The Enduring Lessons of Hurricane Katrina and the Current State of U.S. Disaster Preparedness

The Tempest Stela and Bronze Age ChronologySubject: Analysis of the "Tempest Stela" and its potential impact on Bronze Age chronology.Executive Summary:A new interpretation of the "Tempest Stela," a 3,500-year-old Egyptian stone block, suggests it may be the world's oldest weather report, describing severe weather events potentially linked to the volcanic eruption at Thera (Santorini). This connection, if valid, could revise the dating of the reign of Pharaoh Ahmose, pushing it back by 30-50 years. This shift would have significant ramifications for the established chronology of the ancient Near East and Eastern Mediterranean, potentially resolving discrepancies between archaeological evidence and radiocarbon dating and offering new insights into the rise and fall of Bronze Age empires.Key Themes and Ideas:The Tempest Stela as a Weather Report: The inscription on the stela, previously interpreted by some as metaphorical, is now argued to be a literal account of extreme weather events. The inscription describes "rain, darkness and ‘the sky being in storm without cessation, louder than the cries of the masses.’" Further details include "a tempest of rain," and "bodies floating down the Nile like ‘skiffs of papyrus.’"Connection to the Thera Eruption: Researchers believe the weather patterns described on the stela could be the result of the massive volcanic eruption at Thera. This eruption, which occurred in the Mediterranean, would have had widespread climatological effects, including in Egypt. According to Marina Baldi, a scientist in climatology and meteorology, "A modification in the atmospheric circulation after the eruption could have driven a change in the precipitation regime of the region. Therefore the episode in the Tempest Stela could be a consequence of these climatological changes."Revised Chronology of Ahmose's Reign: If the stela does describe the aftermath of the Thera eruption, the dating of Ahmose’s reign, currently estimated at around 1550 B.C., could be pushed back 30-50 years earlier. As Nadine Moeller, assistant professor of Egyptian archaeology notes, "This is important to scholars of the ancient Near East and eastern Mediterranean, generally because the chronology that archaeologists use is based on the lists of Egyptian pharaohs, and this new information could adjust those dates."Impact on Bronze Age History: A revised dating of Ahmose's reign has the potential to realign the timeline of other important events in the ancient Near East, such as the fall of the Canaanites and the collapse of the Babylonian Empire. David Schloen, associate professor in the Oriental Institute, argues that "This new information would provide a better understanding of the role of the environment in the development and destruction of empires in the ancient Middle East." The eruption and resulting tsunami could have weakened the Hyksos rulers of Egypt and disrupted trade, contributing to the fall of the Babylonian Empire.Resolution of Dating Discrepancies: Radiocarbon dating of an olive tree buried under volcanic residue placed the Thera eruption at 1621-1605 B.C. Conclusion:The interpretation of the Tempest Stela as a record of the Thera eruption's impact presents a compelling argument for revising the chronology of the Bronze Age Near East. While further research is needed, this new perspective has the potential to significantly alter our understanding of this crucial period in human history.

10 Feb 15min

DOGE Scrutinizes NOAADate: February 10, 2025Subject: Review of the Department of Government Efficiency's (DOGE) actions and potential impacts on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).Executive Summary:The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, is actively scrutinizing and gaining access to NOAA's IT systems. This has raised significant concerns about potential budget and staff cuts, the loss or damage of vital climate and weather data, impacts on NOAA's ability to provide critical services (like weather forecasting and hurricane tracking), and the removal of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) related materials. The situation is described as a "hostile corporate takeover" by some observers and is linked to Project 2025, a conservative plan to dismantle and downsize NOAA. These actions are generating strong opposition from Democratic lawmakers and concerns from former NOAA officials and related organizations.Key Themes and Information:DOGE Access and Actions:DOGE has gained access to NOAA's IT systems, raising concerns about the security of sensitive data. At least one member of DOGE was requested access.DOGE staffers reportedly "blew through security" and entered NOAA headquarters. As Andrew Rosenberg noted, "They apparently just sort of walked past security and said: ‘Get out of my way,’ and they’re looking for access for the IT systems, as they have in other agencies."The DOGE is reportedly looking for anything tied to DEI and ordering the removal of DEI-related materials from bulletin boards, websites, and internal communications. Employee resource groups and support spaces have also been taken down.DOGE employee Nikhil Rajpal was given edit access to NOAA's documents, reportedly following an order from acting Secretary of Commerce Jeremy Pelter.The National Marine Fisheries Service has been ordered to halt "ALL INTERNATIONAL ENGAGEMENTS."Personnel Changes and Potential Impacts:NOAA is preparing for potential layoffs and budget cuts. The agency has been told to expect to lose half of its employees and prepare for a 30% budget cut, according to former NOAA officials.A NOAA employee who led diversity and inclusion efforts was placed on administrative leave.There are concerns that NOAA's "irreplaceable climate and weather data could be damaged or lost."Impact on NOAA's Mission and Services:Concerns that cuts to NOAA could negatively impact its ability to provide critical services, including weather forecasts and warnings for severe weather events like hurricanes, wildfires, and tornadoes. As Jennifer Brady of Climate Central notes, "NOAA is a vital piece of our communication strategy...Their data is vetted, it's verified. So, we know we can use it and trust it in our reports."The Union of Concerned Scientists' Juan Declet-Barreto describes the situation as "a hostile corporate takeover of a government agency that provides a suite of services to the public to protect lives and to protect property."There is a fear that privatizing weather forecasts could put more Americans at risk, especially if access to this information becomes a paid service.Project 2025 Connection:DOGE's actions are linked to Project 2025, a conservative plan that advocates for breaking up and downsizing NOAA, deeming it "one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry and, as such, is harmful to future U.S. prosperity."

10 Feb 22min

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