 2021, the USA’s National Weather Service will start issuing a Destructive Severe Thunderstorm Warning when conditions warrant. This is a badly needed addition to the arsenal of warnings to give the general public a ‘heads up’ that a particularly dangerous and destructive severe thunderstorm is headed their way.

QUICK REVIEW OF SUMMER HEAT SAFETY

In light of the ongoing North American heat wave, here are some very helpful infographics on heat safety that could save someone’s life.

HURRICANE SAFETY AND PREPAREDNESS

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

That’s a wrap for this post! If you’d like a detailed review of tornado and severe weather safety, please review April and May posts. Next week we’ll continue information on hurricane preparedness and summer heat safety. 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 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 27 – March 6, 2021 #science #weather #meteorology #severeweather #tornado #weatherready #weathersafety #climate #climatechange #environment #airquality #health #astronomy

Greetings to all and happy meteorological spring to my friends and followers in the Northern Hemisphere! This week, we’ll turn our attention to severe weather preparedness. As seasonal climate patterns change, so does the threat for severe weather across much of North America. This week’s post contains a plethora of good severe weather safety links. There are also several new, interesting stories to review, so let’s get started.

After a spectacular landing, NASA’s Perseverance rover is on the move across Mars.
“Atlantic Ocean circulation at weakest in a millennium, say scientists.” This could lead to more extreme weather in Europe & higher sea levels on USA east coast.
A very interesting read with psychological perspectives. “Why aren’t we more afraid of global warming? The psychology of procrastinating on climate change.”
“Study Finds Wildfire Smoke More Harmful To Humans Than Pollution From Cars.” This new research conveys a significant public health challenge as climate change increases the fire risk worldwide.
In order to study one of the rarest varieties of clouds, scientists created one of their own in a laboratory.
“Hurricane Hunters faced a grueling pace in 2020. With climate change, it may not let up.” Last year saw a record number of tropical cyclones in the Atlantic basin. With climate change in play, this is a potentially dangerous scenario that will likely be occurring more often.
The first day of meteorological spring has arrived for the Northern Hemisphere. What does that exactly mean?

SEVERE WEATHER SAFETY AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

Let’s start with an excellent two-page printable PDF file from NOAA that covers the basics of severe weather safety.

Tornadoes, Lightning, and Thunderstorms: Nature’s Most Violent Storms (20 Page PDF File).

This NOAA safety page has a plethora of good information on staying safe during weather and climate issues from air quality to lightning to tornadoes to wildfires.

This long-standing site has the basics of tornado safety rules.

Highway overpasses are often mistaken as a safe haven from severe weather and especially tornadoes. NOTHING ABOUT THIS MYTH IS REMOTELY CONNECTED TO THE TRUTH.

The Online Tornado FAQ…another excellent long-standing site with very important information.

THIS WEEK’S SEVERE WEATHER INFOGRAPHIC: WATCHES AND WARNINGS!

PREPARING AN EMERGENCY KIT FOR HOME, VEHICLE, AND WORK

This handy checklist from the American Red Cross will help you put together an emergency kit for a variety of weather scenarios. A kit like this is very helpful in a variety of other difficult scenarios from wildfires to blizzards to tornadoes and hurricanes.

That’s a wrap for this post! Be sure to check in next week when we’ll take a look at tornado safety. I’d like to extend a big ‘Thank You’ to my followers in social media. I’m glad you’re along for the fun! If you’re on Twitter, Tumblr, or Instagram, let’s connect! As for the COVID-19 pandemic, sport a spiffy mask, practice good hand-washing hygiene, mind your social distancing, stay safe, and stay healthy! See you next Saturday!

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

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.

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 Science Links For December 25, 2020 – January 1, 2021 #science #weather #meteorology #tornado #weathersafety #wintersafety #windchill #climate #climatechange #environment #pollution #astronomy #health #education

The year of 2020 will go down in history as a watershed event for the planet Earth, the planet’s climate, and an insidious virus that led to the worse health crises in a century. There were several weather and climate events that will be landmark events as well. Many substantial winter weather events have taken place across North America and Europe as winter dominates the Northern Hemisphere. We’ll explore more on winter weather safety with plenty of information for the next several weeks. Please note that effective 1 January 2021, I will only post the top science links rather than pick ten. Quite often there are not enough quality stories to pass along and, like other media outlets, they present top stories but don’t go to the trouble of finding a specific number each week. This change allows me to share only the best with you. Let me also take a moment and wish all of you a happy and healthy 2021 and let you know how much I appreciate all of the support so many of you have given me over the past year. All of you are deeply appreciated. Having said that, lets get started.

This is a classic case of the orthodoxy of cancel culture run amok. “I’ve Been Fired. If You Value Academic Freedom, That Should Worry You.“
We know little about the specifics of the weather on other planets in our solar system, but that doesn’t negate the fact that what happens in the atmosphere of other worlds in our solar system is fascinating.
Plastic pollution is an environmental challenge that we face on a global scale. Perhaps it’s time for us to seriously consider a Paris Agreement on plastics.
It’s common knowledge that any wildfire smoke is dangerous to breathe. When you add microbes to that health hazard, an additional risk develops quickly.
As our planet warms, will white Christmases become a relic of the past?
From US Tornadoes, a look back at some excellent tornado videos from 2020.
Last but not least, a good read on self empowerment. The year has finally come to and end and 2021 has begun. To say that 2020 has been an exceptionally stressful year for hundreds of millions around the globe is almost an understatement. Fortunately, there are coping techniques that people use in the aftermath of a natural disaster or other catastrophes that will help us all cope with our current state of mental and physical distress.

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)

The hazards of wind chill should never be underestimated. A few simple steps of layering clothing can make a big difference. Even in full sun, wind chill can be a health hazard in temperatures as warm as 40F.

That’s a wrap for this post! I’d like to extend a warm welcome and Happy New Year to my followers in social media. I’m glad you’re along for the fun! If you’re on Twitter, Instagram, or Tumblr, let’s connect! As for the COVID-19 pandemic, sport a spiffy mask as often as you can, practice good hand-washing hygiene, mind your social distancing, stay safe, and stay healthy! Here’s to a happier and healthier 2021!

Media inquiries: tornadoquest@protonmail.ch

Tornado Quest Top Ten Science Links For 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 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.

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 September 18 – 25, 2020 #science #weather #meteorology #tornado #hurricane #hurricaneprep #hurricanesafety #disasterprep #climate #climatechange #environment #astronomy #prostatecancer

The past few days have been very busy across the North American continent. Western wildfires have sent large plumes of smoke thousands of miles from their point of origin as an unprecedented wildfire season continues. In the Atlantic tropical basin, a very busy hurricane season has been underway. Of course, there are several other good stories to cover this week including a good read on a shift in tornado occurrence patterns, so lets get started.

This is not a little disturbing. Unfortunately, this is a trend that has been growing globally. “Censored: Australian scientists say suppression of environment research is getting worse.”
The weather on other planets is always fascinating. In the case of Venus, the clouds are particularly toxic.
We not only deal with the variables in weather and climate, but space weather as well. Changes that occur on a regular basis with our Sun have significant effects on our daily lives. NASA and NOAA have compiled data on a new solar cycle and what we can expect here on Earth.
Astronomers face many challenges in doing research and looking into deep space from our planet. Here’s an excellent and concise overview of some of those challenges and proposed solutions.
Significant public health ramifications with this scenario. “Oregon’s air quality is so far beyond ‘hazardous’ that no one knows what it means for health.”
While on the topic of air quality, here’s an excellent read on the importance of indoor air quality which is especially important in the middle of a global pandemic. “Smoke and COVID-19 drove us inside — but the air in there wants to kill you.”
This is an essential read on climate and the immediate challenges that we face. “Climate Disruption Is Now Locked In. The Next Moves Will Be Critical.”
“Warming temperatures are driving Arctic greening.” This study is the first to measure vegetation changes spanning the entire Arctic tundra using Landsat data from NASA and the USGS.
Here’s yet another ‘new normal’ concerning the Arctic. “Arctic sea ice hits second-lowest level on record.”
Last but not least, an important 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.

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.

SEPTEMBER IS PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH!

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

WINTER WEATHER PREPAREDNESS AND SAFETY

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QUICK REVIEW OF SUMMER HEAT SAFETY

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THE BASICS OF HURRICANE SAFETY

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SEVERE WEATHER SAFETY AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

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PREPARING AN EMERGENCY KIT FOR HOME, VEHICLE, AND WORK

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SEPTEMBER IS PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH!

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