There Are Four Basic Types of Fronts – Can You Name Them?

Air masses are always in motion, bringing with them, different types of weather conditions. The transition between two different types of air masses is called a front. There are four basic types of fronts, and the weather associated with them varies. 1. Cold Front A cold front is the leading edge of a colder air

Harmattan Winds & Dust Return to Africa

It’s that time of year again when cold air from the mid-latitudes surges into the tropics. The effect in Africa is a strong east to northeast wind from the Chad basin to Mauritania and northern Gabon called the Harmattan. Harmattan winds blow west to southwestward from the Sahara, with enough strength to carry desert sand

Do You Know What Causes Fire Weather?

It’s windy outside, the air is dry, and so is the vegetation; these are variables that often lead to wildfires. However, there are more ingredients than just these that cause fires. Fire weather is a combination of conditions that set the stage for the rapid spread of wildfires. The critical weather conditions that determine fire weather

What Causes Sea Fog?

Sea fog poses a significant challenge to marine operations in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Locations such as Galveston and the Houston Ship Channel frequently experience visibility restrictions from sea fog during winter and spring. Sea fog forms when warm, moist air moves over colder water and cools to its dew point temperature, causing the

Extreme Weather: Preparing for the Unpredictable

Severe weather is inevitable, and research shows it is occurring more frequently than in the past. While extreme weather is nothing new, its impact on individuals, businesses and government agencies are real – especially with an uptick in the occurrence of extreme rain and flooding. Furthermore, these patterns have led to increased weather-related losses over

Better Turbulence Forecasting for Smoother Rides

Turbulence Forecasting Turbulence forecasting when not backed by years of research can leave aviation-related businesses vulnerable to operational issues. Although “shaking” in the wind may be the end result when businesses lack the most accurate turbulence forecasting, dealing with the repercussions of inadequate turbulence forecasting certainly leaves them abandoned to a bad situation – or

How Does the Temperature Affect Crime Rates?

Does the temperature affect the crime rate? Are more crimes committed when it is hot out and less when it is cold? Let’s look at what the data show. He is steaming mad. She let her temper flare. They are simmering with anger. The team’s frustration is boiling over. Our language matches heat with negative emotions