Thursday 31 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

7.0 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.

6.7 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.

Two 5.4 earthquakes hit southeast of the Loyalty Islands.

5.4 earthquake hits offshore Guatemala.

5.4 earthquake hits Atacama, Chile.

5.3 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.

5.1 earthquake hits near the coast of central Peru.

Three 5.1 earthquakes hit southeast of the Loyalty Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 22s (Halima), located approximately 965 nm southeast of Diego Garcia, is tracking east-northwestward at 08 knots.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression (td) 01w (One), located approximately 220 nm east-northeast of Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam, is tracking west-northwestward at 07 knots.

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Space Events

Solar Flare

The dazzling northern lights could light up the skies as far south as the northern United States after the detection of 17 solar eruptions blasting from a single sunspot, two of which are headed straight to Earth.

The two Earth-directed eruptions have merged into a “cannibal coronal mass ejection” and are barreling toward us at 1,881,263 mph (3,027,599 km/h). When it crashes into the Earth’s magnetic field from the night of March 30 to April 1, the result will be a powerful G3 geomagnetic storm, according to The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). G3 storms are classified as strong geomagnetic storms, meaning that the oncoming sun blast could bring the aurora as south as Pennsylvania, Iowa and Oregon.



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Wildfires

Wildfires – Texas, USA

A fast-moving wildfire near Fort Hood, a sprawling military base in Texas, continues to grow in size but poses no threat to lives, homes or infrastructure, fire officials said.

As of late Monday, the Crittenberg Complex, which consists of three wildfires in Coryell County, Texas, has burned more than 33,000 acres and was 55 percent contained.

Wildfires – Tennessee, USA

A fast-moving wildfire near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, continued to grow – and prompt more evacuation orders – Wednesday night and has burned more than 1 000 acres.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Bird Flu – USA

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a non-commercial, mixed-species backyard flock (non-poultry) in Berkshire County, Massachusetts; a non-commercial, mixed-species backyard flock (non-poultry) in Johnson County, Wyoming; a commercial poultry flock in Johnston County, North Carolina; a non-commercial, backyard chicken flock (non-poultry) in Franklin County, Ohio; and a non-commercial, backyard chicken flock (poultry) in Kidder County, North Dakota. According to the CDC, these detections do not present an immediate public health concern. No human cases of these avian influenza viruses have been detected in the United States.



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Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – New Activity for the week 23 March – 29 March 2022

Bezymianny – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a daily thermal anomaly over Bezymianny was visible in satellite images during 18-25 March.

Kita-Ioto – Volcano Islands : JMA reported that a submarine eruption occurred at Funka Asane, a submarine vent 4-5 km NW of Kita-Ioto, at around 1800 on 27 March based on satellite images. An eruption plume was visible rising to 5.5 km (18,000 ft) a.s.l. at 2100 and may have contained ash. Eruption warnings and maritime warnings were issued at 2314 and 2318, respectively. Satellite images showed that by 2330 the plume had risen to 7 km (23,000 ft) a.s.l. Areas of discolored water and bubbling were also visible.

Krakatau – Sunda Strait : PVMBG reported that as many as five daily ash plumes from Anak Krakatau were visible in images from the webcam on Sertung Island, seen by observers on nearby islands, and identified in satellite images during 24-29 March. Dense gray and black ash plumes rose as high as 2.2 km from the vent and drifted mainly E, and occasionally S and SE.

Ruapehu – North Island (New Zealand) : On 28 March GeoNet reported that unrest continued at Ruapehu with strong levels of tremor and increasing crater lake water temperatures that began two weeks prior. The temperature was 32 degrees Celsius, up one degree from the week before; the temperature rose at a slow rate due to heavy rainfall and an influx of cold water into the lake.

Sao Jorge – Azores : A seismic swarm beneath the W half of São Jorge began at 1605 on 19 March, with earthquakes along the Manadas volcanic fissure system between Velas (S side of the island) and Fajã do Ouvidor (N coast). CIVISA raised the Alert Level to V2 and then V3 (on a scale of V0-V6) during the morning of 20 March, and finally to V4 that afternoon. On 22 March Proteção Civil e Bombeiros dos Açores noted that, although no official evacuations had been issued, vulnerable people such as patients in the Velas health center were being moved to other locations on the island. Supplies were being distributed to São Jorge Island and residents were encouraged to prepare in case of a volcanic eruption. The total estimated population of the island was around 8,400 people; according to a news report, about 1,250 residents left the island during 23-24 March. Most of the earthquakes were low magnitude, M 1.6-3.3, though about 209 of them were felt by residents; the largest event, a M 3.8, was detected near Velas at 2256 on 29 March. By 30 March a total of about 20,000 events had been recorded. Besides the increased seismicity, CIVISA noted that ground-based Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) data showed inflation, which was also suggested by satellite-based data processed by partners.

Taal – Luzon (Philippines) : PHIVOLCS reported that hot volcanic fluids circulated and upwelled in Taal’s Main Crater lake during 24-25 March, producing plumes that rose as high as 2.4 km above the lake’s surface. A phreatomagmatic eruption was recorded at 0226 on 25 March, based on seismic data and webcam images, and produced a 500-m-tall plume. Sulfur dioxide emissions averaged 6,957 tonnes/day that same day. A phreatomagmatic eruption during 0722-0859 on 26 March consisted of as many as 66 explosions. Eruption plumes rose as high as 3 km. Wet ashfall with a sulfur odor fell on Taal Volcano Island, along the Calauit and Alas-as shorelines, and on the lakeshore of Banyaga, Agoncillo, Batangas. PHIVOLCS noted that Alert Level 3 (magmatic unrest) means that there has been a magmatic intrusion and evacuation of high-risk barangays is recommended. The Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported that residents of Bilibinwang and Banyaga, Agoncillo and Boso-boso, Gulod and eastern Bugaan East, Laurel, Batangas Province began evacuating that day. Entry onto Taal Volcanic Island as well as the barangays of Agoncillo and Laurel was prohibited. National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that by 27 March 2,961 people had been evacuated. Hot volcanic fluids continued to upwell in the lake during 26-29 March, generating plumes that rose as high as 2.4 km and drifted SW. Phreatomagmatic events were recorded at 0434 and 0504 on 27 March by the seismic network and seen in webcam images, producing eruption plumes that rose 800 and 400 m, respectively, and drifted SW. Three more phreatomagmatic events were recorded at 0930, 0933, and 0946; eruption plumes rose 400-800 m and drifted SW. Sulfur dioxide emissions averaged 1,140-4,273 tonnes/day during 28-29 March.



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Wednesday 30 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits the Ryukyu Islands off Japan.

5.1 earthquake hits the South Sandwich Islands.

Two 5.0 earthquakes hit Luzon in the Philippines.

5.0 earthquake hits the Sunday Strait, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits the Ryukyu Islands off Japan.

5.0 earthquake hits of the coast of Michoacan, Mexico.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 22s (Halima), located approximately 1946 nm southeast of Diego Garcia, is tracking northwestward at 09 knots.

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Wildfires

Wildfires – Arizona, USA

The Presumido Peak Fire in Southern Arizona had burned about 2,600 acres of grass, brush, oak, and juniper when it was mapped Monday. It is about 20 miles northwest of the border town Sasabe. The human-caused blaze was discovered Saturday afternoon near Presumido Peak.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Tuesday 29 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits north of Honduras.

5.3 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.

5.2 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 22s (Halima), located approximately 1040 nm south-southeast of Diego Garcia, is tracking east-northward at 04 knots.

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Newsbytes:

Ecuador – At least 4 people have lost their lives after heavy rain in southern Ecuador triggered floods and landslides in Azuay Province on 27 March 2022. Floods and landslides pushed rocks and debris onto the small community of Sayausí in Cuenca Canton. The municipal government report a school building and 10 houses were completely destroyed, leaving 14 people homeless. A further 27 houses sustained damage and many more are at risk and are being assessed. Water supplies gave also been affected, with an estimated 250,000 currently without drinking water.

Australia – Evacuation orders are in place for several northern New South Wales towns amid warnings of life-threatening flash floods, just four weeks after record floods forced thousands of people from their homes in the region. As of 8.30am Tuesday, the NSW State Emergency Service had issued six evacuation orders covering 6,600 people in the northern rivers region. There was also one evacuation warning for 7,800 people, including the Lismore central business district. A region of Queensland was also covered by an alert after heavy rain dumped about 300mm over parts of the Gold Coast in less than a day.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Dengue Fever – East Timor

The government of Timor-Leste has recorded more than 1,000 dengue fever cases in each of the first three months of 2022, reporting a total of 3,713 cases through March 29. This compares to 1451 total cases reported in all of 2020 and 901 total cases in all of last year. 44 fatalities have been reported.

Tuberculosis – DR Congo

In total, 11,735 cases of tuberculosis were detected in the province of Kasaï in 2021.

Measles – South Sudan

On February 23, a measles outbreak was declared in South Sudan in east/central Africa. As of early March, a total of 209 measles cases and two deaths (CFR = 0.9%) have been reported. Most cases are children under five years old (59.3%).

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) – Qatar

Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) declared that a case of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) has been confirmed.



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Monday 28 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits near the coast of Ecuador.

5.1 earthquake hits the South Sandwich Islands.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 22s (Halima), located approximately 973 nm south-southeast of Diego Garcia, is tracking southeastward at 07 knots.

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Global Warming

Climate Change Impacts on Global Food Production

While famine and malnutrition are complicated problems, in the decades since researchers began to examine the projected impact of global warming on food production, it’s become increasingly clear that climate change is a “threat multiplier,” making hunger emergencies worse. In some cases it could be the primary cause.

Nearly 1 billion people went hungry or were malnourished last year and that number is projected to rise this year.

The detrimental effects from climate change—mostly in developing countries around the planet’s midsection where more extreme weather events could batter crops—would be worse than previous research had suggested.

“In addition to the challenge of producing enough food on a global scale in 2050, we’re also going to be looking at a climate where we have much more year-to-year variability and we’re going to face a lot more agricultural production shocks in a lot of countries,” said Chris Funk, director of the Climate Hazards Center at the University of California, Santa Barbara. “We used to have one crisis a year. Now we’re having three or four serious crises at the same time.”



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Typhoid Fever – China

In early February, Chinese health officials discovered a unusual event–four clinically diagnosed typhoid cases (3 in Beijing, 1 in Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region). A detailed epidemiological investigation was initiated by Changping District CDC. This outbreak involved 23 cases in an apartment in Changping District in Beijing.



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Sunday 27 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.9 earthquake hits near the coast of Ecuador.

5.4 earthquake hits the Batan Islands in the Philippines.

5.2 earthquake hits the Ryukyu Islands off Japan.

5.2 earthquake hits the mid-Indian ridge.

5.1 earthquake hits near the coast of Ecuador.

5.1 earthquake hits Hokkaido, Japan.

5.0 earthquake hits Sulawesi, Indonesia.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 22s (Halima), located approximately 895 nm south-southeast of Diego Garcia, is tracking east-southeastward at 13 knots.

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Environment

Pollution Failure

Not one country in the world was able to reduce its air pollution in 2021 to meet the newly established World Health Organisation’s (WHO) air quality standard, according to a new report.

The UN agency guidelines now state that the tiny airborne particles known as PM2.5 should not average more than 5 micrograms per cubic metre over the year. Those particles are known to cause significant health problems, even in low concentrations. But WHO says only 3.4% of cities surveyed met the new standard after it went into effect last year. It reports that as many as 93 cities worldwide saw PM2.5 levels at 10 times the recommended concentration.



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Wildfires

Wildfires – Colorado, USA

About 8,000 homes were ordered to evacuate due to a fast-moving wildfire burning in an open space near the U.S. National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder. Although the fire was at 123 acres, it was expected to grow rapidly and there was no containment.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Measles – DR Congo

A measles outbreak is ongoing in Congo, with a total of 15 health districts are experiencing outbreaks. As of 20 March 2022, a total of 4,610 cases with 123 deaths (CFR 2.7 %) have been reported across the country. About 59% of cases are children below 5 years of age and 50% of cases are not vaccinated.

Leptospirosis – Fiji

In an update in the leptospirosis outbreak in Fiji, health officials now report 1,394 lab-confirmed cases of leptospirosis this year. In addition, the number of deaths has risen to 29.



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Saturday 26 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits northern Qinghai, China.

5.2 earthquake hits New Britain, Papua New Guinea.

5.1 earthquake hits Fiji.

5.0 earthquake hits the Ryukyu Islands off Japan.

5.0 earthquake hits south of Fiji.

5.0 earthquake hits northern Qinghai, China.

5.0 earthquake hits eastern New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 22s (Halima), located approximately 494 nm south of Diego Garcia, is tracking southward at 05 knots.

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Global Warming

Great Barrier Roof – Mass Coral Bleaching Event

Australia’s spectacular Great Barrier Reef is suffering “mass bleaching” as corals lose their colour under the stress of warmer seas, authorities said on Friday, the event widely blamed on climate change.

The world’s largest coral reef system, stretching for more than 2 300 kilometres along the northeast coast of Australia, is showing the effects of the heat, said the Reef Authority.

Aerial surveys showed coral bleaching at multiple reefs across a large area of the system, “confirming a mass bleaching event, the fourth since 2016,” it said in a report.

Large Ice Shelf Collapses in Antarctica

An ice shelf the size of New York City (460 square miles) has collapsed in East Antarctica, an area long thought to be stable and not hit much by climate change, concerned scientists said Friday.

The collapse, captured by satellite images, marked the first time in human history that the frigid region had an ice shelf collapse. It happened at the beginning of a freakish warm spell last week when temperatures soared more than 70 degrees warmer than normal in some spots of East Antarctica. Satellite photos show the area had been shrinking rapidly the last couple of years, and now scientists say they wonder if they have been overestimating East Antarctica’s stability and resistance to global warming that has been melting ice rapidly on the smaller western side and the vulnerable peninsula.



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Wildlife

Australia Loses Bee Hives to Floods

Australia’s crucial crop pollination industry is experiencing a worker shortage of its own due to the widespread flood damage to thousands of beehives. It’s estimated recent floods in New South Wales and Queensland destroyed 8,500 hives and some of the hives that survived unscathed were now being attacked by small hive beetle which targets weakened hives and slimes them out.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever – England

UK health authorities have confirmed an imported case of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) in England. The woman had recently travelled to Central Asia.



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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.7 earthquake hits eastern New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.

5.5 earthquake hits southern Peru.

5.2 earthquake hits south of the Kermedec Islands.

5.2 earthquake hits near the east coast of Honshu, Japan.

5.1 earthquake hits the southwestern Ryukyu Islands off Japan.

5.0 earthquake hits south of Tonga.

5.0 earthquake hits Sakhalin, Russia.

5.0 earthquake hits south of the Kermedec Islands.

Friday 25 March 2022

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 22s (Halima), located approximately 385 nm south of Diego Garcia, is tracking west-southwestward at 03 knots.

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Nile Barrier

Egypt has constructed a series of natural sand barriers to hold back the rising Mediterranean from the Nile Delta, which in recent decades has been inundated by winter storm surges and heavy rains. Such flooding is becoming more frequent in the world’s coastal areas as global heating causes sea levels to rise.

 

The new dike system is 70% complete and stretches for more than 70 km across the areas of Egypt’s breadbasket that are most vulnerable to seasonal floods. Reuters reports that reeds and local vegetation have been planted in the sand to hold the barrier together and to promote biodiversity.



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Global Warming

Global warming speeds up currents in the ocean’s abyss

University of Sydney scientists have used the geological record of the deep sea to discover that past global warming has sped up deep ocean circulation. This is one of the missing links for predicting how future climate change may affect heat and carbon capture by the oceans: more vigorous ocean currents make it easier for carbon and heat to be ‘mixed in’.

So far, the ocean has absorbed a quarter of anthropogenic CO2 and over 90 percent of the associated excess heat.

Microscopic marine organisms called plankton use this dissolved carbon to build their shells. They sink down to the seabed after they die, sequestering the carbon. These sedimentary deposits form the Earth’s largest carbon sink.

Independent studies using satellite data suggest that large-scale ocean circulation and ocean eddies have become more intense over the last two to three decades of global warming. The more vigorous circulation creates conditions for potentially greater efficiency in storing carbon.



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Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week’s hottest temperature was 45.0 degrees Celsius (113 degrees F) at Gouré, Niger.

The week’s coldest temperature was minus 65.0 degrees Celsius (-85.0 degrees F) at Vostok, Antarctica.

Temperatures were tabulated from the more than 10,000 worldwide synoptic weather stations. The United Nations World Meteorological Organization sets the standards for weather observations, and provides a global telecommunications circuit for data distribution.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – Ongoing Activity for the week 16 March – 22 March 2022

Aira – Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that very small eruptive events were recorded at Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) during 14-21 March. Crater incandescence was visible at night. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was slightly high at 1,300 tons per day on 17 March.

Great Sitkin – Andreanof Islands (USA) : AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 15-22 March and very low seismicity persisted. Cloud cover prevented views of the volcano most of the week; slightly elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images during 20-21 March.

Karymsky – Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Karymsky was visible in satellite images during 13-16 March. The volcano was either quiet or obscured by clouds on the other days during 11-18 March.

Kilauea – Hawaiian Islands (USA) : HVO reported that lava effusion from vents in the lower W wall of Kilauea’s Halema`uma`u Crater continued at variable rates during 15-22 March; effusion briefly paused during 0145-0445 on 18 March. Lava flowed in the active W part of the lava lake causing circulation in the lake that was visible on most days. At around 0700 on 16 March a lava flow originating from the embayment just N of the western vent area traveled NW onto the crater floor; this flow periodically advanced through the week. Ooze outs of lava along the lake’s margins were visible on a few of the days; a notable one began along the N margin at 0345 on 21 March and persisted through the next day.

Lewotolok – Lembata Island : The eruption at Lewotolok continued during 15-22 March according to PVMBG. Almost daily white-and-gray ash plumes rose as high as 600 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions. Crater incandescence, lava effusion, and rumbling sounds were reported on most days.

Merapi – Central Java : BPPTKG reported no significant morphological changes at Merapi’s summit lava dome during 11-17 March, but the height of the dome below the SW rim had decreased by 2 m. Seismicity remained at high levels; the intensity of the signals had increased compared to the previous week. As many as 119 lava avalanches originating from the SW dome traveled a maximum of 2 km down the Bebeng drainage on the SW flank. Four avalanches traveled no more than 1 km SE down the Gendol drainage.

Nevados de Chillan – Central Chile : SERNAGEOMIN reported that lava in Nevados de Chillán’s Nicanor Crater was observed in satellite images on 1 March and coincided with elevated thermal temperatures also identified in satellite images. A higher resolution satellite image acquired on 15 March showed the extrusive lava feature in more detail; it was about 33 x 57 m elongated E-W, and had irregular edges. The emplacement of the lava was contemporaneous with nighttime crater incandescence and moderate explosive activity. Steam plumes with occasional tephra content rose to heights less than 1.5 km above the crater rim. Seismic activity had steadily declined since January. During the first half of March sulfur dioxide emissions averaged 454 tons per day, peaking at an anomalously high value of 2,348 tons per day on 13 March.

Nyamulagira – DR Congo : Active lava on Nyamulagira’s crater floor was visible in satellite images during 8-13 March.

Nyiragongo – DR Congo : Lava effusion from vents on Nyiragongo’s crater floor continued during 13-18 March based on satellite images. Significant gas emissions were visible drifting SW on 13 March.

Pavlof – Alaska Peninsula, Alaska : AVO reported that the eruption at a vent on Pavlof’s upper E flank was ongoing during 15-22 March, and seismic tremor persisted. Cloud cover sometimes prevented webcam and satellite views of the summit area, though almost-daily elevated surface temperatures identified in satellite images were consistent with minor lava effusion. Three small explosions were detected in local and regional infrasound data during 19-20 March.

Reventador – Ecuador : IG reported that a high level of activity continued at Reventador during 15-22 March, though cloudy weather conditions sometimes prevented visual observations. Steam-and-ash plumes, often observed multiple times a day with the webcam or reported by the Washington VAAC, rose as high as 1 km above the summit crater and drifted mainly NW, W, and SW. Crater incandescence was visible most nights; incandescent material was visible descending the S flank during 15-16 March.

Rincon de la Vieja – Costa Rica : OVSICORI-UNA reported that eruptive events at Rincón de la Vieja were recorded at 0405 on 19 March, 1402 on 20 March, and 0350 on 22 March. The events lasted 1-8 minutes each and no plumes were visible due to weather conditions.

Sangay – Ecuador : IG reported a high level of activity at Sangay during 15-22 March. Weather clouds and rain often prevented visual and webcam observations of the volcano, though daily ash-and-gas plumes were identified in satellite images by the Washington VAAC or in webcam views; plumes rose as high as 1 km above the volcano and drifted N, NW, W, and SW. Multiple daily thermal anomalies over the volcano were visible in satellite data. Emissions of incandescent material were occasionally visible in webcam images. The seismic network detected signals indicating descending lahars on 17, 19, and 21 March.

Semeru – Eastern Java : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Semeru continued during 15-22 March, though weather conditions sometimes hindered views. Daily eruptive events produced white-and-gray plumes that rose 200-800 m above the summit and drifted mainly N, W, and SW. At 0353 on 22 March a pyroclastic flow originating from the end of a lava flow descended the Kobokan drainage on the SE flank and produced an ash cloud that rose 1.5 km above summit and drifted SE.

Semisopochnoi – Aleutian Islands (USA) : AVO reported that low-level eruptive activity at Semisopochnoi’s North Cerberus cone continued during 15-22 March. Periods of seismic tremor and occasional small explosions were detected daily in seismic and regional infrasound data. Daily minor ash emissions and occasional steam emissions were visible in webcam images.

Sheveluch – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 11-18 March. An ash cloud was identified in satellite images drifting 50 km WNW at an altitude of 4.5 km (14,800 ft) a.s.l. on 15 March.

Soufriere St. Vincent – St. Vincent : UWI Seismic Research Centre and National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) lowered the Alert Level for Soufrière St. Vincent to Green (the lowest level on a four-color scale) on 16 March, noting that seismic and fumarolic activity were at or below background levels recorded prior to the 2020-2021 eruption. The La Soufriere trail remained closed due to the uneven and dangerous terrain. The public was reminded about lahar hazards during heavy rains.

Suwanosejima – Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that eruptive activity continued to be recorded at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater during 14-21 March. As many as 27 explosions were recorded, and crater incandescence was visible nightly. Eruption plumes rose as high as 1.9 km above the crater rim and ejected blocks 300-500 m away from the crater. Ashfall was reported as far as 5 km away, including in Toshima village (3.5 km SSW) during 18-21 March.

Whakaari/White Island – North Island (New Zealand) : On 23 March GeoNet reported that volcanologists observed Whakaari/White Island and took gas measurements during overflights the week before. The active vent area had subsided, and small collapses in one of the 2019 craters had occurred in between the flights. During the second flight, scientists observed geysering from a small, gray-colored pool on the S side of the main crater. In just over an hour the pool was gone and a collapse pit was in its place. Diffuse ash emissions had ceased. Gas and temperature measurements were lower (290 degrees Celsius) compared to the previous month.

Wolf – Isla Isabela (Galapagos) : IG reported that the eruption at Wolf continued during 15-22 March. Daily thermal alert counts, as many as around 176, indicated active and advancing lava flows on the SSE flank.



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Thursday 24 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits Vanuatu.

5.3 earthquake hits Taiwan.

5.3 earthquake hits Halmahera, Indonesia.

5.2 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.

5.2 earthquake hits the Babuyan Islands in the Philippines.

Two 5.0 earthquakes hit Tonga.

5.0 earthquake hits Haiti.

Two 5.0 earthquakes hit the Ryukyu Islands off Japan.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 21s (Charlotte), located approximately 412 nm west-northwest of Learmonth, Australia, is tracking south-southwestward at 06 knots.

Tropical cyclone 22s (Halima), located approximately 388 nm south-southeast of Diego Garcia, is tracking west-southwestward at 03 knots.

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Newsbytes:

New Zealand – Tokomaru Bay, North Island, has been hit hard by heavy rainfall overnight, which has cut off the main bridge in the township and flooded schools, homes and a marae. Locals at the East Coast town of 450 people, an hour’s drive north of Gisborne, said it was the worst weather they had experienced since Cyclone Bola in 1988. Up to 300mm of rain fell in the Tairawhiti Gisborne area overnight, leading to a state of emergency being declared this morning.



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Global Warming

China Faces Worst Crop Conditions Ever Due to Climate Change

More extreme weather caused by rising global temperatures — compounded by geopolitical turmoil and the pandemic — is hindering China’s effort to ensure food supplies for its 1.4 billion population. Climate change-induced disasters have caused widespread crop damage and shrunk the amount of arable land, making it harder to boost local production.

Record-breaking rains in the central province of Henan in July alone damaged 2.1 million acres of farmland. The floods delayed planting on more than 18 million acres of land, about one-third of China’s total winter wheat acreage. The amount of first- and second-grade crops, where there are more than 2.7 million seedlings on every acre of land, fell by more than 20% this year compared with normal years.



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Wildfires

Wildfires – Ukraine

Forest fires have erupted in the vicinity of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor, with Ukraine claiming that Russian control of the abandoned power plant is hampering efforts to control the flames. At least seven fires have been spotted within Chernobyl’s exclusion zone via satellite imagery taken by the European Space Agency.

In 2020, a forest fire near the reactor caused radiation levels to spike to 16 times above normal. The conflagration was extinguished after a two-week effort by firefighters.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Japanese Encephalitis – Australia

In a follow-up on the human Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) situation in Australia, the Department of Health now reports 32 human cases of JEV in Australia.



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Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – New Activity for the week 16 March – 22 March 2022

Bezymianny – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : An explosive eruption at Bezymianny began at 0310 on 15 March, producing ash plumes. KVERT raised the Aviation Color Code to Orange (the second highest level on a four-color scale). Activity intensified at 0053 on 16 March and remained elevated for about 30 minutes. During this phase pyroclastic flows descended the S, W, and N flanks, and ash plumes rose as high as 12 km (39,400 ft) a.s.l. that ultimately drifted more than 1,300 km NW and then NE. A large thermal anomaly over the volcano was visible through 18 March, indicating continuing lava-dome growth. Steam-and-gas emissions persisted though 23 March.

Lonquimay – Central Chile : SERNAGEOMIN reported increased seismicity at Lonquimay during the first half of March, characterized by hybrid (HB) signals accompanied by long-period (LP) events, and fewer volcano-tectonic (VT) events. Only some of the HB and VT events could be located where the epicenters were within 2-7 km of the volcano with hypocenters at depths of 4-11 km. The number of HB and VT events increased on 9 March. Deformation was not detected and no abnormal gas emissions were recorded. During 18-21 March two additional earthquakes were recorded, a VT and an HB, both with magnitudes below 1.3. Although the events were low magnitude, the seismicity was anomalous in the data going back to 2010 when monitoring stations were installed.

Manam – Northeast of New Guinea : The Darwin VAAC reported that during 15-17 March ash plumes from Manam rose to 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW, W, and NW.

Ruapehu – North Island (New Zealand) : GeoNet reported that a warming trend of the crater lake water at Ruapehu was evident by 13 March, and by 21 March the temperature was 31 degrees Celsius. The heating cycle was accompanied by strong levels of volcanic tremor, indicating increased gas flux though the system, and an increased likelihood of eruptive activity.



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Wednesday 23 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.6 earthquake hits Taiwan.

6.2 earthquake hits the northern mid-Atlantic ridge.

6.1 earthquake hits Taiwan.

5.5 earthquake hits Taiwan.

5.4 earthquake hits Taiwan.

5.2 earthquake hits Taiwan.

5.2 earthquake hits the Taiwan region.

5.1 earthquake hits the southern mid-Atlantic ridge.

5.0 earthquake hits near the north coast of Papua, Indonesia.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 21s (Charlotte), located approximately 383 nm west-northwest of Learmonth, Australia, is tracking southwestward at 10 knots.

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Global Warming

Arctic and Antarctic have Simultaneous heat Wave

Both of Earth’s polar regions recently experienced unprecedented simultaneous heat waves that caused temperatures to briefly skyrocket to never-before-seen heights in some areas. While experts say such extreme temperatures cannot be solely attributed to climate change, the unusual phenomenon is nonetheless “dramatic” and “alarming.”

In Antarctica on Friday (March 18), the average temperature was 8.6 degrees Fahrenheit (4.8 degrees Celsius) warmer than average. The highest recorded temperature was 44.6 F (7 C) at the coastal Zucchelli Station on Terra Nova Bay. The biggest temperature difference was recorded at Concordia Research Station, located more than 10,000 feet (3,000 m) above sea level, where researchers measured a peak temperature of 10 F minus 12.2 C), which is 70 F (nearly 40 C) above the seasonal average at the station.

In the Arctic, the average temperature on the same day was 6 F (3.3 C) higher than normal, and in certain areas near the North Pole temperatures rose by 50 F (30 C) above normal.

It is very uncommon to see high temperatures across both polar regions at the same time because they have contrasting seasons; as spring arrives in the Northern Hemisphere, the Arctic is just starting to thaw while Antarctica is beginning to freeze after months of summer melt.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Tuesday 22 March 2022

Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Monday 21 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.8 earthquake hits the South Sandwich Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.3 earthquake hits the Norwegian Sea.

5.2 earthquake hits Leyte in the Philippines.

5.1 earthquake hits Luzon in the Philippines.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 21s (Charlotte), located approximately 453 nm north-northwest of Learmonth, Australia, is tracking southwestward at 09 knots.

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Newsbytes:

Brazil – Torrential rain from 20 March 2022 caused flooding and landslides once again in the metropolitan area of Petrópolis and surrounding areas of Fluminense Mountain Region, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. Heavy rainfall struck again from 20 March 2022. Petrópolis Civil Defence reported 415 mm of rain fell in São Sebastião in just 10 hours, with 217.4 mm of that total falling in a 4 hour period between 14:00 and 18:00. Around 100 incidents of landslides and flooding have been reported across the city, with roads inundated and buildings damaged or destroyed.



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Global Warming

Climate change is turning once green Madagascar into a desert

The once lush and green island of Madagascar is turning into a red desert and facing a severe food crisis seen as the world’s first ‘climate change famine’.

The fourth-largest island on the planet and one of its most diverse ecosystems, Madagascar has thousands of endemic species of plants and animals such as lemurs. But in its far southern regions, the reality on the ground has changed.

With precious few trees left to slow the wind in this once fertile land, red sand is blowing everywhere: onto fields, villages and roads, and into the eyes of children waiting for food parcels.

Four years of drought, linked by the United Nations to climate change, along with deforestation caused by burning or cutting down trees to make charcoal and farming, have transformed the area into a dust bowl.

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Wildfires

Wildfires – Texas, USA

The Eastland complex wildfires have now wiped out 86 homes and a majority of the small town of Carbon, Texas, the Dallas Morning News reported on Saturday, as the four fires west of Dallas burned 54,000 acres (22,000 hectares). About 85% of Carbon, with a population of 225, was burned, the newspaper reported, publishing photos of homes that were reduced to piles of rubble.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Sunday 20 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.0 earthquake hits south of Tonga.

5.1 earthquake hits Taiwan.

5.0 earthquake hits south of the Kermedec Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits south of Fiji.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are no current tropical storms.



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Global Warming

Wildfire smoke linked to Arctic melting

The dense plumes of wildfire smoke seen in recent years are contributing to the warming of the Arctic, say scientists. Their study says that particles of “brown carbon” in the smoke are drifting north and attracting heat to the polar region.

Researchers have long been familiar with “black carbon”, the sooty particles that are emitted from diesel engines, coal burning, cooking stoves and other sources. These aerosols, which absorb sunlight and turn it into heat, are known to be the second largest contributor to global warming.

Observational analyses and numerical simulations show that the warming effect of brown carbon aerosols over the Arctic is up to about 30% of that of black carbon. Far more than the estimated 3% previously thought.

The study found that wildfires were the main source of this brown material – contributing twice as much to the warming effect of brown carbon in the Arctic than was coming from fossil fuels. The authors believe that while black soot has played the major role, brown carbon had a hand in the exceptional warming being felt in the Arctic region in recent decades.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever – Mauretania

In a follow-up on the human Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) outbreak in the African country of Mauritania, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports a total of six confirmed cases including two deaths as of March 14.



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Saturday 19 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.8 earthquake hits northeast of Taiwan.

5.5 earthquake hits northern Algeria.

5.3 earthquake hits near the north coast of New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.

Two 5.2 earthquake hit near the east coast of Honshu, Japan.

5.0 earthquake hits Papua Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits the northern mid-Atlantic ridge.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are no current tropical storms.

NewsBytes:

Indonesia – As many as 50,000 people have been affected by floods and landslides in Indonesia over the last 4 days. Flooding and landslides were reported in several locations of Java Island, Indonesia, from 14 to 17 March 2022. Among the hardest hot areas is Purworejo, where 11,150 people have been affected, 6,085 displaced and 2,931 homes damaged. Nearly 10,000 people were affected by the floods in Kebumen Regency, where over 2,700 people were evacuated. Meanwhile heavy rain caused floods and landslides in Balikpapan City and surrounding areas of East Kalimantan Province on Borneo island on 16 March. AHA Centre reported 9,194 people affected and 2,837 homes damaged. The island of Sumatra has also seen heavy rainfall, causing floods in Bireuen Regency in Aceh Province, on 16 March which displaced more than 1,000 residents and damaged 1,664 homes. On 17 March, flooding in Medan City in North Sumatra Province damaged 105 homes affecting nearly 400 residents.

DR Congo – At least 3 people have died in flash floods in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo following heavy rainfall on 16 March 2022. Flooding struck in Bukavu City and surrounding areas of South Kivu Province, on the sores of Lake Kivu and close to the border with Rwanda. Local media said homes, roads and vehicles were damaged. Powerful flood waters swept away cars and dumped them into Lake Kivu. One of the worst affected areas was the commune of Kadutu. As of 17 March, authorities reported 3 fatalities and 3 people missing.



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Wildlife

Mass Whale Stranding – New Zealand

More than two dozen long-finned pilot whales have died after stranding at Farewell Spit, a remote beach on New Zealand’s South Island where such strandings often occur. In New Zealand, long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas) account for the majority of mass strandings, where two or more whales or dolphins strand at one time.

The most recent stranding involved 34 long-finned pilot whales, 29 of which had already perished when wildlife rangers arrived at the site on Thursday (March 17) evening. Five pilot whales were refloated of which one became stranded again and had to be euthanized.



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Wildfires

Wildfires – Texas, USA

Strong gusty winds and low humidity ignited a series of wildfires across central Texas overnight Thursday, destroying at least 50 homes and resulting in at least one death, officials said. By Friday afternoon, the Eastland Complex wildfires had burned 45,383 acres and were 10% contained.

Four wildfires, including the Kidd Fire, Wheat Field Fire, Walling Fire and Oak Mott Fire, make up the Eastland Complex. Hundreds of Eastland County’s 18,000 residents have been urged to evacuate. On Thursday an Eastland County sheriff’s deputy died wile responding to the fires.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Japanese Encephalitis – Australia

NSW Health is urging the community to stay vigilant and take precautions against mosquito bites after an eighth NSW resident has been confirmed to have Japanese encephalitis (JE). This is the first outbreak of Japanese encephalitis in Australia.

Botulism – Argentina

Two women have been hospitalized for botulism, including one in serious condition, according to a La Voz report. The patients ate matambre (Argentian flank steak) and Russian salad delivered from a traditional restaurant in the Buenos Aires neighborhood of Boedo.



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Friday 18 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits Ascension Island.

5.0 earthquake hits south of Tonga.

5.0 earthquake hits the Santa Cruz islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the western Indian-Antarctic ridge.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are no current tropical storms.

Drought - USA

In an analysis updated March 17 by NOAA, the drought in the western half of the United States is expected continue at least through June 30, 2022, affecting parts of 23 states. And in most of those areas the temperatures will be higher than average and there will be less than average precipitation.

Flood Aftermath - Australia

Australian health experts warn that there will likely be a rise in serious mosquito-borne disease, along with more bites from snakes and spiders, as the catastrophic inundation in the southeast subsides.

New cases of Japanese encephalitis have already been reported, prompting authorities to expand vaccinations, especially for pig farm workers and their families due to their increased chances of getting bitten by infected mosquitoes. With funnel web spiders being discovered in more homes around the flood disaster zones, anti-venom manufacturers have stepped up production as a precaution.

Global Warming

Gaping 'sinkholes' opening up on the Arctic seafloor

Giant "sinkholes" — one of which could devour an entire city block holding six-story buildings — are appearing along the Arctic seafloor, as submerged permafrost thaws and disturbs the area, scientists have discovered.

But even though human-caused climate change is increasing the average temperatures in the Arctic, the thawing permafrost that's creating these sinkholes seems to have a different culprit — heated, slowly moving groundwater systems.

The Arctic permafrost at the bottom of the Canadian Beaufort Sea has been submerged for about 12,000 years, since the end of the last ice age, when meltwater from glaciers blanketed the region. Until now, the frozen seafloor had been hidden from scientists' peering eyes. This remote part of the Arctic has only recently become accessible to researchers on ships as climate change causes the sea ice to retreat, the researchers said.

As gradual warming thaws the permafrost beneath the Arctic Shelf, an area that was once filled with a solid (frozen ground) becomes fluid. The surface material then collapses into that liquid-filled void; these seafloor collapses happen intermittently over time, the researchers said.

Vanishing Arctic Ice

Fresh data from NASA’s ice-monitoring CryoSat-2 and IceSat-2 spacecraft reveal that the sea ice surrounding the North Pole is thinner and disappearing more quickly than previously thought.

Using radar and lidar, the satellites can measure the thickness of the ice with a resolution of about 1.3 cm. With that data, a new report says that the Arctic Ocean has lost about a third of its winter sea ice cover over the past 20 years.

Scientists say ice that once did not melt over the summer has lost an average of about 0.5 metres in thickness just since IceSat-2 began operating in 2019. This shrinking leaves only much thinner seasonal ice, which melts completely each summer.

Environment

Farming Shift

Researchers have developed a map that shows where the world’s major food crops could successfully be moved to combat climate change and greatly reduce the need for irrigation.

Writing in the journal Nature Communications Earth & Environment, they propose expanding agriculture around the corn belt in the American Midwest and south of the Sahara desert.

This would allow vast tracts of farmland in Europe and India to revert to their natural ecology, allowing CO2-eating forests to grow back in the process. By cultivating crops in places where the scientists believe that rainfall would provide all the needed moisture, water resources could be more targeted to the planet’s thirsty and growing human population.

Wildlife

Mass Fish Kill - New South Wales, Australia

Hundreds of thousands of fish have asked up alongs beaches and river banks along the New South Wales north coast as a result of the floods that have recently hit the area.

The reason behind the widespread fish kills across the catchment — already one of the most polluted in the country — is the lack of oxygen in the water. After a flood, accumulated detritus in the wetlands decomposes and chews up all the oxygen in the water.

The area has a flood plain that drains very quickly which leaves the fish unprepared for the massive oxygen debt in the water. All sorts of fish have been affected: juvenile fish, big fish, all the major species. Sea mullet, bream, flathead, whiting, and then all the small fish, even toadfish.

Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week’s hottest temperature was 45.0 degrees Celsius (113 degrees F) at Dampier, Western Australia.

The week’s coldest temperature was minus 63.0 degrees Celsius (-81.4 degrees F) at Vostok, Antarctica.

Temperatures were tabulated from the more than 10,000 worldwide synoptic weather stations. The United Nations World Meteorological Organization sets the standards for weather observations, and provides a global telecommunications circuit for data distribution.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Texas, USA

Multiple smaller fires across Eastland County turned into the Eastland Complex fire Thursday, March 16, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. “Fires are burning actively in heavy brush.”

As of 10:30 p.m., an estimated 38,000 acres were believed to have burned and none of it had been contained. Low humidity and gusty winds played a huge role in the spreading of the fires. Hundreds of people have been forced to evacuate.

Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – Ongoing Activity for the week 9 March – 15 March 2022

Davidof – Aleutian Islands (USA) : According to AVO the earthquake swarm that began on 24 January in the vicinity at Davidof continued at least through 15 March with a few small earthquakes recorded each day by seismometers on Little Sitkin (15 km E). The rate was variable, though the total number of events was similar to the previous week.

Fuego – South-Central Guatemala : INSIVUMEH and CONRED confirmed that pyroclastic flows at Fuego descended multiple flanks on 7 March, though those that traveled SW, S, and SE went as far as 7 km. Vegetation and crops were impacted by the farther-traveling, high-temperature pyroclastic flows as well as ashfall, based on satellite data and field reports from staff at the Observatorio Vulcanológico del Volcán de Fuego (OVFGO). A large amount of ash also fell on homes and structures. As many as 10 explosions per hour were recorded during 8-15 March. Multiple daily ash plumes rose up to 1.3 km above the summit and drifted as far as 20 km W and SW. Ashfall was reported almost daily in areas downwind, including Morelia (9 km SW), Panimaché I and II (8 km SW), Santa Sofía (12 km SW), El Porvenir (8 km ENE), Sangre de Cristo (8 km WSW), finca Palo Verde, Yepocapa (8 km NW). Shock waves from the explosions and rumbling sounds rattled local structures. Block avalanches mainly descended the Ceniza (SSW), Seca (W), Trinidad (S), Taniluyá (SW), and Las Lajas (SE) drainages, often reaching vegetated areas. Explosions ejected incandescent material up to 200-400 m above the summit during 11-14 March.

Great Sitkin – Andreanof Islands (USA) : AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin continued during 8-15 March and very low seismicity persisted. The rate of effusion slightly increased from 28 February to 11 March, based on radar data collected on those two dates; lava was extruded in all direction from the vent and the southern lobe advanced 20 m. Snow covered most of the flow except for the advancing fronts of the lava lobes and around the vent area. Elevated surface temperatures were periodically identified in satellite images. Minor steaming was visible in webcam images on 12 March. The steaming was dense and also visible in satellite images during 12-13 March.

Ibu – Halmahera : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Ibu continued during 9-15 March. Gray-and-white ash plumes rose 200-1,000 m above the summit and drifted N and NE. Avalanches traveled 100-400 m N and NW during 14-15 March.

Kilauea – Hawaiian Islands (USA) : HVO reported that lava effusion from vents in the lower W wall of Kilauea’s Halema`uma`u Crater continued at variable rates during 8-15 March. Throughout February the main cone had broken down and by 4 March lava was effusing from multiple vents, including the tallest cone (19 m high); by 11 March lava was supplied from an embayment just N of the cone which had grown to 27 m high. Lava continued to feed the western active lava lake. Lava breakouts along the SE, NE, and NW lake margins were visible on a few of the days. Minor and slow crustal overturning occurred on the NW and SE parts of the lake’s margins during 13-14 March.

Lewotolok – Lembata Island : The eruption at Lewotolok continued during 8-15 March according to PVMBG. Daily white-and-gray ash plumes rose as high as 1 km above the summit and drifted E, W, and NW. Crater incandescence, lava effusion, and rumbling sounds were reported during 7-10 March.

Merapi – Central Java : BPPTKG reported that parts of Merapi’s summit lava dome collapsed during 9-10 March, sending pyroclastic flows as far as 5 km SE down the Gendol drainage. At around 2318 on 9 March ash plumes rose at least 3 km above the summit and drifted SE. Ashfall was reported in several villages downwind, including in the Kemalang, Sawangan, Dukun, and Selo sub-districts, and 50 people from Bale Rante Village evacuated. The total volume that collapsed was an estimated 646,000 cubic meters, making the volume of the remaining dome material about 2,582,000 cubic meters. Overall, during 4-10 March, there was a total of 101 lava avalanches and one pyroclastic flow that descended the Bebeng drainage on the SW flank a maximum distance of 2 km. Extrusion at the SW lava dome continued; the volume of the dome was an estimated 1.58 million cubic meters, similar to the previous few weeks. Pyroclastic flows in the Gendol drainage totaled 18 during the week, and there were 17 lava avalanches that traveled as far as 1.5 km. Seismicity remained at high levels with an increase in the intensity of signals.

Pavlof – Alaska Peninsula, Alaska : AVO reported that the eruption at a vent on Pavlof’s upper E flank was ongoing during 8-15 March, and small explosions were detected in local seismic and infrasound data on most days. Tremor levels was characterized as strong during 8-10 March and moderate during the rest of the week. A satellite image acquired on 7 March showed highly elevated surface temperatures near the vent (likely due to an accumulation of lava spatter), and a dark lahar deposit extending 750 m down the SE flank. Minor ash deposits were visible around the vent. Elevated surface temperatures were visible on most days of the week, though cloud cover sometimes prevented observations, consistent with continued activity. On 14 March satellite images showed minor lava effusion at the vent.

Rincon de la Vieja – Costa Rica : OVSICORI-UNA reported that an eruptive event at Rincón de la Vieja was recorded at 0956 on 15 March. No plumes were visible due to weather conditions.

Semeru – Eastern Java : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Semeru continued during 8-15 March, though weather conditions sometimes hindered views. Almost daily eruptive events produced white-and-gray plumes that rose as high as 1 km above the summit and drifted S, SW, and W. Avalanches were detected but not visually confirmed during 12-13 March. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). The public was warned to stay at least 500 m away from Kobokan drainages within 17 km of the summit, along with other drainages originating on Semeru, including the Bang, Kembar, and Sat, due to lahar, avalanche, and pyroclastic flow hazards.

Semisopochnoi – Aleutian Islands (USA) : AVO reported that low-level eruptive activity at Semisopochnoi’s North Cerberus cone continued during 8-15 March. Seismic tremor and sometimes numerous daily explosions were detected in seismic and regional infrasound data. Minor ash emissions were visible in webcam images during 8-9 and 14-15 March; likely plumes on other days may have been hidden due to clouds.

Suwanosejima – Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that eruptive activity continued to be recorded at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater during 7-14 March. Eruption plumes rose as high as 1.7 km above the crater rim and ejected blocks 400 m away from the crater. Ashfall was reported in Toshima village (3.5 km SSW) during 7-11 March.

Taal – Luzon (Philippines) : PHIVOLCS reported that unrest at Taal continued during 7-15 March. Hot volcanic fluids circulated and upwelled in the crater lake, and daily gas-and-steam plumes that rose as high as 2.4 km above the lake drifted SW and NNW. Sulfur dioxide emissions continued to be elevated, averaging 7,695-15,306 tonnes/day during 7, 11, and 13-14 March. There were 8-49 daily volcanic earthquakes recorded during 10-14 March, including as many as 45 daily periods of volcanic tremor, each lasting 2-90 minutes. One hybrid event was recorded during 11-12 March.

Wolf – Isla Isabela (Galapagos) : IG reported that the eruption at Wolf continued during 8-15 March. Daily thermal alert counts, as many as around 230, indicated active and advancing lava flows on the SSE flank. Diffuse sulfur dioxide gas plumes were detected in satellite data almost daily.



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Thursday 17 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

7.2 earthquake hits near the east coast of Honshu, Japan.

5.9 earthquake hits southern Iran.

5.8 earthquake hits near the east coast of Honshu, Japan.

5.4 earthquake hits southern Xinjiang, China.

5.3 earthquake hits near the east coast of Honshu, Japan.

5.2 earthquake hits the Ryukyu Islands off Japan.

5.1 earthquake hits northern Qinghai, China.

5.1 earthquake hits northeast of Taiwan.

5.0 earthquake hits northwestern Kashmir.

5.0 earthquake hits the Ryukyu Islands off Japan.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 20s (Billy), located approximately 1163 nm west of Learmonth, Australia, is tracking south-southeastward at 15 knots.

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NewsBytes:

Alabama, USA – Storms in Alabama, USA brought heavy rainfall and flash flooding on roads and highways in the Birmingham Metropolitan area on 16 March 2022.

Australia – Flash flooding in the outback city of Broken Hill, New South Wales, Australia, on 15 March 2022 has prompted flood rescues and caused one fatality. While many areas of northern and eastern parts of the state are recovering from the widespread flooding that began in late February, heavy rain caused flash flooding in the far west of New South Wales (NSW) on 15 March 2022.

Ecuador – One person is reported missing after heavy rain caused flash floods and landslides in the Province of Loja in southern Ecuador. Flooding struck in the city of Loja after a heavy downpour on 15 March. Streets in the city were flooded and several houses damaged. One person was missing after being swept away by flood waters.

Peru – Several people are missing and homes were destroyed after a massive landslide in La Libertad region in northwestern Peru on 15 March 2022. The landslide was the result of heavy rains. The landslide pushed part of a hillside onto homes below in the town of Retamas in Parcoy District, in the Pataz province of La Libertad. An estimated 60 buildings have been affected. Initial assessments suggest 15 houses and 1 commercial building were completely destroyed.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – New Activity for the week 9 March – 15 March 2022

Asosan – Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that the amplitude of volcanic tremor signals at Asosan had decreased at around 1540 on 27 February and remained low. White plumes rose 600-800 m above the crater during 7-14 March. During field surveys conducted on 8 and 10 March sulfur dioxide gas emissions were 1,300 and 900 tons per day, respectively; these values were higher than those measured before the October 2021 eruption.

Bezymianny – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : According to the Tokyo VAAC an ash plume from Bezymianny was visible in satellite images at 0310 on 15 March drifting W at an altitude of 4.9 km (16,000 ft) a.s.l., signifying renewed explosive activity. By 0600 ash plumes rose to 6.1 (20,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S. Ash continued to be emitted through the day. The eruption intensified and at 1322 ash plumes rose to 8.2 km (27,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW. Satellite images showed block-and-ash flows descended the SE flank to the base, with dense, dark brown ash plumes rising along its path. Thermal anomalies were visible at the summit and at the end of the flow. At 1750 possible ash plumes rose to 4.3 km (14,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W. Ash emissions continued to be visible in subsequent satellite images. Activity again intensified, and at 0110 on 16 March ash plumes rose to 11.6 km (38,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE. Ash emissions continued to be detected in images through the day.

Manam – Northeast of New Guinea : The Darwin VAAC reported that on 14 March an ash plume from Manam rose to 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W. Ash plumes later that day and on 15 March rose to 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW and W.



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Wednesday 16 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits Java, Indonesia.

5.3 earthquake hits Tonga.

5.3 earthquake hits the South Sandwich Islands.

5.2 earthquake hits southern Peru.

5.1 earthquake hits Luzon in the Philippines.

5.1 earthquake hits Kepulauan Batu, Indonesia.

5.1 earthquake hits Tonga.

5.0 earthquake hits Tarapaca, Chile.

5.0 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

5.0 earthquake hits Luzon in the Philippines.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 20s (Billy), located approximately 402 nm south-southwest of the Cocos Islands, is tracking westward at 10 knots.

Screen Shot 2022 03 16 at 11 47 42 AM



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Global Warming

Over 20,000 plant species to go extinct since humans don’t need them anymore

Humans have had an impact on Earth. This impact is now visible in the form of climate change, global warming, rising sea temperatures, and extreme weather events. In research that catalogs over 80,000 plant species, scientists have found that most of them, over 20,000, will go extinct thanks to their minimal usefulness to humans.

The new study indicates that human choices now largely dictate the environmental conditions across much of the globe and, as a result, species of plants and animals can either adapt to survive or will go extinct.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Chikungunya – Ethiopia

On 17 January 2022, a chikungunya outbreak was confirmed in Dolo ado district of Liben zone, Somali region. A total of 311 suspected cases are reported, of which three cases were confirmed by PCR at Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) laboratory. No deaths were reported.

Legionnaires Disease – California, USA

Public Health is investigating a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease in Palm Springs, Palm Desert and some surrounding communities stretching back months. Health officials are aware of 20 confirmed cases of which 14 individuals were hospitalized. Two deaths were reported.

Yellow Fever – Kenya

In a follow-up on the yellow fever outbreak in Kenya, a yellow fever outbreak was declared on March 4 by Kenyan authorities in Isiolo County, approximately 270 km north of the capital city of Nairobi. Since January 12, suspected yellow fever cases have been reported from eight villages within three sub-counties in Kenya. As of 10 March 2022, there are a total of 15 suspect yellow fever cases (including four deaths) reported.



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Tuesday 15 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

Two 5.2 earthquakes hit Luzon in the Philippines.

5.2 earthquake hits Kepulauan Batu, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits Luzon in the Philippines.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 20s (Billy), located approximately 291 nm south of the Cocos Islands, is tracking westward at 09 knots.

Screen Shot 2022 03 15 at 12 41 10 PM

NewsBytes:

Malawi – Disaster authorities in Malawi report that at least 4 people have died as a result of heavy rain brought by Cyclone Gombe. Cyclone Gombe brought heavy rains of more than 100 mm in 24 hours, flooding areas in Southern Region including Chikwawa, Mulanje and Nsanje where roads are blocked causing severe disruption to transport.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Leishmaniasis – Bolivia

In a follow-up to a report in late January, health officials with the Bolivian government and the Municipal Government of Villa Montes are raising alarms over recent cases of leishmaniasis in the city. According to officials, seven confirmed cases of leishmaniasis have been reported.



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Monday 14 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.7 earthquake hits Kepulauan Batu, Indonesia.

6.5 earthquake hits Luzon in the Philippines.

5.6 earthquake hits Luzon in the Philippines.

5.5 earthquake hits Kepulauan Batu, Indonesia.

5.1 earthquake hits New Britain, Papua New Guinea.

5.1 earthquake hits the southern mid-Atlantic ridge.

Two 5.0 earthquakes hit Luzon in the Philippines.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 20s (Twenty), located approximately 285 nm southeast of Cocos Islands, is tracking southwestward at 18 knots.

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NewsBytes:

Mozambique – Disaster authorities in Mozambique report that at least 12 people have died after Cyclone Gombe swept across the country bringing winds of 165 km/h and rain of over 200mm in 24 hours. Cyclone Gombe made landfall as a Category 3 Tropical Cyclone on Friday, 11 March 2022 on the coast between Mossuril and Mogincual districts in Nampula Province. As many as 115,336 individuals have been affected by the storm.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

There has been no update on covid-19 case counts so far today.

Measles – Afghanistan

In a follow-up on the measles outbreak in Afghanistan, the Ministry of Public Health of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan reports measles has spread in several provinces of Afghanistan and infected 15,900 children since the beginning of 2022 with 124 deaths being reported.



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Sunday 13 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.4 earthquake hits offshore Chiapas, Mexico.

5.2 earthquake hits the South Sandwich islands.

5.1 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 19s (Gombe), located approximately 120 nm southeast of Lilongwe, Malawi, is tracking west-southwestward at 07 knots. This is the final warning.

Screen Shot 2022 03 13 at 1 11 58 PM



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Global Warming

Antarctic sea ice hits lowest minimum on record

Antarctic sea ice shrank to below 2 million square kilometres this year, the lowest minimum extent since satellite records began 43 years ago.

The minimum extent of 1.92 million square kilometres occurred on 25 February and was 190,000 square kilometres less than the now second-lowest extent, reached in 2017, the US National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC) reported on 8 March.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Dengue Fever – East Timor

In a follow-up on the dengue outbreak in Timor-Leste, or East Timor, the Ministry of Health now reports 3,050 total cases through March 12.



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Saturday 12 March 2022

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.2 earthquake hits offshore Atacama, Chile.

5.1 earthquake hits Java, Indonesia.

5.1 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

5.0 earthquake hits Mindanao in the Philippines.

5.0 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits Tonga.

5.0 earthquake hits near the east coast of Kamchatka.



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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 19s (Gombe), located approximately 459 nm north-northwest of Europa Island, is tracking west-southwestward at 06 knots.

Screen Shot 2022 03 12 at 2 48 44 PM



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Wildfires

Wildfires – Argentina

The wildfires sweeping across northeastern Argentina have now consumed over 2.5 million acres, driven by extreme drought.

Fires have been raging across the province of Corrientes since this past December and have consumed 12% of the territory, known for its production of rice, cotton, tobacco, citrus and cattle.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Covid-19 – New Variant

Scientists have confirmed the existence of a new COVID-19 variant that combines mutations from both omicron and delta variants for the first time, and there are reported cases in both Europe and the U.S. – informally dubbed Deltacron.

Lassa fever – Liberia

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), since the beginning of this year 2022 up to 28 February 2022, a total of 33 suspected cases of Lassa Fever including 17 confirmed and 5 deaths (CFR 15.2%) have been reported in Liberia.



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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.1 earthquake hits south of Fiji.

5.1 earthquake hits the Balleny Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits east of the Kuril Islands.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 19s (Gombe), located approximately 420 nm north of Europa Island, is tracking west-northwestward at 06 knots.

Screen Shot 2022 03 11 at 1 39 57 PM

NewsBytes:

Malaysia - At least 4 people have died after heavy rainfall caused a landslide in a residential area on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on 10 March 2022. Part of a hillside crashed into homes and vehicles in Ampang Jaya in Hulu Langat District, eastern Selangor State, on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur Federal Territory. Parts of Hulu Langat District recorded more than 120 mm of rain in 24 hours to 10 March 2022.

Friday 11 March 2022

Global Warming

Climate change fundamentally affecting European birds

Global warming is changing European birds as we know them, a study has found, but it’s not just the increase in temperature that’s to blame.

Researchers have found that garden warblers, for example, are having a quarter fewer chicks, which has huge implications for the species. Chiffchaffs are laying their eggs 12 days earlier. Some birds are decreasing in size, while others, such as redstarts, are getting larger.

The study found that although more than half of trait changes are linked with rising temperatures – and warming is likely the largest factor driving change over the years – other factors such as urbanisation, pollution, habitat loss and more could also affect shifts in characteristics.

European Forests Shift

New research from Northern Arizona University shows Earth’s most northern forests have begun to shift because of warming global temperatures. KNAU’s Melissa Sevigny reports.

The researchers examined four decades of satellite observations of the boreal forests that stretch across Alaska, Canada, and Russia. They eliminated areas that were burned, logged, or otherwise disturbed to focus only on the effects of climate change.

They found that conifers on the northern edges of boreal forests are moving northward. But the southern edges became browner, indicating die-offs.



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Wildlife

Litter Shelter

Octopuses are increasingly being observed and photographed using discarded cans, bottles and other trash as shelter, and even places to safely lay their eggs, hidden from predators.

Writing in the journal Marine Pollution Bulletin, lead researcher Maira Proietti at Brazil’s Federal University of Rio Grande says her team examined hundreds of images from “citizen scientists” to see how the creatures are literally embracing such trash. “They clearly see that there’s a lot of litter around, and it can therefore act as a kind of artificial camouflage,” said Proietti. But she cautions that sheltering or laying eggs in discarded tyres, batteries, plastic containers and other man-made items could expose the octopuses to heavy metals or toxic chemicals.

EWCOLOUR



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Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week’s hottest temperature was 44.0 degrees Celsius (111 degrees F) at Garoua, Cameroon.

The week’s coldest temperature was minus 67.0 degrees Celsius (-55 degrees F) at Vostok, Antarctica.

Temperatures were tabulated from the more than 10,000 worldwide synoptic weather stations. The United Nations World Meteorological Organization sets the standards for weather observations, and provides a global telecommunications circuit for data distribution.



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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Typhoid Fever – DR Congo

In January 2022, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) saw 142,383 suspected cases of typhoid fever including 45 deaths. Approximately 1.4 million typhoid cases were reported in 2021.

Monkeypox – Central African Republic

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports four cases of monkeypox, including 2 deaths during the last week of February in the Central African Republic. The cases were reported in the health districts of Mbaïki and Bimbo. Monkeypox is in the same family of viruses as smallpox but generally causes a milder infection.

Malaria – Venezuela

Falcón State, in northern Venezuela continues to report malaria cases. In the last quarter of 2021, 380 indigenous cases were registered, and so far in 2022, 134 have been recorded through the first seven weeks.

Dengue fever – Singapore

Singapore reported today the weekly reported dengue cases are rising sharply, with 264 cases recorded in the week ending 5 March 2022 – 65 cases more than in the previous week. As of the week ending 5 March 2022, there have been more than 1,500 reported dengue cases this year.

Leptospirosis – New Caledonia

Since the beginning of the year, 83 leptospirosis cases have been reported in New Caledonia. In addition, one death has been recorded. The disease is occurs every year during the rainy season. Last year, 229 cases and four deaths were registered.



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Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – Ongoing Activity for the week 2 March – 8 March 2022

Davidof – Aleutian Islands (USA) : According to AVO the earthquake swarm that began on 24 January in the vicinity at Davidof continued at least through 8 March with a few small earthquakes recorded each day by seismometers on Little Sitkin (15 km E). The earthquakes were shallow (less than 10 km deep) and the largest recorded during the last 7-10 days was a M 3.9. The swarm was either related to tectonic processes or volcanic unrest. The volcano is also monitored by satellite and remote infrasound and lightning networks.

Descabezado Grande – Central Chile : According to the Buenos Aires VAAC a diffuse cloud of resuspended ash from Descabezado Grande was visible in a satellite data on 8 March.

Great Sitkin – Andreanof Islands (USA) : AVO reported that slow lava effusion at Great Sitkin likely continued during 2-8 March and very low seismicity persisted. Elevated surface temperatures were periodically identified in satellite images. A possible steam plume rising above the weather clouds was visible during 4-5 March.

Karymsky – Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Karymsky was visible in satellite images during 25-28 February. The volcano was obscured by clouds on the other days during 1-4 March.

Kilauea – Hawaiian Islands (USA) : HVO reported that lava effusion at the vent of the main cone in the lower W wall of Kilauea’s Halema`uma`u Crater continued at variable rates during 2-8 March. After a brief pause effusion from the W vent resumed at about 0100 on 2 March and continued through 7 March. Lava from the vent traveled S and W, into the western active lava lake. Lava occasionally oozed out from the margins of the lake during 3-6 March, particularly along the E and N margins. A pause in effusion began in the evening of 7 March.

Merapi – Central Java : BPPTKG reported no significant morphological changes at Merapi’s summit lava dome during 25 February-3 March but there had been collapses at the SW dome, located just below the SW rim. Seismicity remained at high levels. As many as 73 lava avalanches traveled a maximum of 2 km down the Bebeng drainage on the SW flank.

Pavlof – Alaska Peninsula, Alaska : AVO reported that the eruption at Pavlof was ongoing during 2-8 March. Small explosions were detected on most days. Lava effusion likely continued from a vent just E of the summit, possibly sending lava flows a short distance down the NE flank, though weather clouds often obscured views. Elevated surface temperatures were often identified in satellite images. A high-resolution satellite image acquired during 5-6 March showed a developing spatter cone in the E crater, as well as no active lava flows nor widespread ash deposits on the flanks.

Popocatepetl – Mexico : During an overflight of Popocatépetl on 23 February, Instituto de Geofísica de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) and CENAPRED scientists noted that the inner crater dimensions were similar to those recorded in November 2021. The inner crater was 390-410 m in diameter and 160-200 m deep; the crater floor was covered in tephra and the remains of recent lava domes. Each day during 1-8 March there were 9-50 steam-and-gas emissions with diffuse ash rising from the crater and drifting W and NE. An explosion was recorded at 0959 on 4 March.

Santa Maria – Southwestern Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that the eruption at Santa María’s Santiaguito lava-dome complex continued during 1-8 March. Incandescence from Caliente crater and the lava flows on the W and SW flanks was visible nightly. Avalanches generated by both lava effusion and collapsing material descended the W, SW, and S flanks, often reaching the base of the dome. Periodically the avalanches produced ash along their paths that fell on to the flanks or dissipated near the volcano.

Semeru – Eastern Java : PVMBG reported that the eruption at Semeru continued during 2-8 March, causing the observatory to issue several VONAs mostly for ash plumes. Ground observers noted an ash plume at 0540 on 3 March that rose vertically 4.2 km above the summit. At 2004 later that day a pyroclastic flow originating from the end of a lava flow descended the Kobokan drainage on the SE flank; an ash plume was not visible. Ash plumes at 0742 on 5 March, and at 0603 and 0734 on 6 March, rose 400-500 m above the summit and drifted N and NW. Ash plumes at 0534 and 0735 on 7 March rose 1 km and drifted SSE and NW, respectively. More ash plumes at 0541 and 0758 on 8 March rose 400 m and drifted SW and S.

Semisopochnoi – Aleutian Islands (USA) : AVO reported that low-level eruptive activity at Semisopochnoi’s North Cerberus cone continued during 1-8 March. Local seismic and infrasound instruments recorded daily small explosions. Weather clouds often prevented satellite and webcam views of the volcano, though explosions likely produced low ash clouds from the summit and they were visually confirmed during 4-8 March.

Sheveluch – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 25 February-4 March.

Suwanosejima – Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that eruption plumes at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater rose as high as 2.4 km during 28 February-7 March and blocks were ejected as far as 800 m from the crater. Three explosions were recorded and crater incandescence was visible nightly. Ashfall was reported in areas as far as 5 km from the vent including in Toshima village (3.5 km SSW).

Wolf – Isla Isabela (Galapagos) : IG reported that the eruption at Wolf continued during 1-8 March. Daily thermal alert counts, as many as 125, indicated active and advancing lava flows on the SSE flank.



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