Author: Betty J. Rapp

Landslides are among the most destructive natural hazards, causing significant loss of life and property worldwide, often triggered by intense rainfall. Effective planning and early warning systems (EWS) can dramatically reduce their impact, potentially preventing over 90% of damages. An EWS integrates susceptibility maps, rainfall thresholds, and real-time meteorological data to predict landslide occurrence. While physically based models suit small-scale applications, empirical approaches are more adaptable to broader regions when historical data is available. In Vietnam—particularly in mountainous areas like Ha Long City—frequent extreme weather events heighten landslide risk. However, challenges such as sparse landslide data and urbanization complicate the…

Tsunamis are among the most powerful and destructive natural disasters on Earth. Triggered by underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides, they generate massive waves capable of traveling at speeds up to 800 km/h across the ocean. These waves can reach heights of 30 meters and stretch up to 100 kilometers wide, devastating everything in their path. While often associated with the Pacific region, tsunamis pose a global threat. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami claimed over 230,000 lives, and the 2011 tsunami in Japan resulted in 20,000 deaths. Europe, too, has faced tragedy—from the 1755 Lisbon tsunami to the Aegean Sea…

Deforestation plays a crucial role in climate change by contributing to the release of large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Trees naturally absorb carbon, and when forests are cut down or degraded, this carbon is released, exacerbating global warming. This environmental loss also reduces the planet’s ability to mitigate climate change by limiting the amount of carbon that can be absorbed. The “Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation” (REDD+) program offers a promising solution by incentivizing developing countries to reduce deforestation, conserve forests, and implement sustainable land-use practices. Through REDD+, countries can receive financial support to protect…

Urban centers are on the frontlines of climate change, facing heightened risks from natural disasters, rapid population growth, and deepening socio-economic inequalities. Each year, approximately 70 million people migrate to cities in the developing world, placing immense pressure on infrastructure and straining the delivery of essential services. Many cities struggle to meet these demands in a sustainable and inclusive manner. Yet, a growing number are rising to the challenge by embracing forward-thinking strategies. Through inclusive community engagement, the adoption of nature-based solutions, innovative governance frameworks. And the integration of digital technologies, these cities are transforming into global models of resilience,…

La Niña and El Niño, two opposing phases of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), are driven by shifts in Pacific Ocean temperatures. La Niña cools surface waters, leading to more frequent hurricanes in the Atlantic, droughts in the southern U.S., and wet conditions in Southeast Asia. In contrast, El Niño warms the waters, causing drier weather in Southeast Asia and Australia, while increasing rainfall across southern U.S. and South America. As climate change accelerates, these natural cycles are expected to intensify and become more unpredictable. Warmer global temperatures will amplify the impacts of both phases, resulting in more extreme weather…

Drones are rapidly transforming the field of emergency management, offering innovative solutions to complex challenges. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) provide real-time data, enhance situational awareness, and enable rapid response in critical situations. Whether it’s disaster response, search and rescue operations, or assessing damage after a natural catastrophe, drones are proving to be indispensable tools. They can access hard-to-reach areas, provide live video feeds, and deliver crucial supplies, all while reducing risk to human life. As technology continues to evolve, drones are becoming an integral part of emergency management strategies, revolutionizing the way authorities respond to crises. This article explores…

Europe is experiencing one of its hottest summers on record, with relentless heatwaves sweeping across the continent. From wildfires in Greece to droughts in Italy and record-breaking temperatures in France, the signs are impossible to ignore. But what’s really behind this scorching summer? Is it just a seasonal anomaly, or something deeper tied to climate change? In this article, we break down the key drivers of Europe’s current heatwaves, including shifts in jet streams, warming oceans, and greenhouse gas emissions. Whether you’re sweating through the heat or simply trying to understand the science, we’ll explain how global climate trends are…

Flooding may seem unlikely to impact your home, but the reality is far more concerning. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), floods are involved in 90% of all presidentially declared natural disasters in the U.S. Unfortunately, standard homeowners, condo, or renters insurance typically does not cover flood damage. This leaves your property vulnerable to significant financial loss in the event of a flood. Even if flood insurance is not mandated for your area, it’s worth considering as an essential safeguard to protect your home and belongings. With the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, flood insurance could provide…

Climate change might sound like a complex scientific term, but its impact touches every corner of our daily lives — from the weather we experience to the food we eat. In simple terms, climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, mainly caused by human activities like burning fossil fuels. These changes are happening faster than ever before, affecting ecosystems, communities, and economies around the world. But don’t worry — you don’t need a science degree to understand what’s going on. In this guide, we’ll break it all down in plain English. You’ll learn what climate change…

As you navigate through the app, it’s hard to miss the WeatherRadar, one of its most highly regarded features. This powerful tool provides a comprehensive array of weather data, all presented on a user-friendly map. With the WeatherRadar, users can seamlessly explore real-time weather conditions, as well as past and forecasted trends. Whether you’re tracking cloud cover, precipitation, storms, or temperature fluctuations, this interactive feature offers a dynamic and intuitive way to stay informed about changing weather patterns. Its accessibility and detailed visual representation make it a go-to resource for users seeking a clear and concise view of current and…