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Published by: WMO ; 2011
Collection(s) and Series: WMO/TD- No. 1561; WWRP- No. 01
Language(s): English
Format: Digital (Free)Tags: Natural hazards ; Tropical cyclone ; Capacity development ; World Weather Research Programme (WWRP) ; WWRP 1/2011
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Des économies vertes aux sociétés vertes - L'engagement de l'UNESCO pour le développement durable
UNESCO, 2011UNESCO’s recently published report “From Green Economies to Green Societies” serves as an important contribution to the preparatory process of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio +20), to be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 4-6 June 2012. It provides the Organization’s vision for Rio+20 and gives concrete examples demonstrating the Organization’s work to promote sustainable development. It also provides a roadmap for future action on how to build equitable, inclusive, green societies through education, the sciences, culture and communication and information.”
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Available online: http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0021/002133/213311f.pdf
Organisation des Nations Unies pour l'Education, la Science et et la Culture
Published by: UNESCO ; 2011UNESCO’s recently published report “From Green Economies to Green Societies” serves as an important contribution to the preparatory process of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio +20), to be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 4-6 June 2012. It provides the Organization’s vision for Rio+20 and gives concrete examples demonstrating the Organization’s work to promote sustainable development. It also provides a roadmap for future action on how to build equitable, inclusive, green societies through education, the sciences, culture and communication and information.”
Language(s): French; Other Languages: English
Format: Digital (Free) (ill., charts)Tags: Environment and landscape ; Sustainable development ; Climate change ; Disaster prevention and preparedness ; Green economy
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From Green Economies to Green Societies: UNESCO's Commitment to Sustainable Development
UNESCO, 2011UNESCO’s recently published report “From Green Economies to Green Societies” serves as an important contribution to the preparatory process of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio +20), to be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 4-6 June 2012. It provides the Organization’s vision for Rio+20 and gives concrete examples demonstrating the Organization’s work to promote sustainable development. It also provides a roadmap for future action on how to build equitable, inclusive, green societies through education, the sciences, culture and communication and information.”
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Available online: http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0021/002133/213311e.pdf
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
Published by: UNESCO ; 2011UNESCO’s recently published report “From Green Economies to Green Societies” serves as an important contribution to the preparatory process of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio +20), to be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 4-6 June 2012. It provides the Organization’s vision for Rio+20 and gives concrete examples demonstrating the Organization’s work to promote sustainable development. It also provides a roadmap for future action on how to build equitable, inclusive, green societies through education, the sciences, culture and communication and information.”
Language(s): English; Other Languages: French
Format: Digital (Free) (ill., charts)Tags: Environment and landscape ; Sustainable development ; Climate change ; Disaster prevention and preparedness ; Green economy
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Children and Climate Change: Children’s Vulnerability to Climate Change and Disaster Impacts in East Asia and the Pacific
UNICEF, 2011Children and Climate Change: Children’s Vulnerability to Climate Change and Disaster Impacts in East Asia and the Pacific
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Available online: http://www.unicef.org/media/files/Climate_Change_Regional_Report_14_Nov_final.pd [...]
Published by: UNICEF ; 2011
Language(s): English
Format: Digital (Free) (ill.)Tags: Climate ; Climate change ; Natural hazards ; Food Safety ; Region II - Asia ; Region V - South-West Pacific
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White Paper | Science and Impacts Program. Extreme Weather and Climate Change : understanding the Link, Managing the Risk
Typically, climate change is described in terms of average changes in temperature or precipitation, but most of the social and economic costs associated with climate change will result from shifts in the frequency and severity of extreme events.[1] This fact is illustrated by a large number of costly weather disasters in 2010, which tied 2005 as the warmest year globally since 1880.[2] Incidentally, both years were noted for exceptionally damaging weather events, such as Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the deadly Russian heat wave in 2010. Other remarkable events of 2010 include Pakistan’s bigge ...
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Available online: http://www.pewclimate.org/publications/extreme-weather-and-climate-change
Daniel G. Huber ; Jay Gulledge ; Center for Climate and Energy Solutions
Published by: C2ES ; 2011Typically, climate change is described in terms of average changes in temperature or precipitation, but most of the social and economic costs associated with climate change will result from shifts in the frequency and severity of extreme events.[1] This fact is illustrated by a large number of costly weather disasters in 2010, which tied 2005 as the warmest year globally since 1880.[2] Incidentally, both years were noted for exceptionally damaging weather events, such as Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the deadly Russian heat wave in 2010. Other remarkable events of 2010 include Pakistan’s biggest flood, Canada’s warmest year, and Southwest Australia’s driest year. The early months of 2011 continued in similar form, with “biblical” flooding in Australia, devastating drought and wildfires in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona, and unprecedented flooding in North Dakota.[3] ...
Collection(s) and Series: White Paper | Science and Impacts Program
Language(s): English
Format: Digital (Free)Tags: Weather ; Climate change ; Extreme weather event ; United States of America
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TCP. WMO/ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones - Thirty-eighth session : final report
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) - WMO, 2011Permalink![]()
The impact of climate change on global tropical storm damages
This paper constructs an integrated assessment model of tropical cyclones in order to quantify the impact that climate change may have on tropical cyclone damages in countries around the world. The paper relies on a tropical cyclone generator in each ocean and several climate models to predict tropical cyclones with and without climate change. A damage model is constructed to compute the resulting damage when a cyclone strikes each country. Economic development is expected to double global tropical cyclone damages because more will be in harm's way. Climate change is expected to double global ...Permalink![]()
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AGM, 12. Towards a compendium on national drought policy : proceedings of an expert meeting
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; George Mason University ; Environmental Science and Technology Center (ESTC); et al. - WMO, 2011Droughts produce a large number of socio-economic impacts which may arise from the interaction between natural conditions and human factors. There is growing evidence that the frequency and extent of drought has increased as a result of global warming. Some information on the current droughts in 2011 around the world in the Horn of Africa, China, Texas in the US, and England and Wales is presented. The context of current droughts calls for pro-active future actions to cope with droughts. National governments must adopt policies that engender cooperation and coordination at all levels ...Permalink![]()
Tenth Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 10) to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) - Summary report
IISD, 2011Permalink![]()
Global Drylands : a UN system-wide response
United Nations, 2011More than two billion people depend on the world’s arid and semi-arid lands. Preventing land degradation and supporting sustainable development in drylands has major implications for food security, climate change and human settlement. This report, issued at the beginning of the United Nations Decade for Deserts and the Fight against Desertification, sets out a shared strategy by UN agencies to rise to the challenge of addressing the special needs of these vital zones. Our focus is twofold: tackling the underlying causes of land degradation, and strengthening the capacity of dryland populations ...Permalink![]()
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Challenges in Estimating and Understanding Recent Changes in the Frequency and Intensity of Extreme Climate and Weather Events
This paper briefly reviews some aspects of the current status of research on changes in climate extremes, identifying gaps and issues that warrant additional work. This paper focuses primarily on the historical instrumental record, giving a sense of the nature of the results that have been obtained, challenges that arise from observational, methodological and climate modelling uncertainties and discussing the extent to which detection and attribution research has been able to link observed changes to external forcing of the climate system. It also very briefly discusses projections for the 21s ...Permalink![]()
Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction in Europe : a review of Risk Governance
UN/ISDR, 2011This study aims to analyse climate related disasters risk reduction governance in the European context. There will be a particular focus on the flow of information from researchers to policy makers and the way in which the decision-making process in climate adaptation and risk reduction is commonly managed. The study will confine itself to Europe and will look into practical cases of European regional and national adaptation strategies. It will also investigate specific projects and initiatives addressing Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR).Permalink![]()
Pastoral pathways : climate change adaptation lessons from Ethiopia
A key aim of the Norwegian Development Fund is to increase the adaptive capacity of marginalised rural poor farmers and pastoralists in the South. The focus country of this project study, Ethiopia, has a legacy of variable and unpredictable rainfall, causing frequent droughts and heavy floods, undermining local as well as national food and water security. The analysis in this paper is based mainly on interview data collected in two sites in Afar as well as insights from past studies in the region as documented in published literature. Some of the key issues identified for Afar are followed u ...Permalink![]()
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Attribution of Weather and Climate-Related Extreme Events
Unusual or extreme weather and climate-related events are of great public concern and interest, yet there are often conflicting messages from scientists about whether such events can be linked to climate change. There is clear evidence that climate has changed as a result of human-induced greenhouse gas emissions, and that across the globe some aspects of extremes have changed as a result. But this does not imply that the probability of occurrence (or, given a fixed damage, risk) of a specific type of recently observed weather or climate event has changed significantly as a result of human in ...Permalink![]()
WorldRiskReport 2011 : Focus - Governance and civil society
United Nations, 2011Earthquakes, floods, droughts, storms: disasters seem to occur unexpectedly and with unimaginable force. But why do some countries better succeed than others to cope with extreme natural events? The WorldRiskReport 2011 helps to evaluate the vulnerability of societies to natural hazards. On behalf of Alliance Development Works, UNU-EHS has developed the WorldRiskIndex and calculated risk values for 173 countries worldwide.Permalink![]()
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Manual on flood forecasting and warning
The Manual on Flood Forecasting and Warning provides the basic knowledge and guidance to develop or to set up an appropriate and tailored system for any case in which a flood forecasting and warning system is required. The aim is to provide a succinct but comprehensive overview of the basic knowledge and information that the relevant personnel of the National Meteorological or Hydrometeorological Services or other flood management service should require.Permalink![]()
At the crossroads : climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction in Asia and the Pacific
UN/ISDR, 2011This report was prepared to provide a snapshot of how disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA) are undertaken and integrated, if at all, in the Asia Pacific region. It does so by taking stock of past and ongoing regional initiatives and by looking into the role of certain organizations in the implementation process. It also discusses key developments in three areas—political, policy and institutional—which are instrumental in facilitating the integration of DRR and CCA agendas in the region. Concluding remarks and next steps to push the integration forward are presente ...Permalink![]()
Environment and security in the AMU Darya Basin
UNEP, 2011The report highlights water, agriculture, energy and climate change issues in Central Asia’s Amu Darya River Basin.Permalink![]()
Third Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction : summary of Meeting
IISD, 2011On Friday, 13 May, Margareta Wahlström, UN Special Representative for Disaster Risk Reduction, introduced in plenary the Chair's Summary, which highlighted the consensus points from the discussions that had taken place over the course of the week. She said the next challenge is to assist countries and communities in implementing disaster risk reduction.Permalink![]()
United Nations Global Assessment Report on Risk Reduction
United Nations, 2011The Report is the second biennial global assessment of disaster risk reduction prepared in the context of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR). The ISDR, launched in 2000, provides a framework to coordinate actions to address disaster risks at the local, national, regional and international levels. The Hyogo Framework for Action for Action 2005-2015 (HFA), endorsed by 168 UN member states at the World Conference on Disaster Reduction in Kobe, Japan in 2005, urges all countries to make major efforts to reduce their disaster risk by 2015Permalink![]()
AGM, 11. Agricultural drought indices : proceedings of an expert meeting
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Motha Raymond P.; Wilhite Donald A.; et al. - WMO, 2011 (WMO/TD-No. 1572)The Murcia Expert Meeting is based on the outcomes of the Regional Workshop on Indices and Early Warning Systems for Drought which was held at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in December, 2009. At the Lincoln workshop, drought experts examined what indices are used for meteorological, agricultural and hydrological drought and developed the Lincoln Declaration on Drought Indices. There was a consensus agreement that the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) should be used to characterize meteorological droughts by all NMHSs around the world. Several other of the recommendations formt eh Lin ...Permalink![]()
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Weather extremes in a changing climate : hindsight on foresight
Devastating climate and weather-related events recorded in recent years have captured public interest. This brochure provides a sample of extreme events for the past decade (2001-2010), including an A3 map, and reviews whether these extreme events are consistent with scientific assessments of climate.Permalink![]()
Global Risks 2011 Sixth Edition : an initiative of the Risk Response Network
World Economic Forum, 2011There are three “clusters” of risks that will create significant liabilities during the coming decade, according to the report, which was compiled after a survey of about 580 respondents and will form a starting point for risk-based discussions at the upcoming WEF meeting of global business and political leaders at Davos and Klosters, Switzerland, later this month.
Those clusters are macroeconomic risks, including unfunded social liabilities and weak financial markets; the illegal economy, including organized crime and corruption; and limits to growth caused by lack of resources ...Permalink![]()
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Manuel sur la prévision et l'annonce des crues
Le Manuel sur la prévision et l’annonce des crues présente les éléments de connaissance et d’orientation indispensables au développement ou à la création d’un système approprié et adapté, quel que soit le cas où un système de prévision et d’annonce de crues s’impose. Il propose un tour d’horizon, à la fois succinct et fouillé, des connaissances et des renseignements dont pourrait avoir besoin le personnel compétent des Services météorologiques et hydrologiques nationaux ou d’autres services de gestion des crues. Il s’appuie sur les résultats d’importantes missions de recherche et de consultati ...Permalink![]()
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Contributions de l'Organisation météorologique mondiale aux objectifs du millénaire pour le développement
Pour les pays en développement, en particulier les PMA (Pays les moins avancés), cette publication fournit des lignes directrices visant à renforcer la contribution de l'OMM et des SMHN (Services météorologiques et hydrologiques nationaux) à la réalisation des OMD (Objectifs du Millénaire pour le développement). Bénéficiant du CMSC (Cadre mondial pour les services climatologiques), les SMHN devraient être encouragés à se fonder sur ces lignes directrices pour notamment inscrire leurs activités, y compris la production et la fourniture effective d'informations et de services météorologiques, ...Permalink![]()
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Экстремальные явления погоды в условиях изменяющегося климата : От ретроспективы к предвидению
Связанные с погодой и климатом разрушительные события, зарегистриро-ванные в последние годы, привлекли внимание широкой общественности, правительств и средств массовой информации. В настоящей брошюре приводится ряд примеров экстремальных явлений, произошедших за по- следнее десятилетие (2001-2010 гг.). Некоторые из этих явлений были сравнимы с наиболее значительными событиями прошлых лет или превос- ходили их по интенсивности, продолжительности или географической про- тяженности.Permalink![]()
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Los extremos meteorológicos y el cambio climático : retrospectiva de las predicciones
Ciertos fenómenos climáticos y meteorológicos devastadores registrados en los últimos años han atraído la atención del público en general, de los gobiernos y de los medios de comunicación. En el presente folleto se ofrece una muestra de los fenómenos extremos des último decenio (2001-2010). Algunos de ellos han sido equiparables -o más graves incluso en intensidad, duración o extensión geográfica- a los históricamente más importantes.Permalink![]()
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Extrêmes météorologiques et changements climatiques : retour sur les projections
Les catastrophes d’origine climatique et météorologique qui secouent la planète depuis quelques années attirent l’attention du public, des gouvernements et des médias. La présente brochure donne un aperçu des phénomènes extrêmes qui ont eu lieu au cours de la dernière décennie (2001–2010). Certains se comparent aux événements les plus importants survenus dans l’histoire, voire les dépassent en intensité, durée ou étendue.PermalinkPermalink![]()
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Manual sobre predicción y avisos de crecidas
El Manual sobre predicción y avisos de crecidas ofrece los conocimientos y la orientación básicos necesarios para elaborar o implantar un sistema de predicción y aviso de crecidas adecuado y adaptado a cada situación. El objetivo es describir, de manera resumida pero completa, la información y los conocimientos básicos que debe tener el personal competente de los Servicios Meteorológicos e Hidrológicos Nacionales u otro servicio de gestión de crecidas. El Manual se basa en la información más reciente obtenida en actividades de primera línea de investigación y asesoría de todo el mundo e incluy ...PermalinkPermalink![]()
تقرير التقييم العاملي بشأن احلد من خماطر الكوارث لعام2011 :الكشف عن املخاطر وإعادة تعريف التنمية
الأمم المتحدة, 2011إن اإلصدار الثاني من تقرير التقييم العاملي بشأن احلد من مخاطر الكوارث الصادر عن األمم املتحدة يعتبر مصدراً لفهم وحتليل اخملاطر العاملية للكوارث في احلاضر واملستقبل. وتواصل الكوارث الكبيرة والصغيرة، من كارثة زلزال هايتي في يناير/كانون الثاني 2010 لتأثيرات الفيضانات األخيرة في بلدان مثل بنني والبرازيل، توضيح العالقة الوثيقة بني الكوارث والفقرPermalink![]()
Informe de evaluación global sobre la reducción del riesgo de desastres (GAR 2011) : revelar el riesgo, replantear el desarrollo
Naciones Unidas, 2011Esta segunda edición del Informe de evaluación global sobre la reducción del riesgo de desastres de las Naciones Unidas proporciona un recurso para comprender y analizar el riesgo global de desastres hoy y en el futuro. Los desastres grandes y pequeños, desde la catástrofe de Haití en enero de 2010 hasta los impactos recientes de las inundaciones en países como Benín o Brasil, siguen demostrando la estrecha relación que existe entre los desastres y la pobreza.Permalink![]()
Indicadores de riesgo de desastre y gestión de riesgos: El Salvador
IDB, 2011Este documento contiene los indicadores de riesgos de desastres y gestión del riesgo calculados para El Salvador (IDD, IVP, IDL e IGR) según la metodología desarrollada por el Banco. Este documento se refiere forma el Sistema de Indicadores cubre diferentes perspectivas de la problemática de riesgos de El Salvador y tiene en cuenta aspectos como: condiciones de daño o pérdidas potenciales debido a la probabilidad de eventos extremos, desastres o efectos sufridos de manera recurrente, condiciones socio-ambientales que facilitan que se presenten desastres, capacidad de recuperación macroeconómic ...Permalink![]()
Informe especial del IPCC. Gestión de los riesgos de fenómenos meteorológicos extremos y desastres para mejorar la adaptación al cambio climático: resumen para responsables de políticas
Organización Meteorológica Mundial (OMM); Panel Intergubernamental sobre Cambio Climático (IPCC); Programa de las Naciones Unidas para el Desarrollo (PNUD) - IPCC, 2011Permalink![]()
Rapport spécial du GIEC. Gestion des risques de catastrophes et de phénomènes extrêmes pour les besoins de l'adaptation au changement climatique: résumé à l'intention des décideurs
Organisation météorologique mondiale (OMM); Groupe d'Experts Intergouvernemental sur l'Evolution du Climat (GIEC); Programme des Nations Unies pour l'environnement (PNUE) - GIEC, 2011Permalink![]()
Réduction des risques de catastrophe: Bilan mondial (GAR 2011)
Nations Unies, 2011La deuxième édition du Bilan mondial sur la réduction des risques de catastrophe des Nations Unies est une ressource permettant de comprendre et d’analyser les risques de catastrophe à l’échelle mondiale aujourd’hui et à l’avenir. Des catastrophes plus ou moins graves, du séisme survenu en Haïti en janvier 2010 aux impacts récents des inondations dans des pays comme le Bénin ou le Brésil, continuent à mettre en évidence les rapports étroits entre les catastrophes et la pauvreté.Permalink![]()
Управление рисками экстремальных явлений и бедствий для содействия адаптации к изменению климата: Резюме для политиков
IPCC, 2011PermalinkPermalinkPermalinkPermalinkPermalinkPermalink![]()
- Winter 2009/2010 - Climate change: looking beyong Copenhagen
is an issue of Options. IIASA, 2010Contains:
- Cutting emissions by 2020 Pages 16-17
- Energy and climate change Pages 14-15
- Insurance for extreme climatic events Pages 12-13
- Stopping deforestation Pages 9, 21Permalink![]()
Development of a Nonhydrostatic Version of the Mesoscale-Convection-Resolving Model and its Application to the Eyewall and Spiral Rainbands of Tropical Cyclones
Journal of the Meteorological Society of Japan, Vol. 88. No 4. Yamasaki Masanori - Meteorological Society of Japan, 2010A numerical model in which the effects of cumulus convection are incorporated as the subgrid-scale and mesoscale organized convection is resolved by the grid (mesoscale-convection-resolving model, MCRM) was developed in the 1980s with an intention of improving the parameterization schemes for moist convection, which had been used since the 1960s. As in many numerical models with parameterization in the 1980s, hydrostatic equilibrium was assumed. The present paper describes a nonhydrostatic version of the MCRM, with some modifications of the subgrid-scale effect formulation used in the hydrosta ...Permalink![]()
Terrain Effects on an Afternoon Heavy Rainfall Event, Observed over Northern Taiwan on 20 June 2000 during Monsoon Break
Journal of the Meteorological Society of Japan, Vol. 88. No 4. Chen Ching-Sen; Liu Che-Ling; Yen Ming-Cheng - Meteorological Society of Japan, 2010An afternoon heavy rainfall event in northern Taiwan, observed on June 20, 2000 during the monsoon break, is investigated using surface observation and Doppler radar data and a nonhydrostatic model with a horizontal grid spacing of 1.33 km. Heavy rainfall was brought majorly by two precipitation systems, namely A and B. System A was initiated and developed in Taipei Basin, associated with a local wind convergence line. System B was formed on the western slopes south of Taipei Basin, extended northward of the Taipei Basin, and lasted for 4 h. The formation and maintenance mechanisms of the two ...Permalink![]()
Simulation of the Bare Soil Surface Energy Balance at the Tongyu Reference Site in Semiarid Area of North China
The performance of a 1-D soil model in a semiarid area of North China was investigated using observational data from a cropland station at the Tongyu reference site of the Coordinated Enhanced Observing Period (CEOP) during the non-growing period, when the ground surface was covered with bare soil. Comparisons between simulated and observed soil surface energy balance components as well as soil temperatures and water contents were conducted to validate the soil model. Results show that the soil model could produce good simulations of soil surface temperature, net radiation flux and sensible he ...Permalink![]()
Further Study of Typhoon Tracks and the Low-Frequency (30-60 Days) Wind-Field Pattern at 850 hPa
Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters, Volume 3 Number 6. Tian Hua; Li Chong-Yin - Science Press, 2010The association of typhoon tracks over the western Pacific with the low-frequency wind-field pattern of atmospheric intraseasonal (30-60 days) oscillation at 850 hPa is further studied by using observational data analyses. Comparative analyses of the composite wind fields at 850 hPa, contrasting the atmospheric intraseasonal oscillation (ISO) with the original circulation, show that the typhoon tracks are closely related to the wind pattern of the ISO but are not obviously related to the original wind fields. Case studies of two typhoons in 2006 also show that the low-frequency wind-field patt ...Permalink![]()
Preliminary Study of Sensitive Areas for Several Tropical Cyclone Track Prediction Cases in 2007
Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters, Volume 3 Number 6. Tan Xiao-Wei; Wang Dong-Liang - Science Press, 2010Conditional nonlinear optimal perturbation (CNOP) obtained by the ensemble-based calculation method is employed to find possible sensitive areas for improving 48-h or more than 48-h tropical cyclone (TC) track predictions in several cases affecting China in 2007. These sensitive areas are examined by observing system simulation experiments (OSSEs). Results show that these sensitive areas improve TC track predictions for 48 h or more to different extents. Further analysis is performed to determine the distribution characteristics of sensitive areas in these cases. Results show that areas south ...Permalink![]()
Vol. 88. No 3 - June 2010
is an issue of Journal of the Meteorological Society of Japan. Meteorological Society of Japan, 2010Contains:
- Mechanisms of Temporary Improvement and Rapid Changes in Visibility in Fogs
- Changes in Potential Intensity of Tropical Cyclones Approaching Japan due to Anthropogenic Warming in Sea Surface and Upper-Air Temperatures
- Convective Boundary Layer above a Subtropical Island Observed by C-band Radar and Interpretation using a Cloud Resolving Model
- Role of Large-Scale Circulation in Triggering Foehns in the Hokuriku District of Japan during Midsummer
- Diurnal Variations in Lower-Tropospheric Wind over Japan ...Permalink![]()
Tropical Cyclone Initialization with Dynamical Retrieval from a Modified UWPBL Model
Journal of the Meteorological Society of Japan, Vol.88 No.5. Ma Lei-Ming; Tan Zhe-Min - Meteorological Society of Japan, 2010A new scheme, termed Vortex Initialization with the Assimilation of Retrieved Variables (VIRV), is presented to improve the initialization of regional numerical model for Tropical Cyclone (TC) prediction. In this scheme, the horizontal winds in Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL) and the sea level pressure (SLP), retrieved from Quick Scatterometer (QuikSCAT) data obtained using a modified University of Washington Planetary Boundary Layer (UWPBL) model, are assimilated with a cycled three-dimensional variational (3DVAR) technique to produce the initialized analysis. The procedures of retrieval are i ...Permalink![]()
Temporal Variations of the Frontal and Monsoon Storm Rainfall during the First Rainy Season in South China
Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters, Volume 3 Number 5. Yuan Fang; Wei Ke; Chen Wen; et al. - Science Press, 2010The temporal variations in storm rainfall during the first rainy season (FRS) in South China (SC) are investigated in this study. The results show that the inter-annual variations in storm rainfall during the FRS in SC seem to be mainly influenced by the frequency of storm rainfall, while both frequency and intensity affect the inter-decadal variations in the total storm rainfall. Using the definitions for the beginning and ending dates of the FRS, and the onset dates of the summer monsoon in SC, the FRS is further divided into two sub-periods, i.e., the frontal and monsoon rainfall periods. T ...Permalink![]()
A Comparison Study of the Contributions of Additional Observations in the Sensitive Regions Identified by CNOP and FSV to Reducing Forecast Error Variance for the Typhoon Morakot
The sensitive regions of conditional nonlinear optimal perturbations (CNOPs) and the first singular vector (FSV) for a northwest Pacific typhoon case are reported in this paper. A large number of probes have been designed in the above regions and the ensemble transform Kalman filter (ETKF) techniques are utilized to examine which approach can locate more appropriate regions for typhoon adaptive observations. The results show that, in general, the majority of the probes in the sensitive regions of CNOPs can reduce more forecast error variance than the probes in the sensitive regions of FSV. Thi ...Permalink![]()
Marine Atmospheric Boundary Layers Associated with Summer Monsoon Onset over the South China Sea in 1998
Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters, Volume 3 Number 5. Wang Dong-Xiao; Zhou Wen; Yu Xiao-Li; et al. - Science Press, 2010The variations of the marine atmospheric boundary layer (MABL) associated with the South China Sea Summer Monsoon were examined using the Global Positioning System (GPS) sounding datasets obtained four times daily during May-June 1998 on board Research Vessels Kexue 1 and Shiyan 3. The MABL height is defined as the height at the lowest level where virtual potential temperature increases by 1 K from the surface. The results indicate that the MABL height decreased over the northern South China Sea (SCS) and remained the same over the southern SCS, as sea surface temperature (SST) fell for the no ...Permalink![]()
Analysis of South Asian Monsoons within the Context of Increasing Regional Black Carbon Aerosols
Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters, Volume 3 Number 4. Mahmood Rashed; Yao Jin-Feng - Science Press, 2010South Asian monsoons were analyzed within the context of increasing emissions of black carbon (BC) aerosols using a global atmospheric general circulation model. The BC aerosols were allowed to increase only over the south Asian domain to analyze the impacts of regional black carbon over the climatological patterns of monsoons. The black carbon significantly absorbed the incoming short wave radiation in the atmosphere, a result that is consistent with previous studies. Pre-monsoon (March-April-May) rainfall showed positive anomalies, particularly for some coastal regions of India. The summer ( ...Permalink![]()
Possible Impact of the Boreal Spring Antarctic Oscillation on the North American Summer Monsoon
This study examined the relationship between the boreal spring (April-May) Antarctic Oscillation (AAO) and the North American summer monsoon (NASM) (July-September) for the period of 1979-2008. The results show that these two systems are closely related. When the spring AAO was stronger than normal, the NASM tended to be weaker, and there was less rainfall over the monsoon region. The opposite NASM situation corresponded to a weaker spring AAO. Further analysis explored the possible mechanism for the delayed impact of the boreal spring AAO on the NASM. It was found that the tropical Atlantic s ...Permalink![]()
Volume 3 Number 4 - 16 July 2010
is an issue of Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters. Science Press, 2010Permalink![]()
Volume 3 Number 3 - 16 May 2010
is an issue of Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters. Science Press, 2010Contains:
- Analysis of a Beijing Heavy Snowfall Related to an Inverted Trough in November 2009
LI Jin,ZHAO Si-Xiong,YU Fei
- Comparative Studies of Different Mesoscale Convection Parameterization Schemes in the Simulation of Mei-Yu Front Heavy Rain
PING Fan,LUO Zhe-Xian
- An Improved Atmospheric Vector Radiative Transfer Model Incorporating Rough Ocean Boundaries
FAN Xue-Hua,CHEN Hong-Bin,HAN Zhi-Gang,LIN Long-Fu
- A Case Study of the Impacts of Dust Aerosols on Surface Atmospheric Variables and Energy Budgets in ...Permalink![]()
Approaches for generating climate change scenarios for use in drought projections : a review
Kirono G.C.; Hennessy Kevin; Mpelasoka Freddie; et al. - Centre for Australian Weather and Climate Research, 2010 (CAWCR Technical Report-No. 034)This report describes approaches used for constructing climate projections from a set of climate model simulations for use in drought projections, particularly in Australia. The description includes the pros and cons of each approach with respect to the calculation process, data that are produced, and discussion of the main sources of uncertainty. Although the main focus is on research and approaches that are applied in Australia, the report also briefly discusses approaches applied elsewhere in the world.Permalink![]()
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Inaugural Meeting Scientific Advisory Group on Volcanic Ash (VA-SAG) : Final Report
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics (IUGG); International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) - WMO, 2010Permalink![]()
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5th International Workshop on Volcanic Ash : Report
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO); Dirección General de Aeronautica Civil - WMO, 2010PermalinkPermalink![]()
Introduction to Tropical Meteorology, 2nd Edition, Chapter 8: Tropical Cyclones
Tropical cyclones are the deadliest tropical weather systems. This chapter describes their seasonal and geographic variability and controls, decadal cycles, and history of naming conventions. Tropical cyclogenesis is explored in depth and the core and balance solutions for regions of the cyclone are examined. Intensity is considered in terms of inner-core dynamics, large-scale environmental controls, limits on potential intensity, satellite interpretation techniques, and classification by wind speed. Factors that influence motion are investigated. Extratropical transition is described in terms ...Permalink![]()
Tsunamis
This lesson introduces the science of tsunamis: their causes, initiation process, properties, propagation, inundation, and long-term effects. Through numerous animations, historical images, video, and interactive exercises, learners discover the ways tsunamis interact with and affect the world. The lesson is intended for Weather Forecast Office staff — particularly National Weather Service Warning Coordination Meteorologists — who desire a better understanding of tsunamis in their role as issuers of tsunami warning-related messages. But it will also benefit anyone wanting to learn more about h ...Permalink![]()
Tsunami Warning Systems
Tsunami Warning Systems describes the processes involved in anticipating, detecting, and warning for a tsunami by summarizing data collection, modeling, analysis, and alert procedures used at NOAA's Tsunami Warning Centers. A simulated event and past tsunami occurrences are used to highlight warning system processes for determining the tsunami threat based on seismic and sea level data and tsunami forecast models. Message communication and local response are also addressed as final components of any warning system. The module is intended for Weather Forecast Office staff and emergency managers ...Permalink![]()
Distributed Hydrologic Models for Flow Forecasts - Part 2
Distributed Hydrologic Models for Flow Forecasts Part 2 is the second release in a two-part series focused on the science of distributed models and their applicability to different flow forecasting situations. Presented by Dr. Dennis Johnson, the module provides a more detailed look at the processes and mechanisms involved in distributed hydrologic models. It examines the rainfall/runoff component, snowmelt, overland flow routing, and channel response in a basin as represented in a distributed model. Calibration issues and situations in which distributed hydrologic models might be most appropr ...Permalink![]()
QPF Verification: Challenges and Tools
This module looks at the common challenges and tools with respect to verification of quantitative precipitation forecasts (QPF). Through the use of rich illustrations, animations, and interactions, this module provides an introduction to a variety of methods and approaches for assessing the quality of QPFs. The module examines the need for, and the challenges of verifying precipitation forecasts. An overview is then presented of three verification programs available to most NWS forecast offices: the Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (HPC) verification, the National Precipitation Verificati ...Permalink![]()
River Ice Processes - Short Version
This module provides information on flooding associated with river ice jams. Based on a presentation by Dr. Kate White, a nationally-recognized expert on river ice, this webcast explores basic river ice processes including the formation, growth, breakup, and transport of river ice and how it can become jammed, triggering floods. This shorter version of the previously published module "River Ice Processes", has less focus on the US National Weather Service, making it more broadly applicable, including to an international audience.Permalink![]()
Community Hurricane Preparedness, 2nd Edition
The purpose of this course is to provide emergency managers who face threats from tropical cyclones and hurricanes with basic information about: How tropical cyclones form The hazards they pose How the NWS forecasts future hurricane behavior What tools and guiding principles can help emergency managers prepare their communities The course is not intended to take the place of courses sponsored by FEMA, the National Hurricane Center, and/or state agencies. However, it will provide a good background for those who either plan to attend those courses or cannot attend them. The original module was p ...Permalink![]()
Avalanche Weather Forecasting
Avalanches form through the interaction of snowpack, terrain, and weather, the latter being the focus of this module. The module begins with basic information about avalanches, highlighting weather's role in their development. The rest of the module teaches weather forecasters how to make an avalanche weather forecast, that is, one in which key weather parameters are evaluated for their impact on avalanche potential. The forecasts are used primarily by avalanche forecasters, who integrate them with other information to determine when to issue avalanche hazard warnings. The module contains five ...Permalink![]()
Hurricane Strike!™
Designed primarily for middle school students and funded by FEMA and the NWS, this module creates a scenario to frame learning activities that focus on hurricane science and safety. Versions are also available for hearing, motor, and visually impaired students, as well as Spanish-speaking students. Over the course of seven days, Hurricane Erin forms in the Atlantic Ocean, crosses the Florida peninsula, and then makes another landfall at Fort Walton Beach. During these days, the learner is introduced to many basic concepts of atmospheric science, climate, and geography, while also learning some ...Permalink![]()
A Forecaster's Overview of the Northwest Pacific
This module provides an introduction to the northwest Pacific for weather forecasters. It touches on major aspects of the geography, oceanography, and climatology. Geography looks at plate tectonics, topography, and human population. Oceanography examines ocean currents, coastal tidal ranges, and sea ice distribution. Climatology briefly discusses jets streams, distribution of synoptic features, storm tracks of tropical and extratropical cyclones, the fronts, and sensible weather associated with the Northeast and Southwest Monsoons.Permalink![]()
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WWRP 2010-2 - 1st WMO International Conference on Indian Ocean Tropical Cyclones and Climate Change
Contains: Inter-annual Variation of Frequency of Cyclonic Disturbances Landfalling over WMO/ESCAP Panel Member Countries; Toward Improved Projection of the Future Tropical Cyclone Changes; An Assessment of Climate Change Impact on Cyclone Frequency and Design Wave Height in the Oman Sea; Long-Range Prediction of Tropical Cyclones for Bangladesh; On Developing a Tropical Cyclone Archive and Climatology for the South Indian and South Pacific Oceans; International Best Track Archive for Climate Stewardship (IBTrACS): Synthesizing Global Tropical Cyclone Best Track Data; Simulation of Track and In ...Permalink![]()
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Abstracts - International Workshop on Addressing the Livelihood Crisis of Farmers: Weather and Climate Services
The International Workshop on Addressing the Livelihood Crisis of Farmers: Weather and Climate Services is taking place at a time when there is a growing concern about livelihoods of over 500 million smallholder farmers around the world coupled with the increasing climate variability and future climate change. The world population is projected to grow from 6.5 billion today to 8.3 billion in 2030 and nearly 9.2 billion in 2050. All of that growth will be concentrated in developing countries. Global food production will therefore need to increase by more than 50% by 2030, and should nearly doub ...Permalink![]()
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WWRP, 03. Training workshop on tropical cyclone forecasting wmo typhoon landfall forecast demonstration project
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Natural Hazards, UnNatural Disasters : The Economics of Effective Prevention
World Bank, 2010Natural Hazards, UnNatural Disasters looks at disasters primarily through an economic lens. Economists emphasize self-interest to explain how people choose the amount of prevention, insurance, and coping. But lenses can distort as well as sharpen images, so the book also draws from other disciplines: psychology to examine how people may misperceive risks, political science to understand voting patterns, and nutrition science to see how stunting in children after a disaster impairs cognitive abilities and productivity as adults much later. It asks not only the tough questions, but some unexpect ...Permalink![]()
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WWRP, 04. WWRP 2010-4 - 2nd WMO International Workshop on Tropical Landfall Processes (IWTCLP-II)
Severe calamities and fatalities have arisen from landfalling tropical cyclones (TC) around the world in recent years, such as Morakot (August 2009) in western North Pacific, Nargis (May 2008) in Bay of Bengal, Gonu (June 2007) in North Arabian Sea, Bilis (July 2006) in western North Pacific, Katrina (August 2005) in Gulf of Mexico, and Catarina (March 2004) in South Atlantic etc. Transferring the advancements from the research community to operational forecast centers in NMHSs would be helpful for improving the landfalling tropical cyclone (LTC) forecasts and for mitigation of high-impact tro ...Permalink![]()
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PWS, 21. Guidelines on early warning systems and application of nowcasting and warning operations
In 2010, a historic heat wave and numerous wildfires impacted Moscow and surrounding areas in the Russian Federation. At the same time, catastrophic flooding from unusually heavy monsoon rains was ongoing in Pakistan. Both events led to many fatalities and considerable human suffering. As climate change due to anthropogenic forcing continues, extreme weather events such as these are likely to become more common (IPCC 2007), further increasing the need for preparedness and early warning systems.
The need for robust early warning systems goes beyond purely natural disasters and extend ...Permalink![]()
Investing in communities: the benefits and costs of building resilience for food security in Malawi : investing in disaster risk reduction activities in Malawi
This publication reports on a community-based cost benefit analysis of a disaster risk reduction (DRR) and food security programme in a Malawian agricultural community. The aim of this study is to assess programme activities for their cost-effectiveness and to gather evidence to help inform programming decisions taken by Tearfund, their partners and other NGOs. A second key aim is to inform policy-relevant recommendations to help convince governments, donors and UN agencies to act in a timely way and with appropriate interventions to address food insecurity, given the growing threat from droug ...Permalink![]()
1541. 1st WMO International Conference on Indian Ocean Tropical Cyclones and Climate Change
WMO, 2010Permalink![]()
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Guidelines for converting between various wind averaging periods in tropical cyclone conditions
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Kepert Jeffrey David; Ginger J.D. - WMO, 2010 (WMO/TD-No. 1555)Permalink![]()
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PWS, 21. Directrices sobre sistemas de alerta temprana y aplicación de predicción inmediata y operaciones de aviso
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PWS, 21. Directives sur les systèmes d'alerte précoce et l'application des prévisions immédiates et des alertes
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L’agroécologie en pratiques
Agrisud International, 2010L’agroécologie consiste pour le paysan à chercher à imiter la nature dans son champ. Elle mise sur les complémentarités entre différentes plantes et animaux. Elle conçoit l’agriculture non comme un processus qui transforme des intrants en productions agricoles, mais comme un cycle, où le déchet sert d’intrant, où les animaux et les légumineuses fertilisent les sols et où les mauvaises herbes sont considérées comme remplissant des fonctions utiles.Permalink![]()
Climate Change and Flow of Environmental Displacement in Bangladesh
Akter Tahera - Unnayan Onneshan, 2009This study depicts environmental displacement with the premise of increased frequency of natural disasters and the adverse impacts of climate change. Bangladesh is already experiencing recurrent floods, severe cyclones, water logging, salinity intrusions, droughts and river bank erosion which induce mass population displacement. There is no generally agreed definition and scientifically developed methodology to estimate environmental displacement. Proper development guidelines are yet to be adopted to protect the lives and livelihoods of the displaced people who have the right to expect safe l ...Permalink![]()
African monsoon multidisciplinary analyses: abstracts
African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analyses (AMMA) is an international project to im-prove our knowledge and understanding of the West African monsoon (WAM) and its variability using a multi-scale approach; timescales ranging from daily over inter-annual to decadal and beyond and space scales reaching from local over mesoscale to regional and global.
AMMA is motivated by an interest in fundamental scientific issues and by the societal need for improved prediction of the WAM and its impacts on West African nations. Vulnerability of West African societies to climate variability is likely t ...Permalink![]()
Snowpack and Its Assessment
This module explores the science of snowpack and snowpack assessment. It begins by describing the factors involved in snowpack development and then focuses on snowpack evolution. Using two scenarios (one set in mountainous terrain, the other in a relatively flat area), the module explores how basic processes, such as conduction and radiation, and various precipitation events impact snowpack, particularly its density, structure, and stability, throughout the cold season. Woven throughout the module are video clips of avalanche forecasters discussing snowpack and demonstrating various assessment ...Permalink![]()
The Amazon Rain Forest and Climate Change
This module discusses global climate change that is occurring largely because of greenhouse gases emitted by human activities, and in particular the impact that tropical deforestation plays in the climate system. It also covers signs of climate change, the current thinking on future changes, and international agreements that are attempting to minimize the effects of climate change. The United Nations Collaborative Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries (UN-REDD Programme) is also discussed.Permalink![]()
Climate Change: Fitting the Pieces Together
This module discusses climate change, particularly as it is currently being affected by increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases emitted by human activities. It also covers signs of climate change, how scientists study climate, the current thinking on future changes, and what can be done to minimize the effects. Updated in 2012.Permalink![]()
Jason-2: Using Satellite Altimetry to Monitor the Ocean
Altimeters onboard satellites such as Jason-2 measure sea surface height and other characteristics of the ocean surface. These characteristics are linked to underlying processes and structures, making altimetry data useful for understanding the full depth of the global ocean. This 75-minute module explores major discoveries made possible by altimetry data in oceanography, marine meteorology, the marine geosciences, climate studies, the cryosphere, and hydrology. For example, altimeters have played a vital role in detecting and monitoring sea level rise and its relation to climate change. The m ...Permalink![]()
Distributed Hydrologic Models for Flow Forecasts - Part 1
Distributed Hydrologic Models for Flow Forecasts – Part 1 provides a basic description of distributed hydrologic models and how they work. This module is the first in a two-part series focused on the science of distributed models and their applicability in different situations. Presented by Dr. Dennis Johnson, the module begins with a review of hydrologic models, and then examines the differences between lumped and distributed models. It explains how lumped models may be distributed by subdividing the basin and suggests when distributed hydrologic models are most appropriate. Other topics cove ...Permalink![]()
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Flood Management Tool Series, Technical Document, 09. Flood Management in a Changing Climate
This tool is an initiator and starting point on how flood management can be an autonomous part of an adaptation strategy to climate change. Flood managers have vast experience in managing floods under current climate variability. Floods are among the most widely cited expected impacts of global warming, either with an increased frequency or with increased magnitude in particular regions. As such climate change poses an additional challenge that needs a conscious strategic reorientation of flood management practices towards applying risk management techniques and involving a far broader set of ...Permalink![]()
Regional climate change and adaptation : the Alps facing the challenge of changing water resources
EEA, 2009Drawing on the most recent knowledge of climate change impacts in the Alps and experiences across the region, this report analyses the risks that climate change presents to the region's water supply and quality, identifying needs, constraints, opportunities, policy levers and options for adaptation. It extracts policy guidance on adaptation practice and aims to assist regional and local stakeholders in developing robust adaptation strategies. The focus of the report is on water resources and related adaptation, rather than water-related extreme events like floods, avalanches, landslides or mud ...Permalink![]()
Climate Change and Humanitarian Action: Key Emerging Trends and Challenges
OCHA, 2009During the past century global temperatures increased by approximately 0.7 degrees Celsius. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the pace of climate change is now such that even in a ‘best-case’ scenario, further increases of at least 1 degree are expected by 2050. According to the IPCC, current emissions are already nearing the limit required in 2015 to keep warming below 2 degrees Celsius; the level UNDP defines as a “a reasonable and prudent long term objective for avoiding dangerous climate change”. In the absence of swift action to radically reduce gre ...Permalink![]()
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WMO publications on agriculture, land, drought, and desertification
A set of core WMO publications on the the topic.Contains:
- Climate Change and Desertification. 2007. Poster. (English only)
- Drought Monitoring and Early Warning: Concepts, Progress, and Future Challenges. 2006. WMO Pub. No 1006.(En, Fr, Es)
- World Climate News No 30. Drought and Desertification Issue. 2007 (En)
- Climate and Land Degradation. 2005. WMO Pub No. 989. (En, Fr, Es)
- Early Warning Systems for Drought Preparedness and Drought Management, 2000. WMO No. 1037. (En)
- Coping with Drought in Sub-Saharan Africa: Better Use of Climate Informat ...Permalink![]()
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World Climate Applications and Services Programme (WCASP), 79. Report of WMO conference on Living with climate variability and change : understanding the uncertainties and managing the risks
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI); International Research Institute for Climate and Society (IRI) - WMO, 2009 (WMO/TD-No. 1512)The WMO Conference on “Living with Climate Variability and Change: Understanding the Uncertainties and Managing the Risks” was organized to review the opportunities and constraints in integrating climate risks and uncertainties into decision-making in the core socio-economic sectors. The Conference, co-sponsored by the WMO, the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) and the International Research Institute for Climate and
Society (IRI), brought together climate scientists and user communities, to collate their experiences in managing risks of climatic origin and to build a framework fo ...Permalink![]()
IOC Manuals and Guides, 50. Hazard awareness and risk mitigation in ICAM : Integrated Coastal Area Management
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Integrated Coastal Area Management (ICAM); United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO); et al. - UNESCO, 2009These guidelines aim to assist policy makers and managers in the reduction of the risks to coastal communities, their infrastructure and service-providing ecosystems from tsunamis, storm surges and other coastal hazards within the phased framework of Integrated Coastal Area Management (ICAM). As a context for the procedures presented in the Guidelines, the full framework of the ICAM process is used. This shows how the assessment of coastal hazards and the mitigation of the risks in respect of those hazards can be embedded within the four phases of ICAM, each with its respective procedural step ...Permalink![]()
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WCDMP, 74. Regional Workshop on Climate Monitoring and Analysis of Climate Variability; followed by: implementation of Climate Watch System in RA II with focus on Monsoon affected areas
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Report on UN ESCAP/WMO Typhoon Committee Members Disaster Management System
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) - WMO, 2009 (WMO/TD-No. 1476)Permalink![]()
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WCDMP, 72. Guidelines on Analysis of extremes in a changing climate in support of informed decisions for adaptation
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) ; Zwiers Francis W.; Zhang Xuebin - WMO, 2009 (WMO/TD-No. 1500)Permalink