A detonation of less than 0.03% of the current global nuclear arsenal could cause fires that clog the air with soot. This soot could block solar radiation, leading to worldwide crop shortages.
Hazards & Disasters
Protecting Earth from Solar Storms
A task force on space weather recently released a national strategy to reduce damage resulting from solar storms. The plan is now open for public comment.
Scientist's Field Season Ends with Nepal Quake
A graduate student studying tectonics found himself caught in a disaster at the end of fieldwork in the Himalayas.
What Causes Extreme Hail, Tornadoes, and Floods in South America?
A study of extreme weather in South America shows seasonal and spatial patterns, which, if better understood, could help save lives and minimize damage to property.
Reducing Earthquake Risk in Nepal
What specific approaches work well to protect people from earthquake hazards in Nepal? Hazard mitigation expert Brian Tucker shares his insight.
What Can We Learn About Disaster Preparedness from Nepal's Quake?
In an interview with Eos, hazard mitigation expert Brian Tucker gives his views on disaster preparedness in the wake of the recent earthquake in Nepal.
Could Amazonian Deforestation Increase Cloudiness and Rain?
In trading trees for pastures, patchwork differences in vegetation heights increase cloudiness in downwind regions.
Surface Folds Hint at Magnitude of Slip Along Thrust Faults
The shape of deformed sediments at the surface may allow researchers to estimate the cumulative slip along thrust faults such as the Chelungpu fault in Taiwan.
Ozone Hole to Remain Large During Cold Years
Despite the Montreal Protocol's success, it will take years of observations to be sure that regulations are allowing the ozone hole to recover.
Scientists Hope to Learn Lessons from Nepal Earthquake
The 25 April earthquake in Nepal has caused thousands of fatalities. Scientists hope it can lead to a better understanding of the region's seismicity and better earthquake resilience.