Monday, October 28, 2013

New Method Could Provide Heat Wave Early Warnings

A blocking pattern in the jet stream set up conditions for a historic U.S. heat wave in March 2012. (Credit: NOAA) Click to enlarge.
Heat waves pose major health and economic problems in the U.S. and around the world.  In 2012 a heat wave baked the U.S., shattering temperature records, causing 82 deaths, and withering crops across the country.  Improved forecasts with longer lead times could be an asset to emergency managers, farmers, and others who suffer the worst impacts from heat waves.  New research holds some promise of being able to predict them up to 20 days in advance across the U.S. by monitoring weather patterns.

New Method Could Provide Heat Wave Early Warnings

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