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Weather Geeks

Weather Group Television

You see it every day. It’s the subject of poetry, literature, art and film. It can inspire spiritual experiences, and it can destroy everything you have ever worked for. It is the weather, and no one knows it better than we do. Join us every week for the agony and the ecstasy of the one story that the entire world participates in and the science behind it. From the people behind The Weather Channel TV network.

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#419
October 28 · 55 min
The Hidden Costs of El Niño
Guest: Dr. Justin Mankin When we hear the words El Niño, most of us think about shifting weather patterns—changes in rainfall, warmer winters, or an active hurricane season. But what if one climate pattern could influence far more than the forecast? What if its impacts could ripple through the global economy for years after the event itself has ended? Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by climate scientist Dr. Justin Mankin, whose research explores the intersection of climate, weather, and society. His groundbreaking 2023 study examined how El Niño doesn't just shape weather around the globe—it can also leave lasting economic consequences that affect countries, industries, and communities long after the atmosphere returns to normal. We'll discuss what the research revealed, why the effects of El Niño can persist for years, and how a changing climate could influence the risks associated with future events. It's a fascinating look at how one of Earth's most familiar climate patterns can have impacts that extend well beyond the weather map. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to El Nino and its Global Impact 01:57 Justin Mankin's Background and Climate Science Journey 05:01 Research Focus: El Nino and Economic Consequences 08:06 Methodology: Using Observations and Causal Inference 11:50 Global Teleconnections and Regional Impacts of El Nino 16:07 Economic Toll of Past Major El Nino Events 21:49 Future El Nino Events and Economic Projections 22:47 Break 1 22:52 Regional Variations in El Nino's Economic Effects 35:00 Climate Change, El Nino, and Warming Trends 35:16 Break 2 35:17 Applying Research to Future Climate Resilience Strategies See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#418
September 30 · 41 min
Weather: The Ultimate Wild Card
Guest: Kevin Roth We all love to think that the outcome of a game comes down to talent, strategy, and maybe a little luck. But there’s another player on the field that nobody can control: the weather. Wind can turn a routine fly ball into an adventure, heat and humidity can test athletes and fans, and a thunderstorm can send an entire stadium scrambling for cover. So how much can weather actually influence the game—and what should fans know before they head to the stadium? Today, we’re talking to Kevin Roth, a sports meteorologist who lives right at the intersection of weather and sports. We’ll talk about forecasting for different sports, how weather affects performance and strategy, and how fans can be better prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws their way. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kevin Roth and sports meteorology 01:57 How Kevin Rxoth became a weather geek and his background 03:49 The intersection of weather and sports forecasting 07:52 Data analysis in sports weather forecasting 12:04 Challenges of using weather data for player-specific insights 12:39 Break 1 12:40 Impact of stadium microclimates and venue design 19:48 Weather's influence on game strategy and player performance 23:57 Weather considerations in sports betting and fantasy sports 24:40 Break 2 24:41 Adapting forecasts for severe weather and safety concerns 32:02 Career advice for aspiring sports meteorologists 35:46 Future of weather forecasting in sports and technology advancements See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#417
September 23 · 37 min
Unlocking Radar Data Amidst Record Severe Weather
Guest: Dr. Stephen Nesbitt Five years ago, Dr. Steve Nesbitt joined us to unpack the fundamentals of radar meteorology. Since then, atmospheric science has undergone a massive evolution moving from how we capture severe weather to how we decode it using artificial intelligence and cloud computing. As a UIUC Professor, incoming Associate Dean, and newly named AMS Fellow, Steve has spent his career studying Earth’s most explosive storms. Today, he’s leading a new frontier in meteorology, building open-source tools like Radar DataTree to turn decades of legacy radar files into AI-ready intelligence. We’re sitting down with Steve to catch up on what’s changed since his last visit, how AI is reshaping weather science, and the physics behind the Midwest’s wild tornado season. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 01:05 How Dr. Nesbitt Became a Weather Geek 03:59 AI's Impact on Meteorology and Weather Resilience 06:57 Recent Tornado Trends in Illinois and the Midwest 09:58 Break 1 09:59 Remote Sensing Technologies in Severe Weather Study 15:35 Introduction to Radar Data Tree and Its Applications 20:53 Stakeholder Engagement: Insurance and Water Resources 22:08 Current Research Projects and Urban Resilience 26:17 Break 2 26:17 Future Advances in Satellite and Radar Technology 29:18 Climate Change and Severe Weather Patterns 32:57 The Evolving Role of Academics in Public Engagement 35:51 Resources and Final Thoughts Resources AtmosScale.ai - https://atmoscale.ai Ed Zipser - Google Scholar - https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0,11&qsp=5&q=edward+zipser&qst=ib Relampago Project - https://journals.ametsoc.org/view/journals/bams/102/8/BAMS-D-20-0029.1.xml Radar Data Tree - https://atmoscale.github.io/radar-datatree/index.html NASA Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission - https://trmm.gsfc.nasa.gov Guest links LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/steve-nesbitt-b8a06a54 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#416
September 16 · 43 min
What is Disasterology?
Guest: Dr. Samantha Montano When a disaster strikes, most of us focus on what we can see: the storm, the wildfire, the flood, or the earthquake. But what if the real story begins long before the event—and continues long after the headlines fade? Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by Dr. Samantha Montano, a disaster researcher, author, and one of the leading voices helping the public better understand how disasters actually work. Through her work in "Disasterology," she examines the systems, decisions, and vulnerabilities that can turn natural hazards into human disasters—and what we can do to build more resilient communities. We'll talk about some of the biggest misconceptions surrounding disasters, why recovery is often the most overlooked phase of the disaster cycle, and how individuals, communities, and leaders can better prepare for the challenges that come before, during, and after a crisis. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Disasterology and Dr. Montano 01:05 How Disasterology Became a Field 02:07 The Human Side of Disasters 03:36 Disaster Research and Human Responsibility 05:08 The Role of Community and Leadership 07:10 Impact of Physical and Social Vulnerability 09:16 Training and Roles of Emergency Managers 11:50 Public Misconceptions and Personal Responsibility 13:51 Communication Strategies During Disasters 14:29 Break 1 14:30 Recovery Challenges and Success Factors 18:49 Community Leadership in Recovery 22:24 Social Media and Disaster Communication 26:19 The Future of Disaster Communication 28:51 Break 2 28:51 Increasing Costs of Disasters and Communication 36:16 Building Resilient Communities 39:01 The Future of Disaster Management 41:03 Optimism and the Next Generation of Emergency Managers Resources Book - Disasterology: Dispatches from the Front Lines of the Climate Crisis Dr. Samantha Montano - Website - https://disaster-ology.com FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency - https://www.fema.gov Guest links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samlmontano/ Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/samlmontano.bsky.social See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#415
September 9 · 33 min
The Art of Storm Chasing
Guest: Mike Olbinski For most people, a thunderstorm is something you watch from a window. But for storm chasers, it's a front-row seat to some of nature's most spectacular displays—and few have captured those moments as beautifully as today's guest. On this episode of Weather Geeks, we're joined by storm chaser and filmmaker Mike Olbinski. Based in the Desert Southwest, Mike has spent years documenting everything from towering monsoon thunderstorms and dramatic haboobs to lightning-filled skies across the Great Plains, creating breathtaking imagery that has inspired weather enthusiasts around the world. We'll talk about what makes chasing storms in Arizona so unique, some of the unforgettable moments he's experienced on the road, and how the art of storm storytelling has evolved alongside advances in cameras, social media, and live streaming. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mike Olbinski and his work 13:38 Break 1 13:39 How technology has changed storm chasing 24:38 Break 2 24:40 Advances in weather models and forecasting 26:53 Mobile connectivity and Starlink for storm chasing 28:22 Apps and tools for real-time weather data 28:45 Use of drones in storm photography 29:45 Carving out a niche in storm photography 30:22 Advice for aspiring storm chasers and photographers 32:34 Platforms to follow Mike Olbinski 33:24 Closing remarks and upcoming projects Resources Storm Photo Contests - https://stormphotocontest.com/ Stormchaser Atlas App - https://stormchaseratlas.com/ Weatherfront App - https://weatherfront.com/ Guest links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikeolbinski/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/mikeolbinski See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#414
September 2 · 39 min
The Rise of Marine Heat Waves
Guest: Dr. Dillon Amaya The Pacific Ocean covers nearly a third of our planet, and yet some of its most important changes happen far from shore and often out of sight. But whether it's a developing El Niño, a cooling La Niña, or an expansive marine heat wave, what happens in the Pacific can influence weather, ecosystems, and communities around the world. Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by Dillon Amaya, whose research focuses on the complex relationship between the ocean and the atmosphere. We'll explore the growing scientific interest in Pacific marine heat waves, what we've learned from some of the most notable events in recent years, and how these episodes can ripple through both weather and climate systems. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Marine Heat Waves 02:32 Dylan Amaya's Journey into Meteorology 05:34 Understanding Marine Heat Waves 08:48 Marine Heat Waves vs. Ocean Warming 11:38 Impact of Marine Heat Waves on Weather 13:37 Break 1 13:39 Marine Heat Waves and El Niño 17:45 Causes and Effects of Marine Heat Waves 20:54 Ocean Temperature Changes and Jet Stream Dynamics 22:11 Marine Heat Waves and Climate Variability 23:59 Ecosystem Impacts of Marine Heat Waves 25:41 Coral Reefs and Marine Heat Waves 27:17 Global Hot Spots for Marine Heat Waves 28:05 Break 2 28:06 Understanding Atlantic Niña and Its Effects 30:32 European Heat Waves and Ocean Anomalies 31:37 Surprising Discoveries in Marine Heat Wave Research 34:13 Climate Change and Ocean Temperature Trends 36:22 Future Research Directions in Marine Heat Waves 37:41 Machine Learning in Marine Heat Wave Forecasting Resources NOAA PSL Marine Heat Waves Forecast System - https://psl.noaa.gov/marine-heatwaves/ NOAA Ocean Temperature Monitoring - https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/GODAS/ El Nino and La Nina Explained - NOAA - https://oceantoday.noaa.gov/elninolanina/ Marine Blob Tracker - NOAA - https://www.integratedecosystemassessment.noaa.gov/regions/california-current/california-current-marine-heatwave-tracker-blobtracker Scripps Institution of Oceanography - https://scripps.ucsd.edu/ Guest links LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/dillon-j-amaya-2bb2a892 Twitter - https://twitter.com/dillonamaya North Carolina State University - Dillon Amaya Profile - https://meas.sciences.ncsu.edu/people/djamaya/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#413
August 26 · 42 min
Guiding Cruise Ships Through the Storm
Guest: Craig Setzer When most people think of meteorology, they think of forecasts on television, hurricane updates, or severe weather warnings. But some meteorologists work in places most of us rarely consider—guiding ships across vast oceans, helping industries make critical weather decisions, and even reconstructing past weather events to answer important questions long after the skies have cleared. Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by maritime meteorologist Craig Setzer. Throughout his career, Craig has helped bridge the worlds of weather, ocean navigation, and risk management, providing forecasts and expertise for operations that depend on understanding conditions far from land. We'll explore the unique challenges of forecasting weather at sea, how the cruise industry uses meteorological information to keep passengers and crews safe, and the fascinating field of forensic meteorology—where weather data, observations, and science are used to piece together what happened during past events. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Maritime Meteorology 05:31 Differences Between Maritime and TV Forecasting 08:32 Cruise Industry and Weather Disruptions 10:27 Operational Decisions During Hurricanes 12:38 Pressure and Responsibilities of a Maritime Meteorologist 15:16 Legal Considerations in Maritime Operations 16:42 Other Weather Hazards in Maritime Forecasting 18:55 The Impact of Meteorology on Cruise Experiences 20:51 The Value of Weather in Maritime Safety 21:16 Break 1 21:17 Introduction to Forensic Meteorology 22:05 Craig Setzer's Background and Expertise 23:36 Understanding Forensic Meteorology 25:09 The Role of Captains and Meteorologists 26:40 Clients and Cases in Forensic Meteorology 28:22 Challenges in Weather Data Analysis 30:28 The Importance of Buoy Data 32:12 Historical Data from Ships 33:38 Break 2 33:38 Hurricane Forecasting and the Cone 39:01 Communication in Meteorology 40:21 Advice for Future Meteorologists Resources Royal Caribbean Group - https://www.royalcaribbean.com/ NOAA Buoy Data Center - https://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/ Metropolitan State University of Denver - https://www.msudenver.edu/ University of Oklahoma - https://www.ou.edu/ Guest links LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/craig-setzer-ccm-03095422a Twitter - https://twitter.com/craigsetzer See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#412
August 19 · 34 min
Holding Fast in Heavy Seas
Guest: Tim Gallaudet The ocean shapes our weather, our climate, our economy, and ultimately, life on Earth itself. And yet, for something so vast and so essential, there’s still so much we’re only beginning to understand. Today on Weather Geeks, we’re joined by Dr. Tim Gallaudet—oceanographer, former NOAA administrator, and longtime advocate for advancing ocean science and literacy. His new book takes readers deep into the challenges, discoveries, and opportunities tied to the future of our oceans, while also reflecting on the leadership and innovation needed to better understand and protect them. We’ll talk about the inspiration behind the book, the emerging technologies transforming ocean research, and why collaboration and communication may be just as important as the science itself when it comes to shaping the future of ocean stewardship. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ocean's Role in Earth's Climate 00:47 Dr. Gallaudet's Background and Ocean Passion 01:48 From Coast to Navy: A Dual Passion for Fluids 02:48 Career Highlights and Leadership in the Navy 07:22 Serving as NOAA Deputy and Leading Through Challenges 09:32 Motivation Behind Writing 'Holding Fast in Heavy Seas' 11:31 Break 1 11:32 Stories of Leadership and Resilience 15:09 Advances in Ocean Mapping and Research Initiatives 17:35 Bipartisan Support and Environmental Wins 21:14 Leadership Pillars: All In, All Good, All For One 21:44 Break 2 21:46 Coral Reefs: Biodiversity, Protection, and Economic Impact 28:20 The Role of Private Sector in Ocean and Climate Science 31:02 UAPs and the Quest for Scientific Truth 33:55 Where to Find the Book and Future Research Directions Resources Holding Fast in Heavy Seas by Tim Gallaudet - https://www.amazon.com/Holding-Fast-Heavy-Seas- NOAA - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - https://www.noaa.gov Ocean STL Consulting, LLC - https://oceanstl.com Guest links Website - https://timgallaudet.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TimGallaudet See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#411
August 12 · 37 min
New Executive Director of AMS
Guest: Dr. Amanda Staudt We live in an era where the weather is breaking records, reshaping economies, and dominating global headlines. Navigating this rapidly changing landscape requires a unique blend of cutting-edge science, public trust, and bold leadership. As the newly appointed Executive Director of the American Meteorological Society, Dr. Amanda Staudt is stepping into the helm at a pivotal moment. From the rapid integration of artificial intelligence in forecasting to the battle against climate misinformation, she is tasked with guiding the scientific community into the future. Today, we’re sitting down with Dr. Staudt to discuss her vision for the future of meteorology, how AMS is adapting to the AI revolution, and what it takes to inspire the next generation of weather and climate professionals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Amanda Staudt's background 00:50 How Amanda became a weather enthusiast 04:02 AMS's history and Amanda's leadership role 04:58 Bridging academia, government, and private sector 07:42 AMS's publications, conferences, and programs 10:46 The new AI-focused journal and its significance 14:57 AMS's role in policy and advocacy 15:46 Break 1 20:01 Communicating science to policymakers and the public 25:00 The importance of conferences and professional development 27:47 Break 2 30:00 Future vision for AMS and the evolving weather enterprise 33:55 AMS's organizational structure and volunteer engagement 36:43 Closing remarks and gratitude Resources American Meteorological Society (AMS) - https://www.ametsoc.org AMS Journals - https://www.ametsoc.org/ams/index.cfm/publications/journals/ Climate Crossroads Congressional Fellowship - https://www.nationalacademies.org/programs/NRCEO-CCX-23-P-56 AI in Environmental Systems Journal - https://www.ametsoc.org/ams/publications/journals/artificial-intelligence-for-the-earth-systems/ National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine - https://www.nationalacademies.org Guest Links LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/amanda-staudt-27ba22b8 Twitter - https://twitter.com/amandastaudt See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#410
August 5 · 34 min
Measuring Arizona's Dust Storms
Guest: Amber Sullins, Chief Meteorologist at ABC15 When most people think about dangerous weather, they think about hurricanes, tornadoes, or blizzards. But in the deserts of the Southwest, one of the most impactful—and often overlooked—hazards can arrive as a towering wall of dust. Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by Amber Sullins, a longtime Arizona meteorologist who has spent her career helping people navigate everything from extreme heat and monsoon storms to the massive dust storms that have become synonymous with life in the desert Southwest. We'll talk about her journey forecasting some of the country's most unique weather, and we'll take a deep dive into the development of the new PHX-DUST scale—a groundbreaking effort designed to classify dust storms and better communicate their impacts to the public. From the science behind the scale to the challenges of translating complex research into actionable information, we'll explore how meteorologists are working to improve awareness and resilience in the face of one of Arizona's signature weather threats. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dust Storms in the Southwest 01:00 Amber Sullins' Journey in Meteorology 02:21 Unique Weather Challenges in Arizona 03:22 Forecasting Monsoon and Dust Storms 05:05 Factors Influencing Dust Storm Severity 07:16 Impact of Water Scarcity on Dust Storms 08:40 Health Risks from Dust Storm Particulates 10:33 Types of Dust Storms and Their Detection 14:15 Break 1 14:18 Development of the Phoenix Dust Scale 17:02 Using Air Quality Data for Dust Severity 20:27 Safety Tips for Dust Storms 22:11 Assessing Dust Storm Intensity Quickly 24:17 Applicability of the Dust Scale Elsewhere 25:19 Break 2 28:37 Sharing the Dust Scale with the Public 30:01 Acceptance and Validation of the Scale 32:41 Future Weather Challenges in Arizona 33:40 Upcoming Weather Events and Outlook Resources phoenixdust.asu.edu - https://phoenixdust.asu.edu American Meteorological Society - https://www.ametsoc.org Arizona State University - https://www.asu.edu See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#409
July 29 · 37 min
Hurricane Season Preview with the NHC Director
Guest: Dr. Michael Brennan, Director of NOAA's National Hurricane Center The peak of hurricane season is right around the corner—and whether you live along the coast or hundreds of miles inland, what happens in the tropics can have real impacts on your life. The question is: what do you actually need to know before the season really ramps up? Today on Weather Geeks, we’re getting a preview straight from the source. Dr. Michael Brennan, Director of the National Hurricane Center, joins us to walk through what forecasters are watching this year, how hurricane prediction continues to improve, and where the biggest challenges still remain. We’ll also talk about new tools and products coming out of the National Hurricane Center, how technology is shaping the future of forecasting, and what all of this means for you when the next storm is on the horizon. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hurricane Season and Its Impacts 02:45 Understanding Tropical Storm Arthur and Its Effects 05:41 El Niño's Influence on Hurricane Activity 08:34 The Importance of Preparedness and Messaging 11:59 Evolving Forecasting Techniques and Challenges 14:15 Break 1 14:40 Advancements in Predictive Modeling and AI 17:44 The Role of Communication in Weather Forecasting 20:46 Inland Hurricane Threats and Their Impacts 23:51 Future Directions in Hurricane Research and Forecasting 26:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Hurricane Preparedness 26:58 Break 2 27:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Hurricane Preparednes Resources NOAA National Hurricane Center - https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ Google DeepMind - https://deepmind.com/ Hurricane Forecasting Models (HWRF, HAFS) - https://www.nco.ncep.noaa.gov/pmb/products/hwrf/ Guest Links Twitter - https://twitter.com/NHC_Atlantic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-brennan-5a90322b2 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#408
July 22 · 35 min
Modernizing Your Weather Forecast
Guest: Dr. Mike Farrar, Booz Allen Hamilton Weather forecasting has come a long way—from hand-drawn maps and limited observations to a world driven by supercomputers, satellites, and real-time data. But as technology continues to evolve, so does the challenge of making forecasts faster, smarter, and more useful for the people who rely on them every day. Today on Weather Geeks, we’re joined by Dr. Mike Farrar, whose career has spanned research, operations, and leadership across the meteorological community. His company has been tasked to help modernize the National Weather Service, and with that he’s helping shape what the future of forecasting could look like for both meteorologists and the public alike. We’ll talk about the biggest challenges facing weather operations today, how emerging technologies like AI and cloud computing are changing the forecasting landscape, and why communication and public trust remain just as important as the science itself. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Career Background of Dr. Mike Farrar 01:30 The Evolution of Weather Forecasting Technologies 04:18 Transformational Advances in Meteorology 09:15 The Private Sector and Meteorology's Growth 12:16 Break 1 12:19 The Impact of AI and Cloud Computing 19:28 Modernizing the National Weather Service 22:55 The Role of Human Forecasters in the Age of AI 26:51 Break 2 28:01 The North Star of Meteorology: Science and Service 30:18 Skills for Future Meteorologists 33:50 Embracing Change in the Meteorological Field 34:29 Closing Remarks and Resources Resources Booz Allen Hamilton - https://www.boozallen.com NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Prediction - https://www.weather.gov/ncep/ American Meteorological Society - https://www.ametsoc.org AWIPS (Advanced Weather Information Processing System) - https://vlab.noaa.gov/web/nws-heritage/-/introducing-awips NCAR (National Center for Atmospheric Research) - https://ncar.ucar.edu Guest links LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/mikefarrar-wx See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#407
July 15 · 37 min
What Happens in the Arctic Doesn't Stay in the Arctic
Guest: Dr. Jennifer Francis, Woodwell Climate Research Center When we think about the Arctic, it's easy to picture a remote landscape of sea ice and polar bears. But what happens in the far north doesn't stay there. As the Arctic continues to warm at an unprecedented pace, scientists are uncovering how those changes may be influencing weather patterns across the Northern Hemisphere—from prolonged heat waves and persistent droughts to heavy rainfall and unusual swings in the jet stream. Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by atmospheric scientist Dr. Jennifer Francis, whose pioneering research has helped shape our understanding of the connection between Arctic climate change and the behavior of the jet stream. We'll explore why the Arctic is warming so rapidly, how those changes can ripple through the atmosphere, and what they may mean for the persistent weather patterns we've seen in recent years—including the extreme heat that has gripped much of Europe this summer. Chapters 00:00 Dr. Jennifer Francis's background and interest in weather 05:22 Jet stream patterns and their role in extreme weather 13:21 Break 1 14:31 Mechanisms of Arctic amplification and feedbacks 22:57 Stratospheric polar vortex and winter weather effects 25:04 Break 2 25:58 Summer jet stream behavior and climate connections 32:08 Ocean heat waves and their influence on jet stream patterns 34:33 Current research and future challenges in Arctic climate studies 37:06 Closing remarks and resources Resources Woodwell Climate Research Center - https://www.woodwellclimate.org/ Jennifer Francis - Research Profile - https://www.woodwellclimate.org/our-scientists/jennifer-francis/ Clausius-Clapeyron Relationship - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clausius%E2%80%93Clapeyron_relation Guest links Twitter - https://x.com/WoodwellClimate https://x.com/JFrancisClimate Research Center - https://www.woodwellclimate.org/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#406
July 8 · 39 min
The Next Hurricane Scale?
Guest: Dr. Jennifer Collins & Dr. Nadia Bloemendaal When it comes to hurricanes, we often rely on a familiar scale to understand their strength — categories based largely on wind speed. But anyone who’s experienced a storm knows that impacts go far beyond just how fast the winds are blowing. Today, we’re joined by Jennifer Collins and Nadia Bloemendaal, whose work is helping to rethink how we model and measure tropical cyclones. They’re the minds behind the STORM model, a powerful tool for simulating thousands of storms across the globe, and the developers of the Tropical Cyclone Severity Scale — a new way of looking at storm risk that goes beyond traditional categories. In this episode, we’ll explore how large-scale modeling is changing our understanding of hurricane risk, why current classification systems may fall short, and how new approaches could improve the way we communicate danger and prepare for future storms. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the New Storm Model 00:20 The Storm Model's Impact on Various Sectors 01:02 Challenges in Developing a Global Storm Model 02:21 Modeling Hazards Beyond Wind: Rain and Surge 04:31 Motivation for a New Hurricane Severity Scale 06:42 Limitations of the Wind-Only Scale 08:35 The New Scale: Incorporating Multiple Hazards 10:27 Break 1 11:28 The Concept of a Category 6 Storm 13:05 Public Perception and Education Strategies 15:22 Localized and Personalized Risk Communication 17:27 Real-World Applications and Case Studies 19:20 Future Directions and Climate Change Impacts 21:54 Inertia and Adoption Challenges in Meteorology 23:49 Break 2 25:00 Public Perception of Storm Categories 27:33 The Path Toward Standardization and Adoption 30:12 Future Collaborations and Final Thoughts See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#405
July 1 · 43 min
Using Music to Save Coral Reefs
Guest: Dr. Aran Mooney When you think about saving coral reefs, you probably imagine divers, coral nurseries, or maybe even futuristic technology — but what if part of the solution starts with simply turning up the volume? Because it turns out, coral reefs don’t just look alive… they sound alive. Today’s guest, Dr. Aran Mooney, is helping scientists and conservationists tune into the ocean in a whole new way. His research explores how the natural “music” of healthy reefs — the pops, clicks, and choruses of marine life — can actually help guide coral larvae home and jump-start reef recovery. In this episode, we’ll talk about listening to the ocean, using sound as a conservation tool, and why sometimes the key to protecting our planet isn’t louder warnings — it’s learning how to hear what nature has been telling us all along. Chapters 00:00 The Sound of Coral Reefs 06:00 Sound as a Restoration Tool 12:02 The Mechanics of Sound Playback 17:23 Break 1 17:55 Environmental Influences on Coral Soundscapes 20:17 The Power of Sound in Coral Restoration 26:59 Break 2 27:28 Hurricanes and Their Impact on Coral Reefs 30:43 Understanding the Time Scale of Sound Influence 35:39 Scaling Sound Solutions for Coral Reefs 40:51 Community Engagement and Partnerships for Coral Health Resources Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution - https://www.whoi.edu/ NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program - https://coralreef.noaa.gov/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#404
June 24 · 38 min
Forecasting Trust: Brad Panovich on Weather, Media, and Responsibility
Guest: Brad Panovich, WCNC Charlotte If you’ve lived in North Carolina for any length of time, chances are you’ve turned to one familiar face when the weather turns serious. But being a trusted meteorologist today isn’t just about what happens on TV—it’s about showing up wherever your audience is, whether that’s on-air, online, or in the middle of a rapidly evolving storm. Today on Weather Geeks, we’re joined by Brad Panovich, Chief Meteorologist at WCNC Charlotte. For decades, Brad has helped guide North Carolinians through everything from day-to-day forecasts to high-impact events—including more recent storms like Hurricane Helene—building a level of trust that goes far beyond the forecast itself. We’ll talk about how his approach to communication has evolved in the age of social media, what it takes to cut through misinformation, and how you balance urgency, clarity, and calm when people are depending on you the most. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brad Panovich and His Journey 02:55 The Evolution of Weather Communication 05:54 The Importance of Credentialing in Meteorology 08:56 The Role of Trust in Weather Forecasting 12:05 Break 1 12:08 Navigating Social Media as a Meteorologist 15:13 Handling Negativity and Criticism in the Digital Age 20:13 Understanding Public Perception of Weather Forecasts 23:40 Break 2 24:12 The Role of Social Media in Weather Communication 26:28 The Impact of AI on Meteorology 30:11 Personal Reflections on the Impact of Meteorology 34:26 The Educator's Role in Meteorology Resources Ohio State University Meteorology Program - https://meteo.osu.edu/ UNC Charlotte Weather Communication Course - https://physics.charlotte.edu/ Guest links Brad Panovich on Twitter - https://twitter.com/WXBrad Website - https://www.wcnc.com/ TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wxbrad See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#403
June 17 · 40 min
On the Climate Beat: Reporting a Changing Planet
Guest: Seth Borenstein, Associated Press Every day, new scientific discoveries shape the way we understand our world — from extreme weather to the changing climate. But most of us don’t read scientific journals. Instead, we rely on journalists to translate complex research into stories that inform the public and help us make sense of what it all means. Today we’re joined by Seth Borenstein, a veteran science reporter with the Associated Press who has spent decades covering everything from hurricanes and heat waves to the latest breakthroughs in climate research. Over the years, his reporting has helped bring critical science stories to audiences around the world. In this episode, we’ll talk about how science journalism has evolved, how the media approaches reporting on Climate Change, and what it takes to translate complex science into clear, trustworthy stories for the public. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Credibility 01:43 How Seth Became a Weather and Climate Geek 04:02 The Evolution of Climate Science Narratives 07:47 From Uncertainty to Scientific Certainty 11:53 Finding and Vetting Credible Scientific Sources 16:04 The Role of AP and Wire Services in Science Reporting 17:48 Break 1 18:16 Challenges and Opportunities in Science Journalism 21:52 How Seth Finds His Experts 25:03 Impact of Social Media on Climate and Weather Reporting 27:57 Dealing with Disinformation and Misinformation 28:39 Break 2 29:46 Memorable Stories and Impactful Reporting 32:20 Embedded Reporting with Storm Chasers 34:15 The Human Side of Weather Disasters 36:55 Advice for Future Climate and Science Journalists 39:25 Where to Find Seth's Work See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#402
June 10 · 30 min
A Conversation with NWS Director Ken Graham
GUEST: Ken Graham, Director of NOAA National Weather Service National Weather Service Director Ken Graham visited The Weather Channel for a wide-ranging conversation with Jim Cantore about the future of weather forecasting and public safety. They will discuss ongoing efforts to modernize the National Weather Service, the challenges of maintaining critical infrastructure, the latest developments in forecasting technology and AI, and what improvements may be on the horizon for everything from hurricane forecasts to severe weather prediction. They also talk about staffing, observations, and the tools that help forecasters turn data into decisions when lives are on the line. And as he marks four years as Director, Jim will ask Ken to reflect on the experiences that shaped his career, the accomplishments he's most proud of, and what he wants the public to better understand about the work happening behind the scenes every day. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Credibility 00:59 Ken Graham's Ten and Progress Overview 02:24 Reflecting on Achievements and Vision 03:45 Staffing Challenges and Hiring Boom 05:19 Reorganizing for the Future 07:01 Modernizing Infrastructure and Cloud Transition 08:20 Partnering with Emergency Managers 08:59 Radars: Aging Systems and Next-Gen Plans 10:29 Private Sector Collaboration on Radars 12:48 Innovations in Data Collection: Drones and Balloons 13:42 NWS Chat and Communication Tools 14:17 Break 1 14:31 Communicating Strong El Nino and Hurricane Risks 15:47 Aircraft and Data for Better Forecasts 16:38 Improvements in Track and Intensity Forecasts 17:19 AI and Machine Learning in Weather Models 18:36 Future of High-Resolution and Rapid Refresh Models 20:17 Balancing Over-Preparation and Real-Time Response 21:28 Next-Generation Modeling and Cloud Computing 22:50 Break 2 22:50 Vision for Year 10: Fully Cloud-Based, Well-Staffed NWS 24:26 Memories of Weather Disasters and Motivation 25:37 The Drive to Save Lives and Limit Damage 26:30 Engagement with the President and Policy Support 27:35 Office Culture and Workforce Changes 28:49 Challenges of Modernization and Change Management 29:23 Supporting NWS Staff and Future Outlook See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#401
June 3 · 36 min
When the Weather Calls a Timeout
Guest: Adam Fouche, University of Georgia When you head to a big football game or an outdoor concert, you’re probably thinking about the music, the crowd, and the excitement in the air. But behind the scenes, there’s another team hard at work — one that’s watching the skies. From lightning delays to fast-moving thunderstorms, weather can quickly turn a packed stadium or festival into a serious safety challenge. Protecting tens of thousands of people requires careful planning, constant monitoring, and sometimes very quick decisions. Today we’re joined by Adam Fouche, Interim Associate Vice President for Environmental Safety, Risk, and Resiliency at the University of Georgia. His team works behind the scenes to help keep major events — from concerts to packed game days — safe when the weather takes a turn. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:53 Adam Fouche's Weather Geek Origin Story 02:45 Adam's Role in Weather Safety at UGA 04:09 Weather Safety in Large Campus Events 07:09 Weather Risk Assessment for Events 10:22 Lightning Protocols and the 8-Mile Rule 12:57 Debate on Lightning Delay Rules 13:44 Break 1 15:15 Weather Support Models at SEC Schools 18:01 Collaboration with National Weather Service 20:04 Communication Strategies for Weather Risks 21:59 Psychology of Weather Risk Perception 25:01 Venue Design and Weather Vulnerabilities 26:07 Break 2 26:38 Understanding Severe vs. Non-Severe Weather 30:09 Technology and Weather Monitoring Tools 33:33 Public Safety Advice for Weather Preparedness See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#400
May 27 · 52 min
Storm Chasing in the Digital Age
Guest: Jordan Hall Storm chasing has always lived right at the edge—part science, part instinct, and part, let’s be honest… a little bit of chaos. But these days, it’s not just about being in the right place at the right time—it’s also about capturing it, sharing it, and bringing people along for the ride in real time. Today on Weather Geeks, we’re talking with storm chaser Jordan Hall—someone who’s spent countless hours on the road tracking down everything from classic supercells to high-risk, high-reward setups… all while navigating what it means to be a storm chaser in the age of social media. We’ll get into some of his wildest chase stories, the decisions that matter most when things get intense, and how storm chasing is evolving in a world where your next viral video might be just one tornado away. Chapters 00:00 The Thrill of Storm Chasing 10:01 From Hobby to Career: The Journey of a Storm Chaser 16:17 Break 1 20:10 Navigating the Challenges of Storm Chasing 23:03 Break 2 29:22 Navigating Personal Safety 29:59 The Role of Social Media in Storm Chasing 30:35 Pressure and Competition in Storm Chasing 32:06 Impact of Social Media on Storm Chasing 34:42 International Storm Chasing Adventures 36:55 Choosing Which Storms to Chase 38:06 Awe-Inspiring Natural Phenomena 39:39 Unique Chase Stories 40:09 The Intersection of Storm Chasing and First Response 44:32 Challenges of Chaser Convergence 48:01 The Storm Chasing Community 49:59 Advice for Aspiring Storm Chasers See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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