The month of February 2024 has been marked as the warmest February ever recorded globally, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service. Despite this, certain regions such as North America, Asia, and parts of Europe experienced unprecedented cold temperatures. This stark contrast in temperatures raises concerns about the future of our planet’s climate as a
Earth
Carbon dioxide, often associated with climate change and global warming, is now being linked to the increase in severity and frequency of wildfires around the world. While the common belief has been that hotter and drier conditions are the main culprits behind the surge in wildfires, a recent study from UC Riverside suggests that the
An expedition led by the University of Melbourne to the waters surrounding Antarctica has uncovered a groundbreaking discovery – wind plays a significant role in the formation of colossal rogue waves. These unpredictable waves, which can rise much higher than surrounding waves, pose a serious threat to ships and coastal infrastructure. Contrary to previous beliefs,
The impact of climate change on rainfall patterns is becoming increasingly evident, with April showers turning into deluges and May flowers facing a new reality. A University of Maryland-led study published in Nature Reviews Earth & Environment highlights a global trend towards more intense but less frequent rainfalls throughout the year. This change in rainfall
When we talk about soil carbon, we typically focus on the organic matter component, known as soil organic carbon (SOC). However, another crucial component of soil carbon is the inorganic part, known as soil inorganic carbon (SIC). Often overlooked, SIC, usually in the form of calcium carbonate, tends to accumulate more in arid regions with
Located near Parkfield, California, a part of the San Andreas Fault offers scientists a rare opportunity to study earthquakes. To the north of Parkfield, two major tectonic plates are continuously moving against each other, while to the south, the fault remains locked. This unique geologic setting results in a predictable earthquake pattern at the site,
Mud, often viewed as a murky and dirty substance, is revealing itself to be surprisingly clear in terms of its impact on our planet. A recent study led by University of Florida biogeochemist Thomas S. Bianchi has shed light on how human activities are shaping the movement and dispersion of mud, ultimately affecting carbon storage
The Biden administration recently unveiled the first-ever nationwide tap water standards aimed at protecting the public from harmful “forever chemicals” known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These toxic chemicals have been linked to a range of serious health issues, including cancer and developmental problems in children. PFAS are pervasive in the environment, accumulating in
A recent study led by a team from the University of California, Irvine has shed light on the clear link between human-driven climate change and the ongoing years-long drought in southern Madagascar. This study, published in npj Climate and Atmospheric Science, highlights the implications of climate change on the hydrological cycle in the region, particularly
Recent studies have shown that reductions in emissions of tiny particles, which are the major cause of air pollution worldwide, have contributed to an increase in heat in the Earth’s climate system. Satellite measurements have demonstrated that more heat is being absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere from the sun, compared to the amount of terrestrial
Recent research conducted by scholars at Stockholm University sheds light on the concerning phenomenon of PFAS re-emission into the atmosphere from crashing ocean waves. This study challenges the traditional belief that these harmful chemicals remain in the ocean, instead suggesting a cyclical transport process that brings them back to land. The study, published in Science
The impact of human activity on the Earth’s water cycle is becoming increasingly complex and harder to predict. Changes in land use are affecting cloud formation and precipitation patterns, while weather modification techniques like cloud seeding are altering water distribution strategies in response to climate change. These shifts are shaping the future of water management
California, a state typically praised for its progressive environmental policies, has found itself in an ironic position as the largest emitter of sulfuryl fluoride in the nation. Despite being a leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, particularly with a plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045, a recent study conducted by Johns Hopkins University has
One of the most severe hail events ever documented in Spain occurred on August 30, 2022, in Gerona, north-eastern Spain. Hailstones as large as 12cm caused extensive damage to buildings, vehicles, and agricultural areas, resulting in 67 injuries and one fatality. This extreme weather event caught the attention of researchers due to its rarity and
The South Asian monsoon season is a critical time for over a billion people in the Indian subcontinent, as heavy rains can have a significant impact on agriculture and urban planning. Predicting when these rains will come is essential for farmers to plan their harvests and for city officials to prepare for potential flooding. However,
