Articles tagged with Floods
Researchers from the University of Bristol warn that Eurasia, eastern China, Canada, Central America, and Amazonia are at risk of forest loss due to global warming. The team predicts more intense droughts in West Africa, southern Europe, and the eastern USA, while regions north of 50°N will face excessive runoff and flooding.
Researchers at IRRI and UC Davis have identified a cluster of three genes linked to flooding vulnerability or tolerance in rice. The Sub1A gene is overexpressed, making normally intolerant varieties tolerant.
A gene that enables rice to survive complete submergence has been identified, allowing for development of new rice varieties that can withstand flooding. The discovery is expected to increase food security for 70 million poor people and reduce yield losses from weeds in areas like the United States.
Researchers use digital maps to examine flood landscapes and calculate energy and mechanisms needed to generate shapes. Outburst floods pose a major hazard in mountainous areas, with global warming expected to alter flood sizes and frequencies.
Researchers found that beaver dams enhance hydrologic processes during peak flow and low flow periods, creating environments suitable for wetland formation and persistence. The study suggests that beavers play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem diversity by altering river systems worldwide.
A study reviewed over 100 scientific studies and found that the global water cycle is intensifying, with increasing precipitation, runoff, and evapotranspiration. However, the effects on tropical storms and floods are not consistent with predictions.
Researchers from NASA and Columbia University reproduced an abrupt climate shift 8,200 years ago by simulating a massive freshwater flood into the North Atlantic Ocean. The study used GISS Model E-R to model the impact of the flood, which caused temperatures to drop several degrees in some areas.
Global warming is likely to change river flows in ways that may result in both increased flood risk and water shortages. The predictions assume atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration doubles from preindustrial levels, leading to higher winter-time river flows and lower spring and summer flows.
A study found that hazard mitigation grants can save up to $14 billion over 10 years by reducing property damage and loss of life. The grants also help reduce tax revenue losses due to economic disruption caused by natural hazards.
Researchers used GISS Model E-R to simulate a massive freshwater flood into the North Atlantic around 8,200 years ago and found it had moderate effects on global temperatures. The study suggests that similar events may have occurred in the past and can inform our understanding of future climate scenarios.
A study by Saskia van Vuren reveals that changes in the riverbed elevation can cause high-water problems, flooding, droughts, erosion, and affect discharge distribution. The researcher argues that future high-water level predictions must consider morphological dynamics.
A synthesis report reveals climate change's growing health impacts vary by region, with coastlines and sub-Saharan Africa particularly at risk. The report highlights the need for global leadership in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and sustainable energy policies.
The ICSU Scoping Group on Human-Induced Environmental Hazards aims to provide a strong scientific basis for reducing risks and consequences of natural hazards. Recent disasters show a dramatic increase in natural disasters, causing significant economic loss and human displacement.
Researchers at Ohio State University have detected the largest-ever recorded movement of Earth's crust under the weight of flooded Amazon, suggesting a way to estimate total fresh water on the planet. The study reveals an annual oscillation pattern three inches deep in the bedrock beneath the Amazon River Basin.
Researchers have developed a new approach to predicting flooding in the West, combining computer simulations with satellite imagery and field data. The method provides more accurate hazard information and could have significant economic impacts on rapidly growing Southwest cities.
The concentration of people and wealth in underground spaces poses significant risks from floods, tsunamis, and other extreme events. Modeling catastrophic events is crucial for designing contingencies such as evacuations and emergency containment.
Temple University professor Sergio Serrano has developed new mathematical procedures to solve complex, non-linear equations of water flow in soils. These techniques will help create more accurate models for flood forecasting and contaminant propagation predictions.
The Dartmouth Flood Observatory expects a busy 2004 due to increasing flood events worldwide. The observatory's global inventory of flooding events may help assess global climate change.
Researchers at University of Arizona develop smart software to detect floods, volcanic eruptions and changes in ice fields on Earth. The software will also be used to study similar events throughout the solar system.
Research finds that flood policy shifts are often driven by prevailing attitudes, technological resources and social values, not just crisis responses. Policymakers must consider these complex influences when planning for future events.
The UN University estimates that the number of people living in flood-prone areas will double by 2050 due to extreme weather systems, rising sea levels, and deforestation. This would put an additional 1 billion people at risk, with devastating consequences for global economies and human security.
The oldest available data on the Missouri River shows that water flow has become more variable over time due to extensive damming. The river is also narrower at St. Charles, Missouri, with a reduced width of 500 yards compared to its original 720 yards in 1804.
Researchers analyze Martian flood channels, estimate Mercury's crust depth and simulate earthquake dynamics. New data also reveals details on sprites and interstellar hydrogen shadows.
Researchers use a lightweight device to extract core samples from sediment deposits in Bolivia, revealing that sediment transport is only possible during La Niña events. The findings suggest that the Andes Mountains play a crucial role in shaping the Amazon River's sediment load.
A historic conference at the U.S. Naval Academy brought together experts on underwater rescue and salvage, including survivors of notable submarine accidents like USS SQUALUS and USS TANG. The accounts of these men are now transcribed in a new book that explores some of the most daring undersea missions of the last century.
TRMM allows researchers to daily map areas of potential flooding using precipitation radar data and high-resolution measurements of cloud water content. The satellite provides updated records on a global scale, enabling scientists to track storms, monitor El Nino conditions, and assess crop health in remote regions.
A Pittsburgh study reveals that thunderstorm-related deaths predominantly occur among males, with 70% of fatalities attributed to males. The majority of these incidents involve flash floods or lightning strikes while driving, playing sports, or engaging in outdoor activities.
Researchers at Penn State have developed an early flash flood warning system that can potentially save lives and property by forecasting extreme weather events. The system uses a combination of dynamical and statistical models to identify patterns and anomalies in atmospheric conditions, allowing for three-day advance warnings.
Climate change projections indicate an increase in heavy precipitation and extreme events in California's Sierra Nevada region, with a 37% rise in wet days per year. This could lead to more flooding due to the shift from snowfall to rainfall, reducing the buffering effects of snow.
A study by Tufts University civil engineering professor Paul Kirshen predicts that Boston's rising sea levels could cause over $20 billion in damages over the next century, with costs reaching up to $94 billion if severe weather conditions are exceeded. The research highlights three scenarios for government response, including 'Ride-It...
Research found significant species diversity in riparian areas, with up to 40 times more exotic species per plot compared to uplands. Flood frequency also impacts species richness, with decreased numbers of exotic species as flood frequency decreases.
Hydrologist Robert Lenhard has refined current constitutive theory to predict residual NAPL distribution in subsurface, resolving a critical contamination modeling problem. His new model predicts pulse-like contamination generation during heavy rainstorms and flooding, influencing environmental remediation choices.
A team of scientists has analyzed sediment cores from 21 lakes in Vermont and New York to establish regional storm patterns. The findings indicate that intense rainstorms causing massive flooding are expected to increase frequency and severity over the coming years, with human activity contributing to this trend.
A NASA study suggests that black carbon particles are responsible for changes in precipitation patterns over China, leading to increased flooding in the south and droughts in the north. The study used climate computer models and aerosol data to analyze the effects of black carbon on hydrologic cycles in China and India.
A new report reanalyzes national weather service estimates to provide a comprehensive understanding of US flood damage trends. The data show that North Dakota has suffered the most per capita economic losses due to flooding.
A team of scientists led by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Professor Jun Abrajano refutes the Noah's Flood Hypothesis by presenting sediment evidence of sustained interaction between the Mediterranean and Black Seas. This contradicts the theory that a massive flood destroyed freshwater mollusks in the Black Sea.
Researchers have developed a new technique that predicts Madden-Julian Oscillations (MJOs), which can provide two-weeks notice for storms. This allows scientists to issue storm warnings weeks earlier than current conventional weather forecasting, supporting sustainable development efforts.
A proposed flood protection system for Venice, known as MOSE, is facing criticism over its potential to prevent flooding and harm the lagoon's ecosystem. Environmentalists warn that keeping the gates closed could disrupt the natural water flow, leading to toxic substance buildup and damaging the delicate ecosystem.
A study analyzing satellite images of the 1999 hurricane flood area found that over 200 NC livestock operations were flooded, contaminating wells and posing a risk to local residents. The research highlights the need for improved monitoring and regulation of industrial animal farms in flood-prone areas.
A new NASA study warns of increased winter flooding in California as global warming alters streamflow patterns. The study projects a drier growing season, with snowmelt-driven watersheds experiencing early streamflow increases and higher flood risks.
A recent study by Washington University in St. Louis researchers attributes increased flood levels on the Missouri and Mississippi rivers to the placement of thousands of wing dams, built by the US Army Corps of Engineers in the 1930s and '40s. The structures impede water flow during floods, causing water levels to rise.
A new research project could help forecast floods and associated cholera outbreaks in Bangladesh, aiding farmers and improving quality of life. The team will use computer modeling to pinpoint Indian Ocean conditions and rainfall patterns, enabling local forecasts that can aid communities.
Researchers are testing new advanced weather technology to monitor rainfall in watershed basins as small as one square kilometer. The technology will provide more precise and accurate flood and flash flood warnings, helping emergency management officials prepare for events.
Researchers at Clemson University are testing 15 houses with hurricane-resistant retrofits to determine their effectiveness. The study aims to provide more accurate estimates of retrofit costs and benefits, helping homeowners decide whether the expense is worth it.
Researchers at Penn State aim to improve flood prediction by evaluating past storms with different forecasting methods. They found that convective parameterization schemes can help forecast rainfall, but the best scheme varies depending on the season and atmospheric conditions.
Massive sheets of lava produced by flood basalt eruptions generated intense heat, pushing ash and gas into the upper atmosphere and causing dramatic global-scale climate shifts. These events are now believed to have contributed to mass extinctions, including those that wiped out dinosaurs.
A new program, 'Health Works After the Flood,' aims to address post-flood stress and potential domestic violence among blue-collar working women. The initiative builds on a previous project and will provide training and support to local communities to minimize domestic violence at home and in the workplace.
The Dartmouth Flood Observatory uses satellite images from NASA's Terra spacecraft to pinpoint flooded areas and provide precise mapping accuracy, aiding United Nations World Food Program staff. The new composite surface images have been used to identify the worst-hit areas of the current flooding in Southeast Asia.
Researchers discuss new strategies for understanding ecosystems, managing water resources, and assessing environmental policies. Warren Washington, Kathleen Miller, and Roger A. Pielke, Jr. present key findings on tackling complex environmental challenges.
Certain plant species can trigger an adaptive reaction to flooding by producing life-saving shoots, but the exact process is unclear. Dutch biologists hope to unravel this process at the physiological and molecular level to develop crops that can cope with floods.
A study found that US natural disaster planning is poorly implemented, with only 20% of available funds spent on mitigation projects. Researchers recommend improving hazard reduction planning through infrastructure development, land use planning, and environmental protection.
Scientists have gained a clearer picture of massive volcanic eruptions by analyzing lava composition, indicating that the lava originated from the lower mantle. The findings suggest that the eruptions played a role in the greatest mass extinction event in Earth's history, wiping out up to 95% of plant and animal species.
Inflatable dams offer a range of benefits, including flexible flood protection solutions and minimal maintenance requirements. They can be used to control water levels, prevent backflows, and even provide recreational spaces while maintaining flood protection.
The USGS, in partnership with state agencies, will continue to monitor the Red River's flow and water quality over the next four weeks. This effort aims to assess the impact of the unprecedented flood and gather data for flood forecasting, design, and environmental regulations.
Researchers suggest restoring natural wetlands in floodplains as a solution to address flooding problems. The strategy is based on lessons learned from the 1993 Upper Mississippi River floods and has cultural and economic implications for landowners and communities along the Illinois River.
The USGS is tracking the northward movement of the Red River floodwaters, taking measurements to improve forecasts for evacuations upstream. Crucial to understanding the impact on upstream communities will be how much water is contributed by the Pembina River.
The current floods in North Dakota have broken multiple records, including a 100-year-old record of 85,000 cubic feet per second. The Red River's predicted crest is expected to reach 54 feet, posing significant threats to emergency managers and evacuation orders.
The USGS report provides a detailed overview of the nation's wetland resources, including their types, distribution, and conservation efforts. The 103 million acres of remaining wetlands in the United States support critical habitat for waterfowl and reduce flood severity while improving water quality.
The USGS is reporting record-high floods in several states, including West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio. The Little Kanawha River in West Virginia peaked at a historic 57,200 cfs, while the Ohio Brush Creek reached an 71-year high of 80,000 cfs.
The USGS network has been severely impacted by recent floods, with 146 streamflow measuring stations damaged or destroyed. This has hampered efforts to provide basic floodflow measurements, particularly in California where 79 gages were affected.