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Prolonged power outages, often caused by weather events, hit some parts of the U.S. harder than others

A study analyzing three years of power outages across the US found that Americans bearing the brunt of climate change and health inequities are most at risk in four regions. Heavy precipitation, tropical cyclones, and storms with high winds make power outages more likely, especially in the South, Northeast, and Appalachia. The research...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 1, 2023

Creating a tsunami early warning system using artificial intelligence

Researchers developed an AI-based early warning system that combines acoustic technology with artificial intelligence to classify earthquakes and determine potential tsunami risk. The system uses underwater microphones to measure acoustic radiation, which travels faster than tsunami waves and carries information about the tectonic event.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 25, 2023

Mapping floods of the future reveals communities at risk due to climate change

A study reveals that climate change will lead to increased flood risks globally, with 1.86 billion people living in areas prone to extreme flooding. The research team developed a new approach to create high-resolution future flood hazard maps using climate change simulations and compared the results with historical maps.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalHydrology and Earth System Sciences·DateApr 20, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Wide income gaps lead to higher mortality rates during flood disasters

A study published in Nature Sustainability found that countries with wide income gaps have significantly higher mortality rates during large-scale flood disasters. The researchers analyzed data from over 500 major floods and found a median mortality rate of 26 times higher in countries with an unequal distribution of income.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateApr 18, 2023

US natural gas pipelines vulnerable to electric outages

A study by Carnegie Mellon researchers found that about 10% of US pipeline compressor stations are electric, making them vulnerable to electric outages. Electric outages could force a loss greater than 2 gigawatts of downstream gas generators, causing significant reductions in available gas.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalElectricity·DateApr 11, 2023

A mechanistic and probabilistic method for predicting wildfires

Lehigh researchers develop new method to predict wildfires by analyzing power system ignition risk, considering mechanical behavior of conductor cables under strong winds. The study finds that encroachment probability is highly sensitive to vegetation clearance and wind intensity, providing valuable insights for decision makers and pol...

SourceLehigh University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 14, 2023

The new normal already? Examining changing probability of a summer-like fall

A recent study confirmed that a record-high temperature recorded in October 2021 would have been extremely unlikely to occur without the influence of global warming. The team quantified how often such heatwaves may occur during future fall seasons under different greenhouse gas emission scenarios.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateMar 14, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Bronze Age well contents reveal the history of animal resources in Mycenae, Greece

A study published in PLOS ONE analyzed a Bronze Age debris deposit in Mycenae, Greece, revealing the types of animals that lived there and how they were used as a source of subsistence. The analysis of animal remains and associated artifacts provides clues to the social dynamics of ancient settlements and responses to natural disasters.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateMar 1, 2023

The myths around consumer financial vulnerability -- and how it affects most consumers at different points in their lives

Consumer financial vulnerability (CFV) is a risk of experiencing future harm given current access to financial resources and future uncertainty. Most consumers across the socioeconomic spectrum experience varying degrees of CFV at different life stages, due to factors like age, economic cycles, and unforeseen crises.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateFeb 22, 2023

Earthquake scientists have a new tool in the race to find the next big one

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have discovered a frictional phenomenon that governs how quickly faults heal after an earthquake. This discovery could help scientists understand when and how violently faults move, providing valuable new insights into the causes and potential for large earthquakes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

'To save our pets, we need to know our neighbors' Lessons from an urban firestorm

A CU Boulder study estimates that 1,182 animals were affected by the Marshall Fire, with most being fatally injured due to rapid-onset disasters and poor emergency notification systems. Researchers emphasize the need for pet owners to create evacuation plans and designate trusted contacts to help rescue pets in case of an emergency.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalAnimals·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 9, 2023
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.

Fungi and bacteria are binging on burned soil

Researchers discovered that certain microorganisms dominate burned soil after a wildfire, with some species increasing in abundance and others consuming charcoal. This finding could help revive megafire dead zones and provide insights into the human microbiome's response to stress.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateFeb 7, 2023

UBC Okanagan engineers examine drinking water management strategies

The study examines the impact of climate change and economic sustainability on drinking water management strategies. The integrated assessment framework assesses factors such as water quality, environmental changes, and potential costs to determine performance data and benchmarking.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 1, 2023

Landscaping for drought: We’re doing it wrong

A new UC Riverside-led study reveals that drought-tolerant trees in urban areas use significantly more water than their natural counterparts. The research found that even 'drought-tolerant' species like eucalyptus and ficus increase their water intake when irrigated.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalBiology Letters·DateJan 11, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Researchers propose a more effective method to predict floods

A team of researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University and other institutions has identified a flexible and user-friendly model for predicting flood frequency in a changing environment. The fractional polynomial-based regression method is more effective than existing models, which often fail to account for factors like climate ...

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalJournal of Hydrology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 9, 2023

Disaster-related trauma disproportionately affects individuals who are older and less educated—and higher income

A new study found that vulnerable populations are more likely to experience disaster-related home loss and develop physical and mental functional limitations. Older adults, those with lower education levels, and individuals from higher income backgrounds were disproportionately affected.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 4, 2023
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.

Climate change strikes: lightning patterns change with global warming

New research finds climate change could lead to more frequent lightning strikes over mountains and Northern Europe, triggering increased wildfire risks. However, relatively fewer lightning hazards are expected over populated areas of Central Europe.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 11, 2022

Scientists warn in report that climate change has pushed Earth to “code red”

Scientists warn that climate change is at the door and pounding hard due to rising global temperatures, natural disasters, and infectious diseases. The report highlights urgent need to protect nature, eliminate fossil fuel emissions and support socially just climate adaptations.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 26, 2022

Double trouble when 2 disasters strike electrical transmission infrastructure

Researchers developed a machine learning model to analyze how susceptible overhead transmission lines are to damage from back-to-back natural hazards. The study found that previous damage can have a significant impact on the fragility and reliability of power grids, especially when followed by a hurricane.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEarthquake Engineering & Structural Dynamics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 21, 2022

Economic losses from hurricanes become too big to be offset by the US if warming continues

A new study suggests that the US economy's supply chains cannot compensate for local production losses from hurricanes if climate change continues. The researchers found that even under moderate warming scenarios, hurricane damages will exceed the economy's coping capacities, leading to indirect economic effects and price increases for...

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 17, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

New study shows higher death toll among Puerto Ricans following Hurricane Maria than reported following 2017 disaster

A new University of Toronto study finds an additional 514 deaths should be added to the official Hurricane Maria death toll due to displaced Puerto Ricans in the US. The study suggests undercounting and highlights the need for equitable disaster preparedness and cross-jurisdiction data sharing.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalBMJ Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 22, 2022

New research shows children exposed to natural disasters in the womb have higher rates of developmental psychopathology in a sex-specific manner

Researchers found that children prenatally exposed to Superstorm Sandy had substantially increased risks for depression, anxiety, and attention deficit disorders. Male children had elevated risks for attention deficit and disruptive behavioral disorders, while female children had elevated risks for anxiety disorders.

SourceThe Graduate Center, CUNY·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateSep 21, 2022

Ancient landslide destroyed area size of Cincinnati

A massive landslide in Nevada's Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area flattened an area larger than downtown Cincinnati, covering over 7 square miles. Geologists studied the landslide to better understand its dynamics and predict future landslides, which are a growing concern in areas with significant topography.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Sedimentary Research·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 2022
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.

Scientists report on 40 years of ecological research, the effects of climate change

A special section in BioScience synthesizes insights from 40 years of long-term ecological research, highlighting the diversity of ecosystem responses to climate change. The study demonstrates that regional drivers, human activities, and interactions between climate drivers shape these responses.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 16, 2022

Wealthiest homeowners experience highest wildfire hazard risk

A new study published in Environmental Research Letters reveals that high-value properties in the western United States are disproportionately exposed to wildfire hazards. Researchers found that both low- and high-income communities bear a disproportionate burden of wildfires.

SourceResources for the Future (RFF)·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 10, 2022

Evacuating outside the lines

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that allowing cross-border evacuations can reduce evacuation time by 14% and improve public safety. However, intermunicipal cooperation is required to make this approach effective.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·DateJul 26, 2022

When disaster strikes, these Americans may not be ready

A new national study found that households led by women, those with children under age 18, renters, low-income individuals, and minority groups are less likely to be minimally prepared for disasters. The researchers recommend targeting these vulnerable groups with disaster preparedness resources.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 18, 2022

Novel model of fluid distribution in the Cascadia Subduction Zone aids understanding of seismic activity

A novel three-dimensional model of the fluid stored deep in Earth's crust along the Cascadia Subduction Zone provides new insight into how the accumulation and release of those fluids may influence seismic activity. The study's findings have applications for increasing understanding of seismic activity along the Cascadia Subduction Zone.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 14, 2022
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.

A world afire: Social–ecological processes in a time of change

Scientists argue that system thinking can better understand the world's rapidly changing dynamics, considering both social and ecological factors. The article highlights the importance of this approach in addressing climate change-induced natural disasters, such as increased frequency and danger of wildfires.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeCase study·DateJul 13, 2022

Study explores uncertainties in flood risk estimates

A new study found that conventional methods for calculating flood risk underestimate frequencies, especially at the 100-year flood, due to neglecting unique roles of each flood type. Researchers from DRI, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Colorado State University investigated historic floods in 308 watersheds.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 14, 2022

Tsunami threats underestimated in current models, new research shows

Current predictive models underestimate tsunami severity by as much as 100%, according to USC researchers who found a correlation between tsunami strength and outer wedge width. The study identifies high-risk subduction zones, including Iran and the Cascadia zone, which could experience massive tsunamis.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalEarth-Science Reviews·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 26, 2022

Remote Ireland community survived a millennium of environmental change

A remote Irish community endured a millennium of climate change and ecological shifts without significant disruption, thanks to its adaptable social practices. The study, published in PLOS ONE, analyzed peat core data to infer environmental and human occupation changes over 1,000 years.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateApr 27, 2022
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Meet the forest microbes that can survive megafires

Research finds fungi and bacteria can thrive in post-megafire soils, with certain microbes increasing in abundance. These microbial 'cousins' are genetically related and share adaptive traits to respond to fire, improving prediction of their responses.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateApr 25, 2022

Years-long collaboration helps geophysicists better understand severe earthquake-tsunami risks

Geophysicists and computer scientists collaborate to better understand the dynamics of earthquakes and tsunamis. The team has identified three major characteristics that play a significant role in determining an earthquake's potential to stoke a tsunami, including stress along the fault line, rock rigidity, and sediment layer strength.

SourceGauss Centre for Supercomputing·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 7, 2022
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.

New model may improve Bay Area seismic hazard maps

Researchers created a 3D tectonic model combining geological, geophysical and satellite data to resolve timescales between earthquakes and mountain range formation. The study reveals that most uplift occurs in the period between earthquakes, improving local seismic hazard maps.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 25, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Rural communities report higher resilience after disasters

A study found that rural residents are more satisfied with their communities' problem-solving and civic engagement after a disaster. Urban residents, however, perform better in community preparedness, highlighting the need for tailored strategies to enhance resilience in different communities.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalSustainable Cities and Society·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 22, 2022

Study finds survivors of weather-related disasters may have accelerated aging

A study published by Arizona State University found that survivors of Hurricane Maria experienced accelerated aging in their immune systems, with molecular changes indicating a 7-8 year acceleration in human lifespan. The research used rhesus macaques as a model to explore the effects of extreme weather events on biological aging.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022
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.

Extreme weather research shows household income impacts of Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy, need for more equitable climate resilience planning for cities

A new analysis found that low-income households in New Orleans lost nearly 35% of their income after Hurricane Katrina, while high-income households in NYC lost only 5.8%. The study highlights the need for diversified income sources to mitigate economic harm from extreme weather events.

SourceIllinois Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Geography·DateDec 14, 2021

Evidence for shared earthquakes between San Andreas and san Jacinto faults

Researchers have found evidence of joint ruptures, or shared earthquakes, between the San Andreas and san Jacinto faults in California. The Lytle Creek Ridge Fault, a small fault between the two major faults, acted as a passive marker during these events, with 20% to 23% of earthquakes on these faults being shared.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalGeology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2021
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Let’s talk about the 1,800-plus ‘young’ volcanoes in the US Southwest

A new study presents a broad survey of monogenetic volcanoes in the US Southwest, providing insights into their characteristics and potential hazards. The research reveals that over 1,800 volcanoes have erupted in the region over the past 2.58 million years, with some still posing threats despite being dormant.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalGeosphere·DateNov 3, 2021

How a natural disaster can bring couples closer

A new study found that couples in the Houston area experienced a significant increase in relationship satisfaction after Hurricane Harvey, despite previous research suggesting stress spillover would decrease satisfaction. The researchers discovered that those who were unhappy before the hurricane saw the largest jumps in satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPsychological Science·TypeSurvey·DateOct 26, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

AI system identifies buildings damaged by wildfire

Researchers developed DamageMap, an AI system that uses machine learning to identify building damage from post-wildfire images, achieving 92% accuracy. The system can analyze satellite and aerial photos to pinpoint damaged buildings, providing immediate results for first responders and fire victims.

SourceStanford University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·DateSep 16, 2021
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.

The growing threat of wildfires in America

A study by Matthew Auer highlights the need for community-led wildfire protection plans to address growing threats, particularly among low-income households. These plans can provide educational resources, fire-resistant home construction, and access to funding.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalSustainability Science·DateSep 8, 2021