Extreme Weather Events
Articles tagged with Extreme Weather Events
AMS Science Preview: “Ornamental twilight,” heat deaths, hurricane eyes
Bigger and wetter storms mean drier conditions over time
When the Schuylkill swallowed the city: Lessons from Hurricane Ida’s historic flood
Soil also suffers from heat waves: organic waste used to boost its tolerance to 50 degrees Celsius
Researchers found that adding organic matter can increase soil resistance to heat waves and preserve phosphorus reserves. Organic amendments like olive pomace proved effective in boosting soil resilience.
How turbulences affect wind turbines
Researchers develop new concept to accurately model wind turbine loads, focusing on local gusts' impact on material fatigue. This enhances turbine design and efficiency by reducing uncertainties in load estimations.
AMS science preview: AI forecast limits, unpredictable hurricanes, simplified heat index
New research from the American Meteorological Society explores AI forecasting limits, the impact of climate change on hurricane trends, and simplifies the heat index. The studies find that machine learning can outperform numerical physics-based models in certain conditions, but not universally.
Warming intensifies rainfall in North Atlantic storms
A new study reveals that tropical cyclones and post-tropical cyclones are responding differently to surface warming, resulting in increased rainfall intensity and longer-lasting storms. Warmer temperatures lead to wetter tropical cyclones, especially in warm, low-latitude regions.
Much of humanity may face hot-dry extremes five times more often by end-century
Researchers project that 28% of the global population will face heightened exposure to hot-dry extremes by the 2090s, concentrated in low-income, tropical nations. Limiting emissions could avert a lot of risk, with about 18% of the population facing this level of exposure under current climate action plans.
Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo and George Mason University scientists mine past air temperature forecasts, lower cost with greater subseasonal prediction accuracy
Researchers at Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo and George Mason University developed a new method called Lagged Ensemble Analog Sub-selection (LEAS) to improve air temperature forecasts one to five weeks in advance. This approach selectively retains past ensemble members with high predictive skill, improving fo...
Why does global numerical weather prediction model fail to accurately forecast 21.7 Zhengzhou extreme precipitation?
The study found that complex terrain, particularly orographic gravity wave drag, significantly affects the location and intensity of extreme precipitation. Without this effect, the low-level mesoscale vortex moves westward, leading to decreased rainfall intensity and a northwestward shift of the rainfall center.
Fantastic fungi found with ability to freeze water
Researchers have identified fungal proteins that can catalyze ice formation at high subzero temperatures, making them a potential alternative to toxic silver iodide in cloud seeding. The discovery could lead to safer weather modification and improved food preservation techniques.
AMS Science Preview: Mississippi River, ocean carbon storage, gender and floods
Researchers investigated the Mississippi River's hydrological trends, ocean carbon storage, and gender dynamics in flood mortality. A study found that precipitation increases, but soil moisture decreases, while high-resolution models reveal stronger Southern Ocean carbon absorption. Additionally, data showed men are overrepresented in ...
The ‘Great Texas Freeze’ killed thousands of purple martins; biologists worry recovery could take decades
A recent study led by UMass-Amherst biologists found that the 2021 Great Texas Freeze killed up to 27% of purple martins' breeding population, with effects felt for decades. The study also revealed that the affected birds delayed reproduction and hatched fewer chicks, and their population is already declining in Texas and Louisiana.
New computation method for climate extremes: Researchers at the University of Graz reveal tenfold increase of heat over Europe
Climate researchers developed a new method for computing hazards from extreme events, finding a tenfold increase in extreme heat over Europe. The study provides a basis for better quantifying damage to people, ecosystems, and infrastructure.
AMS Science Preview: Hurricane slowdown, school snow days
A new study finds that U.S. tornado activity is shifting southeastward due to the relationship between extratropical cyclones and low-pressure systems. Additionally, global warming has led to a fourfold increase in tropical cyclone rapid slowdown events in coastal areas.
Experts show how major UK food crisis might occur
A new report by Anglia Ruskin University and the University of York identifies key weaknesses in the UK's food system and recommends interventions to prevent disruptions from escalating into a crisis. The study suggests increasing energy security, diversifying food value chains, and promoting varied diets to reduce risks.
New study identifies warning signs for extreme flash flooding
Researchers at Newcastle University and the UK Met Office identified a three-layered atmospheric structure associated with heavy rainfall developing within minutes. The findings help explain record-breaking rainfall and flash floods in the UAE and Oman in April 2024, and may aid future improvements in identifying risk.
Study: Extreme heatwaves across the Caribbean are becoming more frequent and severe
A new study led by climatologists at the University at Albany found that extreme heatwaves in the Caribbean have increased significantly over the last five decades. The study reveals that heatwaves are lasting longer and occurring more often, especially in Cuba, Haiti, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic.
Statistical method more accurately predicts landslide risk
A Brazilian study developed a new statistical analysis method that better predicts landslide risk. The approach uses the Gaussian distribution to define the weight of each contributing factor objectively. It was validated based on an inventory of landslides in São Paulo, where 65 people were killed.
Tornado-forecast system can increase warning lead times, study finds
Researchers at the University of Kansas have developed a tornado-forecast system called Warn-on-Forecast System (WoFS) that can predict tornado formation up to an hour before it occurs. The system uses high-resolution simulations and gauges uncertainties, providing guidance on severe weather threats.
Heatwaves could put millions of European cattle at risk by mid-century
The study maps where and how millions of animals may be affected by heat stress in Europe. Regional differences were found, with southern European countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, and Romania likely to face significant impacts.
New study reveals precursors for forecasting summer clustered extreme precipitation events in Northeast China
Researchers have identified four synoptic patterns contributing to summer clustered extreme precipitation events in Northeast China, including eastward-moving low-altitude vortex and southwesterlies. The study provides a robust assessment of prerequisite conditions for these events and offers insights into short-term forecasting.
AMS Science Preview: Volcanic rain, dust storms, and unstable Antarctic air
Recent research reveals that volcanic eruptions can cause unpredictable weather patterns, including volcanic rain, dust storms, and unstable Antarctic air. The study also found that the Antarctic surface atmosphere has become less stable and more prone to gravity waves since the 1950s.
UF dives deep into predicting storm damage with computer models
A team of researchers used innovative approaches, including public data and machine learning models, to create more accurate predictions of coastal erosion and infrastructure damage. The project aims to improve storm preparedness and timeliness.
Homes that can withstand extremes: New study reveals pathways to housing resilience
Researchers identified key building code features that impact hazard resilience, including prioritizing structural elements like lateral support. Smarter regulation and stronger structures can work together to create safer homes, but local expertise is crucial in places with independent-minded populations.
Study links rising temperatures to reduced sleep in US adults
A new study links rising temperatures to reduced sleep quality and length in US adults, particularly those living on the West Coast. The research estimates that by 2099, people could lose up to 24 hours of sleep each year due to heat, highlighting the potential impact of climate change on sleep health.
AMS 2026 Meeting showcases atmospheric science and the “human factor”
The 106th Annual Meeting of the American Meteorological Society will focus on the intersection of technology and human decision-making in weather, water, and climate sciences. The meeting will feature keynote presentations, Presidential Sessions, and named symposia highlighting key Earth science topics.
FAU survey: Hurricane season ends, but weather woes push Floridians to move
A Florida Atlantic University survey finds that 36% of Floridians have moved or are considering relocating due to weather hazards. The survey also reveals concerns about climate change, with only half of Floridians believing it is caused by human activity.
AMS Science Preview: Railways and cyclones; pinned clouds; weather warnings in wartime
Researchers investigate how adjacent cities exacerbate each other's heat island effects. A study also highlights the need for improved hindcasting infrastructure in climate science. Additionally, a campaign monitors pinned clouds over industrial sources of heat and finds that trees are more reliable against heat stress than buildings.
Study provides new forecasts of remote islands’ vulnerability to sea level rise
A new study has analyzed a rare flooding event in the Maldives in July 2022 and found it could become a far more common occurrence in the future. By 2050, predicted rises in sea levels, coupled with increased extreme weather events, may result in such flooding happening every two to three years.
Extreme dry-hot in North America and Europe: the amplified role of warming-enhanced land-air coupling
The study reveals that North America and Europe will experience significant warming (3.7-3.8°C) and drought expansion by the end of the 21st century due to land-air coupling, which amplifies the impact of GHG emissions. If uncontrolled, this could lead to severe climate risks, including reduced Gross Primary Productivity.
Turbo Platform for Plant Research
Scientists have created a micro-algal platform that allows for automated and fast testing of chloroplast genetic modifications, opening up plant chloroplasts to high-throughput applications. This platform enables researchers to fine-tune genetic circuits and identify which modifications have real potential.
UAlbany researcher partners on $1.2 million NSF grant to explore tropical monsoon rainfall patterns
A UAlbany researcher is leading a $1.2 million NSF project to integrate climate records from stalagmites, corals, lake sediments, and tree rings to understand past changes in monsoon rainfall patterns. The study aims to improve decadal predictions and risk management for societies vulnerable to climate change.
In the face of extreme weather events’ devastating effects on power grids, study identifies vulnerabilities that drive prolonged outages, suggests ways to reduce disruptions
Researchers analyzed power outage data and weather records to identify planning vulnerabilities and criticality as drivers of prolonged local outages. Targeted interventions, such as isolating critical nodes and improving operational flexibility, can reduce customer outages by up to 49.5%.
Hotter does mean wetter
A Kyoto University study found that a 4 degree global temperature increase will intensify extreme precipitation and make it stronger by 7% per degree of warming. However, favorable conditions for extreme precipitation occur when atmospheric moisture is sufficient, not on the hottest days.
Unveiling the impact of compound drought and wildfire events on PM2.5 air pollution in the era of climate change
Researchers found a strong link between compound droughts and wildfires in California, leading to increased fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations. The study shows that severe droughts can substantially raise wildfire risk, with PM2.5 levels increasing by 9.5·m³ under extreme conditions.
AMS science preview: global heat record false? Rainier storms
Recent research from the American Meteorological Society reveals a false global heat record, suggests that severe weather events are increasing in frequency, and predicts an expansion of fire-prone areas. The study also examines the impact of cold wakes on tropical cyclone rainfall and finds that they intensify with global warming.
Hurricane evacuation patterns differ based on where the storm hits
A study comparing Hurricane Helene and Milton found that people in coastal areas with frequent hurricane exposure were more likely to evacuate compared to inland areas. Access to transportation infrastructure, social norms, and risk perception shape evacuation decisions, researchers argue.
Unveiling the underlying mechanism of the record-breaking 2023 East Asian summer heatwave: The notable role of unprecedented marine heatwaves
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that 2023 marine heatwaves significantly exacerbated the record-breaking East Asian summer heatwave. The study revealed that changes in cloud cover and water vapor enhanced solar radiation reaching the ground, amplifying surface temperatures.
Is flooding under climate change more predictable than we thought?
Researchers from Japan developed a new statistical method to increase accuracy of flood risk projections across 70% of the Earth's landmass. This approach merges climate scenarios with different socioeconomic pathways, offering policymakers powerful insights for adaptation and preparedness strategies.
Purdue study uncovers why some hurricanes balloon in size and what that means for forecasting future storms
A new study by Purdue University researchers reveals that hurricanes grow in size faster when traveling over locally warm waters, which can help improve daily forecasting of hurricane size and impacts. This discovery has the potential to better model hurricane size in long-term risk models used by industry.
Engineers uncover why tiny particles form clusters in turbulent air
A new study reveals that small electric charges between particles play a crucial role in forming highly concentrated clusters in turbulent environments. This discovery has significant implications for climate research, medicine, engineering, and science, enabling better predictions and controls.
Submerging forearms in water may help protect older adults during extreme heat
A new study from Penn State researchers found that submerging hands and forearms in room-temperature tap water can effectively cool older adults and reduce their heart rate during extreme heat. The study demonstrated a reduction in core body temperature by about half a degree Fahrenheit, which may help prevent heat-related illnesses.
University of Oklahoma to use AI to predict tree failures before storms hit
The University of Oklahoma is developing an AI-driven framework to predict tree failures before extreme weather events. The TREE-CARE project will integrate advanced technologies with local knowledge to develop solutions that directly benefit communities.
Rising heat waves tied to fossil fuel and cement production
Research by ETH Zurich reveals human-induced climate change has increased extreme heat wave frequency and severity, with fossil fuel and cement production contributing significantly. The study highlights the responsibility of large carbon emitters, such as oil and gas companies, in exacerbating heat waves.
Study finds extreme weather changes who migrates, not just how many
A study published in Nature Communications found that rising global temperatures may increase migration rates by up to a quarter among older and less educated adults, while decreasing them by as much as a third among the youngest and least educated groups. The research analyzed over 125,000 cases of cross-border migration and found tha...
Cities face double trouble: Extreme heat and air pollution cause increasing compound weather events
Compound heat and air pollution episodes are becoming more frequent and intense in US cities, posing a significant threat to public health. The study found that urban areas experience more frequent overlaps of extreme heat with harmful air pollutants than surrounding rural areas.
Scientists track lightning “pollution” in real time using NASA satellite
Researchers from the University of Maryland tracked lightning storms in real-time using NASA's TEMPO instrument, detecting nitrogen oxide emissions that affect climate and air quality. The study reveals how lightning can produce pollutants that travel long distances, influencing air quality far from the original storm.
Hot days make for icy weather, Philippine study finds
A new Philippine study reveals that the country's hottest days are more likely to produce hail, contradicting its typical balmy climate. The research used satellite and radar data to confirm the presence of strong updrafts and favorable conditions for hailstorms during hot periods.
Wind isn’t the only threat: USF-led scientists urge shift to more informed hurricane scale
A new model incorporates rainfall and storm surge, leading causes of hurricane deaths. The proposed scale aims to improve evacuation decisions by providing a more accurate picture of the storm's severity.
New AI tool tracks early signs of hurricane formation
A new AI system developed by the University of Miami Rosenstiel School can automatically identify and track tropical easterly waves, separating them from other tropical wind patterns. The model combines historical observations with reanalysis data to produce accurate real-time forecasts.
Chinese Meridian Project reveals: Storm-time ionosphere collapse disrupts HF radio propagation
The Chinese Meridian Project study found a dramatic 98% reduction in ionospheric electron density during the May 10-12 super geomagnetic storm, leading to complete loss of ionospheric backscatter echoes. The team also observed significant hemispheric asymmetry, with enhanced electron density in the Southern Hemisphere.
Drought, extreme heat, and intimate partner violence in low- and middle-income countries
A cross-sectional study of 42 countries found that drought conditions are associated with increased intimate partner violence risk. The study suggests a pressing need for initiatives to prevent domestic violence in response to climate change.
Extreme heat poses growing threat to our aging population
A study of over 40 research studies found that older adults often don't understand the risk of extreme heat and aren't prepared for long periods of hot weather. The researchers suggest that individuals themselves go through transformations as they age, which can affect their bodies' reactions to heat.
Tropical systems spin up Mid-South crop insurance rates
A new study published in the American Journal of Agricultural Economics found that tropical systems significantly impact crop insurance premium rates in the Mid-South region. The researchers analyzed data from Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, which are more prone to hurricane damage due to their proximity to the Gulf of Mexico.
Study: Wealthy Americans flee floods and hurricanes, driving income migration
Higher-income households in US counties hit by floods and hurricanes are more likely to flee, taking their resources with them. This trend has significant economic impacts on at-risk communities, including reduced ability to recover from disasters and prepare for future catastrophes.
Unprecedented heat in North China: how soil moisture amplified 2023's record heatwave
A new study reveals that a combination of large-scale atmospheric circulation and strong soil moisture feedback contributed to North China's record-breaking three-day heatwave in late June 2023. The study found that the extreme heat was amplified by an unusually dry season, with temperatures soaring past 40°C in some areas.
Living in hurricane affected areas could increase mortality of older people by 9% years after disaster
Researchers found a 9% increased risk of death from all causes for those living in flood-affected zip codes, with higher risks in Connecticut and New York City. The study highlights the importance of considering long-term health impacts of hurricane-related flooding on older adults.
AMS science preview: New lightning record, fewer hurricanes, fire forecasts
Recent research from American Meteorological Society journals predicts a new record for lightning and a decrease in hurricane frequency. Additionally, fire forecasts have been updated to better manage water resources in Colorado's Gunnison River Basin.