Climate

National Weather Service researchers have discovered a previously unknown fourth stage in tornado formation and identified distinct regional formation patterns, revolutionizing severe weather prediction. This breakthrough, coupled with AI-powered detection technologies, could extend warning times from minutes to hours and confirms the climate change-driven eastward shift of "Tornado Alley."

An alarming internal review reveals FEMA is "not ready" for the 2025 hurricane season starting June 1, facing a 30% workforce reduction, suspended training programs, and coordination breakdowns just as forecasters predict above-average storm activity.

Recent staffing disruptions at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have severely compromised the agency's ability to predict severe weather events. With hurricane season approaching, meteorologists warn that reduced forecasting capabilities could have life-threatening consequences for communities in storm-prone regions.

Brookhaven National Laboratory scientists have developed a groundbreaking catalyst that converts methane to methanol in a single step at temperatures below 100°C, achieving 100% selectivity. This technology could revolutionize natural gas utilization while reducing greenhouse gas emissions from stranded gas reserves.

A catastrophic tornado outbreak on May 19, 2025, has left communities in Kentucky and Missouri reeling, with at least 28 confirmed fatalities and thousands of buildings damaged. Federal and state emergency responses are underway as residents begin the difficult process of recovery.