There are only a few days left until the start of winter in Brazil, but high temperatures and a lack of rainfall are expected to remain throughout the country. To help ev

There are only a few days left until the start of winter in Brazil, but high temperatures and a lack of rainfall are expected to remain throughout the country. To help everyone prepare for the official arrival of the season on June 21, experts from Meteum, an AI-powered weather forecasting platform, have analyzed the country's main cities and reveal what to expect in the coming weeks.

There are only a few days left until the start of winter in Brazil, but high temperatures and a lack of rainfall are expected to remain throughout the country. To help everyone prepare for the official arrival of the season on June 21, experts from Meteum, an AI-powered weather forecasting platform, have analyzed the country's main cities and reveal what to expect in the coming weeks.

In all states of the federative republic, seasonal temperature norms will be exceeded, and only in Rio Grande do Sul the thermal anomaly insignificant. The deviation from the multi-year average is forecasted to be +0.4°C (16.1°C) in Porto Alegre. This is likely related to the large-scale flooding in May in the region. As large areas are still underwater, they do not heat up well and release less heat into the lower layers of the atmosphere.

All weather information including forecasts, weather radar, and alerts is available in the Weather by [Meteum app for iOS and Android](https://redirect.appmetrica.yandex.com/serve/1037341602000971858). 

### Temperature

In other states, **significant exceedances of typical winter temperatures are expected**. Meteum meteorologists believe that the highest anomalies will be recorded in the Central-West region and some neighboring areas: in Mato Grosso, Goiás, Mato Grosso do Sul, Rondônia, Paraná, and São Paulo. New records of seasonal winter temperatures are forecasted in Belém, São Luís, and Campo Grande. So, the winter of 2024 will be unusually hot across Brazil, except for Porto Alegre and its surroundings
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**Compared to 2023, winter will be warmer in the central states of Brazil and slightly cooler in the north and the far south of the country.**

For each month of winter and for every major city in the republic, the average monthly temperatures will be significantly higher than the climatic norm. For example, in Fortaleza, Manaus, Belém, and São Luís in July, the coldest month of the year, the average temperatures over 31 days will reach 27-28°C. It is expected that in Belém, July, August, and September will be the hottest in the last 30 years.

### Precipitation

There will be a lack of rainfall across the entire country, except for the north of Roraima and Amapá, as well as the eastern part of the country. Precipitation will be below the multi-year average in all major cities, except for Recife. For example, in Brasília and Goiânia, the amount of rainfall will be three times less than usual, and in Belo Horizonte and Campo Grande – two times less.

Compared to 2023, the upcoming Brazilian winter will be wetter for one-third of the regional capitals: Salvador, Fortaleza, Curitiba, Manaus, Recife, Belém, São Luís, and São Paulo. For example, in Manaus, after an extremely dry last year, three times more rain is expected – up to 300 mm. In the Brazilian Highlands, on the contrary, drier conditions are forecasted. Meteorologists also believe that in Rio Grande do Sul and Porto Alegre, there will be 1.5 times less rainfall than last year – about 400 mm.
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The rainiest month for most cities is September. During this period, the maximum seasonal precipitation is expected in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, Manaus, Belo Horizonte, Curitiba, Goiânia, Porto Alegre, and Campo Grande. Only for the Atlantic coast in the north and northeast of the country will July be the rainiest. In the central part of the republic – Brasília, Belo Horizonte, and Goiânia – July is expected to have no days with precipitation. In the neighboring Campo Grande, it will also be dry (up to 7 mm).






Winter in Brazil will be hot: in all states of the federative republic, seasonal temperature norms will be exceeded


Imagine a wave so powerful it can level entire coastal cities and travel across oceans at the speed of a jet plane. This isn't science fiction — it's the awe-inspiring an

Imagine a wave so powerful it can level entire coastal cities and travel across oceans at the speed of a jet plane. This isn't science fiction — it's the awe-inspiring and terrifying reality of tsunamis, one of nature’s most destructive forces.

Imagine a wave so powerful it can level entire coastal cities and travel across oceans at the speed of a jet plane. This isn't science fiction — it's the awe-inspiring and terrifying reality of tsunamis, one of nature’s most destructive forces.
## What are tsunamis?

<figure>

![Waves crashing against a pier during a storm. Image by George Desipris/](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10145165/hgGFJzIHefbpWhVJNOTk/orig)

<figcaption>
Waves crashing against a pier during a storm. Image by George Desipris
</figcaption>
</figure>

Tsunamis, often mistakenly called “tidal waves,” are series of ocean waves triggered by the sudden displacement of large volumes of water. Unlike wind-generated waves that only affect the ocean’s surface, tsunamis [involve](https://www.usgs.gov/media/images/terms-describe-measurement-tsunamis) water movement from the surface all the way to the ocean floor.

The name “tsunami” comes from Japanese and translates literally to “[harbor wave](https://www.sms-tsunami-warning.com/pages/tsunami-definition).” Although its original meaning isn’t entirely descriptive, it’s the term we’ve adopted for these phenomena.

When a tsunami is generated, it can travel at [astonishing speeds](https://appliedsciences.nasa.gov/what-we-do/disasters/tsunamis) in the open ocean — up to 500 mph (800 km/h), comparable to a jet airplane. However, in deep water, tsunami waves may be barely noticeable, often only a foot or two high (30–60 cm). It’s only as they approach shallower coastal waters that tsunamis slow down and grow in height, potentially reaching over 100 feet (30 meters) tall.

The destructive potential of tsunamis is staggering. Between 1998 and 2017, tsunamis [caused](https://www.who.int/health-topics/tsunamis#tab=tab_1) more than 250,000 deaths globally, including over 227,000 deaths in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami alone. The 2011 Tohoku tsunami in Japan [reached](https://appliedsciences.nasa.gov/our-impact/story/ten-years-after-japan-tsunami) heights of up to 133 feet (40.5 meters) and penetrated up to 6 miles (10 km) inland, causing widespread destruction and triggering a major nuclear disaster.
## What causes tsunamis?
The most common cause of tsunamis is underwater earthquakes. When tectonic plates suddenly shift along a fault line beneath the ocean, they can displace enormous amounts of water, setting a tsunami in motion. However, tsunamis can also be triggered by:
* Underwater landslides
* Onshore landslides in which large volumes of debris fall into the water 
* Volcanic eruptions
* Meteorite impacts (rare but possible)
## How does a tsunami wave work?

<figure>

![Tsunami progression. Image by BBC/](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10145165/bUvMXRdgklMdwRIaEQKs/orig)

<figcaption>
Tsunami progression. Image by BBC
</figcaption>
</figure>

The [mechanics of a tsunami](https://www.sciencefocus.com/planet-earth/how-do-tsunamis-form) wave are fascinating, involving complex physical processes that transform a barely noticeable disturbance in the open ocean into a potentially devastating force at the coastline. Let’s explore the journey of a tsunami from its origin to its coastal impact:
1. **Activation**: When an underwater disturbance occurs, such as an earthquake, landslide, or volcanic eruption, it displaces a large volume of water. This [displacement](https://www.maine.gov/mema/maine-prepares/preparedness-library/tsunami-wave-mechanics) can be caused by vertical movement of the ocean floor, often less than three feet (one meter), but covering a vast area. The enormous volume of water displaced creates a series of waves that spread out in all directions from the source.
2. **Build**: In the open ocean, tsunami waves are deceptively small. However, what makes tsunamis unique is their incredibly long wavelength, which can [stretch](https://www.sciencefocus.com/planet-earth/how-do-tsunamis-form) up to 125 miles (200 km) between wave crests. This long wavelength means that the entire water column, from surface to seafloor, is in motion, even in the deepest parts of the ocean. The long wavelength also contributes to the tsunami’s remarkable speed.
3. **Formation**: Each wave has a peak and a trough, and sometimes the trough of a tsunami reaches land before the peak. This causes a [drawback](https://www.sms-tsunami-warning.com/pages/tsunami-drawback) where the tide seems to recede hundreds of meters further than usual. This drawback lasts for about six minutes before the peak reaches shore.
4. **Approach**: As the tsunami approaches shallower coastal waters, its behavior changes dramatically. The wave speed decreases due to friction with the seafloor, but the energy of the wave remains largely constant. This causes the wave height to increase significantly, a process known as [shoaling](https://earthweb.ess.washington.edu/tsunami/general/physics/transform.html).
5. **Impact**: When a tsunami reaches the shore, it can manifest as a massive wall of water or, deceptively, as a rapid rise in water level — like a river flowing incredibly fast. Tsunamis don’t just crash and recede like regular waves do. They can continue to [surge](https://www.noaa.gov/jetstream/tsunamis/tsunami-propagation) inland for several minutes, carrying debris and causing widespread destruction.
## Measuring tsunami strength
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![Exaggerated tsunami devastating a city. Image by DALL·E/](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10145165/phwIUfkQavWXHftasthW/orig)

<figcaption>
Exaggerated tsunami devastating a city. Image by DALL·E
</figcaption>
</figure>

Several scales and methods are used to quantify the size and impact of tsunamis:

**Tsunami intensity scales**
* Sieberg-Ambraseys scale: This is a 6-point scale that describes the physical effects of a tsunami. However, it has been [criticized](https://web.mit.edu/12.000/www/m2009/teams/1/scales1.html) for not being detailed enough for modern use.
* Papadopoulos-Imamura scale: A more recent 12-point scale that aims to provide a more detailed and sensitive measure of tsunami intensity. It’s [based](https://web.mit.edu/12.000/www/m2009/teams/1/scales1.html) on the tsunami’s effects on humans, objects, and buildings, similar to earthquake intensity scales.

**Tsunami magnitude scales**
* Soloviev-Imamura scale: This scale [uses](https://web.mit.edu/12.000/www/m2009/teams/1/scales1.html) the maximum tsunami wave height to calculate a magnitude value.
* Abe magnitude scale: Developed by Katsuyuki Abe, this scale [relates](https://web.mit.edu/12.000/www/m2009/teams/1/scales1.html) tsunami energy to earthquake magnitude and distance from the source.

**Other measurement and description methods**
* Inundation and run-up: These [measure](https://www.usgs.gov/media/images/terms-describe-measurement-tsunamis) how far inland and how high above sea level the tsunami waters reach, respectively.
* Flow depth: This [refers](https://www.usgs.gov/media/images/terms-describe-measurement-tsunamis) to the depth of tsunami waters at various onshore locations.
* DART (deep-ocean assessment and reporting of tsunamis) systems: These deep-ocean buoys can [detect](https://www.noaa.gov/jetstream/tsunamis/detection-warning-and-forecasting) and measure tsunamis as they pass, providing real-time data for warning systems.
## Mitigating tsunami damage
<figure>

![A modern seawall on the Isle of Wight, England. Image by Oikos-team/](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10879918/ZJmMXHnuktEOElrIUvom/orig)

<figcaption>
A modern seawall on the Isle of Wight, England. Image by Oikos-team
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Given the immense destructive potential of tsunamis, early warning systems are crucial. NASA and other agencies are working on improving tsunami detection and warning capabilities. For example, a network of over 1,600 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) ground stations can [detect](https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.2019.00350/full) tectonic activity and [feed](https://www.earthdata.nasa.gov/learn/sensing-our-planet/sizing-a-tsunami) data into models that predict potential tsunami activity.

Other mitigation strategies include building seawalls and floodgates, implementing evacuation plans, and conducting public education programs. Some countries, like Japan, even maintain or plant [coastal forests](https://phys.org/news/2016-08-seawalls-coastal-forests-japan-tsunami.html) to act as natural barriers against tsunamis.

What makes tsunamis particularly dangerous is their unpredictability. Unlike hurricanes or tornadoes, which can be forecast days in advance, tsunamis can strike with little warning, making rapid and accurate early warning systems vital for saving lives.

Understanding the science behind tsunamis not only satisfies our curiosity about these powerful natural phenomena but also helps us develop better prediction and protection strategies. As we continue to study and respect the awesome power of our oceans, we improve our ability to coexist with these forces of nature.

Accurate weather forecasts, weather radar and alerts are available in the app [Weather by Meteum for iOS and Android](https://redirect.appmetrica.yandex.com/serve/1037341602000971858).

The incredible power of tsunamis: Nature’s most destructive force


As hurricane season approaches, a specialized team of pilots and meteorologists prepare to fly directly into the heart of these powerful storms. Known as "hurricane hunte

As hurricane season approaches, a specialized team of pilots and meteorologists prepare to fly directly into the heart of these powerful storms. Known as "hurricane hunters," these brave individuals risk their lives to gather critical data that helps protect millions of people in coastal communities.

As hurricane season approaches, a specialized team of pilots and meteorologists prepare to fly directly into the heart of these powerful storms. Known as "hurricane hunters," these brave individuals risk their lives to gather critical data that helps protect millions of people in coastal communities.

Hurricane hunters are [members](https://hurricanescience.org/science/observation/aircraftrecon/hurricanehunters/) of the U.S. Air Force Reserve’s 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Hurricane Hunters. Their mission is to penetrate tropical cyclones and [collect](https://journals.flvc.org/flgeog/article/view/84431/81541) real-time measurements of wind speed, air pressure, temperature, and humidity within the storm. The Air Force Reserve [has](https://defensescoop.com/2024/05/08/air-force-hurricane-hunters-new-tech-enhance-weather-recon-missions/) 10 full-time crews and 10 part-time crews, supported by 278 maintenance personnel and 57 additional support staff.

## A perilous journey

![Hurricane hunters fly into the eye of Hurricane Ida. Image by the National Hurricane Center](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10879918/CbeiwqvBFvkUmSBNbviH/orig)  

Flying into a hurricane is an incredibly dangerous endeavor. As the aircraft penetrates the eyewall — the ring of intense thunderstorms surrounding the eye — it encounters extreme turbulence, with wind speeds changing by over 100 mph in just a few seconds. Powerful updrafts and downdrafts can toss the plane violently, subjecting the crew to immense gravitational forces.

Despite these hazards, hurricane hunters press on, typically [flying](https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nc/charlotte/weather/2023/08/22/meet-the-teams-that-fly-into-hurricanes-for-a-living) at altitudes between 500 and 10,000 feet (150–3000 m). Their specially equipped aircraft, such as the Lockheed WC-130J and the Lockheed WP-3D Orion, are designed to withstand the punishing conditions within a hurricane.

## Vital data for forecasting
The data collected by hurricane hunters is invaluable for meteorologists at the National Hurricane Center (NHC). By measuring the central pressure and wind speeds within the storm, forecasters can better predict a hurricane's intensity, track, and potential impacts.

This information is then fed into sophisticated [computer models](https://www.nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/tornadoes/forecasting/), improving the accuracy of hurricane forecasts and enabling more effective evacuation planning and disaster response efforts. Without the daring work of hurricane hunters, our ability to predict and prepare for these destructive storms would be significantly hindered.

## A legacy of bravery
The history of hurricane hunting [dates back](https://www.theweathernetwork.com/en/news/weather/severe/this-day-in-weather-history-july-27-1943-first-ever-flight-into-a-hurricane) to 1943, when a U.S. Army Air Forces pilot intentionally flew into a hurricane near Houston, Texas, on a bet. Since then, both military and civilian crews have continued this perilous tradition, advancing our understanding of tropical cyclones and saving countless lives.

As technology has evolved, so too have hurricane hunters’ capabilities. Modern aircraft are [equipped](https://vlab.noaa.gov/web/nws-heritage/-/then-and-now-noaa-hurricane-hunters) with cutting-edge instruments, such as Doppler radar and dropsonde systems, which provide detailed measurements of wind patterns and atmospheric conditions. Dropsondes, for instance, are small devices released from the aircraft that measure various atmospheric parameters as they fall, providing valuable data about the vertical profile of the atmosphere.

## The technology behind the missions
![​​Gulfstream IV-SP (front) and WP-3D Orion. Image by weather.gov](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10145165/VAsIiNNpLCHtkLANwRGY/orig)  

The aircraft used by hurricane hunters are marvels of modern engineering. NOAA’s two WP-3D Orion aircraft, [affectionately known](https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2021/january/05/move-over-kermit-and-miss-piggy) as “Miss Piggy” and “Kermit,” are equipped with dual radar systems that scan the storm both vertically and horizontally, providing a real-time picture of the developing hurricane. Additionally, NOAA’s Gulfstream IV-SP jet flies at high altitudes around the storm, collecting data on the winds and weather systems in the upper atmosphere that steer hurricanes.

In recent years, advancements in drone technology have further enhanced the capabilities of hurricane hunters. Drones like the Altius 600 are [deployed](https://www.noaa.gov/stories/drones-hunt-hurricanes-noaa-puts-some-to-test) to explore the hurricane’s inner boundary, providing detailed data measurements that help researchers determine whether a storm is intensifying. Saildrones and underwater gliders are also [used](https://research.noaa.gov/2023/06/28/noaa-deploys-drones-in-the-ocean-and-atmosphere-to-advance-hurricane-forecasting/) to measure ocean temperature and salinity, factors that can affect a hurricane’s strength and track.

![Altius 600 mid-flight. Image by Amy Tolson](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10879918/EzepqYgbDEXzrJGISCWO/orig)  

## Unsung heroes
While hurricane hunters may not receive the same recognition as other emergency responders, their contributions are no less vital. By braving the fury of nature's most powerful storms, they provide the critical data that enables communities to prepare and respond effectively.

As climate change continues to intensify hurricane activity, the role of hurricane hunters becomes even more crucial. Their bravery and dedication ensure that we are better equipped to face the challenges posed by these formidable storms, safeguarding lives and property in coastal regions around the world.

## The impact of hurricane hunter data
The data collected by hurricane hunters has a profound impact on hurricane forecasting. According to a [study](https://phys.org/news/2016-05-early-hurricane-hunter-intensity.html#:~:text=Data%20collected%20via%20airplane%20when,the%20new%20technique%20into%20practice) by Penn State researchers, incorporating hurricane hunter data into prediction models can improve hurricane intensity predictions by up to 15 percent. This improvement translates to billions of dollars in savings and provides more notice to people in the path of a storm, potentially saving lives.

During the 2017 hurricane season, hurricane hunters flew [over 90 missions](https://en.aviation-report.com/usaf-hurricane-hunters-2017-season/) into Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria, and several others, providing crucial data that helped forecasters accurately predict the paths and intensities of these devastating storms. The information collected during these missions was instrumental in guiding evacuation efforts and disaster response, highlighting the critical role of hurricane hunters in protecting communities.

## A day in the life of a hurricane hunter
A [typical mission](https://www.livescience.com/60370-inside-irma-hurricane-hunters-photos.html) for a hurricane hunter crew can last up to 11 hours and cover nearly 3,500 miles (>5200 km), with some missions lasting a mind-bending 18 hours. The crew includes pilots, meteorologists, and technicians who work together to navigate the storm and collect data. The aircraft fly in and around the storm, deploying dropsondes and other instruments to gather atmospheric data.

The data collected during these missions is transmitted in real-time to meteorologists on the ground, who use sophisticated computer models to analyze and interpret the information. This real-time data is crucial for making timely and accurate forecasts, allowing communities to better prepare for the impact of the storm.

## The future of hurricane hunting
As technology continues to advance, the capabilities of hurricane hunters will only improve. NOAA is currently [upgrading](https://defensescoop.com/2024/05/08/air-force-hurricane-hunters-new-tech-enhance-weather-recon-missions/) its fleet of hurricane hunter aircraft with state-of-the-art instruments, which are expected to further enhance the accuracy of hurricane forecasts and warnings. These advancements will help ensure that communities are better prepared for the increasing threat of hurricanes in the future.

In conclusion, hurricane hunters are an essential asset in unlocking the secrets of hurricanes. Their ability to fly directly into these massive storms and collect vital data has significantly improved the accuracy of hurricane forecasts, allowing communities to better prepare and respond to these devastating natural disasters. The bravery and dedication of hurricane hunters ensure that we are better equipped to face the challenges posed by these formidable storms, safeguarding lives and property in coastal regions around the world.

So, the next time you hear a hurricane forecast, remember the unsung heroes who ventured into the eye of the storm, risking everything to keep us safe.


Who are the hurricane hunters? Into the eye of the storm: The daring work of hurricane hunters

What causes ball lightning? What is ball lightning? This is our pick of the most mind-boggling facts about ball lightning. Let's unriddle at least some of the riddles.

Ball lightning is described as shining spherical objects floating around or hovering above the ground. Most of the eye-witness accounts describe this enigmatic phenomenon as balls of fire or electricity. Despite plenty of evidence that exists, scientists are not any closer to figuring it out, and we see more and more wild speculations about these mysterious spheres of light. The internet is full of ball lightning photos believed to be real. However, most of them are manipulated images.
What causes ball lightning? What is ball lightning? This is our pick of the most mind-boggling facts about ball lightning. Let's unriddle at least some of the riddles.
 
<figure>

![Authentic zoomed out images of ball lightning at varying times. Source: journals.aps.org/](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/5278294/DYEqxHxNxcYUfxWQJKam/orig)

<figcaption>
Authentic zoomed out images of ball lightning at varying times. Source: journals.aps.org
</figcaption>

</figure>

## Amazing facts about ball lightning: 

- There is no accepted theory for what causes it or what it is made of (there are over 400 existing hypotheses that describe the nature of ball lightning). One of the theories suggests that these balls of fire consist of electrons and force-activated ions. Some scientists agree that the origin of this phenomenon is sustained by electromagnetic waves generated when the Earth's crust fractures. When the Earth's surface is shaking during an earthquake or minor shocks, these flows of electromagnetic waves soar into the air giving rise to luminescent spheres.
Due to the nature of this rare phenomenon having a lifetime of a few seconds, scientists have not succeeded in making extensive observations of these luminous spheres or in studying their properties.
- Ball lightning is common during thunderstorms. At other times, its causes have no relation to weather conditions.
- All attempts to produce ball lightning in the lab proved to be fruitless: though some motley crews of scientists could bring luminous objects to life, none of them could re-create the original nature of these objects.  The thing is ball lightning looks like plasma bubbles that can't last long in lab conditions.
- A "typical" ball lighting is the size of a cabbage head. There were rare eye-witnesses saying the hovering objects varied from several millimeters to few meters in diameter. Ball lightning can take different forms: it can be round, pear-shaped, circular, ellipsoid, to name just a few.
 
<figure>

![Ball lightning that went down into the house through the chimney. Engraving, 1886 Source: wikipedia.com/](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10145165/pXAOICONtFFOoVGINHwb/orig)

<figcaption>
Ball lightning that went down into the house through the chimney. Engraving, 1886 Source: wikipedia.com
</figcaption>

</figure>

- According to the research made by Alexander Grigoriev, a scientist from the city of Yaroslavl, Russia, ball lightning lasts for seconds to hours and vanishes following no particular pattern: either silently or with a blast, disappearing when striking the ground or hitting any type of conductor.

- Ball lightning emits light: sometimes dim, sometimes very intense. Ball lighting can travel at speed ranging from a few centimeters per minute to tens of meters per second.

- These floating spheres can range in color from white to yellow to green, or be even translucent.

- Information about the dangers caused by ball lightning varies enormously: while some witnesses struck by the sphere say they have not suffered any burns, others claim they saw ball lightning setting a haystack alight or even killed people.
 
- Most commonly, ball lightning zips around 1.5 meters above the ground. Still further, it can go several kilometers up from the ground.

- In 1963, ball lightning passed through a US passenger aircraft and vanished instantly not hurting anyone aboard or causing damage to the plane.

- Medveditsk ridge (Russia) located at the border of the Saratov and Volgograd regions is considered to be an anomaly site with the biggest number of ball lightning occurrences across the globe.




Ball lightning. What causes ball lightning? The most incredible facts about this phenomenon


Understanding UV Radiation and Protecting Against Its Hazards

Sunlight plays a crucial role in life on our planet; however, excessive exposure can lead to harmful consequences. To assess the level of UV radiation in a specific area and take precautionary measures, scientists have developed a special UV index. Here, we explain what it is and how to protect yourself from varying intensities of ultraviolet rays.
<figure>

 ![Source: thehealthjournals.com/](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10931474/rRgujELJroruJUbFRTCo/orig)

<figcaption>
Source: thehealthjournals.com
</figcaption>
</figure> 

### The Power of Ultraviolet Radiation
Ultraviolet radiation greatly influences our biosphere. Sunlight aids in plant photosynthesis and helps humans produce essential Vitamin D. However, prolonged exposure to UV rays can pose health threats. Scientists categorize UV light based on its effects on living organisms:

— UV-A: The safest for skin, these rays have the longest wavelength and contribute to Vitamin D synthesis.

— UV-B: Medium wavelength rays that can cause sunburns and health complications.

— UV-C: The most harmful, capable of causing skin cancer and other severe illnesses.

The shorter the wavelength, the more intense the UV effect. Though UV-C has the shortest wavelength, Earth's atmosphere shields us from most of it.

UV radiation's strength and makeup depend on several factors, like latitude, time of day, altitude, cloud cover, and environmental conditions.

### Exposure: From Beaches to Cities
For the most UV protection, remain indoors during peak sun hours and venture out after sunset. While not feasible for most, especially summer vacationers, it's vital to gauge potential risks and have protective measures in place.

At the beach, the sea water reflects UV rays, amplifying their intensity. Unfortunately, many beachgoers expose significant skin areas, particularly dangerous in equatorial regions with high UV intensity.

High altitudes in the mountains are also UV-prone areas. As altitude increases, proximity to the sun reduces the time UV rays take to reach you. Moreover, snow and ice reflect sunlight, intensifying UV radiation.

Even if you're spending the summer in the city, hazards persist. UV rays can reflect off vehicles, roads, metallic structures, and large glass-paneled buildings. Wide city streets sometimes offer little shade, posing direct exposure threats.
<figure>

![Source: summitmedical.com/](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10931474/DJOBRrAlEhPlOkDaQXPg/orig)

<figcaption>
Source: summitmedical.com
</figcaption>
</figure> 

### Understanding the UV Index & Protective Measures
The UV index, developed by scientists, measures UV radiation intensity:

— Low (0–2): Minimal sunburn risk; no protective measures required.

— Moderate (3–5): Slight sunburn risk; use sunblock (SPF 15+) and UV-protective sunglasses.

— High (6–7): Elevated sunburn risk; apply high-SPF sunblock, wear protective clothing, and avoid direct sunlight from 10 AM-4 PM.

— Very High (8–10): Significant sunburn risk; use SPF 50 sunblock and minimize sun exposure between 10 AM-4 PM.

— Extreme (11+): Acute sunburn threat; maximize sun protection. Exposed skin and eyes can suffer within minutes.

You can check your area's current UV index on our website in the detailed forecast. On sunny days, always review the UV index. If elevated, apply sunblock and avoid direct sunlight.

Sunlight and UV Dangers: A Guide to Safe Exposure

When the ground starts to rumble, it’s too late to start preparing. Earthquakes can strike without warning, leaving destruction in their wake. However, with proper planni

When the ground starts to rumble, it’s too late to start preparing. Earthquakes can strike without warning, leaving destruction in their wake. However, with proper planning and preparation, we can significantly reduce the damage caused by these seismic events. Let’s explore some scientifically backed strategies to minimize earthquake damage, drawing from expert sources and government agencies.

When the ground starts to rumble, it’s too late to start preparing. Earthquakes can strike without warning, leaving destruction in their wake. However, with proper planning and preparation, we can significantly reduce the damage caused by these seismic events. Let’s explore some scientifically backed strategies to minimize earthquake damage, drawing from expert sources and government agencies.

## Building a strong foundation
The old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” couldn’t be more apt when it comes to earthquake preparedness. The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) [emphasizes](https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/risk-management/earthquake/seismic-building-codes) the importance of structural integrity in minimizing earthquake damage. For homeowners and businesses, this means:
1. Evaluating your building’s structure, especially if it’s older than current seismic design provisions in local building codes.
2. Considering retrofits to meet or exceed current building codes.
3. Paying special attention to unreinforced masonry, which is particularly vulnerable during earthquakes.

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![An example of earthquake retrofitting: a parking structure in Berkeley, California. Image by Alex Mead](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10145165/UFmnZWLizSbuaiEcORnB/orig) 

<figcaption>
An example of earthquake retrofitting: a parking structure in Berkeley, California. Image by Alex Mead

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## Securing the inside
While a strong building is crucial, what’s inside matters too. Non-structural elements can pose significant risks during an earthquake. Earthquake experts [recommend](https://www.earthquakeauthority.com/blog/2020/how-to-protect-your-home-before-an-earthquake) several steps to secure your interior spaces:
* Anchor heavy furniture, appliances, and shelving to wall studs.
* Secure ceiling lights and false ceilings to joists.
* Install flexible gas and water connections on appliances.
* Apply safety film to windows and glass doors to prevent shattering.
* Brace heavy machinery, containers, and tanks that could shift or rupture.
These measures not only protect your belongings but also reduce the risk of injury from falling objects.
## Preparing for the aftermath
Earthquake damage isn’t limited to the shaking itself. Secondary effects, like fires, can be just as devastating. The California Earthquake Authority [emphasizes](https://www.earthquakeauthority.com/blog/2020/what-should-you-do-after-an-earthquake) the importance of post-earthquake preparedness:
* Regularly check fire safety equipment, including extinguishers and water tanks.
* Assemble disaster preparedness kits with essentials like dust masks, portable chargers, and battery-powered radios.
* Train staff or family members on emergency procedures, including how to shut off gas, electricity, and water.
Did you know that after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, it was the subsequent fires that [caused](https://www.1906eqconf.org/plenarySessions.htm) about 90% of the total damage? This underscores the critical importance of fire prevention and preparedness in earthquake-prone areas.

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![The aftermath of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Image by the National Archives and Records Administration](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10145165/OlsPCfKyRotKQppzPQnu/orig)

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The aftermath of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Image by the National Archives and Records Administration

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## Community-wide efforts
Individual preparedness is crucial, but community-wide efforts can have an even broader impact. The Seismological Society of America [recommends](https://www.seismosoc.org/us-government-relations/actions-managing-earthquake-risk/) several actions for managing earthquake risk on a larger scale:
1. Developing a culture of preparedness through education and awareness programs.
2. Investing in retrofitting or replacing essential facilities like hospitals, schools, and emergency response centers.
3. Collaborating on region-wide, multi-organizational plans for earthquake response and recovery.
Japan’s nationwide earthquake early warning system, [implemented](https://www.jma.go.jp/jma/en/Activities/eew.html#:~:text=The%20Japan%20Meteorological%20Agency%20(JMA),such%20as%20TV%20and%20radio) in 2007, provides a few seconds to a minute of warning before strong shaking begins, allowing people to take immediate protective actions.
## The role of technology
Advancements in technology play an increasingly important role in earthquake preparedness. While we can’t predict earthquakes with precision, early warning systems can provide crucial seconds of advance notice. Many cities and states now offer free earthquake alert apps that can give residents a brief heads-up before the shaking starts.

For instance, the [ShakeAlert system](https://www.usgs.gov/programs/earthquake-hazards/science/earthquake-early-warning-overview) on the U.S. West Coast can [detect](https://www.usgs.gov/news/entire-us-west-coast-now-has-access-shakealert-earthquake-early-warning) earthquakes as they begin, potentially providing valuable seconds of warning to areas farther from the epicenter. This time can be crucial for automated systems to slow trains, open firehouse doors, or initiate other protective measures.
## Innovative building technologies
Engineers and architects are continually developing new technologies to make buildings more earthquake-resistant. Some fascinating innovations include:
1. [Base isolation](https://www.taylordevices.com/base-isolation/#:~:text=A%20base%20isolation%20system%20is,an%20earthquake%20is%20reduced%20significantly.): This technique involves placing flexible pads between a building and its foundation, allowing the structure to move somewhat independently of the ground during an earthquake.
2. [Tuned mass dampers](https://engineering.purdue.edu/~ce573/Documents/Intro%20to%20Structural%20Motion%20Control_Chapter4.pdf#:~:text=A%20tuned%20mass%20damper%20(TMD),phase%20with%20the%20structural%20motion): Large weights placed at the top of tall buildings that move in the opposite direction of the building’s sway, helping to counteract the earthquake’s motion.
3. [Shape memory alloys](https://phys.org/news/2012-02-shape-memory-alloys-earthquake-resistant.html): These materials can “remember” their original shape after being deformed, potentially allowing buildings to return to their original position after an earthquake.
4. [Self-centering systems](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2020/8859881): These designs allow buildings to rock during an earthquake and then return to their original position, minimizing structural damage.

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![Shanghai Tower tuned mass dumper. Image by: MasaneMiyaPA](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10145165/CqofyeijfVJrZUTDdmnJ/orig)  

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Shanghai Tower tuned mass dumper. Image by: MasaneMiyaPA

</figcaption>
</figure>

## Seismic deconvolution and masking
[Seismic deconvolution](https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-94-009-8105-8_4#:~:text=Deconvolution%20is%20a%20general%20term,the%20seismic%20sources%20and%20receivers) removes effects that mask primary reflected events on a seismogram, such as absorption, reverberation, and ghosting. This technique helps obtain clearer seismic data, crucial for understanding geological structures and making informed decisions about building designs and retrofits.

Additionally, explainable artificial intelligence (AI) is also [being used](https://arxiv.org/abs/2307.06682) to design masks for self-supervised seismic denoising. This approach helps suppress noise in seismic data without requiring prior knowledge of the noise itself, making it a fully automated denoising procedure. This technology can significantly improve the accuracy of seismic data interpretation, leading to better earthquake preparedness and response strategies.
## “Floating house”
One of the most intriguing innovations in earthquake-resistant housing comes from Japan. Air Danshin Systems Inc., a Japanese company, has developed a groundbreaking technology that allows houses to temporarily “float” above the ground during earthquakes. Here’s how Air Danshin’s [system](https://airdanshin.co.jp/house/) works:
* The house is built with an additional foundation, a sensor, and an air compressor.
* When the sensor detects the initial tremors of an earthquake, it sends a signal to the external air compressor.
* Within 0.5 to 1 second, the compressor activates and pumps compressed air between the earthquake-proof foundation and the base of the house.
* This action lifts the entire structure approximately 3 cm (about 1.2 inches) off the ground.
* The house remains elevated during the earthquake, effectively isolating it from ground movements.
* Once the tremors subside, the air is gradually released, and the house settles back onto its foundation.
Air Danshin [claims](https://airdanshin.co.jp/house/) that a house not in contact with the ground during an earthquake will not shake, thus preventing damage. However, this technology has limitations. The 3 cm lift height may not be sufficient for earthquakes with significant vertical movement. Additionally, the system comes with a substantial cost.

Despite these limitations, Air Danshin’s floating house technology represents an innovative approach to earthquake-resistant housing. While it may not be a complete solution to earthquake damage, it could be a valuable piece of a larger strategy for improving seismic safety.
## Economic impact and insurance
The economic toll of earthquakes can be staggering. The 1994 Northridge earthquake in California, the [second-most](https://www.californiaresidentialmitigationprogram.com/resources/blog/which-state-has-the-most-earthquakes-in-the-us#:~:text=Not%20only%20is%20Alaska%20the,fact%20of%20life%20in%20Alaska) seismically-active U.S. states, [caused](https://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/earthquakes/northridge) an estimated $20 billion in damage. Earthquake insurance can play a crucial role in recovery, but standard homeowner’s insurance policies typically don’t cover earthquake damage.

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![The aftermath of the Northridge Earthquake of January 17, 1994. Image by Gary B. Edstrom](https://avatars.mds.yandex.net/get-weather/10145165/wXmpugRBGGinFKpBiBVm/orig)   

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The aftermath of the Northridge Earthquake of January 17, 1994. Image by Gary B. Edstrom

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</figure>

In California, the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) provides most residential earthquake insurance policies. [As of 2022](https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/risk-management/earthquake/insurance#:~:text=Despite%20experiencing%2090%25%20of%20the,California's%20residents%20have%20earthquake%20insurance.), only about 10% of California homeowners had earthquake insurance, highlighting a significant gap in financial preparedness.

While we can’t prevent earthquakes, we can certainly mitigate their impact. By focusing on structural integrity, securing non-structural elements, preparing for aftermath scenarios, fostering community preparedness, and leveraging technology, we can significantly reduce the damage and disruption caused by seismic events.

Remember, earthquake preparedness is an ongoing process, not a one-time effort. Regular assessments, updates to your preparedness plans, and staying informed about the latest safety recommendations are all part of a comprehensive approach to minimizing earthquake damage.

As we continue to improve our understanding of seismic risks and develop new mitigation techniques, we move closer to a future where earthquakes, while still formidable natural events, no longer pose the catastrophic threat they once did.

Accurate weather forecasts, weather radar and alerts are available in the app Weather by Meteum for iOS and Android. 

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