Articles tagged with Snow
Antarctica's average temperature has increased by about two-tenths of a degree Celsius, or one-third of a degree Fahrenheit, in the past 150 years. This warming trend is attributed to various factors, including natural phenomena and human-induced climate change.
Researchers found a recent increase in winter temperatures and cooling of summer temperatures, leading to glacier growth in higher mountain regions. This trend impacts the water availability for irrigation, with the vast Indus Basin Irrigation System supporting 170,000 square kilometers of land.
A new study reveals that Antarctic snowfall has remained stable over the past 50 years, with no statistically significant trends detected. The findings contradict climate change predictions and suggest that thickening ice sheets have not reduced sea levels.
Researchers from Ohio State University and international partners assembled a 50-year record of snowfall in Antarctica, contradicting assumptions in some climate change models. The study suggests that global sea levels have not been slowed by a thickening of ice sheets.
A new model forecasts a significant decline in winter snowpack between now and 2100, affecting mountains in temperate zones. The Sierras, Cascades, and southern Rockies will be among the hardest hit, with some regions losing up to 64% of their current snowpack.
A study found that rivers north of 44° north latitude in the US and Canada experience earlier winter-spring streamflows, while those south of this line have later streamflows. This shift may impact Atlantic salmon survival rates.
Scientists embark on an Arctic trek with sled dogs to collect snow samples and validate satellite observations. The goal is to improve understanding of global snow cover and its impact on water resources, particularly in the American West where melting snow supplies 70% of western states' water supply.
A new airborne radar system measures snow depth on Arctic sea ice, aiding climate change research and understanding polar bear habitats. The project validates satellite measurements and provides insights into the region's climate and wildlife.
The study found a net loss of ice from the combined polar ice sheets between 1992 and 2002, resulting in an increase in sea level. The survey also documented extensive thinning of the West Antarctic ice shelves and an increase in snowfall in Greenland.
Using polarized light, NASA scientist Peter Wasilewski analyzes the colors and patterns in ice crystals to determine their type and consistency for various Olympic sports. He also examines snowflake shapes and forms to understand how they affect performance.
Researchers used recent meteorological data to simulate condensation cycles, finding that temperature differences across Antarctica explain isotope value variations but with strong spatial correlations. Climate signals stored in Antarctic snow are not representative of annual weather conditions.
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.
The Wyoming Cloud Seeding Pilot Program aims to evaluate the effectiveness of silver iodide in increasing snowpack and providing fresh water. A 10% increase in snowpack would provide significant benefits, including increased water supply and hydroelectric power generation.
Researchers found that tropical glaciers on Mars were formed from snow brought from the polar regions, similar to Earth's mountainous regions. This discovery sheds light on past climate changes on Mars and potential pockets of ice scattered across the planet.
A climate modeling specialist found that without snow cover, global temperatures could rise by as much as a third due to increased greenhouse gas levels. In contrast, total regions of permafrost are likely to expand in area, leading to potential health risks for ecosystems and construction decisions.
A Scripps-led study finds that climate warming will shrink key water supplies around the world, affecting millions. Glacier-dependent regions like China, India, and parts of South America are particularly vulnerable to vanishing glaciers, which will lead to costly disruptions in water supply and resource management systems.
A USGS study found that winter/spring high river flows in northern New England came significantly earlier during the 20th century, with most changes occurring since the 1960s. The total winter days of ice-affected flow decreased by 20 days from 1936 to 2000 for the average of the 9 longest-record rivers.
Scientists at Queen's University have discovered a new antifreeze protein in fleas that can inhibit ice growth by six Celsius degrees, potentially allowing for longer storage of transplant organs. This could lead to an extended preservation period and improve the viability of transplants.
A new study reveals that warmer oceans and atmosphere will cause more intense precipitation worldwide, especially in tropical regions. Heavier rain will fall in areas such as North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, while the Mediterranean and US Southwest may experience decreased average precipitation due to longer dry periods.
Researchers from UMD and NIST developed a new analytical tool based on thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS) to study seasonal changes in sulfur particulate composition. The technique requires much smaller snow samples than standard analysis techniques, allowing for more precise measurements of sulfur isotopes.
A University of Cincinnati team is interviewing Inupiaq elders to better understand and predict future environmental changes, combining western science with traditional knowledge. The research focuses on climate and environment on Alaska's North Slope, with unique findings on the impacts of global warming.
A University of Colorado research group has received a $1.75 million grant to study newly discovered microorganisms in the harsh climate of Colorado's high mountains. Led by Professor Steve Schmidt, the team aims to understand how these microorganisms function and their potential applications in biotechnology.
Researchers found that warmer air could increase Antarctic sea ice volume by suppressing ice below sea level and refreezing as thicker ice. This counterintuitive phenomenon is driven by thermohaline circulation, impacting global climate patterns.
A decline in winter and spring snow cover over Southwest Asia and the Himalayan mountain range creates conditions for widespread blooms of ocean plants in the Arabian Sea. This is due to increased temperature and pressure differences between the Indian subcontinent and the Arabian Sea, leading to monsoon winds that mix the ocean water.
Researchers found 11% fewer plant species on ski pistes compared to off-piste plots, with machine-graded slopes having five times more bare ground. The team suggests establishing environmental goals in ski resort management and avoiding areas with high conservation value.
A massive Christmas week snowstorm broke records for snow intensity, size, and damages across the Ohio River valley. The storm dumped record snowfall, causing over $900 million in losses, including thousands of injuries and 17 deaths.
Researchers used an ice core to show that a key section of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet probably never contained as much ice as scientists originally thought it did. The study provides new information for interpreting climate and gives scientists new insights into how climate is changing today.
Research suggests Arctic sea ice is shrinking, contradicting current climate models. Mountain glaciers are also losing mass due to temperature changes, raising concerns about sea level rise.
Researchers found that different snow conditions affect the dynamics of the Canadian lynx. The study showed that surface hardness, determined by warm winter spells, influences how deep the lynx sinks in the snow, impacting its ability to prey on snow hares.
The oldest Antarctic ice core has been analyzed, revealing eight ice ages and warmer periods over the past 740,000 years. The study's findings suggest that without human influence, the present warm period could last at least another 15,000 years.
A new study predicts that global warming will diminish Western US mountain snow cover by up to 70% by 2050, leading to increased flooding and drought. The loss of snowpack will disrupt the region's agriculture, fisheries, and hydropower industries.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have found that heavy metal snow on Venus is actually made of lead sulfide, contradicting previous hypotheses. This discovery could allow for the dating of Venus using lead isotopes, providing a new frontier for space exploration.
For skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, artificial snow requires realistic look, feel, and action. Machine-made snow uses seed materials to form ice crystals, with popular additives like Snomax and Drift enhancing realism and speed.
New research from NASA scientists suggests emissions of black soot alter the way sunlight reflects off snow, contributing to climate change. The study found that soot in areas with snow and ice may play a significant role in warming the world's climate, especially when it becomes more concentrated on melting surfaces.
Scientists are studying sulfur oxidation processes and high levels of atmospheric nitric oxide at the South Pole. They aim to understand natural phenomena to differentiate them from human-caused processes in more complex regions.
The Hotplate Total Precipitation Sensor uses a unique approach to measure precipitation rates, providing accurate readings for aviation and transportation applications. This breakthrough technology offers improved public safety and cost savings by reducing the need for manual snow gauges and deicing fluids.
Contaminated water from abandoned mines poses a threat to Colorado's nine billion-dollar tourism industry, particularly in ski areas like Keystone and Arapahoe Basin. The use of artificially created snow due to droughts and climate change exacerbates the issue, highlighting the need for alternative methods to mitigate acid-rock drainage.
Researchers discovered previously unknown fungi groups thriving beneath the snow, recycling carbon and nitrogen, and potentially impacting CO2 levels. The findings prompt a reevaluation of snow-covered regions as 'sinks' for CO2.
Research reveals microbes under Colorado snowpack drive tundra ecosystem's short-growing season productivity, and are key to nitrogen cycling. The study also identifies previously unknown fungi species.
Researchers at Michigan State University discover that glaciers sculpt and erode landscapes through a phenomenon called glaciohydraulic supercooling, which affects the rate of erosion. This new understanding allows for better comprehension of how glaciers subdue mountains.
Researchers used computer climate models and over 45 years of data to understand the connection between El Niño events and Western US snowfall. They found that ENSO affects atmospheric wind patterns, moist air transport, and Western U.S. precipitation and snow accumulation.
Climate experts Tom Wigley and Charles Knight will discuss the future of the Earth's atmosphere and the impact of greenhouse gases on climate change. They will also explore the science behind artificial snow formation, including nucleation and ice nuclei.
Breakthroughs in snow making and ski design are transforming the industry. Advances in understanding snowflake formation will improve skiing and our knowledge of the natural world. Researchers also explore the applications of snow science to condensed matter and the origins of arctic phenomena like 'rock circles' and lightning.
NASA's Aqua satellite and a P-3 Orion aircraft are conducting a joint research effort to gather data on snowfall and rainfall in Wakasa Bay, Japan. The study aims to improve the accuracy of global hydrologic cycle data and better understand precipitation patterns in the north Pacific.
Rain-on-snow events are projected to affect reindeer herds in northern regions, causing food shortages and potentially devastating impacts. Climate change is predicted to increase the frequency and duration of these events, with a 40% increase in land area affected by 2080-89.
A recent study suggests that dissolved organic matter in water absorbs UV-B, protecting 85% of amphibian habitats. The timing of breeding also plays a crucial role, with early breeding reducing UV-B exposure in certain regions.
A new study of snow accumulation on Mount Logan provides evidence that significant climate change has occurred in Western Canada, with both surface and atmospheric temperatures rising since the mid-19th century. The research warns of warmer winters and changes in weather patterns if current trends continue.
The record winter weather led to a significant boost in the US economy, with estimated benefits of $21 billion. The mild conditions resulted in lower heating costs, reduced snow-removal expenses, and an increase in construction income.
Scientists discover mercury released into polar environments when sun rises, entering snowpack and potentially affecting food webs. The 'mercury sunrise' phenomenon contributes to increasing mercury levels in Arctic seabirds and marine mammals.
A Rutgers scientist is linking global climate change to changes in ice and snow cover, citing convincing evidence of warming trends. The scientist's data shows that the amount of snow covering in North America and Eurasia has been shrinking over the years.
The CLPX aims to improve prediction of the hydrologic cycle and management of water resources. Scientists will collect snow data using skis, snowmobiles, aircraft, satellites, and microwave measurements to analyze snow water content, temperature, and crystal formation.
A University of Maine professor has developed a classification system to help weather forecasters and the public understand the likely impacts of winter storms. The system assigns an intensity index and category score based on air pressure and forward speed, providing insights into storm strength and duration.
Researchers found dramatic erosion of frosty layers on Mars' south pole, suggesting global climate change. The Martian snow is dense and ice-like, and its seasonal cycle affects the planet's long-term climate and atmosphere.
Researchers found that snow shoveling increased tPA antigen levels and decreased PAI-1 activity in a way that didn't occur during automated snow removal or maximal treadmill exercise. Young, healthy individuals showed protective responses to moderate exercise that prevented heart attacks.
Researchers found a strong correlation between the Arctic Oscillation's negative phase and near-record cold days and snow storms over a broader region of the hemisphere. The Arctic Oscillation has been linked to wide-ranging climate effects in the Northern Hemisphere, preventing freezing temperatures from extending as far south.
Researchers found that falling snowflakes create noise underwater by oscillating bubbles, which can be detected by aquatic animals and blur sensitive sonar readings. The study suggests that snowflake sounds could be a significant source of underwater clutter for people using sonar devices.
Avalanches claim over 150 lives worldwide each year, with Colorado leading the nation in fatalities. The state's steep terrain and unpredictable snowpack make it particularly hazardous for hikers, skiers, and snowboarders.
Researchers will collect snow samples from Illimani and Sajama mountains to understand the impact of El Nino and La Nina on precipitation patterns. The team's goal is to analyze climate conditions over the past two years using sophisticated chemical analyses of snow samples.
A study by Cornell University researchers found that most buildings in the Northeast region exceeded minimum building code requirements for snow loads during the Blizzard of '96. The accumulation of snow from two storms led to increased snow weight on roofs, causing collapses in some areas.
The FAA is testing a new deicing system that provides half-hour forecasts to aid in deicing decisions, potentially reducing cancellations and costs. The system uses data from surface weather stations, snow-weighing gauges, and Doppler radars to provide accurate predictions of snowfall accumulation.