Hurricane Forecasts Jeopardized by SSMIS Satellite Data Termination

Environmental Impacts of Satellite Re-entryExecutive Summary:Meteorology Matters synthesizes information from five sources regarding the growing concern over the environmental impact of satellites burning up in the atmosphere upon re-entry. Driven by the increasing number of satellites, particularly mega-constellations like Starlink, this process releases metallic particles into the mesosphere and stratosphere, potentially affecting ozone depletion and climate. While research is ongoing, studies indicate a significant increase in stratospheric aluminum levels and raise concerns about the long-term consequences of this "satellite ash."Key Themes and Ideas:The Rise of Satellite Constellations and Increased Re-entries:The number of satellites in orbit has increased dramatically in recent years, and is expected to continue growing exponentially. The MIT Technology Review article notes, "Some 15 years ago, barely a thousand satellites orbited our planet. Now the number has risen to about 10,000, and with the rise of satellite constellations like Starlink, another tenfold increase is forecast by the end of this decade."This growth leads to a corresponding increase in satellite re-entries as these satellites reach the end of their operational lives. The same article states that 2024 had already seen "950 satellite reentries" by late November."Almost 20 percent of all satellites ever launched have re-entered Earth’s atmosphere in the last half-decade, burning up in superfast, superhot blazes," according to the New York Times article.The Problem of Satellite Ash:When satellites re-enter the atmosphere, they burn up, releasing metallic particles, primarily aluminum, into the atmosphere. This is described as "satellite ash."The MIT Technology Review article emphasizes that this ash "can harm the atmosphere and potentially alter the climate."The PNAS paper provides evidence: "Measurements show that about 10% of the aerosol particles in the stratosphere contain aluminum and other metals that originated from the 'burn-up' of satellites and rocket stages during reentry." It also notes that planned increases in satellite numbers "could cause up to half of stratospheric sulfuric acid particles to contain metals from reentry."Atmospheric Impact & Ozone Depletion:The primary concern revolves around the potential impact on the ozone layer. "The long-term accumulation of aluminum oxides from reentering satellites can cause significant ozone depletion" (Potential Ozone Depletion From Satellite Demise During Atmospheric Reentry in th.pdf).The PNAS paper notes the lack of definite implications yet identified but raises the possibility of effects on "the nucleation of ice or nitric acid trihydrate (NAT)," which could impact polar stratospheric clouds.The "Potential Ozone Depletion" source determined the 2022 level of aluminum from satellite reentry to be a "29.5% increase of aluminum in the atmosphere above the natural level, resulting in around 17 metric tons of aluminum oxides injected into the mesosphere."Composition of the Ash & Stratospheric Aerosol Changes:Research indicates that the metallic content of stratospheric aerosol particles is changing due to satellite re-entry. The PNAS paper found "over 20 elements from reentry were detected and were present in ratios consistent with alloys used in spacecraft."Specific metals identified include lithium, aluminum, copper, niobium, silver, and hafnium. The presence of these metals can be linked to specific components

9 Feb 14min

FEMA TSA Hotels https://www.femaemergencyhotels.com/——————————————————————Meteorology Matters summarizes the ongoing recovery efforts in Western North Carolina and Florida following Tropical Storm Helene. The storm has caused widespread displacement, economic hardship, and infrastructure damage, requiring extensive intervention from FEMA, state, and local agencies, as well as volunteer organizations. The recovery process is complex, with challenges including housing shortages, bureaucratic hurdles, and financial burdens on individuals and utility customers.Key Themes and Information:1. Housing Crisis and FEMA Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA):WNC Exodus from Hotels: Thousands of individuals and families displaced by Helene have left FEMA-funded hotel accommodations in Western North Carolina. "In early January, the agency reported that over 5,700 households had been in the program at the beginning of 2025, but by Jan. 16 around 3,000 of those households had left the program." As of February 4th, only 762 households remained in the program in the region.Buncombe County Impact: A significant portion of those remaining in the TSA program are in Buncombe County (585 households). A number of these were deemed ineligible for continued assistance.Rental Assistance Increase: FEMA rental assistance has increased, suggesting some are moving into more permanent housing: "FEMA Representative Bob Spence noted that while the number of households utilizing the program has dropped, rental assistance from FEMA 'has gone up,' indicating that many are moving into more permanent housing solutions after Helene." However, the demand for affordable housing remains a critical issue.Eligibility Challenges and Ineligibility Reasons: Eligibility for TSA depends on FEMA inspections determining housing uninhabitability due to storm damage. Reasons for ineligibility include no eligible damage to the home, the home being habitable, inability to reach the survivor for inspection, missed inspections, withdrawal from the program, or being unhoused before the disaster. Some people avoided contacting FEMA because they knew they shouldn't be in the hotel anymore.Individual Stories of Displacement: The article highlights stories of individuals like Kevin Moreland and Randy Billiot, illustrating the difficulties people face in finding suitable housing. Moreland's criminal background presents a significant barrier, while Billiot's health issues and eviction exacerbate his vulnerability. "'Some people got moved into a house. Some people into the hospital and some onto the street, you know?' Moreland said."TSA Program Timeline: The TSA program was extended through May 26th at the request of Gov. Josh Stein.2. Financial Burden and Utility Rate Hikes in Florida:Increased Electricity Costs: Customers of Duke Energy and Tampa Electric in Florida will face significant increases in their monthly bills to cover the costs of hurricane recovery. Duke Energy customers will see around a $32 increase (offset by a temporary $10 seasonal adjustment), and Tampa Electric customers will see around a $20 increase for 1,000 kilowatt-hours of usage.Regulator Concerns: Utility regulators expressed concerns about the rising costs for residents and the increasing frequency of devastating storms.

8 Feb 19min

Impending Winter Storms - Midwest and Northeast (February 2025)Executive Summary:The Midwest and Northeast of the United States are bracing for a series of five winter storms expected to deliver significant snowfall and ice over a two-week period starting in early February 2025. These storms, driven by a persistent jet stream, could bring more snow than the regions have experienced in the past two winters combined, potentially leading to hazardous travel conditions, school closures, and power outages. The Washington Post article notes that "Snowfall has been below average so far this season across many parts of the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. That may not be the case in a week from now."Key Themes and Forecast Details:Jet Stream Influence: The jet stream is identified as the primary driver of these storms. Both sources mention the jet stream's role in funneling storms across the northern US. CNN states: "The storms are being driven by the jet stream, essentially a river of air in the atmosphere that storms flow through." and the Washington Post notes that "A powerful jet stream, or ribbon of fast-moving air in the upper atmosphere upon which storms track, will fuel several winter storms next week.".Significant Snowfall Potential: The articles forecast substantial snowfall, with some areas potentially receiving double-digit snowfall amounts in a single storm. The CNN article states that "Boston could be buried by a foot of snow Saturday night and Sunday, which would be more snow than fell all of last winter."Icing Concerns: In addition to snow, freezing rain and sleet are expected, particularly south of Interstate 80, creating hazardous conditions. The Washington Post states "Freezing rain and sleet will be a big part of the weekend storm, especially south of Interstate 80 from Ohio through New Jersey, from late Saturday into early Sunday." The CNN article notes "A mix of freezing rain, sleet and snow will spread over Pennsylvania by Saturday evening. The same messy mix will spread through New Jersey, New York City and Long Island shortly after."Affected Areas:Snow: A corridor from central Minnesota through northern Michigan, central portions of New York, southern Maine, and southern New England (including Boston) is expected to receive significant snowfall.

8 Feb 13min

Alt National Park Service & the Political ClimateDate: Feb 7, 2024Subject: Emergence and Activities of the Alt National Park Service in a Politically Charged EnvironmentExecutive Summary:Radiology mattersexamines the Alt National Park Service (AltNPS), focusing on its origins, motivations, activities, and the broader political context in which it operates. The AltNPS, initially formed in 2017 in response to perceived threats to environmental protection under the Trump administration, has re-emerged amidst concerns about government actions, particularly those involving Elon Musk and his team's influence within federal agencies. The group acts as a "resistance" movement, aiming to protect the environment, public lands, and government employees from what it views as detrimental policies and actions.Key Themes and Ideas:Origins and Purpose:The AltNPS emerged in 2017 following the election of Donald Trump, driven by concerns over potential environmental deregulation and suppression of scientific information. As described on their Facebook page, they are "the official 'resistance' team of U.S. National Park Service," with a mission "to stand up for the National Park Service to help protect and preserve the environment for present and future generations."The group initially utilized social media, particularly Twitter, to disseminate information and express their concerns, sometimes in defiance of official gag orders or restrictions on government communications.Concerns Regarding Government Actions and Influence:A central theme is the AltNPS's opposition to actions taken by the Trump administration and, specifically, the influence of Elon Musk and his staff within federal agencies. The AltNPS Facebook posts from early 2025 detail a range of concerns, including:Access to sensitive data: "Elon Musk now has access to your Social Security number. The world’s richest man has gained access to the confidential personal information of every taxpayer in the United States."Potential misuse of power: "An Elon Musk staffer misused the U.S. Marshals Service by falsely invoking their authority to intimidate."Workforce reductions and restructuring: "The Trump administration plans to reduce the USAID workforce from over 10,000 to around 290 positions."Rollbacks of environmental protections: "Trump announced that he plans to sign an executive order next week to end the promotion of paper straws as an alternative to plastic ones. So much for the sea turtles."Restrictions on federal employees and their communications: "Memos have been distributed to instill fear, warning federal employees that layoffs will begin if not enough people accept Elon’s buyout. This no longer feels 'voluntary'."Methods of Resistance and Advocacy:Information Dissemination: The AltNPS uses social media platforms to share information about government actions, potential threats to the environment, and resources for federal employees. They describe themselves as "a group of tree-huggers dedicated to keeping Americans informed."Call to Action: The AltNPS encourages the public to contact elected officials, spread awareness, and support their cause. "Please continue to call and spread the word."

7 Feb 17min

Today’s Meteorology Matters podcast is based on an article from The Atlantic on how Hitler dismantled democracy in Germany except you’ll notice one tiny detail has been changed. Donald Trump‘s name has been substituted for Adolf Hitler‘s. How Hitler Dismantled a Democracy in 53 DaysSource: "How Hitler Dismantled a Democracy in 53 Days" by Timothy W. Ryback, The Atlantic (January 8, 2025)Executive Summary:This article details the rapid and calculated manner in which Adolf Hitler, after becoming Chancellor of Germany on January 30, 1933, systematically dismantled the Weimar Republic's democratic structures and processes. The article highlights Hitler's exploitation of the existing constitution and political vulnerabilities to consolidate power and establish an authoritarian regime within a remarkably short timeframe (53 days). It emphasizes that this process was not inevitable but rather a result of political contingency and strategic exploitation of weaknesses in the Weimar system.Main Themes and Key Ideas:Exploitation of Legal Loopholes: Hitler recognized and exploited the "potential weakness inherent in every formal form of law" (Hans Frank). He used the Weimar Constitution itself as a tool to subvert democracy, ironically fulfilling a "legality oath" he took before the Constitutional Court.Obstruction and Paralysis: Prior to becoming Chancellor, Hitler spent years undermining the political system by "co-opting or crushing right-wing competitors and paralyzing legislative processes."Key Quotes:"Hitler set about destroying a constitutional republic through constitutional means.""Hitler knew firsthand how easily an ambitious political agenda could be scuttled.""37 percent represents 75 percent of 51 percent," (Hitler's flawed logic regarding his party's power.)“The Führer was a man who was possible in Germany only at that very moment,” (Hans Frank)"After a thirteen-year struggle the National Socialist movement has succeeded in breaking through into the government, but the struggle to win the German nation is only beginning," (Hitler after the elections)."In this historic hour, we German Social Democrats solemnly pledge ourselves to the principles of humanity and justice, of freedom and socialism," (Otto Wels's defiant speech)."No enabling act gives you the power to destroy ideas that are eternal and indestructible," (Otto Wels).“On the basis of this law the Hitler Cabinet can reconstruct the entire system of government as it eliminates practically all constitutional restraints.” (U.S. Ambassador Frederic Sackett)Implications:The article serves as a cautionary tale about the fragility of democratic institutions and the dangers of political extremism. It underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting constitutional guardrails and resisting attempts to exploit legal processes for authoritarian ends. It also highlights the role of individual actors and the potential for seemingly minor decisions to have profound historical consequences.

6 Feb 18min

National Weatherperson's Day: This day, observed on February 5th, commemorates the birth of John Jeffries (1744/1745-1819), a physician and one of America’s first weather observers, who began daily measurements in Boston in 1774 and who took the first balloon observation in 1784. The day recognizes the men and women who provide weather, water, and climate services. It was created in the 1990’s. Meteorology Matters provides an overview of the meteorology field, its various facets, and related professions. We cover career paths, educational requirements, job outlook, demographics, and the historical context of weather observation. It highlights the diversity within the field and the numerous roles professionals play in public safety, scientific advancement, and commercial sectors on this National Weatherperson’s Day in the USA

5 Feb 20min

Florida Heat and Worker SafetyKey Themes:Extreme Heat as a Growing Threat:Florida is experiencing increasingly severe and frequent heat waves, exacerbated by climate change and warming oceans.The heat index, which factors in both temperature and humidity, is reaching dangerous levels. South Florida is particularly hard hit, experiencing a much greater number of days with heat indexes above 105F than in previous years."The climate crisis is making Florida hotter – and more humid." ("3 heat.pdf")Data shows record-breaking temperatures across Florida, with 2023 having some of the hottest months on record, and 2024 seeing record April and May temperatures."Last year tied as the hottest ever, with July and August 2023 both breaking monthly records. So far this year, Florida has recorded its hottest ever April and May..." ("3 heat.pdf")Vulnerable Outdoor Workers:A significant portion of Florida's workforce is exposed to extreme heat while working outdoors. Estimates range from 25% to 26.2% of the workforce. This includes landscaping, construction, agricultural, and amusement park workers."A new report suggests one in four Floridians who work outdoors are vulnerable to extreme heat, according to the Florida Policy Institute (FPI)." ("3 hot.pdf")Many of these workers are low-wage, migrant workers from Mexico, Central America, Cuba and Haiti, with less access to information and resources."Florida has an estimated 1.8 million outdoor workers, predominantly migrants, who are exposed to increasingly brutal weather conditions..." ("3 heat.pdf")"The heat makes you feel like you’re suffocating," said Raimundo Perdigon, 58, from Cuba, recalling a recent job building an outdoor bathroom. ("3 heat.pdf")Indigenous Guatemalan workers, some of whom speak little English or Spanish, are particularly vulnerable due to difficulty accessing health information and advice.

5 Feb 14min

Impending Eruption of Axial Seamount Underwater VolcanoSummary:Meteorology Matters looks at the Axial Seamount, an underwater volcano located approximately 300 miles off the coast of Oregon, is highly likely to erupt sometime in 2025. This prediction is based on decades of monitoring, a pattern of regular eruptions, and real-time data indicating the volcano is inflating as magma accumulates. While this eruption poses no direct threat to human lives due to its depth and distance from shore, it provides a unique research opportunity to improve volcanic forecasting and understand undersea volcanic processes.Key Themes and Findings:Imminent Eruption:Multiple sources agree that the Axial Seamount is expected to erupt in 2025.William Chadwick, a geologist at the University of Oregon and a key researcher studying the seamount, is quoted in multiple articles stating the eruption is likely this year: "A year ago, Axial seemed to be taking a nap but now it’s waking up and we think it’s likely to erupt before the end of 2025," and "An eruption does not seem imminent, but it can’t do this forever,”The volcano's behavior (inflation and increased seismicity) mirrors patterns observed before previous eruptions in 1998, 2011, and 2015.Unique Monitoring Capabilities:The Axial Seamount is described as "the most active submarine volcano in the northeast Pacific" and "the most well-instrumented submarine volcano on the planet."It is monitored by a network of instruments and cables extending from the coast, providing real-time data. This includes seismometers, bottom pressure recorders, and the "Regional Cabled Array" which has more than 140 instruments.This extensive monitoring allows researchers to closely track the volcano's activity: "And so we actually have real time data from Axial Seamount, which is pretty unusual." - William ChadwickScientists are able to track the volcano's inflation, a key indicator of an impending eruption: "The volcano has been inflating 'like a balloon' as molten rock accumulates within."Predictable Eruption Pattern:The Axial Seamount exhibits a "pretty repeatable pattern from one eruption to the next" according to Chadwick.Eruptions occur when the volcano reaches a specific level of inflation, making predictions feasible.Scientists successfully predicted the 2015 eruption based on these patterns. "The 2015 swelling allowed Chadwick...to predict that year’s eruption — “our best forecasting success,” he says."Non-Threatening to Humans:The volcano is approximately 300 miles off the Oregon coast and a mile underwater, meaning that any eruption poses no threat to people or boats on the surface: "If you were on a boat above the volcano, you wouldn't know at all that it had erupted." - Scott Nooner.Eruptions are "controlled" and are not expected to generate tsunamis. "The good news is that because the top of the volcano is still 4,500 feet below the ocean’s surface, it poses no danger to people."The type of eruption, forming pillow lava, is not explosive and results in oozing lava flow.

3 Feb 22min