Meteorology & Climatology
- Research Measurable Precipitation
- Tropical Storm Names Announced
- Beware of Melting Snowpack!
- Thoughts on the Little Ice Age
- Top Five Tornado Articles
- High Tech Climate Monitoring
- Climate Change Affects Everything
- Top Five Winter Weather Articles
- Worldwide Weather Forecasts
- We Can Solve It Campaign
Research Measurable Precipitation
Posted by
Aurae Beidler
Aurae Beidler
When will the rain end and summer begin? Consider looking at climate maps from the National Climatic Data Center in order to find out about days with precipitation.
As the rain falls in early June in Western Oregon, I am reminded of a local saying. We have a saying in Oregon that summer doesn’t start until July 5th. Most years this proves to be true, as some 4th of July celebrates are spoiled with rain. This week, I decided to investigate this urban legend or old wives tale, to see how true it is. I searched online for climate data on precipitation.
I found the NCDC or National Climatic Data Center’s website and searched for precipitation data. Using the NCDC’s Climate Maps of the United States, I was able to pull up maps featuring any climate data from temperature to precipitation. I used the Quick Search feature, selected the Lower 48 states and Precipitation. Choosing these options, I was then able to view a full-color climate map showing the Mean Number of Days with Measurable Precipitation, organized by Annual or Monthly totals.
Comparing the precipitation maps for the months of May, June and July, I found it is true that in Western Oregon, the mean number of days in July with measurable precipitation is between 0.5 to 3.4. June records a mean number of days with measurable precipitation as 5.5 to 7.4, with some areas up to 10.4. May’s map shows a mean number of days with measurable precipitation as 7.5 to 10.4 and some areas up to 13.4.
So, the data shows that the transition from spring to summer is a gradual change but that July definitely does have a significant lower amount of days with measurable rain. Check it out for your area to see when you can expect the rain to end and summer to begin!
I found the NCDC or National Climatic Data Center’s website and searched for precipitation data. Using the NCDC’s Climate Maps of the United States, I was able to pull up maps featuring any climate data from temperature to precipitation. I used the Quick Search feature, selected the Lower 48 states and Precipitation. Choosing these options, I was then able to view a full-color climate map showing the Mean Number of Days with Measurable Precipitation, organized by Annual or Monthly totals.
Comparing the precipitation maps for the months of May, June and July, I found it is true that in Western Oregon, the mean number of days in July with measurable precipitation is between 0.5 to 3.4. June records a mean number of days with measurable precipitation as 5.5 to 7.4, with some areas up to 10.4. May’s map shows a mean number of days with measurable precipitation as 7.5 to 10.4 and some areas up to 13.4.
So, the data shows that the transition from spring to summer is a gradual change but that July definitely does have a significant lower amount of days with measurable rain. Check it out for your area to see when you can expect the rain to end and summer to begin!
Tropical Storm Names Announced
Posted by
Aurae Beidler
Aurae Beidler
Each tropical storm, hurricane or tropical cyclone is given a distinctive name, given in alphabetical order, beginning with A. Examine the list for 2008 storms.
Last week, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or NOAA, announced its projection for the 2008 Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season. NOAA's Climate Prediction Center issued a prediction for near normal or above normal hurricane season. The 2008 hurricane season begins on June 1st.
NOAA also issued the list for storm names for Atlantic tropical storms and hurricanes for 2008. These names are maintained by an international committee of the World Meteorological Organization.
Here is the list:
Let's hope we don't see all of these named storms in 2008, making it a quiet year and predictions incorrect.
NOAA also issued the list for storm names for Atlantic tropical storms and hurricanes for 2008. These names are maintained by an international committee of the World Meteorological Organization.
Here is the list:
- Arthur
- Bertha
- Cristobal
- Dolly
- Edouard
- Fay
- Gustav
- Hanna
- Ike
- Josephine
- Kyle
- Laura
- Marco
- Nana
- Omar
- Paloma
- Rene
- Sally
- Teddy
- Vicky
- Wilfred
Let's hope we don't see all of these named storms in 2008, making it a quiet year and predictions incorrect.
Posted by
Aurae Beidler
Aurae Beidler
With record snowfall in many parts of the country, spring means danger as melting snow fills rivers and streams. Beware of these events and listen for alerts.
Many regions of the United States and Canada experienced record snowfall this past winter. Now that spring is here, the snow is melting and quickly. The melting snow creates higher capacity for many rivers and streams. Some may not be aware that rivers are higher than normal.
In Washington State this past weekend, a boy died and two are missing due to a boating accident and high water on the Green River. High water has limited search and rescue crews' ability to access points along river. In the above mentioned tragedy, the search and rescue group could not get to the place of the accident for several hours because of the high water.
Another danger of melting snowpack is colder water. Authorities estimate the water temperature of the Washington rivers to be around 40 degrees F. The high water can be up to two feet higher than normal in some rivers. This causes heavy rapids and dangerous areas along rivers.
Beware of high water and colder water temperature due to melting snowpack this Memorial Day weekend. Contact local authorities for river information, as some sections of rivers may be closed to recreation.
In Washington State this past weekend, a boy died and two are missing due to a boating accident and high water on the Green River. High water has limited search and rescue crews' ability to access points along river. In the above mentioned tragedy, the search and rescue group could not get to the place of the accident for several hours because of the high water.
Another danger of melting snowpack is colder water. Authorities estimate the water temperature of the Washington rivers to be around 40 degrees F. The high water can be up to two feet higher than normal in some rivers. This causes heavy rapids and dangerous areas along rivers.
Beware of high water and colder water temperature due to melting snowpack this Memorial Day weekend. Contact local authorities for river information, as some sections of rivers may be closed to recreation.
Thoughts on the Little Ice Age
Posted by
Aurae Beidler
Aurae Beidler
Amazed at the attentive work of astronomers, these scientists closely observed sunspot activity for a 70-year period, the Maunder Minimum, causing the Little Ice Age.
This week I wrote a series of articles on the Little Ice Age, which occurred from the early 1400s until the late 1800s. I was amazed to learn the facts about the event. I was especially interested in how the climate transition happened so quickly, in a cause and effect manner. I realized how sensitive the Earth’s climate is to even the smallest changes. Everything is related and has an effect.
I was also amazed at how attentive scientists and astronomers of that time period were to changes affecting the climate. Astronomers meticulously counted each and every sunspot they observed on the sun, closely studying the sun for a 70-year time period! They were able to determine the Maunder Minimum, with limited technology. They concluded that this event of lower solar activity, resulted in cooler temperatures on Earth.
I don’t remember learning about the Little Ice Age, the era of colder temperatures, in school. I do remember learning about George Washington, and vaguely remember hearing about snow storms and frozen rivers. I’m not sure why it never dawned on me how different it was in colonial times compared to now.
My research into the Little Ice Age made me wonder how the settling of America would have been if the winters had been warmer. What difference would a normal winter have had on those trying to survive in the New World?
I was also amazed at how attentive scientists and astronomers of that time period were to changes affecting the climate. Astronomers meticulously counted each and every sunspot they observed on the sun, closely studying the sun for a 70-year time period! They were able to determine the Maunder Minimum, with limited technology. They concluded that this event of lower solar activity, resulted in cooler temperatures on Earth.
I don’t remember learning about the Little Ice Age, the era of colder temperatures, in school. I do remember learning about George Washington, and vaguely remember hearing about snow storms and frozen rivers. I’m not sure why it never dawned on me how different it was in colonial times compared to now.
My research into the Little Ice Age made me wonder how the settling of America would have been if the winters had been warmer. What difference would a normal winter have had on those trying to survive in the New World?
Posted by
Aurae Beidler
Aurae Beidler
Read the top articles on tornadoes and severe thunderstorms to learn more about how tornadoes form, how they are detected and how tornado watches and warnings are issued.
Due to recent weather events, including devastating tornadoes and thunderstorms, I thought it would be useful to list the top five articles about tornadoes. Read these top articles for more information on how tornadoes form, how they are detected, how tornado watches and warnings are issued, and how they differ, how damage is survyed and more.
- When Lightning Storms Strike: Analyzing Weather Producing Severe Thunderstorm Formations
- Tracking Occurrence of Tornadoes: Meteorologists Detect Damaging Storms Producing Cyclonic Twisters
- Forecasting Extreme Spring Weather: Storm Prediction Center Issues Thunderstorm and Tornado Watches
- Tornado Facts and Records: Using Climatology Data to Understand Tornado Damage in the United States
- Severe Weather Warnings, Watches: List of National Weather Service Alerts Issued for Storms, Tornadoes
Posted by
Aurae Beidler
Aurae Beidler
New climate measuring stations and updated sites will improve accuracy in measuring climate change across the U.S. The new stations will be finalized by the summer 2008.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced this week, the final installation of 114 new climate monitoring stations, due to be activated by the end of this summer. These high-tech stations, part of the U.S. Climate Reference Network (CRN), will monitor changes in temperature and precipitation trends, comparing with national averages. With a higher accuracy of data, better national trending of climate changes will result.
NOAA is also updating the Historical Climatology Network (HCN) observation sites, modernizing the aging equipment. Some stations will be relocated, in order to obtain more accurate data. These stations collect climate and weather measurements across the United States.
These new stations and improved weather monitoring sites will improve accuracy in measuring climate change. These CRN stations will relay measurements and observations to the GOES satellites, then to the National Climatic Data Center.
NOAA, partnered with over 70 countries and the European Commission, is developing a network of global monitors for climate change and observation.
NOAA is also updating the Historical Climatology Network (HCN) observation sites, modernizing the aging equipment. Some stations will be relocated, in order to obtain more accurate data. These stations collect climate and weather measurements across the United States.
These new stations and improved weather monitoring sites will improve accuracy in measuring climate change. These CRN stations will relay measurements and observations to the GOES satellites, then to the National Climatic Data Center.
NOAA, partnered with over 70 countries and the European Commission, is developing a network of global monitors for climate change and observation.
Climate Change Affects Everything
Posted by
Aurae Beidler
Aurae Beidler
This week I learned how some organizations have taken real steps towards protecting wildlife from climate change, protecting the habitat of waterfowl and other animals.
This week I wrote an article titled Climate Change Effect on Waterfowl, discussing how some hunting and fishing organizations have recognized the threat of climate change on wildlife. These organizations are pushing lawmakers to pass laws limited emissions and other policies on climate change.
I realized that these groups are really getting involved! Without looking into the subject, I wouldn't have thought that hunters and anglers would take the actions that these organizations are taking. I think it's great!
Organizations like Ducks Unlimited have developed specific strategies based on scientific evidence, and partnerships with state and federal agencies like U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Throughout the years, Ducks Unlimited has made such a great impact on re-establishing habitats for waterfowl, returning these animals to a healthy population, that they have become the best in the world at it.
Sometimes I see the climate change or global warming problem has a huge issue. To me, and others like me, it seems so big that I ask, what can I do to make a good impact? I guess I'm overwhelmed at the issue. I've learned that it can be approached, with strategies ready to make an impact.
We all need to approach climate change the way these organizations have, weighing scientific evidence, developing ways we can tangibly approach climate change. Check out one of these organizations, and see how they are doing it. Join their efforts, and make a change, for the good!
I realized that these groups are really getting involved! Without looking into the subject, I wouldn't have thought that hunters and anglers would take the actions that these organizations are taking. I think it's great!
Organizations like Ducks Unlimited have developed specific strategies based on scientific evidence, and partnerships with state and federal agencies like U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Throughout the years, Ducks Unlimited has made such a great impact on re-establishing habitats for waterfowl, returning these animals to a healthy population, that they have become the best in the world at it.
Sometimes I see the climate change or global warming problem has a huge issue. To me, and others like me, it seems so big that I ask, what can I do to make a good impact? I guess I'm overwhelmed at the issue. I've learned that it can be approached, with strategies ready to make an impact.
We all need to approach climate change the way these organizations have, weighing scientific evidence, developing ways we can tangibly approach climate change. Check out one of these organizations, and see how they are doing it. Join their efforts, and make a change, for the good!
Top Five Winter Weather Articles
Posted by
Aurae Beidler
Aurae Beidler
Although the calendar says it's spring, the cold, wintry weather persists, bringing a last dose of cold weather to parts of the U.S. Read the top winter weather articles.
It's mid-April now but the weather forecasters are predicting snow for most parts of the Northwest this weekend. Along with snow, record cold temperatures are forecasted for much of the region.
This cold weather makes me think it's still winter! In light of my confusion, here are the top 5 winter weather articles:
Perhaps by reading these winter weather articles, we will summon the warm, spring weather!
This cold weather makes me think it's still winter! In light of my confusion, here are the top 5 winter weather articles:
Perhaps by reading these winter weather articles, we will summon the warm, spring weather!
Posted by
Aurae Beidler
Aurae Beidler
Weekend weather forecast for Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland and Canada. Most regions will see sun or shower, associated with spring and autumn.
Seeking out the latest weather forecasts across the globe, I have included my findings below:
Australia
A fine weekend is forecasted for most areas of Australia. Sydney should expect some morning fog, with sun and a high of 24 C to follow. Perth will be fine, experiencing a high of 28 C. Canberra will see increasing clouds as a front moves in.
New Zealand
New Zealand is experiencing a dry, sunny beginning to autumn. Meteorologists are calling it an “Indian Summer” with “settled weather”. Forecasts call for clear, warm days but early frosts in South Island.
South Africa
Current forecasts call for isolated thunderstorms or thundershowers. Fog and drizzle is forecasted for the west and south coastal areas. A cold front will come onshore, bringing a few showers and more thundershowers to the region. Capetown should hit a high of 25 C this weekend.
Ireland
Showers and thunderstorms are forecasted for most regions of Ireland this weekend. The region has experienced normal temperatures this spring so far. March although wet, experienced 10 percent more sunshine then normal. Storms and depressions from the Atlantic may bring more showers and rain to the area.
Canada
As with the United States, the vast regions of Canada experience drastically different weather daily. In the west, British Columbia will see cloudy skies with sun breaks. Victoria should get to 18 C on Saturday with sun. Moving east, more sun is predicted for Calgary, with a high of 21 C. Eastern Canada will see rain and snow. Quebec should see snow, with a 30 percent chance and a high of 4 C.
Australia
A fine weekend is forecasted for most areas of Australia. Sydney should expect some morning fog, with sun and a high of 24 C to follow. Perth will be fine, experiencing a high of 28 C. Canberra will see increasing clouds as a front moves in.
New Zealand
New Zealand is experiencing a dry, sunny beginning to autumn. Meteorologists are calling it an “Indian Summer” with “settled weather”. Forecasts call for clear, warm days but early frosts in South Island.
South Africa
Current forecasts call for isolated thunderstorms or thundershowers. Fog and drizzle is forecasted for the west and south coastal areas. A cold front will come onshore, bringing a few showers and more thundershowers to the region. Capetown should hit a high of 25 C this weekend.
Ireland
Showers and thunderstorms are forecasted for most regions of Ireland this weekend. The region has experienced normal temperatures this spring so far. March although wet, experienced 10 percent more sunshine then normal. Storms and depressions from the Atlantic may bring more showers and rain to the area.
Canada
As with the United States, the vast regions of Canada experience drastically different weather daily. In the west, British Columbia will see cloudy skies with sun breaks. Victoria should get to 18 C on Saturday with sun. Moving east, more sun is predicted for Calgary, with a high of 21 C. Eastern Canada will see rain and snow. Quebec should see snow, with a 30 percent chance and a high of 4 C.
Posted by
Aurae Beidler
Aurae Beidler
Watch for the nationwide campaign to stimulate a cultural shift in thinking about climate change, as multimillion dollar ads will be employed, to get your attention.
This week I was searching for information on climate change, specific to Al Gore. I read his book "An Inconvenient Truth" when I first began my Feature Writer position for Meteorology & Climatology. I found it elementary but interesting. I heard that Al Gore is currently producing a new climate change book so I searched for more information.
I ended up at the website for the "We Can Solve It" campaign. This campaign is a major part of the Alliance for Climate Protection. I learned that Al Gore founded this organization in 2006, in order to ignite "public action to help solve the climate crisis."
The "We" campaign is a 3-year mainstream campaign used to stimulate a cultural shift in how citizens view climate change. The We campaign urges us to think about climate change as an urgent issue. The campaign will use multimillion dollar ad campaigns in news and entertainment media and online in order to reach as many people as possible. The campaign will also partner with civic and religious organization.
The We Can Solve It campaign is based on several different solutions and themes:
I ended up at the website for the "We Can Solve It" campaign. This campaign is a major part of the Alliance for Climate Protection. I learned that Al Gore founded this organization in 2006, in order to ignite "public action to help solve the climate crisis."
The "We" campaign is a 3-year mainstream campaign used to stimulate a cultural shift in how citizens view climate change. The We campaign urges us to think about climate change as an urgent issue. The campaign will use multimillion dollar ad campaigns in news and entertainment media and online in order to reach as many people as possible. The campaign will also partner with civic and religious organization.
The We Can Solve It campaign is based on several different solutions and themes:
- Clean Energy Economy - an economy for the next generation
- Personal Choices - make a personal choice to stand up for a cleaner climate
- Adoption of Renewables - help break the addiction to fossil fuels
- Enhanced Energy Efficiency - increase energy efficiency at home, work
- Innovative Leadership - this climate crisis needs leaders