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FSU research improves hurricane intensity forecasting

Researchers at FSU and South Korea have improved hurricane intensity forecasting by accounting for the impact of sea spray on storms. By analyzing data from hurricane hunter airplanes, they found that sea spray increases heat and moisture in the atmosphere, leading to more accurate intensity forecasts.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 17, 2024

When hurricanes hit, online chatter drowns out safety messaging

During recent hurricanes Harvey, Imelda, Laura, and Florence, social media buzz focused on politics, pets, and human-interest stories, drowning out important public safety messages. Researchers found that descriptive messaging about storms outperforms safety messages in reaching a broad audience.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·DateOct 17, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Climate change is a health emergency too

International experts warn that climate change will have a significant impact on emergency medical services globally, with 62% of respondents saying no assessment or action has been taken. The need for mitigation actions, education, and research is considered crucial in all regions.

SourceEuropean Society for Emergency Medicine (EUSEM)·JournalEuropean Journal of Emergency Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateOct 13, 2024

New tool aims to boost ocean-based renewable energy

Researchers created a modeling tool to design more robust marine hydrokinetic technologies and inform risk assessments for financing and permitting. The tool estimates the fragility curve of devices, helping developers create mooring systems that can withstand extreme weather conditions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalApplied Ocean Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 9, 2024

Study links hurricanes to higher death rates long after storms pass

New research reveals hurricanes and tropical storms in the U.S. cause a surge of deaths for nearly 15 years after a storm hits, with an estimated 3.6 million to 5.2 million total deaths. The study also finds that Black individuals are three times more likely to die after a hurricane than white individuals.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 2, 2024

Drought risk and awareness gaps in global society

A growing global understanding of drought's impacts, but significant gaps remain in affected communities and developing countries. Long-lasting droughts heighten awareness, while economic factors influence responsiveness to the issue.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·Journalnpj Clean Water·DateAug 29, 2024
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Making waves in hurricane prediction

A new study by NSF NCAR reveals that detecting Kelvin waves can predict active hurricane periods weeks in advance, allowing forecasters to prepare for potential storms. The research used innovative computer modeling to analyze the connection between Kelvin waves and hurricanes.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalMonthly Weather Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 28, 2024

Nighttime light data shows inequities in restoring power after Hurricane Michael

Researchers analyzed nighttime light data to assess power restoration rates in urban and rural areas, finding disparities between socioeconomic status and community type. The study highlights the need for targeted policy solutions to address these disparities and improve disaster recovery.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalRemote Sensing·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 14, 2024

Saharan dust regulates hurricane rainfall

A study by Stanford University researchers reveals a previously unknown relationship between Sahara dust plumes and hurricane rainfall. Thicker dust plumes can lead to heavier rainfall, while thinner ones may suppress hurricane formation over the ocean.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 24, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

First-ever hurricane evacuation order database may hold keys to future readiness

A new US-based database of hurricane evacuation orders can help leaders and communities increase resilience, create better policy, and ultimately reduce loss of life. The HEvOD database includes nationwide public-facing evacuation orders from 2014-2022, offering insights into effective strategies for future emergencies.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 18, 2024

New Jersey salt marsh sediments offer evidence of hurricanes back to the 1500s

Researchers have found eight storm deposits in New Jersey's Cheesequake State Park wetlands, including evidence of a hurricane as early as 1584. These sediment records allow for a new geological record to be generated, enabling scientists to look further back in time than current instrumentation allows.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Quaternary Science·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2024

Study explores what motivates people to watch footage of disasters and extreme weather

Researchers analyzed live-streams of hurricanes and storms, finding that people in affected areas used streams to discuss official risk advice and show support to impacted regions. The study highlights the importance of understanding how new technologies influence hazard risk perception and community engagement.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalEnvironmental Hazards·TypeObservational study·DateJul 2, 2024

Dampening the "seeds" of hurricanes

Researchers found that higher atmospheric moisture produced weaker and slower-moving African easterly waves, making it harder for hurricanes to form. The study used innovative modeling capabilities to simulate the effects of increased regional moisture on hurricane formation.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalJournal of Advances in Modeling Earth Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 1, 2024
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Natural hazards threaten over three thousand species

Researchers have identified over 3,700 species threatened by natural disasters, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts. The study suggests strategies such as captive breeding programs and translocation to prevent extinctions.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 18, 2024

Spinning up hurricane communications

Researchers found that early forecast information sets the stage for how people react to subsequent warning messages, and authoritative sources can better engage at-risk community members. The study identified the most effective types of images in conveying hurricane risks, with the 'cone of uncertainty' being the most retweeted graphic.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalNatural Hazards Review·DateJun 17, 2024

Public more confident connecting increasing heat, wildfires with climate change than other extreme weather events, study finds

A recent study by Oregon State University found that US adults are fairly confident in linking wildfires and heat to climate change, but less so for hurricanes, flooding, or tornadoes. The survey also revealed significant differences in responses based on politics, personal experience, and demographics.

SourceOregon State University·JournalClimatic Change·TypeSurvey·DateJun 13, 2024

Researchers use 3D visualization to predict, prevent hurricane damage

Texas A&M University researchers have developed a 3D visualization technology to identify potential outcomes of hurricane flooding before it occurs. This allows for improved safety and reduced damage costs. The technology can also model specific buildings, accounting for basements, back entrances, and windows.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalUrban Informatics·DateJun 10, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Details of hurricane Ian’s aftermath captured with new remote sensing method

A new remote sensing method captures details of hurricane Ian's aftermath, identifying 2,427 structures impacted by the storm. The study found that most damaged structures were single-family and multi-unit residences, with a total assessed value of over $200 million.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Marine Science and Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 29, 2024

Hurricanes jeopardize carbon-storing New England forests

A new study reveals that a single hurricane can wipe out 5-10% of New England's total aboveground forest carbon through tree damage. The research team analyzed the impact of 10 powerful hurricanes on the region's forests and found that future storms could pose a significant risk to carbon offset programs.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 24, 2024

Study shows potential of super grids when hurricanes overshadow solar panels

Researchers developed a comprehensive modeling method to predict energy losses during hurricanes. The U.S.-Caribbean super grid configuration showed the highest power reliability increase. The study has broad implications for renewable integration and U.S. energy independence from fossil fuels.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalEnergies·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 24, 2024
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Research examines tweets during Hurricane María to analyze social media use during disasters

A study analyzed over 2,000 tweets before and after Hurricane María made landfall, revealing insights into social media use during disasters. The research identified key categories of messages, including information about the disaster, emotional appeals for help, and solidarity efforts among marginalized communities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Environmental Studies and Sciences·TypeContent analysis·DateApr 9, 2024

Floridians’ and Texans’ perceptions of hurricane risk

Residents in Florida and Texas exhibit declining personal risk perception after hurricanes, with average risks decreasing as time passes. However, long-term proactive adaptations are needed to counteract the paradoxical effects of climate change on risk perceptions.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateApr 9, 2024

Severe hurricanes boost influx of juveniles and gene flow in a coral reef sponge

A study by Florida Atlantic University researchers found that severe hurricanes can increase the recovery of coral reef sponges by boosting the influx of juveniles and promoting gene flow. Genetic analyses revealed that populations of clonal marine species may benefit from increased frequency and magnitude of hurricanes to maintain gen...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMolecular Ecology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 26, 2024

AMS Science Preview: “Outdoor days,” lightning, air pollution

A new study finds that extreme tropical cyclone rainfall is increasing across the continental US, while climate warming restricts 'outdoor days' for people living in developing countries. Additionally, air pollution increases mortality risks from heat, especially when combined with other factors like wildfires and reduced aerosols.

SourceAmerican Meteorological Society·JournalJournal of Climate·DateMar 21, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Hurricanes and power grids: Eliminating large-scale outages with a new approach

A new study published in Nature Energy finds that protecting a small but critical set of power lines can prevent large-scale outages almost entirely. The method identifies the most critical lines and increases the system's resilience, reducing the risk of major power outages in regions or cities by up to 99%.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 1, 2024

Rapidly-intensifying tropical cyclones likely to increase flood hazard in the North Atlantic as climate warms

A recent study found that rapidly intensifying tropical cyclones (RI) are already more hazardous than normal TCs and will worsen coastal flooding under future climate warming. RI events may increase by 10-30% for each degree of global mean temperature increase, posing a significant threat to coastal communities.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2024

Climate change threatens thousands of archaeological sites in coastal Georgia

A study published in PLOS ONE predicts that climate change will inundate over 4,200 archaeological sites along the US state's coast, with nearly 5,000 at risk by 2100. The authors used a predictive model to account for storm surge events, highlighting the need for cultural heritage managers to take action.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Moffitt study highlights urgent need to address impact of extreme weather events on cancer survivorship

A recent study from the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center highlights the significant gaps in understanding and addressing the effects of hurricanes and extreme weather events on biological, psychosocial, and clinical outcomes among cancer survivors. The research reveals that these events can disrupt cancer care, exacerbate stress levels, an...

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 22, 2024

In a warming world, climate scientists consider category 6 hurricanes

Researchers suggest introducing a hypothetical Category 6 storm with winds exceeding 192 mph, citing increased risk in Southeast Asia and the Gulf of Mexico. The proposed change aims to raise awareness about growing major hurricane risks under climate change.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

In a warming world, climate scientists consider Category 6 hurricanes

Researchers introduce a hypothetical Category 6 hurricane classification to address increasing intensity and damage from hurricanes. With global warming projected to increase storm risks by up to 50% near the Philippines and doubling in the Gulf of Mexico, the new classification aims to raise awareness about the growing threat.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

New tool predicts flood risk from hurricanes in a warming climate

A new compound flooding model predicts that New York City will experience historic and devastating floods every 30 years by the end of this century, a fivefold increase from the present climate. The tool helps city planners prepare and protect against future disasters by providing detailed flood forecasts.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateJan 24, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Do symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder facilitate substance use as a coping method among children after a natural disaster?

A study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress found that certain symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are associated with a higher risk of substance use among children after a natural disaster. The study identified irritable behavior and angry outburst symptoms as being linked to the greatest risk for coping through...

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateJan 10, 2024

Genetic sequencing uncovers unexpected source of pathogens in floodwaters

Researchers found local rivers and streams to be the source of Salmonella enterica contamination after Hurricane Florence, contradicting assumptions about pig farms. The study has critical implications for disease control and prevention in coastal regions affected by tropical storms.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalGeoHealth·TypeCase study·DateDec 19, 2023

How ChatGPT could help first responders during natural disasters

Researchers developed a geoknowledge-guided GPT model that extracted location data from Hurricane Harvey tweets with an accuracy rate 76% better than default models. The model recognized complete location descriptions, enabling first responders to reach victims more quickly and potentially saving lives.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalInternational Journal of Geographical Information Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 7, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Hurricanes boost cone production in longleaf pine

Research by The Jones Center at Ichauway found that hurricanes increase cone production in longleaf pine by 31% and 71% two years after the event, suggesting a possible explanation for the masting phenomenon. This discovery sheds light on the role of weather conditions in triggering seed germination.

SourceThe Jones Center at Ichauway·JournalNew Phytologist·DateNov 30, 2023

Twitter analysis shows users in states affected by hurricanes discuss climate change up to 200 percent more frequently in the weeks immediately post-hurricane

A study analyzing Twitter posts and news articles found that people in states affected by hurricanes discussed climate change up to 200% more frequently after the storm. However, these discussions were often related to unreliable news sources that promoted conspiracy theories about global warming.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Climate·TypeObservational study·DateNov 14, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Scientists find two ways that hurricanes rapidly intensify

New research identifies two modes of rapid intensification, one linked to favorable environmental conditions and warm surface waters, the other triggered by major bursts of thunderstorms far from the storm's center. These findings may lead to better understanding and prediction of catastrophic hurricanes.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalMonthly Weather Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 26, 2023

Climate change: Atlantic hurricanes twice as likely to strengthen from weak to major intensity in 24 hours

A recent study found that Atlantic hurricanes are now twice as likely to strengthen from weak to major intensity in a 24-hour period than between 1970 and 1990. The study suggests that warmer oceans under climate change are driving this increase, with the fastest intensification typically occurring over warm sea surface temperatures.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 19, 2023
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Study shows long-term health impacts after exposure to environmental disaster

A study by researchers in the US and Indonesia found that women exposed to the 2004 tsunami had lower cortisol levels 14 years later, linked to stress and 'burnout' of the HPA-axis. The research provides insights into the long-term impacts of climate change on populations worldwide.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2023

Study shows little improvement in mandated disaster plans, despite required updates

A new study from the University of Kansas found that mandated disaster plans have mediocre quality and modest improvements over time. Despite regular updates, the plans fail to address key issues such as public engagement and land use policies, leading to repeated mistakes in areas prone to natural disasters.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Planning Education and Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 10, 2023

Climate catastrophe produced instantaneous evolutionary change

In the wake of Hurricane Harvey's record flooding, researchers discovered a unique form of evolutionary change called spatial sorting that dominated the evolution of Jadera haematoloma bugs. This rapid adaptation allowed them to access seeds on goldenrain trees, outcompeting native species with longer beaks.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 9, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Climate change brings earlier arrival of intense hurricanes

Research reveals that Category 4 and 5 hurricanes are arriving three to four days earlier with each passing decade due to climate change. This shift in seasonal cycle can lead to compounding extreme events and challenges community preparedness.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 5, 2023

Human emmisions drive changes in north Atlantic ocean temperatures, west African rainfall, hurricanes

Researchers found that human-induced aerosol emissions largely drive temperature fluctuations in the tropical Atlantic Ocean, impacting Sahel rainfall and hurricane formation. The study's results suggest a correlation between reduced aerosol emissions and increased Atlantic hurricane activity and Sahel rainfall.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 13, 2023

‘Coastal squeeze:’ Massive loss of U.S. coastline tidal flats over 31 years

A new study reveals massive urban expansions throughout the contiguous US, particularly on the Atlantic Coast, have led to significant tidal flat erosion. The research highlights the critical impact of human activities on tidal flat environments, providing important implications for coastal land use and planning.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

More frequent hurricanes raise risk to US East and Gulf coasts

Researchers find that changes in wind patterns caused by warmer tropical waters are steering storms closer to the US East and Gulf coasts, increasing risk for residents. The study reveals that this phenomenon is linked to stronger hurricane frequency due to climate change.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 7, 2023

Costs of natural disasters set to spiral with continued rise in CO2 and global temperature, study shows

A study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that climate change-related natural disasters have increased since 1980 and cost the US over $2 trillion in recovery costs. The analysis suggests that rising CO2 levels and temperatures will lead to more frequent and severe disasters, with exponentially increasing costs.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of Climate Change·DateApr 6, 2023

New UNC Chapel Hill study quantifies $562M in financial risk from Hurricane Florence using novel modeling approach that evaluates risk of mortgage default and property abandonment

A new study published by researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill estimates $562 million in previously unquantified financial risks arising from property value changes and uninsured flood damages in eastern North Carolina. The research team developed a new modeling framework using data on homes sales, mortgage loa...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalEarth s Future·DateMar 31, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Facing floods, non-white homeowners prepare, protect property

A new Cornell University study finds that non-white homeowners are more likely to invest in costly flood protection measures than white homeowners. Homeowners with mortgages and those who own their homes outright take the fewest high-cost actions, while renters tend to take none at all.

SourceCornell University·JournalEnvironmental Sociology·DateMar 29, 2023