Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.4 earthquake hits southern Sumatra, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits the Nicobar Islands off India.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical Storm 02w (Wutip), located approximately 557 nm north-northwest of Yap, is tracking west-northwestward at 12 knots.

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 16p (tc) (Pola), located approximately 377 nm south-southeast of Suva, Fiji, is tracking southward at 12 knots.

NewsBytes:

Peru - Two more people have been killed in a landslide in Peru, bringing to at least 50 the number of people who have died since the rainy season started in September, according to the Centre for National Emergency Operations. The landslide was triggered by torrential rain in the city of Huancavelica, where hospitals and schools have been inundated, and severe flooding has blocked roads and damaged bridges, the centre said. Thousands of families have been affected by the flood waters, with many calling on the government to do more to alleviate the situation.

California, USA - Rivers swollen by days of heavy rain inundated portions of northern California on Wednesday, forcing hundreds of people to flee their homes. However, about half of the 4,000 people ordered to leave have refused to do so. Two towns – Guerneville and Monte Rio – were islands surrounded by water, local officials said. The only way to reach the two communities now is by boat.

Wildfires

Wildfires - UK

Firefighters have contained a blaze that erupted on moorland in West Yorkshire in northern England, one of the three wildfires that broke out across the United Kingdom as temperatures hit record seasonal highs. The fire, on Saddleworth Moor, burned throughout Tuesday night across about 1.5 square kilometers (370 acres) near the village of Marsden.

Other fires broke out in Edinburgh, on the city's famed Arthur's Seat hill, and in the southern English county of West Sussex, in woodland immortalized by A.A. Milne's Winnie the Pooh stories.

Nature - Images

Interesting Images

Swimming in the open ocean entangled this loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) in a dangerous trap posed by a discarded fishing net. Luckily, photographer Eduardo Acevedo encountered the turtle near the Canary Islands, and released her from the net after capturing this striking image.

This tiny sea slug, the Cyerce nigra was photographed near the Philippines. This photo allows us to enjoy the visual feast of a creature too small to appreciate with the naked eye.

Volcanos

Global Volcanic Activity - New Activity for the week of 20 February - 26 February 2019

Bezymianny | Central Kamchatka (Russia) : On 27 February KVERT reported increased activity at Bezymianny characterized by nighttime crater incandescence, hot avalanches originating from the lava dome, and occasionally strong fumarolic activity. The report noted that the temperature of the thermal anomaly was gradually increasing. The Aviation colour Code was raised to Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Karangetang | Siau Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 20-26 February dense white plumes rose as high as 500 m above the rims of Karangetang’s Main Crater and Kawah Dua (North Crater). The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and residents were warned to remain outside of the 2.5-km exclusion zone around the N and S craters, and additionally within 3 km WNW and 4 km NW.

Karymsky | Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that ash plumes from Karymsky were identified in satellite images drifting 200 km E during 16-20 February, and a thermal anomaly was visible during 16 and 18-20 February. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Piton de la Fournaise | Reunion Island (France) : OVPF reported that activity continued during 20-26 February from the fissure that opened on 19 February; the site is at 1,800 m elevation at the foot of Piton Madoré, E of Piton de la Fournaise’s Dolomieu Crater. On 21 February scientists mapped the slowly eastward-advancing flows (and also those that had erupted on 18 February). They noted that the cone at the vent was growing, and hosted a lava lake that ejected spatter from bursting gas bubbles. A channelized lava flow traveled 1 km E and descended 200 m elevation before splitting into two flows near Guyanin Crater. The more northern of the two flows was 50 m wide and had progressed as far as 1,320 m elevation. The second more southerly flow was 200 m wide and itself split into two flows about 300 m SE of Guyanin Crater; one branch went to about 1,350 m elevation and the other to 1,300 m. Overall the longest part of the lava flow had traveled 1.9 km from the vent. During 22-26 February the lava emission rate was variable up to 16 cubic meters per second (based on satellite data), though webcam images from 24 February indicated that the flow had not significantly advanced.

Poas | Costa Rica : OVSICORI-UNA reported that during 23-26 February seismicity at Poás was dominated by low-frequency events. Robust gas emissions rose from four fumarolic vents in the area previously covered by a lake, though the most vigorous emissions originated from vent A (Boca Roja). Minor incandescence from vent A was sometimes visible at night. A sulfur odor was reported in areas downwind including Naranjo, Zarcero, and Grecia (16 km SW). Particles of molten sulfur were included in ash deposits collected in Naranjo. Ashfall was reported in Canoas de Alajuela on 26 February.

Semeru | Eastern Java (Indonesia) : Based on analysis of satellite images, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 24 February an ash plume from Semeru rose to an altitude of 4.3 km (14,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.1 earthquake hits the southern east Pacific rise.

Two 5.0 earthquakes hit the Banda Sea.

5.0 earthquake hits the South Sandwich Islands.

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

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 02w (Wutip), located approximately 320 nm west-northwest of Navsta, Guam, is tracking north-northwestward at 05 knots.

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 16p (tc) (Pola), located approximately 259 nm east-southeastt of Suva, Fiji, is tracking south-southwestward at 07 knots.

NewsBytes:

USA - The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency reports 14 counties in the state have declared local states of emergency after floods over the weekend. In california the Russian River will crest at 45.9 feet by 10 p.m. Wednesday night. That would be the highest crest since 1997 and the 6th highest crest on record.

Environment

Marine Areas Around The World Where Plastic Is Piling Up

World map showing marine areas where plastic rubbish and microplastics are collected by ocean currents.

Global Warming

Climate change is revealing, and threatening, thawing relics

Since the scorching hot summer of 2006, almost 3,000 archaeological artifacts have appeared from the melting ice in Oppland, Northern Norway. Among them, an Iron Age tunic, a 1,500-year-old arrow and a 3,400-year-old shoe.

Here, a a glacier archaeology program called Secrets of the Ice is documenting the finds being made on local ice patches -- static or slow-moving ice fields that are ideal locations to find objects that were once lost in the snow. Instead of having to dig like traditional archaeologists, Oppland's archaeologists simply survey areas of the ice, looking out for artifacts that have thawed.

Many of Norway's glaciers have experienced increased melting this century, caused by warmer temperatures. But whilst the changing climate is presenting archaeologists with exciting finds, it is also threatening to destroy ancient relics before archaeologists ever see them. Once an artifact is exposed to oxygen and sunlight, it will start to degrade.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Tasmania

Australia's tallest tree ‘Centurion’ has survived Tasmania's fierce bushfires, with the only damage a scorched, gaping hole at the base of the 100-metre tall Eucalyptus tree.

The tree's survival is a silver lining to the devastating Riveaux Road fire, which destroyed thousands of hectares in the Huon Valley, in southern Tasmania.

Disease

Dengue Fever - Brazil

Brazil health officials are warning the public of a big increase in dengue fever in the country during the first month of 2019. Through Feb. 2, there were 54,777 probable cases of the disease. The cases are at 26.3 per 100,000 inhabitants.

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) – Saudi Arabia

On 6 February 2019, the National IHR Focal Point of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia notified WHO of an ongoing outbreak of MERS-CoV infection in Wadi Aldwasir city and one of its hospitals. Between 29 January and 13 February 2019, 39 cases of MERS-CoV infection, including four deaths, were reported. At the time of writing, this outbreak remains ongoing.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits the central Mid-Atlantic ridge.

5.2 earthquake hits offshore Coquimbo, Chile.

5.0 earthquake hits offshore El Salvador.

Two 5.0 earthquakes hit the Kuril Islands.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Super Typhoon 02w (Wutip), located approximately 304 nm west-northwest of Andersen AFB, Guam, is tracking northward at 03 knots.

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 16p (tc) (Sixteen), located approximately 235 nm southwest of Avata, Samoa, is tracking southward at 10 knots.

NewsBytes:

USA - Residents are using boats to reach flooded-out neighborhoods and schools are shut down after days of torrential rains in north Alabama. The National Weather Service says many areas got around 10 inches (25 centimeters) of rain last week, and some spots received more than 12 inches (30 centimeters). The city of Decatur says water levels already have exceeded 100-year levels and could rise another 2 feet (0.6 meters). Schools are closed in at least a half-dozen systems in the region.

Global Warming

Climate Change Could Make Common Clouds Extinct, Which Would Scorch the Planet

If humanity pumps enough carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, one of Earth's most important types of cloud could go extinct. And if the stratocumulus clouds — those puffy, low rolls of vapor that blanket much of the planet at any given moment — disappear, Earth's temperature could climb sharply and radically, to heights not predicted in current climate models. That's the conclusion of a paper published today (Feb. 25) in the journal Nature Geoscience.

Clouds have long been one of the great uncertainties of climate models. Clouds are complicated, small and fast-changing. Computer models that easily capture the complexity and detail of most climate systems just aren't powerful enough to predict worldwide shifts in cloud behavior.

But clouds are important. They dye a wide swath of the atmosphere white, as seen from space, reflecting sunlight away from Earth's surface. And stratocumulus clouds are an important part of that picture; they're those white blankets you might have seen as you looked out the window of an airplane, rolling out below you and hiding the ground. Researchers suspect that certain sudden, past jumps in temperature may have been caused by changes to clouds like these.

And once the stratocumulus clouds are gone, Wolchover reported, they likely wouldn't reappear until atmospheric carbon dioxide levels dropped below where they are currently.

Evidence for Man-Made Global Warming Hits ‘Gold Standard’

Evidence for man-made global warming has reached a “gold standard” level of certainty, adding pressure for cuts in greenhouse gases to limit rising temperatures, scientists said Monday.

“Humanity cannot afford to ignore such clear signals,” the U.S.-led team wrote in the journal Nature Climate Change of satellite measurements of rising temperatures over the past 40 years.

They said confidence that human activities were raising the heat at the Earth’s surface had reached a “five-sigma” level, a statistical gauge meaning there is only a one-in-a-million chance that the signal would appear if there was no warming.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Kenya

Kenya Forest Services (KFS) has mobilized it’s human and equipment assets to assist in putting out a huge fire that is fast spreading in Mt Kenya Forest. The 6km long forest fire line has moved from Lake Ellis area towards Lake Alice and Marania spreading to the moorlands an area under Kenya Wildlife Service.

Disease

Chronic Wasting Disease in Deer - Kansas

Officials with the Kansas wildlife department released new numbers of the monitoring of the prevalence of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in Kansas deer in an update and what they report is of the 360 deer tested this year to date, 37 were confirmed positive for the transmissible spongiform encephalopathie (TSE).

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.1 earthquake hits Minahasa, Sulawesi, Indonesia.

5.1 earthquake hits the Santa Cruz Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits New Britain, Papua New Guinea.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Super Typhoon 02w (Wutip), located approximately 237 nm north of Ulithi, is tracking north-northwestward at 04 knots.

Wildlife

Poaching Pangolins

Conservationists are concerned over the rate at which a group of unique African and Asian scaly mammals called pangolins are being trafficked and hunted for their meat.

It's estimated that 21 pangolins are taken out of the wild every hour and about a million have been removed from their natural habitats in the last decade.

In mid-January, Hong Kong seized more than eight tonnes of pangolin scales and nearly two tonnes of ivory. Two weeks later, Ugandan authorities seized 762 pieces of ivory and 423 kilograms of pangolin scales bound for Vietnam.

Just a few days later, a shipment of close to 30 metric tonnes of both dead and live pangolins, pangolin scales and pangolin meat was seized in Malaysia. The shipment also included two legs of a sun bear. The seizure in Hong Kong alone would have been supplied by hundreds of elephants and thousands of pangolins. All of these animals were illegally poached and trafficked by transnational organised criminal networks.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Corsica

French authorities say firefighters are trying to contain a wildfire that spread overnight near a small village on the Mediterranean island of Corsica.

Authorities in Haute-Corse, the prefecture covering the northern part of the island, said strong winds fed 20 wildfires that started in several places on Saturday. More than 1,500 acres were burnt near the town of Calenzana but no damage was caused to houses and no serious injuries have been reported.

Disease

Wild Poliovirus - Asia

Officials with the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) reported three additional wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) cases in the past week–one in Afghanistan and two in Pakistan.

Measles - Philippines

The Department of Health in the region of CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon provinces) has been one of the hardest hit regions in the Philippines this year when it comes to the measles epidemic. According to health department data, a total of 3,384 measles cases with 83 deaths in the region from January 1 to February 23. Meanwhile the number of measles deaths in the Philippines has risen to 203.

African Swine Fever - China

China on Sunday (Feb 24) confirmed two new outbreaks of African swine fever, one in the northern province of Hebei and the other in the northern region of Inner Mongolia, as the highly contagious disease spreads through the world's largest hog herd.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs said the first outbreak is on a farm in the Xushui district of Baoding city which has 5,600 hogs, some of which died because of the swine fever, though it did not give a death toll. The farm has been quarantined and the herd slaughtered, it added.

The second outbreak is in the remote Greater Khingan Mountains in Inner Mongolia, where 210 of the 222 wild boar raised on the farm died, the ministry said in a separate statement. The rest have been slaughtered, it said.

China has reported more than 100 cases of the disease in 27 provinces and regions since last August. The disease is deadly for pigs but does not harm humans.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits the MacQuarie Islands.

5.2 earthquake hits eastern New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.

5.0 earthquake hits Jujuy, Argentina.

5.0 earthquake hits Halmahera, Indonesia.

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

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 02w (Wutip), located approximately 172 nm west of Navsta, Guam, is tracking west-northwestward at 04 knots.

NewsBytes:

USA - A tornado smashed into a commercial district in the small Mississippi city of Columbus on Saturday afternoon, shattering businesses as severe storms raked the South amid days of drenching rains and a rising flood threat. Elsewhere around the South, homes, highways, parks and bridges have been flooded or put out of commission amid the heavy rains and severe storms. News outlets report that water rescues have been performed in some Middle Tennessee counties. Flash flood warnings and watches remained in place throughout the South and one Mississippi community reported large hail. Interstate 40 near the Tennessee line with North Carolina was closed by a rockslide, one of the dozens of roads and highways shut down throughout the South region, transportation officials said.

Disease

Disease Outbreaks in Sudan

The Sudan Liberation Movement has reported an increase in the cases of pneumonia, diarrhoea, measles and anaemia, and incidences of miscarriage in several areas of Jebel Marra. The rebel movement holds several areas in Jebel Marra under its control, which is the main reason why the Sudanese government does not allow access there for humanitarian aid assistance. The diseases have led to numerous deaths among children.

“These diseases, of which no causes have yet been identified, are increasing,” the movement claimed, expressing its concern for a larger outbreak of diseases in the rebel-hold areas.

The Sudanese government, after its decision to expel international aid organisations from Jebel Marra and Darfur, has prevented the African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur (Unamid) and humanitarian organisations from reaching the areas under the rebels' control.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits the southern Mid-Atlantic ridge.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone (tc) 15p (Oma), located approximately 357 nm west-northwest of Kingston Island, is tracking southeastward at 09 knots.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 02w (Wutip), located approximately 170 nm southwest of Andersen AFB, Guam, is tracking northwestward at 09 knots.

NewsBytes:

Guam - The island had already started feeling the impacts of Typhoon Wutip this morning. Typhoon Wutip is pouring rain on the island. The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning.

USA - Rounds of rare weather, including floods, snowfall and the risk of a tornado outbreak. have been paralyzing communities across the U.S. this week. The rare phenomenon known as “thundersnow” occurred in both Ohio and Maryland. For the first time in more than a decade, measurable snow fell in Las Vegas, where a half-inch dusted the ground. Flagstaff, AZ, has seen more than 14 inches of snow. The same winter storm that brought the heavy snow triggered an emergency in Prescott, AZ. Torrential rains, up to 6 inches in some places, triggered floods and mudslides in the South. Flooding broke the banks of many rivers that were already at or above flood stage, turning many roads into rivers, and completely destroying some – as the risk of a tornado outbreak threatens a large area of the Southeast this weekend.

Nature - Images

Interesting Images

Fireball at Yosemite

As meltwater plunges 1,500 feet (457 meters) to the ground from the El Capitan rock formation in February, the setting sun throws its light against the falls. If the sky is clear and the sun is positioned precisely in the western sky, that setting sunlight paints the the water with fiery orange, yellow and pink light.

Dragon and Phoenix Auroras over Iceland

Wildlife

Right Whale Baby Boom

Scientists are expressing hope for the recovery of the endangered Atlantic right whale population after seven of the species’ calves were spotted off Florida this winter.

Only about 450 North Atlantic right whales are believed to remain after whaling drove the species to near extinction before hunting them was banned in 1937.

Right whale mothers typically give birth about every four years. Researcher Katie Jackson of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says about 16 to 18 calves need to be born each year just to maintain the current small population.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

7.7 earthquake hits the Peru-Ecuador border.

5.5 earthquake hits near the coast of Ecuador.

5.5 earthquake hits Hokkaido, Japan.

5.2 earthquake hits southern Peru.

5.1 earthquake hits the Solomon Islands.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone (tc) 15p (Oma), located approximately 343 nm east of Brisbane, Australia, is tracking southward at 13 knots.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 02w (Wutip), located approximately 291 nm south-southeast of Andersen AFB, Guam, is tracking northwestward at 13 knots.

NewsBytes:

Pakistan - Pakistani officials say flash floods and heavy winter rains have led to the deaths of 12 people in the country's southwest and central regions. Flash floods submerged villages near the southwestern town of Lasbella, killing three people there and affecting 200 families. In central Pakistan, nine were killed in three incidents of roofs on houses collapsing amid the rains, four of them in the city of Multan.

Wildlife

World’s Biggest Bee Not Extinct

You'd think that the world's biggest bee would be hard to lose track of. But Wallace's Giant Bee — an Indonesian species with a 2.5-inch (6.4 centimeters) wingspan and enormous mandibles — was last seen by researchers in 1981; it was feared to be extinct.

However, scientists finally spotted the rare bee in January, in the Indonesian province of North Maluku on the Maluku Islands. They detected a solitary female bee after investigating the region for five days, and a photographer captured the first-ever images of a living Wallace's Giant Bee (Megachile pluto) at the insect's nest in an active termite mound.

Locust Swarms

U.N. officials warned that a locust outbreak is spreading along both sides of the Red Sea from Sudan and Eritrea to Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

They report that heavy rains from two tropical cyclones in 2018 triggered the breeding of locust swarms, with the insects also spreading as far away as Iran.

“The next three months will be critical to bring the locust situation under control before the summer breeding starts,” Food and Agriculture Organization locust expert Keith Cressman said in the statement.

One small swarm of the insects can chomp through as much plant food in a single day as 35,000 people.

Monarch Realm Expands

A small, secluded colony of monarch butterflies has been found after years of searching by park rangers and conservationists.

Rumors of a possible colony around Mexico’s Nevado de Toluca volcano had spawned numerous searches. But a handful of communal landowners stumbled across the tiny colony just before Christmas.

News of the discovery came as officials announced the wintering population of monarchs in 15 acres of their main habitat in the mountains of Michoacan state had increased by 144 percent over the previous year.

The location of the newly discovered colony is being kept secret and will be patrolled by paid conservation workers.

Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week's hottest temperature was 115 degrees Fahrenheit (46.1 degrees Celsius) in Dampier, Western Australia.

The week's coldest temperature was minus 65.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 53.9 degrees Celsius) at Oimyakon, Siberia.

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 - Australia

A bushfire that damaged one home and destroyed four sheds, four vehicles and a harvester in Western Australia's South West region has been contained but the threat remains. About 3300 hectares have been burnt since the fire started on Tuesday, and 80 firefighters are working to strengthen containment lines and mop up.

Disease

Measles - Japan

According to the Japan National Institute of Infectious Diseases in Tokyo, 167 measles cases have been reported through Feb. 10, making it the worst measles outbreak in the country in 10 years.

Chagas Disease - Mexico

Chagas is a potentially deadly parasitic disease caused by the microorganism, Trypanosoma cruzi. It is transmitted to humans by insects known as kissing bugs, as well as via blood transfusions, organ transplants, during pregnancy and childbirth, and by consuming contaminated foods.

In Yucatan state, Mexico, health officials are reporting an increase in the parasitic disease. Between the Feb. 3rd and 9th, 24 new cases of Chagas disease have been confirmed in Yucatan state. In the month of February, 27 cases have been reported in total to date.

Ebola - DR Congo

The Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak is continuing with moderate intensity. Katwa and Butembo remain the major health zones of concern, while simultaneously, small clusters continue to occur in various geographically dispersed locations. During the last 21 days (30 January – 19 February 2019), 79 new cases have been reported from 40 health areas within 12 health zones, including: Katwa (46), Butembo (15), Kyondo (4), Vuhovi (4), Kalunguta (2), Oicha (2), Biena (1), Mabalako (1), Manguredjipa (1), Masereka (1), Mutwanga (1), and Rwampara (1).

Volcanos

Global Volcanic Activity - Ongoing Activity for the week of 13 February - 19 February 2019

Agung | Bali (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that an explosive event at Agung was recorded at 0434 on 14 February, causing ashfall in Bugbug village, 20 km SE. Crater incandescence was recorded at night by webcams in Karangasem City (16 km SE). The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) with the exclusion zone set at a 4-km radius.

Aira | Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that 12-18 February incandescence was visible from Minamidake crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano), and two events and two explosions were recorded. One of the explosions occurred at 0624 on 14 February, producing a plume that rose 1.5 km above the crater rim and ejecting material 500-700 m from the crater. An explosion on 17 February generated a plume that rose 2.3 km above the crater rim and ejected material 1-1.3 km from the crater. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale).

Cleveland | Chuginadak Island (USA) : AVO reported that unrest at Cleveland continued during 13-19 February, though no activity was detected in seismic or infrasound data. Elevated surface temperatures were identified in satellite images; weather clouds sometimes prevented views of the volcano. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch.

Dukono | Halmahera (Indonesia) : Based on satellite data, wind model data, and ground-based observations, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 13-19 February ash plumes from Dukono rose to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S and SW. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and visitors were warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.

Ebeko | Paramushir Island (Russia) : Volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, observed explosions during 8-15 February that sent ash plumes to 2.5 km (8,200 ft) a.s.l. Ash fell in Severo-Kurilsk on 11 February. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Etna | Sicily (Italy) : On 19 February INGV summarized Etna’s fissure eruption that occurred high on the SE flank during 24-27 December 2018, noting that 3-4 million cubic meters of lava erupted and covered an area of 1 square kilometer. After the event seismicity gradually decreased. The last significant event was a ML 4.1 recorded on 8 January 2019; afterwards seismicity was characterized as frequent events with modest magnitudes. Since the beginning of January ash emissions intermittently rose mainly from Northeast Crater (NEC) and more sporadically from Bocca Nuova. News sources noted that the Catania Airport (Aeroporto di Catania – Sicilia) was closed during 26-27 January. Preliminary assessments of some of the ash deposits showed they contained no juvenile material. During 11-17 February ash emissions of variable intensity rose from NEC and were notable on 14 and 18 February. Volcanic tremor amplitude did not significantly vary compared to the previous week, having average values overall. The Catania Airport announced the partial closure of airspace and flight delays during 17-18 February due to ash emissions.

Kadovar | Papua New Guinea : Based on satellite data and wind model data, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 16 February ash plumes from Kadovar rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted ESE.

Kerinci | Indonesia : PVMBG reported that at 1309 on 13 February an observer noted a brownish-white ash plume rising 400 m above Kerinci’s crater rim and drifting NE. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Krakatau | Indonesia : PVMBG reported that a brief explosive event at Anak Krakatau was recorded at 0026 on 14 February, though weather conditions prevented clear views of the event. During 15-17 February diffuse white plumes rose 50 m above the summit. At 1402 on 18 February another short-lived event produced an ash plume that rose about 500 m above the summit and drifted S and SW. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and residents were warned to remain outside of the 5-km radius hazard zone from the crater.

Manam | Papua New Guinea : Based on analyses of satellite imagery and model data, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 15 February an ash plume from Manam rose to an altitude of 4.9 km (16,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E.

Merapi | Central Java (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 8-17 February the volume of the lava dome in Merapi’s summit crater was about the same as the previous week, and there were no apparent morphological changes. Most of the extruded lava did not add to the dome volume but instead fell into the upper parts of the Gendol River drainage and the SE flank. Incandescent avalanches traveling down the SE flank were visible at night. At 0858 on 11 February a pyroclastic flow traveled 400 m down the Gendol drainage. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and residents were warned to remain outside of the 3-km exclusion zone.

Nevados de Chillan | Chile : ONEMI and SERNAGEOMIN reported that during 5-12 February growth of the lava dome in Nevados de Chillán’s Nicanor Crater was very slow (10.8 cubic meters per hour). White water vapor emissions, occasionally grayish from included tephra, rose as high as 1.7 km and drifted SE and NE. Crater incandescence was recorded by a webcam each day. At 0109 on 15 February an explosive event partially destroyed the lava dome and ejected incandescent material onto areas near the crater. The Alert Level remained at Orange, the second highest level on a four-colour scale, and residents were reminded not to approach the crater within 3 km. ONEMI maintained an Alert Level Yellow (the middle level on a three-colour scale) for the communities of Pinto, Coihueco, and San Fabián.

Popocatepetl | Mexico : CENAPRED reported that each day during 13-19 February there were 20-140 steam-and-gas emissions from Popocatépetl, some of which contained ash. Seismicity began to increase at 2100 on 14 February coincident with the onset of Strombolian activity. Incandescent material was ejected 1.5 km onto the flanks, and gas-and-ash plumes rose as high as 2 km above the carter rim and drifted SW. The phase lasted for about seven hours. Explosions were recorded at 1528, 1602, 1824, and 1935 on 14 February and at 0409 on 15 February. Ashfall was reported in areas downwind including Tetela del Volcán (20 km SW), Zacualpan (31 km SW), Jonacatepec (43 km SW), Cuautla (43 km SW), Ocuituco (24 km SW), Yecapixtla (31 km SW), and in Tochimilco (16 km SSE).

During 0044-0606 on 16 February Strombolian activity ejected incandescent material that fell back into the crater. Gas-and-ash plumes rose 1 km and drifted SE. A period of harmonic tremor began at 1600, accompanied by emissions of water vapor and gas that rose 1.5 km. By 1830 ejected incandescent fragments were visible and fell onto flanks 400 m from the crater. Plumes rose 2 km and drifted NNE. Seismicity decreased by 2100 and material was no longer being ejected above the crater rim, though crater incandescence remained visible. There were at least 14 explosions detected on 17 February; the more significant events were recorded at 0438, 0457, 0719, 0821, and 0956, generating plumes that rose 2 km and drifted NNE. Minor ashfall was reported in areas downwind including Tlaxco (85 km NE) and Xalostoc, Nativitas (40 km NE), Hueyotlipan (57 km NNE), Amaxac de Guerrero (60 km NE), Tepetitla de Lardizábal (37 km NE), Texoloc, and Tlaxcala (51 km NE). An explosion at 0704 on 18 February produced a plume that rose 2 km and drifted NNE. An explosion was detected at 0613 on 19 February. On 20 February CENAPRED noted growth of lava dome #82. The Alert Level remained at Yellow, Phase Two (middle level on a three-colour scale).

Sheveluch | Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that during 8-15 February Sheveluch’s lava dome continued to grow, extruding blocks on the N side, and producing hot avalanches and fumarolic plumes. A thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images daily. Video and satellite data recorded gas-and-steam plumes with variable ash content rising to 4 km (13,100 ft) a.s.l. and drifting in multiple directions. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Turrialba | Costa Rica : OVSICORI-UNA reported that during 13-15 February a period of almost continuous gas emissions with minor ash content rose 200-300 m above the rim of Turrialba’s active vent. The plumes drifted NW, W, and SW. An event at 1330 on 15 February produced a plume that rose 1 km and drifted W. During the morning of 18 February a plume with low ash content rose from the vent. An event at 1310 generated a plume that rose 500 m and drifted W.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits Fiji.

5.1 earthquake hits near the coast of western Turkey.

5.0 earthquake hits the Owen Fracture Zone.

5.0 earthquake hits the North Indian Ocean.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone (tc) 15p (Oma), located approximately 357 nm west-southwest of Noumea, New Caledonia, is tracking south-southwestward at 09 knots.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 02w (Wutip), located approximately 484 nm south-southeast of Andersen AFB, Guam, is tracking west-northwestward at 14 knots.

Global Warming

Australian rodent marks first climate change extinction

An Australian rodent that lived near the Great Barrier Reef has been officially declared extinct, making it the first known mammal killed off by climate change, according to researchers.

The Bramble Cay melomys, a rat-like rodent known to live on a small northern island at the edge of the Torres Strait Islands in Queensland, was relocated from the government's "endangered" list to its "extinct" list, the Australian Department of the Environment and Energy announced Monday.

Researchers, in a 2016 report released on the critter, said they confirmed that melomys on Bramble Cay were extinct after a "survey in March 2014 failed to detect the species." Fishermen who visited the area suggested to scientists that the last known sighting of the animal was in late 2009.

The Torres Strait region where Bramble Cay is located has seen "extreme high water levels and damaging storm surges," the 2016 report stated. These weather events are the "root cause" of the extinction of the Bramble Cay melomys, which "point[s] to human-induced climate change," scientists said.

Disease

Monkeypox - Nigeria - Update

In January this year, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) six new suspected Monkeypox cases were reported in 4 states (Bayelsa – 2; Rivers- 1; Bauchi – 1; Lagos- 1; Borno – 1; Delta – 1). No deaths were reported.

Malaria - Venezuela

In the deteriorating health care crisis in Venezuela, in a follow-up on the malaria epidemic, the number being floated around unofficially by the Venezuelan Ministry of Health and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is ~430,000 cases for 2018. Local reports estimate there have been more than 1.3 million malaria cases in the country since the epidemic was declared in 2015.

Volcanos

Global Volcanic Activity - New Activity for the week of 13 February - 19 February 2019

Karangetang | Siau Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 13-19 February sometimes-dense white plumes rose as high as 400 m above the rim of Karangetang’s Main Crater. White emissions that were occasionally bluish rose mostly 50-150 m above Kawah Dua’s (North Crater) crater rim, though on 18 February the plumes were grayish and rose 200-300 m. Roaring sounds from the volcano were occasionally noted at an observation post. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and residents were warned to remain outside of the 2.5-km exclusion zone around the N and S craters, and additionally within 3 km WNW and 4 km NW.

Karymsky | Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that at 1427 on 16 February a satellite image captured an ash plume from Karymsky drifting 55 km SE at altitudes of 2.5-3 km (8,200-10,000 ft) a.s.l. The Aviation colour Code was raised to Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale). According to the Tokyo VAAC a possible ash plume on 17 February rose to 3.7 km (12,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SE. A weak ash plume drifting 117 km ESE was visible in satellite images on 18 February.

Piton de la Fournaise | Reunion Island (France) : OVPF reported that a seismic crisis began at Piton de la Fournaise at 1521 on 16 February accompanied by rapid deformation. The number of earthquakes sharply decreased at 1618 and deformation stopped at 1630. A second seismic crisis began at 0916 on 18 February, again accompanied by rapid deformation. Tremor commenced at 0948, coincident with at least eruptive fissures opening on the E flank of Dolomieu crater. Weather conditions prevented good views of the eruption site. Lava fountains rose less than 30 m above the vents, and after about an hour the longest lava flow reached 1,900 m elevation. Lava effusion ceased at 2200 on 18 February. A seismic crisis began at 1500 on 19 February, and tremor began to be recorded at 1700. Gas emissions were recorded by webcams for about an hour. During an overflight on 20 February the OVPF team observed a new eruption site located at 1,800 m elevation at the foot of Piton Madoré. One fissure opened and at 0620 only one lava fountain was active. The front of a lava flow reached 1,300 m elevation.

Poas | Costa Rica : OVSICORI-UNA reported that since 8 February almost continuous emissions of gas has been recorded at Poás, with plumes rising as high as 1 km and drifting mainly SW. During 13-14 February the emissions contained ash; gas-and-ash plumes drifted SW, impacting areas downwind including Naranjo, Zarcero, and Grecia (16 km SW). Gas-and-ash emissions rose from the crater on 15 February, and gas emissions were recorded on 18 February.

Tengger Caldera | Eastern Java (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that at 0600 on 18 February an eruption at Tengger Caldera’s Bromo cone generated a dense white-and-brown ash plume that rose 600 m and drifted WSW. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.6 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

5.6 earthquake hits the southern east Pacific rise.

5.1 earthquake hits southwest of Sumatra, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits Kepulauan Tanimmbar, Indonesia.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone (tc) 15p (Oma), located approximately 286 nm west of Noumea, New Caledonia, is tracking south-southwestward at 04 knots.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 02w (Wutip), located approximately 742 nm southeast of Andersen AFB, Guam, is tracking westward at 10 knots.

NewsBytes:

Malaysia - A downpour that lasted for about two hours caused flash floods to hit several parts in the city centre in Johor Baru. The rain caused water levels to increase rapidly at major roads, resulting in traffic congestion.

El Nino Underway

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center issued an El Nino Advisory last week, indicating the climate pattern has taken effect. While sea surface temperatures are above average, current observations and climate models indicate that this El Nino will be weak, meaning we do not expect significant global impacts through the remainder of winter and into the spring.

Disease

Hepatitis A - Ohio, USA

The number of hepatitis A outbreak cases reported in the Columbus, Ohio/ Franklin County has reached a level which hasn’t been seen in a quarter century, according to Columbus Public Health. Health officials report 247 cases, with 77 percent of cases reported in Columbus. Statewide, the outbreak total in Ohio has risen to 1,746 cases, including more than 1,000 hospitalizations. Six deaths have been reported.

African Swine Fever - Asia

Vietnamese media report that the Vietnam Department of Animal Health announced Tuesday that eight African swine fever (ASF), or swine cholera outbreaks in the two northern provinces of Thai Binh and Hung Yen. ASF virus was discovered in Hung Yens Hung Yen city and Yen My district, and Thai Binhs Hung Ha district. Scores of pigs have been destroyed.

The Chinese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs reported the first African swine fever outbreak in Yinhai District, Beihai City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The outbreak resulted in the deaths of 924 pigs in two communities with 23,555 live pigs.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits south of Java, Indonesia.

5.2 earthquake hits Tonga.

5.1 earthquake hits the Kuril Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits New Ireland, Papua New Guinea.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone (tc) 15p (Oma), located approximately 257 nm west-northwest of Noumea, New Caledonia, is tracking south-southwestward at 06 knots.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 02w (Two), located approximately 970 nm southeast of Andersen AFB, Guam, is tracking westward at 13 knots.

NewsBytes:

Papua New Guinea - Two people were buried alive in a landslide as heavy rain caused havoc in Madang last week. People living along the Finisterer mountain range have been the victim of landslides. Hundreds were stranded along the Madang-Usino highway when a section of the road was damaged by flooding.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Australia

The official number of homes destroyed by bushfires in the Australian State of New South Wales (NSW) last week has risen to 32, the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) said on Tuesday.

A further 21 homes were damaged and 119 outbuildings were scorched by three main blazes which tore across 74,000 hectares of bushland surrounding the towns of Tingha and Tabulam in the state's north.

Wildfires - Spain

Arsonists are suspected to be behind a wave of wildfires which have hit the region of Cantabria in the north of Spain. The Cantabrian regional authority reports that round 32 different forest fires were active in 20 municipalities in the region.

Since Thursday 194 wildfires have been reported in the region with 50 active at nightfall on Sunday, although authorities hope that the arrival of daylight will allow the use of two aircraft and three helicopters to return to the battle against the flames.

Disease

Cholera - Uganda

In a follow-up on the cholera outbreak in Kampala, Uganda, health officials reported an update on the cholera outbreak that was declared in the Kampala area in early January. As of Feb. 10, 53 cholera cases, including three fatalities ave been reported across Kampala City and two other districts, Wakiso and Luwero.

Africa: Measles in Madagascar, Chikungunya in the Republic of Congo

In some important infectious disease news out of Africa, the World Health Organization (WHO) updated the world on the measles outbreak in Madagascar. To date, officials have reported 66,000 cases since the outbreak began last September. In addition, at least 922 measles-related fatalities have been reported among children and young adults.

In the Republic of Congo, a Chikungunya epidemic declaration has been issued in the Kouilou and Pool regions, with at least 1043 validated cases. Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease that is transmitted from human to human by the bites of infected female mosquitoes.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.4 earthquake hits New Ireland, Papua New Guinea.

5.5 earthquake hits Halmahera, Indonesia.

5.4 earthquake hits the South Sandwich Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

5.0 earthquake hits off the east coast of Honshu, Japan.

5.0 earthquake hits the Batan Islands in the Philippines.

5.0 earthquake hits Jujuy, Argentina.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone (tc) 15p (Oma), located approximately 282 nm northwest of Noumea, New Caledonia, is tracking southwestward at 11 knots.

NewsBytes:

Crete - Four people are missing after floods sweep through Crete. A search operation is currently underway in the area of Mires in Heraklion, Crete, as four people in a car were swept away by flood waters at the passage of Geropotamos.

Zimbabwe - Floods that have affected Chiredzi following heavy rains on Wednesday last week claimed the lives of two schoolchildren at Muhlanguleni Primary School in Chiredzi South, who drowned in a flooded pit latrine.

Global Warming

Massive restoration of world’s forests would cancel out a decade of CO2 emissions

Replenishing the world’s forests on a grand scale would suck enough carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to cancel out a decade of human emissions, according to an ambitious new study.

Scientists have established there is room for an additional 1.2 trillion trees to grow in parks, woods and abandoned land across the planet.

If such a goal were accomplished, ecologist Dr Thomas Crowther said it would outstrip every other method for tackling climate change – from building wind turbines to vegetarian diets.

Lack of accurate information meant for years experts severely underestimated the number of trees on Earth. Combining data from ground-based surveys and satellites, Dr Crowther and his colleagues arrived at a figure of three trillion – over seven times more than a previous Nasa estimate. Dr Crowther said undervaluing trees means scientists have also been massively underestimating the potential for forests to combat climate change.

Disease

Measles - Philippines

In a follow-up on the measles outbreak in the Philippines, the country’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported a dramatic increase in measles cases and deaths. According to the most recent data from the beginning of the year through Feb. 13, a total of 6,921 cases of measles was reported in 17 regions of the archipelago. In addition, officials report the death toll has increased to 115 nationwide.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.0 earthquake hits northeast of Taiwan.

5.0 earthquake hits the South Georgia Islands.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone (tc) 15p (Oma), located approximately 249 nm west-northwest of Port Vila, Vanuatu, is tracking southward at 06 knots.

NewsBytes:

Malawi - A report from Salima District Council indicates that floods, that came about as a result of heavy rains, have affected 643 people in Mtauchira Village, T/A Pemba. The report further states that 257 people, of which 93 are under the age of 18, have been displaced and have since sought refuge at Kanduku Evacuation Centre.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Australia

Fire crews have taken advantage of favourable conditions overnight to gain the upper hand on three blazes burning in northern NSW. The mostly mild weather conditions over the weekend have provided much needed relief for the NSW Rural Fire Service, after 22 homes were destroyed and 15 houses damaged when fires raged through the towns late last week. A further 74 outbuildings have been razed and 24 outbuildings damaged.

The Bruxner Highway fire at Tabulam has burnt more than 5800 hectares of land and is still considered to be out of control.

Nearby, just over the NSW and Queensland border in Wallangarra, north of Tenterfield, a bushfire has burnt through more than 32,700 hectares of land and is being controlled by firefighters.

A blaze at Tingha, near Inverell, which has been burning since last Tuesday remains at Advice warning level as crews work to control the blaze. It has burnt more than 21,300 hectares of land with firefighters extinguishing hotspots along the edge of the fire overnight.

Disease

Dengue Fever - Reunion

Since the beginning of the year, the island of Reunion has seen a 10-fold increase in dengue fever cases as compared to the period in 2018, according to French health officials. From Jan. 1 to Feb. 3, 476 locally transmitted cases have been reported, including 145 in the past week.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits Tonga.

5.3 earthquake hits south of Alaska.

5.2 earthquake hits Mindanao in the Philippines.

5.2 earthquake hits the western Ryukyu Islands off Japan.

5.0 earthquake hits Taiwan.

5.0 earthquake hits the Andreanof Islands in the Aleutian Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the Kuril Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the north coast of Papua, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits the Azores.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone (tc) 15p (Oma), located approximately 275 nm west-northwest of Port Vila, Vanuatu, is tracking west-southwestward at 02 knots.

NewsBytes:

Zimbabwe - Thirty-eight miners are feared dead after water from a collapsed dam flooded two mines in Zimbabwe. While panning for gold, 34 miners went underground at Silver Moon Mine and four miners entered Cricket Mine in Battlefields near Kadoma Tuesday evening before both mines flooded. Heavy rains overnight Tuesday led to the collapse of the dam wall. An emergency was declared after the dam burst. The flooding from the collapsed dam flooded mine shafts, which the miners entered illegally.

South Africa - Bloemfontein in the Free State has been experiencing heavy rains for the past few days resulting in floods across the city.

Wildlife

Reindeer Cyclones Are Real

Vikings hunting reindeer in Norway were once confounded by "reindeer cyclones"; a threatened herd would literally run circles around the fierce hunters, making it nearly impossible to target a single animal.

Faced with this spinning reindeer stampede, any predator — wolf, bear or human — would have a very tough time targeting and overpowering a single reindeer, making this a formidable defense strategy.

Environment

Black Snow Is Falling from the Skies in Siberia

A pall of eerie black snow has covered several towns in the Siberian region of Kuzbass, which is home to 2.6 million people and one of the world's largest coal fields.

According to the Guardian and the Siberian Times, the snow is tainted with toxic black coal dust that was released into the air from open coal pits and improperly maintained factories in the region. One coal plant official told the local media that a shield meant to prevent coal powder from escaping out of the factory had malfunctioned — however, toxic black snowfall seems to be a regular phenomena in the area and it isn’t necessarily tied to a single source.

Kuzbass (short for Kuznetsk Basin) is one of the largest coalfields in the world, spanning more than 10,000 square miles (26,000 square kilometers). A 2015 report from Ecodefense found that the citizens of Kuzbass have an average life expectancy 3 to 4 years shorter than the Russian national average and have nearly twice the risk of contracting tuberculosis and childhood mental disorders.

Black snows like this one are a frequent winter feature in the region, the report found, and mitigation attempts have been… lacking. For instance, in December 2018, regional authorities were accused of trying to hide the toxic black stuff by literally painting over it with white pigment.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.1 earthquake hits the northern Mid-Atlantic ridge.

5.4 earthquake hits Vancouver Island, Canada.

5.2 earthquake hits central Peru.

5.0 earthquake hits New Ireland, Papua New Guinea.

5.0 earthquake hits the northern Mid-Atlantic ridge.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 13s (Gelena), located approximately 1426 nm south-southwest of Learmonth, Australia, is tracking east-southeastward at 10 knots.

Tropical cyclone (tc) 15p (Oma), located approximately 245 nm northwest of Port Vila, Vanuatu, is tracking northeastward at 01 knot.

NewsBytes:

California, USA - Waves of heavy rain pounded California on Thursday, flooding streets, triggering a mudslide that destroyed homes and forcing residents to flee communities scorched by wildfires last year. The powerful system swept in from the Pacific Ocean and unleashed damaging rain, snow and wind across the US west into Wyoming and Colorado after walloping northern California and southern Oregon a day earlier.

Wildlife

Huge muddy plume of water seeps into Great Barrier Reef

Images show Australia’s Great Barrier Reef being hit by an “extremely large” patch of muddy flood water that experts say could harm the world wonder. The polluted floodwater is flowing out as far as 60 kilometres from the Queensland coast following weeks of heavy rain.

It’s thought that around 600km of the reef’s outer edges have been affected by the dirty water. Scientists say that the water is likely to contain nitrogen and pesticide chemicals that could potentially kill coral and seagrass should it stay around for some time.

Smart Swimmers

A lowly reef-dwelling fish known as the cleaner wrasse has been elevated into an exclusive club in the animal kingdom whose members have the ability to recognize themselves in a mirror.

Other than humans, only great apes, killer whales, Eurasian magpies and bottlenose dolphins had demonstrated that ability. The trait is viewed as an indication of self-awareness.

The cleaner wrasse had previously been observed living complex social lives where it formed allegiances and even demonstrated the capacity for deception. “These fish are fascinating in their breadth of cognitive abilities – and underappreciated,” said Alex Jordan, a biologist at the Max Planck Institute and the study’s lead researcher.

Environment

Plastic Pollution

Microplastics proliferating in the world’s oceans appear to also be carrying a host of bacteria, some so toxic that they can cause coral bleaching in tropical waters and even bring infections to humans with open wounds. Bacteria known to cause gastroenteritis were also found.

Researchers from the National University of Singapore sampled plastic debris in the waters around the city-state. They found that among the bacteria hitching rides on the microplastics were some useful organisms, such as those that can break down pollutants in the water.

But lead researcher Sandric Leong cautioned that since marine life are eating the plastic, the accompanying pathogens could be passing up the food chain.

Disease

Lassa Fever – Nigeria - Update

From 1 January through 10 February 2019, 327 cases of Lassa fever (324 confirmed cases and three probable cases) with 72 deaths (case fatality ratio = 22%) have been reported across 20 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with the majority of cases being reported from Edo (108) and Ondo (103) States.

Ebola - DR Congo - Update

Despite slightly fewer cases reported during the past week, current epidemiological indicators highlight that the Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak is continuing with moderate intensity. Katwa and Butembo remain the major health zones of concern, while simultaneously, small clusters continue to occur in various geographically dispersed regions. During the last 21 days (23 January – 12 February 2019), 97 new cases have been reported from 13 health zones.

Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week's hottest temperature was 109 degrees Fahrenheit (42.8 degrees Celsius) in Telfer, Western Australia.

The week's coldest temperature was minus 64.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 53.3 degrees Celsius) at Oimyakon, Siberia.

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.

Volcanos

Global Volcanic Activity - Ongoing Activity for the week of 6 February - 12 February 2019

Agung | Bali (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that a 97-second-long explosive event at Agung began at 0012 on 8 February. A plume was not visible, though webcams recorded crater incandescence. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) with the exclusion zone set at a 4-km radius.

Aira | Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that incandescence from Minamidake crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) was visible during 4-12 February. At 1919 on 7 February an event generated a plume that rose 1.3 km above the crater rim and ejected material 1.3-1.7 km from the crater. During 8-12 February there were four events, three of which were explosive. Plumes rose as high as 1.9 km, and boulders were ejected as far as 900 m from the crater. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale).

Copahue | Central Chile-Argentina border : On 6 February OVDAS-SERNAGEOMIN lowered the Alert Level for Copahue to Green, the lowest level on a four-colour scale, noting the return of the crater lake and infrequent surficial activity. In addition, data from the geodetic monitoring network showed only slight deformation during the previous three months. ONEMI lowered the Alert Level to Green (the lowest level on a three-colour scale) for the municipality of Alto Biobío.

Dukono | Halmahera (Indonesia) : Based on satellite data, wind model data, and notices from PVMBG, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 9-10 and 12 February ash plumes from Dukono rose to an altitude of 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and visitors were warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.

Ebeko | Paramushir Island (Russia) : Volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, observed explosions during 2-8 February that sent ash plumes to 2.3 km (7,500 ft) a.s.l. Ash fell in Severo-Kurilsk on 4 February. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Etna | Sicily (Italy) : INGV reported that during 6-10 February webcams at Etna recorded gas emissions from New Southeast Crater (NSEC) and Voragine Crater, and occasional ash clouds from Northeast Crater (NEC); inclement weather prevented observations during 4-5 February. From the beginning of the afternoon on 6 February discrete ash emissions rose from NEC. The ash emissions were continuous from about 2215 on 7 February to 1015 on 8 February, producing relatively diffuse ash plumes that drifted S and then SE. Ash fell in Nicolosi (14 km S) and Pedara (15 km SSE). A diffuse ash plume drifted SW on 9 February.

Ibu | Halmahera (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 5-12 February dense white-to-gray plumes from Ibu rose 200-800 m above the summit and drifted E, S, and W. Foggy conditions occasionally prevented visual observations. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay at least 2 km away from the active crater, and 3.5 km away on the N side.

Kadovar | Papua New Guinea : According to Brad Scott of GeoNet, the Royal New Zealand Air Force released photos of a plume rising from Kadovar at 1640 on 10 February.

Merapi | Central Java (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 1-11 February the volume of the lava dome in Merapi’s summit crater was about the same as the previous week’s estimate of 461,000 cubic meters, and there were no apparent morphological changes. Most of the extruded lava fell into the upper parts of the Gendol River drainage and the SE flank. On 7 February a pyroclastic flow traveled 2 km down the Gendol drainage. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and residents were warned to remain outside of the 3-km exclusion zone.

Nevados de Chillan | Chile : ONEMI and SERNAGEOMIN reported that during 5-12 February growth of the lava dome in Nevados de Chillán’s Nicanor Crater was very slow (0.003-0.004 cubic meters per second). White water vapor emissions, occasionally grayish from included tephra, rose as high as 1 km and drifted in multiple directions. Crater incandescence was recorded by a webcam each day. The Alert Level remained at Orange, the second highest level on a four-colour scale, and residents were reminded not to approach the crater within 3 km. ONEMI maintained an Alert Level Yellow (the middle level on a three-colour scale) for the communities of Pinto, Coihueco, and San Fabián.

Pacaya | Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that during 7-12 February Strombolian explosions at Pacaya’s Mackenney Crater ejected material as high as 25 m above the crater rim. Multiple lava flows traveled 10-250 m down the NW flank, advancing towards Cerro Chino, and on the E flank. Minor avalanches of material from lava-flow fronts descended the flanks.

Rincon de la Vieja | Costa Rica : OVSICORI-UNA reported possible events at Rincón de la Vieja at 1906 and 1950 on 5 February and at 0120 on 6 February. An event at 0000 on 6 February was also recorded; the report noted that poor weather conditions prevented visual observations of the crater.

Sabancaya | Peru : Observatorio Vulcanológico del Sur del IGP (OVS-IGP) and Observatorio Vulcanológico del INGEMMET (OVI) reported that an average of 26 explosions per day occurred at Sabancaya during 4-10 February. Long-period seismic events were recorded, and hybrid earthquakes were infrequent and of low magnitude. Although weather conditions sometimes prevented visual observations, gas-and-ash plumes were seen rising as high as 3 km above the crater rim and drifted 30 km S and SW. MIROVA detected one thermal anomaly. The report noted that the public should not approach the crater within a 12-km radius.

Santa Maria | Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that during 7-12 February explosions at Santa María's Santiaguito lava-dome complex generated ash plumes that rose 500-700 m and drifted E and SW, causing ashfall on the flanks. Avalanches of material descended the NE, E, and SE flanks of the lava dome.

Sheveluch | Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that during 2-8 February Sheveluch’s lava dome continued grow, extruding blocks on the N side, and producing hot avalanches and fumarolic plumes. A thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images daily. Video and satellite data recorded gas-and-steam plumes with some ash content rising to 4-5 km (13,100-16,400 ft) a.s.l. and drifted 105 km E and W. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale). Suwanosejima | Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that crater incandescence at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater was visible during 1-8 February. Were small events were occasionally recorded, generating plumes that rose as high as 900 m above the crater rim. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a 5-level scale).

Turrialba | Costa Rica : OVSICORI-UNA reported that a period of sporadic ash emissions from Turrialba began at 0540 on 8 February and lasted more than one hour. The activity produced ash plumes that rose no more than 200 m above the vent rim. A very small ash emission was visible on 11 February.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.1 earthquake hits the Kuril Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits south of Java, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits the Moro Gulf, Mindanao in the Philippines.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 13s (Gelena), located approximately 1383 nm south-southeast of Diego Garcia, is tracking east-southeastward at 26 knots.

Tropical cyclone (tc) 15p (Oma), located approximately 233 nm northwest of Port Vila, Vanuatu, is tracking southward at 02 knots.

NewsBytes:

Western USA - Rain, snow and wind hit the U.S. West on Wednesday, flooding roads, toppling trees and cutting power while raising threats of debris flows from wildfire scars. The tempest, aimed at California and southern Oregon and barreling toward Nevada, was feeding on a deep plume of moisture stretching across the Pacific Ocean to near Hawaii. The storm followed more than a week of severe weather in the Pacific Northwest and was the latest in a series that has all but eliminated drought-level dryness in California this winter. Winter storm warnings were posted in the snow-laden Sierra Nevada, where the forecast says up to 7 feet (2.1 meters) of new snow could be dumped at elevations above 9,000 feet (2,743 meters). A backcountry avalanche warning was issued throughout the Sierra.

Disease

Measles - Philippines

The Philippines Department of Health in the Eastern Visayas are reporting an increase in dengue fever cases during the first five weeks of 2019. According to the data, the number of cases in the region from Jan. 1 to Feb. 9 totals 1,169 cases.

Dengue Fever - Jamaica

In a follow-up on the dengue fever outbreak in Jamaica, local media report that the number of dengue cases now stands at 1,166 suspected, presumed, or confirmed cases with dates of onset in 2019. 6 deaths have been confirmed.

Volcanos

Global Volcanic Activity - New Activity for the week of 6 February - 12 February 2019

Karangetang | Siau Island (Indonesia) : On 8 February PVMBG reported that lava from Karangetang’s Kawah Dua (North Crater) continued to advance over 3.5 km down the Malebuhe River drainage on the NW flank into the ocean. Levees had formed at the margins channeling the lava down the middle of the flow. Avalanches from the edges of the flow generated brown and gray plumes. A lava delta was building out into the ocean and generating a dense steam plume. Drone footage acquired on 9 February showed that the flow was about 160 m wide where it crossed a road (about 210 m from the coast) and about 140 m wide at the coast. Seismicity remained high. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and residents were warned to remain outside of the 2.5-km exclusion zone around the N and S craters, and not enter within 3 km WNW and 4 km NW.

Poas | Costa Rica : OVSICORI-UNA reported that seismic and infrasound data indicated multiple events at Poás during 7-8 February. On 8 February events were centered at vent A (Boca Roja) and produced plumes that rose no higher than 200 m and drifted SW. A sulfur dioxide odor was reported in areas downwind including San Jose de Naranjo, Grecia (16 km SW), Poás, Sarchá, Naranjo, and Atenas (32 km SW). Incandescence in the crater began to be visible at 0151 on 11 February. Passive ash emissions rose 200 m and drifted SW.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.0 earthquake hits the Maug Islands in the North Mariana Islands.

5.8 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.4 earthquake hits south of Tonga.

5.2 earthquake hits near the east coast of Kamchatka.

Two 5,0 earthquakes hit the Kuril Islands.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 13s (Gelena), located approximately 1114 nm east-southeast of Port Louis, Mauritius, is tracking eastward at 10 knots.

Tropical cyclone (tc) 15p (Fifteen), located approximately 262 nm northwest of Port Vila, Vanuatu, is tracking west-southwestward at 06 knots.

NewsBytes:

Ohio, USA - Heavy rains pushed the Ohio River into flood stage Tuesday, causing landslides that downed trees and blocked several roads, including a major route into downtown Cincinnati. Flooded roads also closed two casinos in Anderson Township and southeastern Indiana, and a Northern Kentucky school district. Hamilton County EMA officials estimate at least a dozen roads are closed in the Tri-State.

Global Warming

Interactive Map Shows What Climate Change Will Do to US Cities by 2050

The US National Climate Assessment, a stunning report released in November by 13 federal agencies and the White House late last month, showed that climate change has already had devastating impacts on our health and economy, and that costs could mount to hundreds of billions of dollars by the end of the century.

The report maps out what we can expect if we aggressively cut greenhouse gas emissions now, and what would happen if we do nothing. As part of the Weather 2050 project, researchers used the latter scenario to look at what could happen to temperature and precipitation in US cities by the middle of the century.

They found that by 2050, many US cities may resemble hotter, more southern parts of the country today. A few of the most striking transitions are shown here:

Wildfires

Wildfires - Australia

Five homes have reportedly been lost in northern NSW as a result of out-of-control bushfires in the area, with more than 40 fires still burning across the state. Firefighters are still working to contain two large bushfires that destroyed the properties, amid concerns they could flare up due to hot, dry and windy conditions.

The out-of-control blaze at Tabulam, west of Casino, has already burnt through nearly 4000 hectares, while almost 6000 hectares of bush has been lost in Tingha, south of Inverell, and around the community of Old Mill.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.1 earthquake hits the Bismarck Sea.

5.1 earthquake hits Vanuatu.

5.1 earthquake hits the Kamchatka Peninsula.

5.0 earthquake hits the Samoa Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits Kepulauan Talaud, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 13s (Gelena), located approximately 961 nm east-southeast of Port Louis, Mauritius, is tracking east-southeastward at 10 knots.

Tropical cyclone (tc) 15p (Fifteen), located approximately 310 nm northwest of Port Vila, Vanuatu, is tracking northeastward at 05 knots.

NewsBytes:

Malawi - Although Tropical Cyclone Desmond did not reach Malawi its effects resulted in continuous rainfall in the southern part of the country since 22nd January through to 26th January 2019. A total of 15,974 people were affected, 3,154 houses damaged or destroyed, and 5,078 people were reported to be displaced across at least seven camps set up by communities and government.

Australia - An estimated 500,000 are feared dead after historic floods inundated Queensland, Australia, according to the state's cattle industry. Days of "unprecedented" rainfall earlier this month led to widespread flooding across the state, causing power outages, damaging roads and buildings and prompting evacuations. Some areas received three years' worth of rain in about a week. Tragically, farmers in northwest Queensland initially welcomed the rains, as the region had suffered years of back-to-back drought. The loss of hundreds of thousands of cattle after five, six, seven years of drought, is a debilitating blow not just to individual farmers, many of whom have lost literally everything, but to rural communities as well.

Malaysia - Bintulu district was hit by floods early Tuesday (Feb 12) - with waters rising as high as one metre and inundating several locations in northern Sarawak.

Wildlife

Worldwide Catastrophic Decline Of Insect Species

Nearly half of all insect species worldwide are in rapid decline and a third could disappear altogether, according to a study warning of dire consequences for crop pollination and natural food chains.

“Unless we change our way of producing food, insects as a whole will go down the path of extinction in a few decades,” concluded the peer-reviewed study, which is set for publication in April.

The recent decline in bugs that fly, crawl, burrow and skitter across still water is part of a gathering “mass extinction,” only the sixth in the last half-billion years. “We are witnessing the largest extinction event on Earth since the late Permian and Cretaceous periods,” the authors noted.

The Permian end-game 252 million years ago snuffed out more than 90% of the planet’s life forms, while the abrupt finale of the Cretaceous 66 million years ago saw the demise of land dinosaurs.

“We estimate the current proportion of insect species in decline – 41% – to be twice as high as that of vertebrates,” or animals with a backbone, Francisco Sanchez-Bayo of the University of Sydney and Kris Wyckhuys of the University of Queensland in Australia reported. “At present, a third of all insect species are threatened with extinction.” An additional one percent join their ranks every year, they estimated. Insect biomass – sheer collective weight – is declining annually by about 2.5% worldwide.

Environment

USA Withdraws from US-Russian Nuclear Treaty

When President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from a long-standing nuclear weapons treaty with Russia on Feb. 1, his actions set the stage for what many fear could be a new arms race between the global superpowers.

Trump's decision was announced less than two weeks after scientists and policy experts with the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists (BAS) presented the 2019 position for the Doomsday Clock — a hypothetical clock whose time symbolizes how close the Earth is to destruction from nuclear war and other global threats.

On Jan. 24, BAS representatives declared that the clock's hands would continue to stand at 2 minutes to midnight, the closest to absolute annihilation since the peak of the Cold War in 1953. Their dire warning came on the heels of the Trump administration's statement of intent in October to withdraw the U.S. from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF), which was established in 1987 to restrict nuclear arsenals.

On Feb. 2, Russia announced that it, too, would abandon the INF treaty.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Australia

The fire danger in New South Wales will peak today as firefighters battle 33 blazes across the state with some rural properties under threat. Watch-and-act alerts were issued for bushfires at Warrabah near Tamworth and Tingha Plateau in the state’s north-east with Fire and Rescue NSW warning fire activity was increasing in the area.

Wildfires - Chile - Update

Wildfires have now destroyed 41,200 hectares of forest land in southern and central Chile, the country's National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) said on Monday. The figure represents an increase of 45 percent from last year in the area of forest land razed in the fire season.

California Loses 18 million trees in 2018

It’s a measure of how severe the tree die-off in California has been in recent years that when the state announced Monday it lost another 18 million trees in 2018, a top forestry official pronounced the result “encouraging.”

That’s because California lost far more trees in the three prior years, including a jaw-dropping 62 million dead trees in 2016, due to a combination of drought and bark beetle infestation.

With rain and snow in the state increasing over the last two winters, experts proclaimed an end to the seven-year drought. But the state still faces a heightened fire danger after more than 147 million trees were lost over the last nine years.

Officials at the California Department of Forestry said that it typically takes at least three years of substantial rain and snow for trees stressed by drought to return to good health. That would mean the state’s forests could benefit from at least one more year of wet weather to recover from the brutally dry period of 2010 to 2016.

Disease

Measles - Madagascar

The scale of the measles outbreak in Madagascar is of grave concern, as is its geographical spread-World Health Organization In a follow-up on our coverage of the measles outbreak in Madagascar, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports from Sep. 3, 2018 to Feb. 5, 2019, a total of 53,459 measles cases were recorded (lab confirmed).

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) – Saudi Arabia, Oman

The spike in Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infections in Saudi Arabia continues with the kingdom’s health ministry reporting seven additional cases yesterday, bringing the total cases for the year to 50. The town of Wadi Aldwasir has been hit particularly hard reporting 30 cases in just the past two weeks. From 27 January and 31 January 2019, the International Health Regulations (IHR) National Focal Point of Oman reported five cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection.

Yellow Fever - Brazil

Brazil is currently in the seasonal period for yellow fever, which occurs from December through May. From December 2018 through January 2019, 361 confirmed human cases, including eight deaths, have been reported in 11 municipalities of two states of Brazil.

Wildfires

Wildfires - New Zealand

Strong winds are expected to continue to fan forest fires that have been burning for a week through New Zealand’s South Island, that have forced more than 3 000 people from their homes.

Early on Sunday, 155 firefighters were battling the blaze on the ground with air support from 23 helicopters and three fixed wing planes, making it the largest aerial firefight on record in New Zealand.

The Pigeon Valley fire covers 2,300 hectares (5,700 acres) with a 25 km (15 mile) perimeter, NZ Civil Defence said on its website. No deaths have been reported and only one home destroyed as of Sunday.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.4 earthquake hits Mindanao in the Philippines.

5.3 earthquake hits southern Iran.

5.3 earthquake hits Golfo de Fonseca, El Salvador.

5.1 earthquake hits Tonga.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 13s (Gelena), located approximately 686 nm east-southeast of Port Louis, Mauritius, is tracking southeastward at 11 knots.

Global Warming

Polar Bear Invasion

Thinning sea ice has driven more than 50 polar bears ashore on an Arctic archipelago in northern Russia, causing chaos for the local population. Fences have risen around kindergartens. Special vehicles transport military personnel to their work sites. Residents of the island settlement are afraid to leave their homes.

Novaya Zemlya is a Russian archipelago stretching into the Arctic Ocean. It once played host to Soviet nuclear tests, including the largest-ever man-made explosion, when the so-called King of Bombs detonated in 1961, releasing 50 megatons of power and deepening an arms race that threatened to turn the Cold War hot.

Today, the barren landscape is under siege — from dozens of polar bears locked in their very own sort of hot war. Marine ecologists have long been sounding the alarm about the peril posed by global warming for the vulnerable species. In the far reaches of Russia, the situation has suddenly become traumatic for humans, too.

But as arctic ice thins, which is linked to the acceleration of climate change, the animals move ashore, ravenous. They scavenge, sometimes coming into contact with human populations.

At least 52 bears were massed near Belushya Guba, the main settlement on the island territory, which is still used as a military garrison, with restricted access to the public. The town had a population of about 2,000 as of the 2010 Census.

Disease

Leptospirosis - Fiji

On Jan. 28, the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services declared a leptospirosis outbreak for the Central Division. In an update on the outbreak, Fiji media now reports 98 cases since the beginning of the year, including four deaths.

Echinococcus outbreak - Russia

An increase in infection with the tapeworm, Echinococcus, has been reported among cadets at the Suvorov Guards Military Academy in Ulyanovsk in western Russia. The head of the Main Military Medical Directorate of the Ministry of Defense said worms in the lungs were detected in 31 pupils.

Measles - Philippines - Update

Just days after measles outbreaks were declared in several regions of the archipelago including the National Capital Region (NCR) of Metro Manila, health officials reported some updated data. Philippines health officials reported today that the measles outbreak this year, linked in large part to vaccine hesitancy, has taken 70 lives since January 1. The Epidemiology Bureau of the Department of Health (DoH) reports a total of 4,302 measles cases have been reported from 1 January to 9 February.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.2 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

5.2 earthquake hits Mindanao in the Philippines.

5.2 earthquake hits the Myanmar-India border.

5.1 earthquake hits Antofagasta, Chile.

5.1 earthquake hits the Ryukyu Islands off Japan.

5.0 earthquake hits western Iran.

5.0 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 12s (Funani), located approximately 1210 nm southeast of Port Louis, Mauritius, is tracking southeastward at 20 knots.

Tropical cyclone 13s (Gelena), located approximately 403 nm east of Port Louis, Mauritius, is tracking southeastward at 14 knots.

Tropical cyclone 14p (Neil), located approximately 369 nm southwest of Niue, is tracking south-southeastward at 15 knots.

NewsBytes:

Peru/Chile - Eight people have been killed across the Pacific coast of South America after heavy rain caused flooding and landslides. Three people died in Peru when mudslides hit two towns in the southern Arequipa region. Two workers were killed 50km away when another mudslide hit a mine in the Rio Grande Municipality. In Chile, three people were killed in the northern provinces of El Loa and Antofagasta after several days of thunderstorms submerged roads, damaged homes and destroyed bridges.

Global Warming

Warming Record

The U.N. weather agency announced that the last four years have been the warmest ever recorded since reliable measurements began.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) also says that the 20 warmest years in history occurred during the past 22 years.

The WMO went on to point out that the unprecedented warming continues this year, with Australia experiencing its hottest January on record.

“The degree of warming during the past four years has been exceptional, both on land and in the ocean,” said WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas.

Oceans to Change Color

The distinctive blue color that Earth presents to the universe may be altered by the end of this century due to effects of a warmer climate.

A team of U.S. and British researchers modeled how phytoplankton absorb and reflect light, and how the ocean’s color will change as global warming alters the composition of those microorganisms living in it.

The scientists predict that blue regions, such as the subtropics, will become more blue, while areas nearer the poles may turn a deeper green as warmer waters stimulate larger and more diverse blooms of phytoplankton.

“There will be a noticeable difference in the color of 50 percent of the ocean by the end of the 21st century,” said lead researcher Stephanie Dutkiewicz of MIT.