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Short-Term Drought Prediction May Help Communities

A computer model predicts reliably the severity and timing of drought episodes six months in advance, helping farmers choose drought-tolerant crops and minimizing economic losses. The researchers also highlight the need to maintain adequate river levels to prevent barge traffic disruptions and ensure water supply.

Global Change: Will Some Plant Species Be Left Behind? Studies Of EcosystemDynamics Make Wide Use Of Computer Models

Researchers are using sophisticated computer models to predict the dynamics of terrestrial ecosystems facing unprecedented rates of climate change. Plant species may need to migrate at speeds up to 10 times faster than historically observed, but some terrains offer less suitable habitats for this adaptation.

How Does Your City Grow?

A computer model developed by Penn State researchers can predict the probability of land use change and microclimate formation in urban areas. The model uses satellite image data to calculate land use types, vegetation, and surface climate parameters, providing insights into urban growth and its impact on local liveability.

Coupled Hydrologic Model Takes Cue From Atmosphere

A new coupled hydrologic model system simulates storm events and river basin response by linking atmospheric and hydrological models. The model was tested on the West Branch of the Susquehanna River basin, showing improved results with historic meteorological data compared to atmospheric predictions.

How Dry Is The Tropical Free Troposphere? Implications For Global Warming Theory

Recent satellite and in-situ measurements reveal no definitive warming trend in the tropical free troposphere over the past two decades. The low humidity in this region allows more infrared radiation to escape from the Earth, cooling the atmosphere. Current computer models inaccurately handle humidity processes in this region.

SourceNASA/Marshall Space Flight Center--Space Sciences Laboratory·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateJul 14, 1997