Research on hurricanes and tropical storms. Covers AI storm tracking, wind-damage assessment, warning systems, and Hurricane Hunter data.
Researchers modeled Martian radiation environment to determine if life can survive; three-dimensional models improve predictions for glacial isostatic adjustments. A new method using seismic noise images volcanoes in three dimensions, offering improved volcanic hazard assessment.
The LSU School of Social Work is offering group interventions to reduce long-term consequences of post-hurricane trauma in elementary school-aged children. The program aims to help caregivers cope with their children's emotions and reactions to the disaster.
The 2006 Atlantic hurricane season had near-normal activity with nine named storms, including five hurricanes, due to cooler sea surface temperatures and the shift of the Bermuda High. This resulted in stronger winds and reduced thunderstorm formation.
Researchers found that natural systems can rebound quickly after hurricanes, while human-made infrastructure and ecosystems are more vulnerable. The study also showed that storm characteristics, such as intensity and direction, play a significant role in environmental damage.
Researchers gathered precise wind measurements in a hurricane using NASA's ER-2 aircraft and NOAA's P-3 aircraft. This data helps advance the understanding of complex storms, allowing for more accurate forecasts and potential improvements in replicating hurricane development.
Scientists recreated Tropical Storm Gert's life cycle using computer models and data from the 2005 Tropical Cloud Systems and Processes mission. The study identified convection, wind shear, and ocean surface temperature as crucial factors in Gert's origination and strengthening.
The film showcases various phenomena like hurricanes, satellite data collection, and ocean temperature changes. It also features special presentations about Earth's moon and Mars, offering an immersive experience of space exploration.
Florida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech) has received two grants to continue and develop a new hurricane model. The first grant is $220,000 from the Florida Department of Financial Affairs Office of Insurance Regulation to predict hurricane insurance losses for commercial buildings. The team will also maintain an existing enginee...
Sea levels are expected to rise by 11.8-37.5 inches in NYC by the 2080s, with hurricane storm surges posing a significant threat. A recent study predicts that even small sea level increases could cause extensive flooding and transportation disruptions.
Climate change threatens human health with heat-related illnesses, polluted air and water, flood-related accidents, and threats to food supplies. The most vulnerable populations will be hardest hit, such as children, elders, and socio-economically disadvantaged individuals.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison found a link between dust storms and hurricane frequency in Atlantic, suggesting that dust may help suppress brewing hurricanes. The study suggests that long-term changes in hurricanes may be related to multiple factors.
Researchers found that a 'trapped wave' amplified by Hurricane Dennis's winds caused an unexpected 10-foot storm surge in Apalachee Bay. This discovery led to improved storm surge models for the entire Gulf coast from Florida to Texas.
The new Hurricane web portal provides a variety of measurements from NASA instruments, including current conditions, image galleries, event-based data, and tools. The portal also features links to various analysis software systems, such as Giovanni, allowing users to explore and analyze Earth sciences data interactively.
The NASA Scanning Radar Altimeter (SRA) captured detailed information on wave behavior in hurricanes, helping improve sea height forecasts. Ocean wave height responds rapidly to changes in a storm's wind speed, but the overall wave field is also driven by storm size and forward motion.
Florida Tech associate professor Dr. Jean-Paul Pinelli has received a $300,000 National Science Foundation grant to develop a wireless sensor network monitoring wind impacts on structures. The three-year research project will provide full-scale data on wind-induced structural stress during hurricanes.
Recent studies have found that levels of toxic metals in New Orleans soil samples were not significantly higher than before Hurricane Katrina. In fact, some pollutants may have decreased due to natural processes. Researchers are now focusing on restoring the Gulf Coast's resilience through science and engineering.
A new study finds that human-caused increases in greenhouse gas concentrations are primarily responsible for rising ocean temperatures in key hurricane breeding grounds of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The research used 22 different computer models to show a strong link between warming sea surface temperatures and human activities.
New research suggests that human-caused increases in greenhouse gases are directly linked to warming of tropical Atlantic and Pacific oceans, which contributes to hurricane intensity. The study used computer models to analyze SST changes in smaller hurricane formation regions.
According to a recent survey by Rice University researchers, more than two-thirds of Hurricane Katrina evacuees in Houston plan to remain here. The survey found that 69% of the 362 participants said it was very likely or somewhat likely they would permanently stay in Houston.
Scientists on the NASA African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analyses (NAMMA) mission used a combination of satellites and aircraft to study hurricanes. They found surprisingly strong winds in tropical disturbances and evidence of dry air, which typically comes from the Sahara Air Layer.
A comprehensive mental health study of Hurricane Katrina survivors found that serious mental illness doubled in the months after the hurricane, yet thoughts of suicide did not increase. The study revealed post-traumatic growth, with most respondents experiencing a deeper sense of meaning and greater inner strength.
Researchers launch large balloons with instrument packages over Africa and the Atlantic to gather data on hurricane conditions. The data will help predict which systems develop into hurricanes, providing critical insights for improving weather forecasting.
Climate scientists analyzed data to determine that global warming is increasing Atlantic hurricane intensity. Additionally, the water cycle is changing, with seasonal trends shifting into spring. The study also found a connection between atmospheric tides and weather in the tropics influencing the equatorial ionosphere.
Katrina's rapid development was aided by favorable atmospheric conditions and warm ocean temperatures. Satellite data from NASA instruments provided crucial information on the storm's cloud motion, rainfall intensity, and wind speeds.
A comprehensive survey of Katrina survivors found that most experienced significant financial, income, and housing losses, as well as physical and psychological adversity. However, the vast majority reported developing a deeper sense of meaning or purpose in life after the hurricane.
A new survey found that Hurricane Katrina survivors in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi experienced a doubling of serious mental illness compared to an earlier survey. Despite this increase, the rate of suicidal thoughts was surprisingly low, likely due to positive cognitions about future recovery efforts.
The Weather Research and Forecasting model (WRF) has been adopted for operational use, predicting extreme weather with substantially improved accuracy. The high-resolution WRF serves both public forecasts and cutting-edge research, leading to better forecasts.
Florida State University geography Professor Mark W. Horner is developing new spatial models for disaster relief using satellite images and GIS to improve the allocation of disaster relief goods. His research aims to reduce errors in assessments and provide more accurate representations of factors such as response and travel time.
A new study establishes a direct connection between global warming and hurricane intensity, predicting increased damage from Atlantic hurricanes. The research uses statistical analysis to link average air temperatures during hurricane season to sea surface temperatures, vital for nourishing hurricane winds.
University of Utah meteorologist Ed Zipser leads a NASA mission to study African weather disturbances that intensify into hurricanes. The study aims to improve hurricane prediction and understanding of extreme events like category 5 storms.
Hurricane Katrina and Rita caused significant flooding, wind damage, and loss of wetlands in the Gulf Coast region. Experts discuss ways to mitigate future hurricane damage through ecological knowledge and restoration plans.
Scientists believe that high runoff from hurricanes in 2004 contributed to the development of extensive and long-lasting red tides off west-central Florida. Groundwater discharge is thought to provide the necessary nutrients for these blooms, explaining their persistence and frequent occurrence in the region.
Scientists study how African winds, dust conditions influence hurricane birth; use satellite data, weather stations, aircraft to improve hurricane forecasting. Researchers seek answers on hurricane development, air currents, Saharan Air Layer's effect on clouds.
Researchers found Alpine glaciers lost 35% of surface area between 1850-1970, with potential disappearance by 2100 under 3 degree Celsius warming. Meanwhile, weekly wobble in Earth's rotation pole was observed and predicted using atmospheric models, explaining centimeter-level displacements during the 2005-2006 winter season.
A survey of high-risk hurricane areas found that one-third of residents are unlikely to evacuate due to concerns about home safety and security. People with children under 18 are more likely to leave their homes, while those with chronic illnesses or disabilities may face evacuation challenges.
A recent study conducted by Dr. Scott Sheridan at Kent State University found that almost 90% of residents aware of heat warnings took no action to avoid health issues. The study suggests that heat warning systems may need to be revised to better target vulnerable populations.
Florida State University will use a $6.2 million grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to build a more accurate hurricane prediction model. The new model, developed using FSU's supercomputer, aims to improve long-range hurricane forecasts and estimate the number of tropical storms in a season.
Researchers from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution used an underwater digital microscope to find massive colonies of Trichodesmium, a photosynthetic organism that plays a significant role in the ocean's nitrogen cycle. The discovery could alter our understanding of the global nitrogen cycle and its impact on ocean productivity.
Scientists detected powerful lightning activity in Hurricane Emily's eye-wall and surrounding storms, with electric fields exceeding 8 kilovolts per meter. This finding has generated interest in understanding the link between lightning and hurricane development, intensification, and behavior.
NCAR scientists conclude that global warming surpassed natural cycles in fueling the 2005 hurricane season. The study found that ocean temperatures, particularly in the tropical North Atlantic, were record-high and attributed to global warming, accounting for 0.8 degrees F of the rise.
The American Geophysical Union convened an interdisciplinary conference to discuss the science behind hurricane protection and rebuilding on the US Gulf Coast. Key findings include the need for improved seasonal forecasts, better wind data, and enhanced shoreline topography to simulate storm surge and flooding probabilities.
Scientists have discovered a link between bacterial growth fueled by algae and the death of corals. The study shows that bacteria suffocate corals by cutting off oxygen supply, leading to a positive feedback loop that accelerates reef decline. Human activities such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change exacerbate this process.
Researchers are developing a new field in disaster mental health training to address the emotional needs of victims, first responders, and others affected by disasters. With funding from the DOH Grant, they have already trained 168 community-based mental health professionals and plan to expand their reach.
Researchers mapped subsidence in New Orleans using satellite radar imagery, revealing areas where land is sinking at alarming rates. The study highlights the need for revised reconstruction plans and more durable levees to address the growing threat of flooding.
Researchers find that tropical Atlantic sea surface temperature is driving increase in hurricane numbers, with human-caused cooling from pollutants tempering the effect. The study suggests global warming as a primary cause of increased hurricane activity.
A 700-page report suggests key mechanisms for levee failures in the US, built upon data and field investigations supported by National Science Foundation grants. The Berkeley-led team's findings aim to improve emergency planning and response strategies for natural disasters.
By analyzing cloud height and rainfall patterns, NASA scientists can estimate whether a hurricane's surface winds will strengthen or weaken. Rainfall from clouds extending up to 9 miles high indicates stronger winds.
Researchers found that only half of the increase in strong hurricanes over the past 25 years can be attributed to rising water temperatures, suggesting other factors are at play. A temperature threshold must be crossed before a weak tropical cyclone can become a monster hurricane.
Researchers found that exposure to hurricane-related stressful events can lead to long-term mental health problems, particularly for those with prior stressful experiences or pre-existing symptoms. The study suggests that assessment of prior experiences and psychological well-being is crucial for identifying disaster victims at risk.
According to NASA, La Niña will have no effect on the 2006 Atlantic hurricane season due to rising sea surface temperatures and favorable atmospheric conditions. The current La Niña event is fading, with sea surface temperatures returning to near-average levels in the eastern Pacific.
Researchers used computer simulations to recreate Tropical Storm Gert's conditions, improving model accuracy and understanding of hurricane formation. The study revealed the importance of topography in Mexico's role in helping storms form.
Researchers combined NASA's QuikSCAT satellite data with aircraft sensor data from tropical storms, improving the accuracy of hurricane forecasts. The new generation WRF computer model was able to reproduce the structure of rainfalls that caused flooding during landfall, providing valuable insights into tropical cyclones.
The article discusses how Hurricane Katrina's aftermath revealed poor planning and decision-making by public officials. It recommends changes to the national emergency management system to improve disaster response and recovery. The lessons from Katrina can only be learned by shedding light on current policy and practices.
Researchers used a large centrifuge to mimic the effects of Hurricane Katrina on levees, finding that earth sliding along a weak clay layer helped bring down the 17th Street structure. The study is part of a nationwide 'co-laboratory' of earthquake engineering facilities and aims to help prepare for future national disasters.
A new study by Georgia Tech researchers confirms the link between rising sea surface temperatures and increasing hurricane strength. Sea surface temperatures are found to be the dominant influence on global and North Atlantic hurricanes, with no significant trend in wind shear or other factors over the past 35 years.
A team of researchers from Johns Hopkins University and Los Alamos National Laboratory found that large fluid vortices raid their smaller neighbors in an energy grab, sustaining a steady-state inverse energy cascade. This phenomenon forms a food-chain of vortices, with larger ones preying on smaller ones.
US chemical companies experienced a modest increase in sales and earnings in Q4 2005, driven primarily by the impact of hurricanes on plant closures and transportation. Sales rose 7.5% to $38.1 billion, while earnings increased 0.9% to $2.31 billion.
The study highlights the co-dependence of mortality risk and poverty, with lower-income countries suffering greater losses due to inadequate infrastructure and emergency response systems. The Earth Institute at Columbia University is a leading academic center for integrated study of the Earth's environment and society.
The Times-Picayune won a special award for its consistently excellent coverage of scientific research on the vulnerability of New Orleans to hurricanes and other environmental impacts. Michelle Nijhuis, writing for High Country News, won the Walter Sullivan Award for her three-part series on global warming in the West.
The U.S. Geological Survey's Coastal and Marine Geology Program investigates the extent and causes of coastal impacts of hurricanes and extreme storms on U.S. coasts. NASA technology provides rapid assessment of coastal conditions, supporting USGS research programs and emergency response agencies.