Hurricane Erin has rapidly intensified into a rare Category 5 storm, a phenomenon becoming more common due to global warming. The storm’s rapid intensification puts it among the fastest-strengthening Atlantic hurricanes on record, with its peak strength occurring unusually early in the season. Erin is expected to produce dangerous surf and rip currents along the East Coast and the Bahamas, and its wind field is forecast to expand significantly. While avoiding direct landfall, Erin’s intensity is fueled by warmer-than-normal Atlantic waters, making it the first major hurricane of the season, with forecasters expecting above-average tropical activity overall.
Read More
The impending cutoff of crucial satellite data for hurricane forecasting has been delayed by one month, until July 31st, following pressure from NOAA and NASA officials. This data, sourced from a Department of Defense weather satellite, provides critical information on hurricane structure and intensity, particularly during nighttime and when hurricane hunter aircraft are not in flight. The initial decision to halt data sharing sparked concern among meteorologists due to the potential impact on forecast accuracy, especially with an active hurricane season anticipated. While the delay offers temporary relief, the long-term issue remains unresolved, as there is no current plan to resume data flow.
Read More
FEMA staff are reportedly bewildered by their agency head’s recent admission of being unaware of the existence of the US hurricane season. The revelation has sparked widespread disbelief and concern, particularly given the crucial role FEMA plays in disaster response and preparedness. This lack of basic knowledge about such a significant and predictable annual event raises serious questions about the agency’s leadership and its ability to effectively respond to natural disasters.
The sheer incredulity surrounding this situation is almost palpable. A fourth-grader understands hurricane season; it’s a fundamental element of elementary school science curricula. For the head of FEMA, an agency entrusted with coordinating federal responses to hurricanes, to profess ignorance on this matter is beyond astonishing; it borders on the farcical.… Continue reading
A report surfaced claiming the newly appointed FEMA chief admitted to his staff that he was unaware of hurricane season. This revelation, frankly, is astonishing. It’s not just a matter of lacking knowledge about a specific date; it points to a fundamental lack of awareness regarding a major aspect of FEMA’s core function. One would expect the leader of a disaster relief agency to at least possess a basic understanding of the annual hurricane season in a country that regularly experiences devastating hurricanes.
This lack of awareness raises serious concerns about his preparedness to lead FEMA. The agency plays a crucial role in responding to natural disasters, and the hurricane season is a significant period requiring intensive planning, preparation, and immediate response capabilities.… Continue reading
The head of FEMA’s recent statement, claiming unawareness of the US hurricane season, has understandably left many within the agency deeply perplexed. This revelation, coming from the leader of an organization heavily focused on disaster preparedness and response, is causing widespread confusion and concern. The sheer scale of the agency’s hurricane season preparations, involving countless personnel and resources, stands in stark contrast to this apparent lack of awareness at the highest level.
The disconnect is particularly striking given that a significant portion of FEMA’s work centers around hurricane preparedness and relief. For the head of the agency to be unfamiliar with such a fundamental aspect of their mandate raises serious questions about leadership and operational effectiveness.… Continue reading
FEMA’s acting administrator, David Richardson, recently rescinded the agency’s 2022-2026 strategic plan, deeming its goals irrelevant to FEMA’s mission. A new plan will be developed this summer, focusing solely on “mission essential tasks.” This decision, criticized internally as undermining the agency’s “organizational backbone,” has led to the elimination of the Office of Resilience Strategy, raising concerns about FEMA’s preparedness for future disasters. The move comes amidst internal reports citing readiness issues and follows President Trump’s past suggestions to significantly alter or eliminate FEMA.
Read More
Eastern Cuba was struck by a 6.8 magnitude earthquake on Sunday, adding to the island’s recent string of hardships. The quake, with its epicenter south of Bartolomé Masó, was felt across the eastern region, including Santiago de Cuba, though there have been no immediate reports of damage or injuries. This latest event follows weeks of devastating hurricanes, widespread blackouts, and ongoing economic struggles that have left many Cubans in a state of distress. The earthquake’s impact, however, adds another layer of concern for the island nation already facing significant challenges.
Read More
I have lived through a few hurricanes in my lifetime, reaching up to Category 3, and let me tell you, it’s a terrifying experience. So, when I hear that forecasters have issued the highest Atlantic hurricane season outlook in nearly 30 years, needless to say, I am a little nervous. The predictions for this year are staggering – 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five reaching Category 3, 4, or 5 status. It’s a stark contrast to the 1991-2020 average, and it’s making me reconsider my options for this upcoming season.
Living in Atlantic Canada, I have already noticed changes in our weather patterns.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood