The Beatless Sense Mongers – Page 32

Pummeling the World

Posted on May 20, 2024 by admin

Oh, man, Man!

[Verse 1]
Not a matter of whether
The extreme weather
Is wreaking havoc
Oh, woe, Mother’s sick

[Chorus]
Extreme weather
Is pummeling the world
We’ve come untethered
The world needs told

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]

[Verse 2]
It’s a matter of whether
We’ll survive the weather
It’s pounding down
All around
(Pounding down, down, down)

[Chorus]
Extreme weather
Is pummeling the world
We’ve come untethered
The world needs told

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Bass]

[Bridge]
Coming at ya, Africa
Afghanistan, can you withstand
At the end of your rope, Europe
India, waa, waa, waa

[Chorus]
Extreme weather
Is pummeling the world
We’ve come untethered
The world needs told

[Instrumental, Drum Solo, Bass]

[Outro]
Coming at ya, Africa
Afghanistan, can you withstand
At the end of your rope, Europe
India, waa, waa, waa

A SCIENCE NOTE
Africa News Reports: Severe Weather Events Across the Globe

Global Overview
Severe weather has been pummeling parts of the world, with flash floods and heatwaves recorded in Sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, the Americas, and several countries in Asia. According to the UN’s climate body, the IPCC, heavy rainfall events have become more frequent and intense over most land regions.

Africa
Heavy rains and flash floods have affected nearly 1 million people in East Africa, displacing over 300,000 people in Kenya, Somalia, Burundi, and Tanzania, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Additionally, record temperatures, especially at night, have hit many parts of Africa. Niamey, the capital of Niger, experienced its hottest May night, while Burkina Faso’s capital recorded its hottest night for any month. In Chad, temperatures were expected to linger above 114 degrees Fahrenheit (45.6 degrees Celsius) by mid-May.

Afghanistan
In Afghanistan, flash floods from heavy seasonal rains in the western part of the country left at least 50 people dead on Saturday. Authorities have warned that the death toll may rise as dozens of people remain missing. The exceptionally heavy rains have killed more than 300 people and destroyed thousands of houses, according to the UN.

Europe
Europe is also facing severe weather. In southwest Germany, particularly in Saarland, heavy rainfall led to flooding, impacting many houses and cars and necessitating some evacuations in Lebach on Saturday. The fire department prepared boats and distributed sandbags to protect houses. Authorities warned that the rain would continue into the night and Sunday. Meanwhile, in Russia, over 2,000 people were evacuated from Omsk after flooding affected over 200 homes and nearly 400 other structures, mostly used in farming, according to the Russian Emergency Ministry. Russian state TV shared footage of one villager, Galimzhan Taushev, who lost his house to the flooding.

India
In South Asia, climate experts say extreme heat during the pre-monsoon season is becoming more frequent. On Saturday, parts of northwest India sweltered under scorching temperatures, with the capital New Delhi under a severe weather alert. India’s weather department expects heatwave conditions to persist across the north for the next few days and has put several states on high alert.

From the album “Right Now” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

A song about The Human Induced Climate Change Experiment

Texas Bailout

Posted on May 19, 2024 by admin

[Intro]
Lie, baby, lie
Cry, baby, cry

[Verse 1]
First you deny
Then you lie
Putting all at risk
To die
(tsk, tsk, tsk)

[Bridge]
Mother messes with Texas
Comes back for a kick in ass

[Chorus]
We’re under strain
Need a government bailout
Extreme rain, extreme pain
Something to cry about

[Verse 2]
On your knees
Begging please!
Ignorance
Is not bliss

[Bridge]
Mother messes with Texas
Comes back for a kick in ass

[Chorus]
We’re under strain
Need a government bailout
Extreme rain, extreme pain
Something to cry about

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]

[Bridge]
Mess in Texas
Self-imposed I suppose
Science denial
Education’s on trial
Political suicide
Fat cat’s reside
Slogan’s ill
Drill, drill, drill

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Bass]

[Verse 3]
Texas, the welfare state
Dumb ass, climate irate
Fossil fuel fools
The devil’s tools

[Bridge]
Mother messes with Texas
Comes back for a kick in ass

[Chorus]
We’re under strain
Need a government bailout
Extreme rain, extreme pain
Something to cry about

[Outro]
On your knees
Begging please!
Ignorance
Is not bliss

A SCIENCE AND ECONOMICS NOTE
Newsweek reportsRepublican Texas Governor Greg Abbott has asked President Joe Biden to issue a Presidential Disaster Declaration for areas of Texas affected by recent severe weather and flooding. The state has experienced a series of intense weather events over the past few weeks, including thunderstorms that have caused flooding and tornadoes. In his request, Abbott stated, “Due to severe weather and flooding that continues to cause devastating damage in several of our communities, I am requesting a Presidential Disaster Declaration. The extensive damage caused by these severe storms, historic river flooding, and tornadoes requires comprehensive, robust action by all levels of government to help Texans rebuild and recover.” Abbott included a link to a press release from his office, which contained his full letter to President Biden.

In the letter, Abbott emphasized the severity of the situation: “I have determined that the incident is of such severity and magnitude that an effective response is beyond the capabilities of the state and affected local governments, and that supplementary federal assistance is necessary to save lives and to protect property, public health, and safety, or to lessen or avert the threat of a disaster.” Abbott also requested access to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide and the U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loan Program for physical and economic loss in all requested counties.

On April 24, the National Weather Service issued an “extreme fire behavior warning” for the El Paso region of Texas, just across the Mexican border. On May 1, heavy rainfall caused flooding along the Trinity River, affecting Harris County after dangerous flash floods hit the area around Galveston in East Texas.

Abbott noted, “The request to declare a major disaster for the state of Texas comes after an initial review of damage sustained due to catastrophic flash flooding, historic river flooding, extremely large hail, damaging wind gusts, and destructive tornadoes. Local jurisdictions have reported more than $58 million in public infrastructure damage estimates thus far, including disaster response costs and debris management.”

About the Age of Loss and Damage

Climate change is primarily driven by the escalation of thermal energy affecting biogeophysical and socio-economic systems. While biogeophysical factors can be studied using mathematics, physics, and historical records, socio-economic systems pose greater challenges due to the unintended consequences of human behavior and inexplicable consumer choices.

Human-induced climate change is an exponential component of an unordered system (chaos theory), meaning global warming is accelerating at a rapid and complex rate. Unfortunately, even scientists are struggling to fully understand or predict the rapid acceleration of climate change. The impacts of the Domino Effect, or “tipping cascades,” are being underestimated. Tipping points are critical milestones that directly impact the rate of acceleration in climate change by multiplying the number and intensity of feedback loops. These cascading impacts affect both biogeophysical and social systems. Until recently, scientists have drastically underestimated the role of social-ecological systems. The University of Exeter reports, “There is a notable lack of topic clusters dedicated to how humans will be impacted by climate-related tipping cascades.”

Previous climate models have inadequately incorporated “social-ecological systems” as human involvement was not a significant factor in past climate changes. Regrettably, the United States ranks among the least prepared countries globally, with a high percentage of climate deniers. The Republican party dismisses it as a manufactured crisis and plans to increase fossil fuel production, exacerbating the situation. Political extremists asserting that the climate crisis is manufactured use an ironic term, given that human manufacturing activities are the primary driver of climate change. Both political parties have agreed to allocate unlimited emergency funding for climate disasters instead of proactively preventing them. Last year, the US witnessed a record number of over a billion-dollar climate disasters, totaling 28 separate weather and climate-related events. Due to this arrogance and ignorance, “worst-case scenarios” are now “best-case scenarios” for the acceleration of climate change. These factors have altered our climate model, shifting the projected maximum temperature rise from 4 degrees Celsius over the next millennium to a probable increase of 9 degrees Celsius this century.

From the album “Right Now” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

A song about The Human Induced Climate Change Experiment

(Such Thing as a:) Free Ride

Posted on May 19, 2024May 19, 2024 by admin

Hope?
Come right this way
(Come away)
(away aaaaa)

[Verse 1]
I heard you’re looking for hope
Come, let’s dream a scene
(the seen:)
I see approaching a slope
And it’s all downhill from hear

[Chorus]
You’re free to coast
We’ll free the most
Free to glide…
[Break]
A free ride

[Bridge]
Come on,
Be the free ride!
(Free ride)
Free ride

[Verse 2]
I heard you’re looking for love
Come, let’s dream the seen
The Scene: Approaching from above
And it’s all downhill from hear

[Chorus]
You’re free to slide
Make the most
Free to coast
Free to glide…
[Bridge]
A free ride

[Bridge]
Come on,
Be the free ride!
(Free ride)
Free ride

[Verse 3]
Oh, Joy! We’ve found the love
Coming in from above
(Love! Coming in from above)
Set the scene
Live the dream

[Chorus]
We’re free to slide
Make a toast
Free to coast
Free to glide…
[Bridge]
A free ride

[Outro]
We’re free to slide
Make a toast
Free to coast
Free to glide…
A free ride

From the album “Right Now” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

It’s Raining Out, but….

Posted on May 19, 2024 by admin

[Verse 1]
It’s raining out
No doubt need a rain spout
But inside it’s shines
Shines so fine
Come have a good time

[Chorus]
Your light brings the glow
To the show
Your light sings on high
Making the sky cry

[Instrumental]

[Verse 2]
The rain is coming down
Falling all around
So come on in
The scene is happenin’

[Chorus]
Your light brings the glow
To the show
Your light sings on high
Making the sky cry

[Instrumental]

[Bridge]
Let it rain and rain
Let it pour some more
My, oh, my
Inside is dry
We can dance and play
All the livelong day

[Chorus]
Your light brings the glow
To the show
Your light sings on high
Making the sky cry

[Outro]
It’s raining
It’s pouring
This party
Is roaring

[End]

From the album “Right Now” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

Time to Make

Posted on May 19, 2024 by admin

[Verse 1]
I can feel it in my bones
It’s calling me
When I can hear the tones
Brings on melody

[Chorus]
It’s time to make
Music (sweet, sweet music)
Make the earth quake
Quick, more music

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]

[Verse 2]
It’s calling me to be
In the thick of it
Dancing freely
No cares, not a bit

[Chorus]
It’s time to make
Music (sweet, sweet music)
Make the earth quake
Quick, more music

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Bass]

[Bridge]
Strumming strings
Banging things
Tickling keys
Sing for me please?

[Chorus]
It’s time to make
Music (sweet, sweet music)
Make the earth quake
Quick, more music

[Outro]
It’s calling me to be
In the thick of it

From the album “Right Now” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

Reef Grief

Posted on May 18, 2024 by admin

No, no, no NOAA
Say it ain’t so
Woe, I dunno
How much longer can we go?

[Chorus]
Good grief, coral reef
A distress test
The heat stress
Causing a mess

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]

[Verse 2]
Bringing bleach
To the beech
This is alarming
And disarming

[Chorus]
Good grief, coral reef
A distress test
The heat stress
Causing a mess

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Drum Fills]

[Bridge]
The Atlantic Ocean
Heat in motion
Too hot (hot, hot, hot)
Why not
Raise the alarm
Due to the harm?

[Chorus]
Good grief, coral reef
A distress test
The heat stress
Causing a mess

[Outro]
The heat stress
Causing a mess

A SCIENCE NOTE
In 2023, coral biologists described the temperatures as “unprecedented” because they started early and remained at bleaching levels for an extended period. NOAA’s Coral Reef Watch Program Coordinator, Derek Manzello, noted that reefs in the Caribbean and Florida are already experiencing a repeat of last year’s conditions. As of April 2024, heat stress is accumulating in Caribbean reefs, occurring weeks earlier than in 2023.

“This is alarming because this has never happened so early in the year before,” Manzello said. “And to say that is alarming because last year we experienced the same thing.”

The Atlantic Ocean bleaching event last summer was so severe that NOAA’s Coral Reef Watch added three new alert levels to their scale, which previously maxed out at alert level 2, to better categorize the heat stress occurring.

Coral reefs confront unprecedented challenges arising from various stressors, many of which are directly tied to human activities. Some of these stressors possess critical tipping points, surpassing which can lead to the collapse of coral ecosystems. According to the European Geosciences Union’s statement on January 2, 2024, specific tipping points include a temperature increase of 1.2℃ above pre-industrial levels and atmospheric CO2 concentrations exceeding 350 parts per million. Disturbingly, as of February 2024, the Earth’s yearly average temperature has already risen to +1.5℃ and CO2 to 425 ppm, underscoring the urgency of addressing climate-related threats to coral reefs.

In a significant update from May 2024, scientists determined through tree ring analysis that the average temperature increase in 2023 reached 2.07 degrees Celsius, further underscoring the escalating pace of climate change and its profound impact on global ecosystems.

Coral Reefs’ Tipping Point Brouse (2024)

From the album “Right Now” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

A song about The Human Induced Climate Change Experiment

DeSantis Is….

Posted on May 18, 2024 by admin

DeSantis Is….

[Verse 1]
DeSantis deprioritizes
Hopefully, everyone realizes
He’s a climate idiot
Facts to misrepresent

[Chorus]
Da, da, da, Florida (Da, da, da)
How could you be so dumb
To give up our freedom
Florida, run, run, run (run, run, run)

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]

[Verse 1]
DeSantis is
A numbskull
Intelligence
Dull

[Chorus]
Da, da, da, Florida (Da, da, da)
How could you be so dumb
To give up our freedom
Florida, run, run, run (run, run, run)

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Bass]

[Bridge]
You fool
Go back to school
Oh, you tool
You rule the school
With misinformation
Total devastation

[Chorus]
Da, da, da, Florida (Da, da, da)
How could you be so dumb
To give up our freedom
Florida, run, run, run (run, run, run)

[Outro]
Da, da, da, Florida (Da, da, da)
How could you be so dumb
To give up our freedom

[End]

A SCIENCE NOTE
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation on May 15 that will deprioritize climate change and largely remove it from state statutes. The new law also bans the installation of power-generating wind turbines offshore or near the state’s extensive coastline. Critics argue that this legislation ignores the serious climate change threats facing Florida, such as rising sea levels, extreme heat, flooding, and increasingly severe storms. The measure, which takes effect on July 1, also promotes the expansion of natural gas, reduces regulation on gas pipelines, and increases protections against bans on gas appliances like stoves, according to a news release from the governor’s office.

DeSantis, who suspended his presidential campaign in January and later endorsed his former rival Donald Trump, described the bill as a common-sense approach to energy policy.

From the album “Right Now” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

A song about The Human Induced Climate Change Experiment

Bail Faster

Posted on May 18, 2024 by admin

Bail faster!
Disaster

[Verse 1]
Is it any wonder
We’re going under
Is it surprising
The water’s rising

[Chorus]
Not nice
The ice is melting
Think twice
In need of helping
Don’t fail to bail
[Break]
Bail!

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]

[Verse 1]
Is it any wonder
We’re going under
Is it surprising
The water’s rising

[Chorus]
Not nice
The ice is melting
Think twice
In need of helping
Don’t fail to bail
[Break]
Bail!

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Bass Fills]

[Bridge]
Check the clock
A significant shock
Maybe Miami
Won’t be
Sorry

[Chorus]
Not nice
The ice is melting
Think twice
In need of helping
Don’t fail to bail
[Break]
Bail!

[Outro]
Going under
Blunder
Going down
(Down, down, down)

[End]

A SCIENCE NOTE
Sea levels have been rising faster, impacting roads and homes in South Florida. Over the past 80 years, sea levels have increased by about a foot, with 8 inches of that rise occurring in the last 30 years, according to Brian McNoldy, a senior research associate at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) projects that this pace will accelerate significantly. While it took approximately 80 years for the first foot of sea level rise, the second foot is expected in just 30 years, the third foot in 20 years, and Florida could see the next foot in merely a decade after that.

“Presently, sea level is tracking in the intermediate-high to high scenarios, the two fastest,” said Randall Parkinson, a coastal geologist with Florida International University. “The other three scenarios are less relevant because we’re already rising faster than that.” These projections are used by South Florida governments to determine the elevation for new developments. However, after a new bill signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis this year, local governments seeking state funds for sea rise projects must only consider the intermediate-low and intermediate scenarios, a downgrade from previous legislation that required consideration of the intermediate-low and intermediate-high scenarios.

A two-foot rise in sea level by 2060, compared to present-day levels, would be a significant shock for Miami, where the average elevation is three feet. This is why local governments and the state are investing billions of dollars to keep streets dry and mitigate the impact of rising seas.

Scientific Evidence on Sea Level Rise and Climate Change

Sea level rise is primarily driven by two factors related to climate change: thermal expansion of seawater as it warms and the addition of water from melting ice sheets and glaciers. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global mean sea level rose by 0.19 meters (about 7.5 inches) from 1901 to 2010. The rate of sea level rise has accelerated in recent decades, averaging about 3.2 millimeters per year from 1993 to 2010.

Thermal Expansion

As global temperatures rise due to increased greenhouse gas concentrations, seawater expands. This process, known as thermal expansion, contributes significantly to observed sea level rise. The IPCC estimates that thermal expansion contributed to about 30% of the observed rise in sea levels from 1993 to 2010.

Melting Ice Sheets and Glaciers

The Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets, along with glaciers worldwide, are losing mass at an accelerating rate. Satellite data show that the Greenland ice sheet lost an average of 279 gigatonnes of ice per year between 2006 and 2018, while the Antarctic ice sheet lost about 148 gigatonnes per year over the same period. These losses add to the volume of water in the oceans, raising sea levels.

Regional Variations

Sea level rise is not uniform across the globe. Factors such as ocean currents, atmospheric pressure patterns, and the gravitational effects of melting ice masses can cause regional variations. For instance, the U.S. East Coast, including South Florida, has experienced higher rates of sea level rise compared to the global average.

Future Projections

The IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report projects that global mean sea level could rise by 0.28 to 1.01 meters (about 11 to 40 inches) by 2100, depending on greenhouse gas emission scenarios. High-emission scenarios could lead to even greater rises due to potential ice sheet instability and other feedback mechanisms.

Economic and Social Impacts

The economic and social impacts of sea level rise are profound. Coastal communities face increased flooding, erosion, and damage to infrastructure. Saltwater intrusion can contaminate freshwater supplies, affecting agriculture and drinking water. Rising seas also threaten critical habitats, such as wetlands and mangroves, which provide important ecosystem services and protect against storm surges.

In conclusion, the accelerating pace of sea level rise due to climate change presents a significant challenge for coastal regions like South Florida. Understanding the scientific basis of sea level rise and implementing adaptive measures are crucial for mitigating its impacts and protecting vulnerable communities.

From the album “Right Now” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

A song about The Human Induced Climate Change Experiment

Increase in Decline

Posted on May 18, 2024 by admin

[Verse 1]
Primate change
The social cost of carbon
Come on,
Estrange

[Chorus]
An increase in decline
Happening all the time
In fact, the impact
Wails a whack

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]

[Verse 2]
Primate change
Costs an arm and a leg
Feels strange
Literally, I beg

[Chorus]
An increase in decline
Happening all the time
In fact, the impact
Wails a whack

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Piano]

[Bridge]
Macroeconomic impact
The poor poorly lack
Damn damages
Upset averages
Extreme events
Prevents

[Chorus]
An increase in decline
Happening all the time
In fact, the impact
Wails a whack

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Bass]

[Outro]
Macroeconomic impact
The poor poorly lack
Damn damages
Upset averages

[End]

A SCIENCE NOTE
The Macroeconomic Impact of Climate Change: Global vs. Local Temperature

This paper estimates that the macroeconomic damages from climate change are six times larger than previously thought. We exploit natural variability in global temperature and rely on time-series variation. A 1°C increase in global temperature leads to a 12% decline in world GDP. Global temperature shocks correlate much more strongly with extreme climatic events than the country-level temperature shocks commonly used in the panel literature, explaining why our estimate is substantially larger. We use our reduced-form evidence to estimate structural damage functions in a standard neoclassical growth model. Our results imply a Social Cost of Carbon of $1,056 per ton of carbon dioxide. A business-as-usual warming scenario leads to a present value welfare loss of 31%. Both are multiple orders of magnitude above previous estimates and imply that unilateral decarbonization policy is cost-effective for large countries such as the United States.

The economic damage caused by climate change is six times worse than previously estimated, with global warming set to reduce wealth at a rate comparable to the financial losses of a continuous, permanent war, according to recent research.

The study found that a 1°C increase in global temperature leads to a 12% decline in world gross domestic product (GDP), a far higher estimate than previous analyses. The world has already warmed by more than 1°C (1.8°F) since pre-industrial times, and many climate scientists predict a 3°C (5.4°F) rise will occur by the end of this century due to the ongoing burning of fossil fuels. This scenario, according to a new working paper that has yet to be peer-reviewed, will result in an enormous economic cost.

A 3°C temperature increase will cause “precipitous declines in output, capital, and consumption that exceed 50% by 2100,” the paper states. This economic loss is so severe that it is “comparable to the economic damage caused by fighting a war domestically and permanently,” it adds.

The Age of Loss and Damage

From the album “Right Now” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

A song about The Human Induced Climate Change Experiment

Derechos

Posted on May 18, 2024 by admin

[Verse 1]
The mountain echoes
Derechos
Blowing over shadows
You next? Who knows

[Chorus]
I mean
Extreme
Weather events
This kind prevents
The dream

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]

[Verse 2]
Midwestern U.S.
Is in distress
Kicking Texas
In the ass

[Chorus]
I mean
Extreme
Weather events
This kind prevents
The dream

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Bass]

[Bridge]
Straight-line winds
Blinds the minds
Windstorm
Alarm
Windstorms
Bring harm
Our way
Today

[Chorus]
I mean
Extreme
Weather events
This kind prevents
The dream

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]

[End]

A SCIENCE NOTE
Derechos, which are long-lived windstorms associated with bands of rapidly moving showers or thunderstorms, are being influenced by climate change in several ways. Here’s how climate change is impacting the occurrence and intensity of derechos:

1. Increased Atmospheric Instability

As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere becomes more unstable. This instability is a crucial factor in the formation of severe thunderstorms, which can lead to derechos. Warmer air can hold more moisture, and this increased humidity can provide more energy for storms, making them more intense and more likely to produce damaging wind events like derechos.

2. Enhanced Convective Available Potential Energy (CAPE)

Convective Available Potential Energy (CAPE) measures the amount of energy available for convection, which is essential for thunderstorm development. Higher CAPE values indicate more potential for strong updrafts and downdrafts, leading to more severe thunderstorms and, consequently, more powerful derechos. Climate change is leading to higher CAPE values in many regions, contributing to the likelihood of more frequent and intense derechos.

3. Increased Frequency of Extreme Weather Events

Climate change is causing an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events overall. This includes heatwaves, which can create the conditions necessary for severe thunderstorms. Prolonged periods of high temperatures can destabilize the atmosphere, making it more conducive to the formation of the severe storms that spawn derechos.

4. Altered Wind Patterns

Climate change is influencing global wind patterns, which can affect the development and trajectory of weather systems that produce derechos. Changes in jet streams and other large-scale atmospheric circulations can contribute to more favorable conditions for derechos in certain areas.

5. Increased Moisture Availability

With the warming atmosphere, there is more moisture available due to higher rates of evaporation and more intense precipitation events. This increased moisture can fuel severe thunderstorms, making them more capable of producing the widespread, damaging winds characteristic of derechos.

Case Studies and Recent Examples

In recent years, there have been notable examples of derechos that have caused significant damage and have been studied in the context of climate change:

Midwestern U.S. Derecho (August 2020): This derecho caused widespread damage across several states, including Iowa, Illinois, and Indiana. Scientists have noted that the conditions leading to this event were influenced by higher-than-normal temperatures and increased moisture in the atmosphere, consistent with the impacts of climate change.

Conclusion

While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between climate change and derechos, it is clear that the changing climate is creating conditions that can lead to more frequent and intense severe weather events, including derechos. Addressing climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implementing adaptation strategies is crucial to mitigating the impacts of these powerful windstorms on communities and infrastructure.

From the album “Right Now” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

A song about The Human Induced Climate Change Experiment

Straight-Line

Posted on May 18, 2024 by admin

Make a straight-line
For the door
Can’t take much more
I ain’t lyin’

[Verse 1]
Make a straight-line
For the door
Can’t take much more
I ain’t lyin’

[Bridge]
The winds are going to blow me down
(Down, down, down)
Just look around

[Chorus]
Straight-line wind
Again and again
Atmospheric instability
Is getting the best of me

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Bass]

[Verse 2]
Connected
To enhanced convective
Available potential energy
Is coming after me

[Bridge]
The winds are going to blow me down
(Down, down, down)
Just look around

[Chorus]
Straight-line wind
Again and again
Atmospheric instability
Is getting the best of me

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]

[Verse 3]
Frequency and intensity
Concerning me
Warn of thunderstorms
Setting new norms

[Bridge]
The winds are going to blow me down
(Down, down, down)
Just look around

[Chorus]
Straight-line wind
Again and again
Atmospheric instability
Is getting the best of me

[Outro]
Straight-line wind
Blowin’ me down again

[End]

A SCIENCE NOTE
May 18, 2024: “Deadly storm wallops Houston as ferocious winds leave a destructive path across the South.” The storm left death and destruction, and thousands without power. The forecast predicts an unprecedented spring heatwave, putting all those without power in a deadly situation. The greatest short term climate change risk to human health is deadly humid heat (wet-bulb temperature).

Weather Like the Deadly Houston Windstorm Is Being Fueled in Part by Climate Change

Scientists have detected an increase since the 1980s in what are known as straight-line winds, and climate change is playing a significant role. These winds, which are often associated with severe thunderstorms, can reach speeds exceeding 100 mph and cause damage similar to that of a tornado, but they move along a straight path.

Understanding Straight-Line Winds

Straight-line winds, also known as derechos when they cover a particularly large area, are powerful, sustained winds that originate from downdrafts in thunderstorms. Unlike the rotating winds of a tornado, straight-line winds blow in a single direction, hence their name. These winds can flatten trees, knock down power lines, and cause extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure.

The Role of Climate Change

Recent studies indicate that climate change is contributing to an increase in the frequency and intensity of these wind events. The following factors explain how climate change is influencing straight-line winds:

Increased Atmospheric Instability: As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere becomes more unstable. Warmer air holds more moisture, leading to more intense thunderstorms, which are a primary source of straight-line winds. The increased energy in the atmosphere enhances the formation of severe weather systems capable of producing strong downdrafts.
Enhanced Convective Available Potential Energy (CAPE): CAPE is a measure of the energy available for convection, which is a key process in the formation of thunderstorms. Higher CAPE values are associated with more vigorous updrafts and downdrafts, resulting in stronger winds. Climate change is leading to higher CAPE values in many regions, contributing to more powerful straight-line winds.
Changing Wind Patterns: Climate change is altering global wind patterns, which can influence the development and movement of severe weather systems. These changes can result in more frequent and intense straight-line wind events, particularly in areas that are becoming more prone to severe thunderstorms.

The Impact of Straight-Line Winds

The deadly Houston windstorm is a stark reminder of the destructive power of straight-line winds. The storm left a trail of devastation, with thousands of residents losing power and homes being damaged or destroyed. The aftermath of such storms can be particularly dangerous during extreme weather events like heatwaves, which are also becoming more common due to climate change.

Conclusion

As the climate continues to change, the occurrence of extreme weather events like straight-line winds is expected to increase. This poses significant challenges for communities, infrastructure, and emergency response systems. Understanding the role of climate change in these events is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate their impact and enhance resilience against future storms. Scientists and policymakers must work together to address the root causes of climate change and implement measures to protect vulnerable populations from the growing threat of severe weather.

From the album “Right Now” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

A song about The Human Induced Climate Change Experiment

Cognitive Load Theory

Posted on May 16, 2024 by admin

Hmmm… (Hmmmm)
Maybe it will come
From undone?

[Verse 1]
I’m sorry I forgot your name
Is it still the same
Or is it my brain?

[Verse 2]
I’m thinking it starts
With a letter
’cause I couldn’t
Think of anything better

[Bridge]
Can you give me a clue about you?
If I could be lent a hint….

[Chorus]
Oh, never mind
We can leave it behind
There’s only so much room
At the “In”
Perhaps best left
Behind?

[Instrumental, Piano, Bass, Flute]

[Break]
Hmmm… (Hmmmm)
Maybe it will come
From undone?

[Verse 3]
I’m sorry, I forgot your name
It’s on the tip of my tongue
But I could be wrong
It might come to me… before too long

[Bridge]
Can you give me a clue about you?
If I could be lent a hint….

[Chorus]
Oh, never mind
We can leave it behind
There’s only so much room
At the “In”
Perhaps best left
Behind?

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Drum Fills]

Hmmm… (Hmmmm)
Maybe it will come
From undone?

[Verse 4]
I’m thinking it starts
With a letter
’cause I couldn’t
Think of anything better

[Bridge]
Can you give me a clue about you?
If I could be lent a hint….

[Outro]
Oh, never mind
We can leave it behind
There’s only so much room
At the “In”
Perhaps best left
Behind?

[End]

A SCIENCE NOTE
Cognitive load theory (CLT) is a framework used in educational psychology to understand how the human mind processes and retains information. It proposes that the human cognitive system has a limited capacity for processing information and that learning can be impeded when this capacity is exceeded. The theory suggests that instructional design should aim to manage cognitive load effectively to optimize learning outcomes.

CLT distinguishes between three types of cognitive load:

Intrinsic Cognitive Load: This refers to the inherent complexity of the learning material itself. Some tasks or concepts are naturally more difficult to understand than others due to their complexity or novelty.
Extraneous Cognitive Load: This refers to the unnecessary cognitive load imposed by the instructional design or learning environment. It includes distractions, irrelevant information, or poorly designed instructional materials that do not contribute to learning and may hinder comprehension.
Germane Cognitive Load: This refers to the cognitive load associated with actively processing and integrating new information into long-term memory. It involves engaging in meaningful learning activities, such as problem-solving or making connections between new and existing knowledge.

The goal of cognitive load theory is to optimize learning by managing extraneous cognitive load and promoting effective processing of intrinsic cognitive load. Strategies to achieve this include:

Simplifying Instructional Materials: Presenting information in a clear and organized manner, avoiding unnecessary complexity or distractions.
Providing Scaffolding: Breaking down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps and providing support or guidance as needed.
Promoting Active Learning: Encouraging learners to engage with the material actively through problem-solving, discussion, or other interactive activities.
Fostering Metacognitive Awareness: Helping learners become aware of their own cognitive processes and providing strategies for managing cognitive load effectively.

Cognitive load theory provides valuable insights into how instructional design can be optimized to enhance learning and minimize cognitive overload.

From the album “Nowadays” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

Thrust, I Must

Posted on May 16, 2024 by admin

A must, the thrust
2, 1, 0

[Verse 1]
Picking up speed to succeed (faster, higher, faster)
To see escape velocity (faster, higher, faster)
To be… escape velocity (faster, higher, faster)
Hope to see the sea, all the sea
From sea to sea (from sea to sea)
And, to infinity (beyond the see)
See beyond the sea
A must, the thrust

[Bridge]
Picking up speed, but we might need
A boost
[Break]
[Chorus]
Through the roof
(I’ve a feeling we’ve hit the ceiling)
I’ve a feeling
(I’ve a feeling we’ve hit the ceiling)
The ceiling is dealing a mighty blow
(We’re going a little too slow)
[Break]
Oh, no (Oh, know)
A must, the thrust

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Drum Fills, Rockets]

[Verse 2]
Picking up speed but I must concede (Feeling low)
The severity of the gravity (Feeling low)
Seems to be impeding me (Feeling low, low, low)
Feeling low, don’t you know
Sure could use some juice, a boost
Developing a lust for thrust
Thrust I must!

[Bridge]
Picking up speed, but we might need
A boost

[Chorus]
Through the roof
(I’ve a feeling we’ve hit the ceiling)
I’ve a feeling
(I’ve a feeling we’ve hit the ceiling)
The ceiling is dealing a mighty blow
(We’re going a little too slow)
Oh, no (Oh, know)
A must, the thrust

[Bridge]
You see, gravity
Is bringing me down
(Down, down, down)
Down to Earth
From birth
Mama always said,
Son, the gravity will help keep you
… well grounded.

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Piano, Bass]

Thrust I must!

A SCIENCE NOTE
Escape velocity is the minimum speed required for an object to break free from the gravitational attraction of a celestial body, such as a planet or a moon, without further propulsion. It is the speed at which the object would need to travel horizontally to move away from the body and out into space, overcoming the gravitational pull.

In relation to gravity and rocket boosters, escape velocity depends primarily on the mass of the celestial body and the distance from its center. The greater the mass of the body, the stronger its gravitational pull, and thus the higher the escape velocity required. Similarly, the closer an object is to the center of mass of the celestial body, the greater the gravitational force acting upon it, requiring a higher escape velocity.

Rocket boosters are used to provide the necessary thrust to achieve escape velocity. By accelerating the spacecraft to a speed equal to or greater than the escape velocity, the rocket can break free from the gravitational pull of the celestial body and travel into space. The design and power of the rocket boosters are crucial factors in determining whether a spacecraft can achieve escape velocity and successfully escape the gravitational field of the celestial body.

From the album “Nowadays” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

In Love With the World

Posted on May 16, 2024 by admin

Spinning
Spinning

[Verse 1]
Are you in love with the world?
Take a stance, make it bold
I’m told, we can make a difference
Eradicate ignorance

[Chorus]
I’m in love with the world
Letting the love unfurl
Letting the love be bold
I’m in love with the world

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]

[Verse 2]
Are you in love with the world?
Shine your heart of gold
We can stop the indifference
Eradicate ignorance

[Chorus]
I’m in love with the world
Letting the love unfurl
Letting the love be bold
I’m in love with the world

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Drum Fills]

[Bridge]
Spinning
Spinning ’round
Where are you found
Winning
Winning abound
Score for the poor
Give some more
Spinning
A love loom
Let it boom

[Chorus]
I’m in love with the world
Letting the love unfurl
Letting the love be bold
I’m in love with the world

[Outro]
Spinning
Spinning ’round
Where are you found

[End]

From the album “Nowadays” by The Beatless Sense Mongers

MegaEpix Enormous

They Wood Know

Posted on May 16, 2024 by admin

[Verse 1]
“Wooden” you know
Running rings around Man
The trees understand
Our woe
Wouldn’t you know

[Chorus]
We push the temperature higher
The consumers, the buyer
Man’s demand demands
A dollar command

[Instrumental, Guitar Solo, Drum Fills]

[Verse 2]
“Wooden” you know
For 2,000 years they grow
If they can withstand the span of Man
… I don’t know?

[Chorus]
We push the temperature higher
The consumers, the buyer
Man’s demand demands
A dollar command

[Instrumental, Saxophone Solo, Bass]

[Bridge]
At the root of the situation
Man’s habitation
No pollution solution
Bringing an End
To our evolution
Sad message we send….

[Chorus]
We push the temperature higher
The consumers, the buyer
Man’s demand demands
A dollar command

[Outro]
At the root of the situation
Man’s habitation

[End]

A SCIENCE NOTE
Climate scientists have consistently demonstrated the rapid rise in global temperatures in recent decades. According to the UN’s climate body, the world may not have experienced such sustained warmth since over 100,000 years ago. Tree rings play a crucial role in understanding this phenomenon. Not only do they reveal a tree’s age, but they also preserve detailed information about the climate conditions during each year of their growth. “That’s the beauty of tree ring records,” remarked Ulf Büntgen, professor of environmental systems analysis at the University of Cambridge and co-author of the study, in an interview with BBC News.

Researchers utilized the nine longest temperature-sensitive tree ring chronologies to construct a comprehensive picture of summer temperatures spanning two millennia across the northern hemisphere, excluding the tropics. By leveraging such an extensive dataset, encompassing thousands of trees from various regions, the researchers could offer more reliable insights into how temperatures have evolved over time, mitigating the influence of localized disturbances like disease.

Combining the extensive historical tree ring data with modern temperature records, the authors made a striking discovery. They found that the summer of 2023 experienced temperatures 2.07°C warmer than the “pre-industrial” period of 1850-1900.