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Better snowfall forecasting

The National Weather Service has adopted a new method for predicting snowfall density, allowing for more accurate forecasts and differentiation between powdery and wet snow. The method uses only two variables: temperature and wind speeds at mountain crest level.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalWeather and Forecasting·DateFeb 21, 2010

AGU journal highlights -- Aug. 27, 2009

Researchers predict global temperature will increase by 0.15 degrees Centigrade from 2009 to 2014 due to anthropogenic forcing and solar irradiance. The study suggests a recent ice age on Mars, with layered deposits indicating climate oscillations, and sheds light on human's role in global dimming through aerosol emissions.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 27, 2009

Hurricane Katrina: Phone home

Researchers from Tel Aviv University have developed a novel way to predict the intensity of the next big flood using cell phone signals. By analyzing fluctuations in atmospheric moisture around cell phone towers, they can provide accurate 'critical moisture distribution' levels for fine-tuning model predictions of big floods.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateJul 6, 2009

300 billion weather forecasts used by Americans annually, survey finds

A nationwide survey found that nearly 9 out of 10 adult Americans obtain weather forecasts regularly, with an estimated 300 billion forecasts used each year. The study reveals that most people are satisfied with forecasts and place a high value on them, equivalent to $31.5 billion annually.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateJun 23, 2009

'Weather's Greatest Mysteries Solved!'

This book delves into the science of climate study and its impact on human societies, exploring how weather has influenced civilizations throughout history. The author uses a detective story approach to examine the role of weather in shaping human societies, from ancient Sahara to modern-day New York City.

AMS June science highlights

The American Meteorological Society (AMS) is showcasing recent advancements in hurricane forecasting, climate trends, and the long-term impact of CO2 emissions. A new study reveals improved forecast capabilities, while another paper examines the causes of seasonal and regional climate trends over the United States.

SourceAmerican Meteorological Society·JournalJournal of Climate·DateJun 12, 2009

World's largest tornado experiment heads for Great Plains

The VORTEX2 project, a collaborative international study, aims to gain a better understanding of tornado formation and damage patterns. By deploying advanced weather-sensing tools, researchers hope to identify the characteristics of severe thunderstorms that produce tornadoes, ultimately leading to more accurate tornado warnings.

People's misperceptions cloud their understanding of rainy weather forecasts

A new study from the University of Washington found that people's understanding of rainy weather forecasts is hindered by misconceptions about probability and uncertainty. Researchers tested over 450 college students and found that many incorrectly assumed deterministic forecasts, leading to unnecessary precautions.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateApr 14, 2009

AGU journal highlights -- April 6, 2009

Recent research reveals a 'pacemaker' climate shift mode controlling global temperature changes. Meanwhile, natural ocean 'thermostats' for Pacific reefs are disputed, suggesting underreported bleaching events. Space dust also interacts with the atmosphere, vaporizing and leaving behind high-altitude metal ions and molecules.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 6, 2009

On the trail of polar lows

A team of scientists has analyzed global atmospheric data for the past 60 years to determine the frequency of polar lows. They found that there is no long-term trend in the frequency of these storms, contradicting previous assumptions about their connection to climate change.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 12, 2008

Modern physics is critical to global warming research

Researchers like Brad Marston use statistical physics to analyze climate patterns, providing insights into the driving concepts behind global warming. By focusing on the larger mechanisms that drive changes in rainfall, scientists can improve their understanding of climate change and its effects.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of the Atmospheric Sciences·DateMar 11, 2008

Sun's corona is both hot and kinky

Scientists at University of Warwick argue that Alfvén waves, thought to superheat the Corona, are actually kink waves, a bending of the magnetic field. This reinterpretation throws doubt on previous research and leaves the question of the Corona's extreme heat unresolved.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 6, 2008