Off the Radar - The National Weather Desk

The 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami: A Story of Survival Dec 17, 2024

A massive 9.1 magnitude earthquake under the ocean. A series of tsunami waves moving almost 500 miles an hour. Nearly a quarter of a million people dead across 14 countries. Today we’re going off the radar to talk about one of the largest seismic events ever recorded: the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, also known as the Boxing Day Tsunami. My guest this week is marine biologist Dr. Dwayne Meadows. He was in coastal Thailand when the deadliest tsunami in history came crashing in, and he was almost a victim of its destructive power. Dwayne was swept out to sea by its powerful waves – and despite the odds, he survived. We’ll be discussing this harrowing event, how to vacation safely along coastal areas, and the impact a tsunami can have on a survivor’s mental health.

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Humanizing Hurricane Forecasting: A New Era in Hurricane Messaging Dec 10, 2024

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season has come to an end. In this episode, Deputy Director Jamie Rhome reveals how the National Hurricane Center is transforming hurricane communication by shifting focus from technical storm tracking to human-centered hazard messaging. The conversation explores innovative communication strategies that prioritize saving lives, emphasizing the critical importance of making forecasts more accessible, actionable, and meaningful to communities in potential storm paths.

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Rivers in the Sky: Understanding Atmospheric Rivers Dec 03, 2024

You may have heard the term “atmospheric river” in recent years – but what does it mean? Did you know that it’s literally akin to a river in the sky? Or that they carry water vapor content that’s comparable to twenty-five Mississippi Rivers? Today we’re going Off The Radar to discuss ARs with the scientist that put this weather phenomenon on the map. Dr. Marty Ralph is the Director of the Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. We’ll be diving into the ways the West Coast gets their precipitation, how we rank them, and the impact they have on weather across the globe.

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Plymouth: A Colony Shaped by Climate Nov 26, 2024

You probably think you’ve heard the story of the first Thanksgiving – but did you know that the weather was a major factor in both the Pilgrims leaving England, and landing at Plymouth Rock? Or that trees can tell us what the weather was actually like during the winter of the first Thanksgiving? This week we’re going Off the Radar with Paleo-Climatologist Dr. Curt Stager and Historian Rebecca Fraser to learn the real story of the first Thanksgiving in American history. Put away the leftover turkey and settle in for a history lesson over 400 years in the making!

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The International Space Station: From Liftoff to Reentry Nov 19, 2024

November 20, 1998 marked the launch of the first module of the International Space Station. Over time, the ISS grew to be the size of a football field, circling the globe every 90 minutes at 17,500 miles per hour. Today we are joined by NASA Astronaut Dr. Stan Love. Stan was part of the team that got the ISS up into orbit and will play a crucial role in bringing it back down to Earth. We'll discuss the important work that's been done over the past 25 years and why it's now time for the mission to end. We'll also look ahead to the next steps in the Artemis program as NASA transitions out of low-Earth orbit and into Deep Space!

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Above the Clouds: Tales from a Mt. Washington Observer Nov 12, 2024

Atop New Hampshire's 6,288-foot Mount Washington, weather observers have studied the "world's worst weather" for decades. The invaluable data from this natural laboratory has shaped modern meteorology and has aided weather prediction, aircraft design, and engineering. Join us as we sit down with former Mount Washington observer (and current WGME Chief Meteorologist) Charlie Lopresti to explore this remarkable peak where future meteorologists find inspiration, weather records are shattered, and nature reveals the raw power of our atmosphere.

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Can Weather Sway the Election? Nov 05, 2024

It's election day and across the country, voters are braving the elements to make their voices heard. But could the rain, snow, or even extreme temperatures on this crucial day sway the outcome of the election? In this episode we'll explore the surprising ways that Mother Nature can influence the results on ballots. From historical data showing partisan advantages on rainy election days, to the potential impacts of this year's major weather events, we'll talk to political scientist Dr. Robert Stein about how the weather forecast could forecast the future of our democracy.

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The Science Behind The Perfect Storm Oct 29, 2024

In late October 1991, the Halloween Storm, famously depicted as "The Perfect Storm" in film and literature, struck the Atlantic coast and tragically claimed 13 lives. In this episode, we'll learn about the storm's evolution from the perspective of a high seas forecaster who tracked it in real-time 33 years ago. Joe Sienkiewicz from the National Weather Service provides insights into the unique weather conditions that converged to create this devastating storm, as well as how maritime forecasting has evolved over the past three decades. We'll also hear from WGME Meteorologist Emily Santom, who recently explored this historic event in a retrospective.

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Helene: Surviving an Inland Hurricane Oct 22, 2024

As part of our Off the Radar coverage of Hurricane Helene, I wanted to give a platform to the people who lived through the devastation. I'll be chatting residents of Lake Lure, NC and let them tell their own stories about the hardships they faced during and after the hurricane, and the struggle to find normalcy in its wake. I'll also be interviewing Jason Boyer, the chief meteorologist at WLOS News 13 in Asheville, about the scientific side of what happened during Helene.

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Hurricane Hacking: Can We Control the Weather? Oct 15, 2024

Online rumors and misinformation have run rampant after the devastation from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Among the wildest conspiracy theories is the claim that the US government has been "creating" hurricanes and "weaponizing" them against the public. The head administrator at FEMA recently said that the dangerous Hurricane Helene misinformation has been "absolutely the worst that I have ever seen," culminating in an armed militia making threats against FEMA rescue workers. In this week's episode, we'll be debunking some of the most dangerous conspiracy theories with experts who have studied hurricanes and the theory behind hurricane hacking - which they've learned first-hand does not work. My guests include Dr. Hugh Willoughby (who led NOAA's Hurricane Research Division), Professor Moshe Alamaro (retired MIT atmospheric scientist), and meteorologist Ed Piotrowski. You won't want to miss these eye-opening conversations that set the record straight about weather modification!

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Hurricane Hunters: NOAA's Laboratories in the Sky Oct 08, 2024

Last month marked the 63rd anniversary of when Hurricane Carla battered the coast of Texas, instantly becoming one of the most intense and damaging hurricanes recorded in the state. But as houses and ships were battened down and residents fled the storm, some individuals with the Weather Bureau did the unthinkable: they strapped themselves into the cockpit of an airplane and flew directly into the eye of the storm! It started as a bar bet between pilots and became the standard procedure for observing and measuring hurricanes to provide life-saving data for researchers on the ground. Join me this week as I interview Daniel Tyson and Jonathan Shannon from NOAA to talk about what it’s like to fly into a hurricane and how technology has evolved since Hurricane Carla!

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Science Moms Pt. 2: Raising Climate-Conscious Children Oct 01, 2024

In Part 1, we discussed how to explain climate change to your kids. This week, in Part 2, we'll be interviewing educators, authors/journalists, and lifelong climate activists on how to raise engaged and civic-minded kids who want to save the world. Turn off the "doom and gloom" of television and social media, and take your kids outdoors to show them first-hand why this world is worth protecting!

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Science Moms Pt. 1: Navigating Climate Talks with Our Kids Sep 24, 2024

Climate change is rapidly altering our world, from heat waves to rising seas, making it seem increasingly daunting. As adults, we feel the weight of these changes, and our children can sense our anxiety. This raises a crucial question: How do we talk to our kids about climate change? Children are perceptive and curious, but they also deserve a childhood free from constant fear. Today, we're exploring insights from the Science Moms - a group of climate scientists and educators who aim to raise informed, inspired, and unafraid children. We'll address your questions about discussing our changing world with the next generation. Tune in next week for Part 2, where we’ll talk about how to raise kids who get involved in shaping our planet’s future!

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Autumn's Algorithm: the Future of Foliage Forecasting Sep 17, 2024

Off the Radar presents the 2024 fall foliage report! Meteorologist Evan Fisher will be discussing his fall foliage computer model, which gives a high-resolution look at where and when you can see the peak colors of the season. Today he will tell us the weather factors that go into this formula, and how AI is helping to create the most accurate foliage forecast. Whether you’re leaf peeping in Maine, New York, New Hampshire, or beyond, we’ll cover where to see fall foliage in September and October near you. You won’t want to miss this one!

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Behind the Glory of the Auroras: the Importance of Space Weather Prediction Sep 10, 2024

In early May, a historic solar storm lit up skies with auroras as far south as Florida. Beyond the dazzling photos on social media, we'll explore the critical behind-the-scenes work to protect our power grid. Shawn Dahl from the Space Weather Prediction Center discusses their crucial forecasting role and demystifies space weather, separating fact from fiction in this fascinating phenomenon.

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The Last Train to Key West: The Story of the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935 Sep 03, 2024

A devastating Category 5 hurricane ravaged the Florida Keys in 1935, destroying the railway linking the islands to the mainland. Join us as Meteorologist Les Still recounts the Labor Day Storm's impact. Later, bestselling author Chanel Cleeton discusses her novel "The Last Train to Key West," which brings this historic tragedy to life through vivid storytelling.

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Earth Science 101: Myths, Mysteries, and Mind-Blowing Facts Aug 27, 2024

In this back-to-school special, we tackle wild earth science questions and bust common myths. We'll explore whether peeing on jellyfish stings actually helps, unravel the mystery of ball lightning, and delve into other fascinating earth science topics like megalodons, the green flash, and the Bermuda Triangle. Join us for a fun, fact-filled journey through our planet's weirdest wonders and most perplexing phenomena.

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From Soiled to Swimmable: Cleaning up Baltimore's Inner Harbor Aug 20, 2024

For decades, the idea of swimming in Baltimore's Inner Harbor was unthinkable. Polluted, filled with trash, sewer runoff making it unsafe for human contact. But on a sunny day in June, dozens of Baltimoreans took the plunge into the harbor's waters, marking a dramatic turnaround in the city's aquatic history. Today, we'll dive deep into the harbor's transformation, meeting the visionary team that turned this dream into reality and learning the science behind the cleanup. We'll also hear the story of Katie Pumphrey - the first person to swim the 24 mile stretch from the Bay Bridge to Baltimore's Inner Harbor.

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Doppler on Wheels: Capturing the Worst Tornado Winds Aug 13, 2024

On May 21, 2024, an EF-4 tornado tore through the town of Greenfield, Iowa. A team of researchers deployed mobile radars and instrument packs near the path to record winds speeds over 300 mph! Jen Walton recounts the terrifying moments of deploying a pod then narrowly escaping the tornado that leveled the town while Karen Kosiba and Josh Wurman share the groundbreaking data the team recorded that day and how it could revolutionize our understanding of these deadly storms.

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Overtopped: Visualizing the Impact of High Tide Flooding Aug 06, 2024

Coastal flooding is on the rise, even on sunny days. In this episode, we hear from NOAA Oceanographer, Dr. William Sweet and explore the impacts of high tide flooding and what's driving the trends. We'll also talk to Charleston flooding photographer, Jared Bramblett about how he combines his engineering background and artistic eye to document nuisance flooding in his community and raise awareness about sea level rise.

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Behind the Scenes of Twisters: How Meteorologists Turned Actors into Storm Chasers! Jul 30, 2024

Twisters' premiered July 19th with overwhelmingly positive feedback from the weather community. In this episode, we'll explore the film's scientific accuracy with Rick Smith, Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Norman, OK. He'll give us an insider's look at what it took to transform actors into believable storm chasers.. Plus, we discuss how it addresses the often-overlooked psychological impact of surviving tornadoes.

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Weather Wars: NOAA, Project 2025 & the Future of Forecasting Jul 23, 2024

A recent policy proposal has sent shockwaves through the meteorological community by calling for the dismantling of NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. We'll decode the controversial Project 2025 document with a political scientist, and then get the insider's perspective from Dr. Neil Jacobs, former NOAA administrator. Dr. Jacobs will discuss the origin of the organization, it's important functions, and why he thinks NOAA is too solid for politics to shake.

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Weathering Injustice: From the Frontlines of Climate Change Jul 16, 2024

Climate change is here, but its impacts aren't equal. In this episode, we'll explore climate change inequity with environmental activist Heather McTeer Toney. We'll examine how underserved communities, especially people of color, are disproportionately affected by climate disasters. We'll discuss why this disparity exists and crucial solutions to create a more equitable climate future.

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The Weather at Gettysburg: Using New Tools to Better Understand History Jul 02, 2024

July 1863 - The fate of a nation hung in the balance, Union and Confederate soldiers faced not only each other, but an unseen enemy that drained their strength with every passing hour - heat and humidity. Dr. Jon Nese is analyzing historical weather data and calculating the wet bulb globe temperature to get a better understanding of what those soldiers felt during that three day battle. We'll explore why revisiting historical climate data matters and how it can reshape our understanding of past events.

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Into the Eye of Ian: How One Wild Hurricane Hunter Flight Prompted Turbulence Research Jun 25, 2024

Hurricane Hunter Nick Underwood recorded extreme turbulence on his cellphone during a 10-minute passage through Hurricane Ian's eyewall in 2022. Today, we'll hear Nick's firsthand account of this wild ride and how it compared to his other missions. Dr. Josh Wadler, who was also on board, will share insights from his newly published research that quantifies the intensity of turbulence encountered during hurricane reconnaissance flights.

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Surviving Moore: A Young Girl's Journey from Tornado Survivor to Meteorology Student Jun 18, 2024

Aria Vargyas was just 8 years old when she was pulled out of the wreckage of the 2013 EF5 tornado that destroyed her hometown of Moore, Oklahoma and took the lives of her two young sisters. 11 years later she is finishing her freshman year at Texas A&M as a meteorology student. She speaks to Emily about that heartbreaking day and why she is now choosing to chase the storms that once terrified her.

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Reliving Twister: Actress Wendle Josepher Shares Stories from the 1996 Hit Movie Jun 11, 2024

Nearly three decades after the 1996 blockbuster Twister captivated audiences with its thrilling depiction of storm chasing, actress Wendle Josepher dishes on landing her role, the behind-the-scenes experiences on set, and the dedicated fandom that emerged, all building anticipation for the upcoming sequel's release in July.

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25,000 Live Shots: The Legendary Career of Mike Seidel Jun 04, 2024

After 32 years and 25,000 live shots, Mike Seidel's time at The Weather Channel has come to an end and he is sitting down with Emily to dish the dirt on his experience. He will share his unforgettable encounters with extreme weather, the moments that went viral, and a career dedicated to helping communities prepare for nature's unpredictable power.

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Fasten Your Seatbelt: The Science Behind Severe Turbulence May 28, 2024

Aviation turbulence has been making headlines lately, and rightfully so. Climate change is increasingly contributing to bumpier flights. This week we'll speak with a leading researcher who will explain the scientific reasons behind the rise in turbulence and how climate change is exacerbating it. Additionally, we'll get a firsthand account from an experienced pilot, who will share insights into navigating these turbulent skies from the cockpit.

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Baseball's Meteorological Mysteries May 21, 2024

This week we're going to talk to a veteran sports reporter about how the weather can affect baseball. We'll also hear from a baseball scientist with Major League Baseball about how the new use of wind modeling in ball parks is changing the game and debunking some old homerun conspiracy theories.

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Listen to the Universe: NASA turns space images into sounds May 14, 2024

Scientists are using data gathered by deep space telescopes to create "sonifications". These sonifications allow people to listen to astronomical images, including those who are blind or visually impaired. Today we are traveling out of this world to hear what distant galaxies, black holes, and nebulae sound like.

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Meteorologist Moms May 07, 2024

Celebrate Mother's Day with an inside look at balancing meteorology and motherhood! Emily is joined by Chikage Windler, Tera Blake, and Amy Aaronson this week for a candid roundtable of four meteorologist moms, dishing on the joys and challenges of raising children while forecasting the weather on TV. It's an unfiltered glimpse into the whirlwind lives of moms who make predicting sunshine and storms look easy on camera.

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The Backlash of Speaking Inconvenient Truths Apr 30, 2024

After talking about climate change during his weathercasts, an Iowa meteorologist was faced with death threats from a viewer. Chris Gloninger will share his experience communicating the realities of climate change, the hurdles he faced, and why he believes meteorologists have a responsibility to broach this topic - even if it's controversial.

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Keep America Beautiful Apr 22, 2024

Earth Day has become a global phenomenon, celebrated in over 190 countries and mobilizing billions of people to take action for a more sustainable future. Today we'll learn how one organization is keeping America beautiful with a nationwide cleanup. We'll also meet the "Conservation Kid"- a 14-year-old on a mission to give his generation a cleaner future.

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Storming the Digital World Apr 16, 2024

How you get weather information is changing and changing fast. Print, digital, audio, video, and all the applications that support them continue to evolve. In this special collaborative episode, Emily will talk with Joe Martucci and Sean Sublette from Across the Sky podcast about how the field is changing and how you can be a better weather consumer.

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FOREcasting the Future of Golf Apr 09, 2024

Golf takes center stage as The Masters tees off! Today's show delves into the challenges posed by rising sea levels to golf courses worldwide, with insights from a golf course architect. Get an exclusive glimpse into the meteorological intricacies of forecasting weather for the prestigious tournament through the lens of the PGA's seasoned meteorologist. Plus, gain valuable tips from golf pro Andrew Rice, who has crafted simple formulas to enhance your scoring abilities, rain or shine!

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The Day the Clocked Stopped Apr 02, 2024

On the 50th anniversary of the devastating 1974 Xenia, Ohio tornado, we're joined by documentary producer, Adam Aaro, to look back at this iconic F5 twister that killed 32 people and changed tornado science forever.

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Eclipse Essentials: Optimizing your viewing experience Mar 26, 2024

This week we are going into the moon's shadow with scientists from fields like astrophysics, heliophysics, and meteorology. They'll shed light on how those brief minutes of darkness can impact weather, how increased solar activity may mean a different viewing experience than the 20217 eclipse, and exactly what you should look for when the skies go dark on April 8th.

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The Future of Tornado Science Mar 19, 2024

Spring's arrival ushers in a heightened risk of severe weather outbreaks. In this episode, we venture into the epicenter of tornado research - the National Severe Storms Laboratory. Here, we unravel the pioneering work being done to deepen our comprehension of these powerful storms and enhance our readiness to face nature's fury.

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The Cicadas are Coming! Mar 12, 2024

For the first time since 1803, two distinct broods of periodic cicadas will simultaneously emerge across the Midwest and Southeast this spring. Emily will be joined by entomologist Dr. Floyd Shockley from the Smithsonian to learn the biology behind cicadas' precise life cycles, their ecological impact, and the awe-inspiring natural phenomenon of millions of these insects surfacing together after over a decade underground.

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Sunshine Protection or Circadian Nightmare? Mar 05, 2024

This weekend, Daylight Saving Time begins. We will "spring forward" and lose an hour of sleep with the goal of shifting more daylight into the evening. Some politicians support adopting year-round Daylight Saving Time. Today we'll hear from Meteorologist Andrew Buck Michael about the Sunshine Protection Act that would make Daylight Saving Time permanent. We'll also talk to sleep expert, Dr. Chris Depner about how the semi-annual clock changes disrupt our natural Circadian Rhythms.

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Melting Melodies: The Sounds of Climate Change Feb 27, 2024

Norwegian sound artist Jana Winderen captures the pops, drips, and rumbles of melting glaciers around the world. Using hydrophones, she records the unique symphony of thawing ice and animals below the surface and transforms it into haunting music. Her glacial soundscapes pose thoughtful questions about humanity's relationship with nature in the face of sobering climate shifts.

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June Bacon-Bercey: America's First Female Broadcast Meteorologist Feb 20, 2024

June Bacon-Bercey was a true pioneer in meteorology. She had many groundbreaking firsts including being the first female with a meteorology degree to give a tv weather report and the first female granted the Seal of Approval from the American Meteorological Society. This week, we speak with June's daughter, Dail St. Claire, about her inspirational career and life. We learn what fueled her passion for meteorology from an early age and how she balanced her successful science career with motherhood.

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Love is in the Air Pressure Feb 13, 2024

Today's special Valentine's Day episode explores the relationship between weather and sex! Emily will talk to experts that have done research on how weather patterns and climate influence mating behaviors in both animals and humans.

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The Power of Art to Inspire Climate Action Feb 06, 2024

The recent National Climate Assessment contains nearly 100 original artworks highlighting the impacts of climate change, from serene landscapes to flooded city streets. Allyza Lustig discusses with Emily how art inspires emotion and action around climate change in a way data alone cannot.

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The Groundhog: Prognosticator or Rodent? Jan 30, 2024

In this episode we'll explore the origins and scientific relevance of Groundhog Day at Gobbler's Knob with Meteorologist Joe Murgo. Joe will share secrets from the Inner Circle and entertain us with some great stories from his 22 years of covering Punxsutawney Phil's prognostications.

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The Dirty Truth Behind Composting Jan 23, 2024

Think composting is just for old banana peels? Think again! This episode dives into the dirt on composting with soil ecologist, Dr. Deb Neher. From beginner tips to to green burials, you'll learn how this down and dirty process can help the planet.

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Forecasting or Fear Mongering? Jan 16, 2024

Polar Vortex, Bomb Cyclone... these are weather terms that get attention but do they effectively communicate risk or do they incite fear and create distrust? Emily sits down with Dr. Gina Eosco, a social scientist from NOAA to get some insight into the matter.

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Cruise Forecasting Jan 09, 2024

Craig Setzer has a unique job - he's Royal Caribbean's Chief Meteorologist. In this episode, Craig shares what it's like predicting storms, waves, and wind along constantly moving cruise routes. Craig offers a behind-the-scenes look at how he works with ship captains to keep passengers and crew safe and comfortable.

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Exploring the North Pole Dec 19, 2023

On this special holiday episode we will explore the unknown- The North Pole! We'll uncover environmental conditions at the top of the world with Dr. Walt Meier and NORAD shares their Santa tracking secrets. Emily is joined by WJLA Meteorologist, Eileen Whelan.

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Rotten Truth: the Climate Cost of Food Waste Dec 12, 2023

The shocking statistics on America’s food waste problem, how it contributes to climate change and the practical advice for slashing household food waste. We'll talk to food waste experts Dr. James Gerber from Project Drawdown and Dr. Meredith Niles from the University of Vermont.

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Internet Apocalypse Dec 05, 2023

As solar activity intensifies in the next year, the possibility increases of a massive worldwide blackout of power and internet. It's happened before, and Dr. Peter Becker says it's only a matter of time before it happens again. We’ll discuss what solar eruptions are, the likelihood of catastrophic outages in the next solar cycle, and most importantly, how we can prevent and prepare for what would happen if we do lose the internet globally.

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Inside The National Hurricane Center: 2023 Wrap Up Nov 28, 2023

This week we are wrapping up the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season with Dr. Mike Brennan, Director of The National Hurricane Center. We'll talk about the noteworthy storms, the new forecasting and communication tools being used and the successes and struggles of the past 6 months.

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Mayflower Forecast Nov 21, 2023

Author and historian Rebecca Fraser explains the pivotal role weather and climate played in the lives of the Pilgrims settling in New England in 1620. From their decision to leave England, to their transatlantic journey, to their first brutal winter in the New World, we'll discuss the weather that influenced America's very first Thanksgiving.

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Weaponizing Weather Nov 14, 2023

Uncovering America's secret history of using weather modification as a weapon during the Vietnam war. Ed Darak joins us to talk about Operation Popeye and the attempt to flood the Ho Chi Minh Trail with cloud seeding operations.

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The Donner Party Nov 07, 2023

The Donner Party's tragic journey west ended in disaster when an early winter trapped them in the Sierra Nevada in 1846. Pioneers were forced to camp at Donner Lake as massive storms blocked the mountain passes with snow. Meteorologist Matt Monroe describes the unrelenting conditions the group faced, from freezing cold to dwindling supplies.

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Weather Fears & Phobias Oct 31, 2023

Many people have an irrational fear of weather phenomena. In this Halloween episode, we'll explore some common (and less common!) meteorological phobias, understand what causes them, and provide tips to help confront and overcome these anxieties with Dr. Kevin Chapman.

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The Perfect Storm Oct 24, 2023

We'll delve into the science behind the 1991 Halloween Nor'easter storm. It features an interview with Joe Sienkiewicz from the Weather Service, who was forecasting and tracking the storm when it occurred in October 1991. Sienkiewicz provides insights into how the unique combination of weather conditions came together to create the devastating storm, which was later dubbed "The Perfect Storm." Emily will also chat with WJLA Meteorologist, Brian van de Graaf about weather in the movies.

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A Storm by Any Other Name: The History of Naming Hurricanes Oct 17, 2023

We explore the history of naming hurricanes with hurricane expert Brian McNoldy and West Palm Beach Meteorologist Vytas Reid. From the origins of naming storms to the process of selecting names today, we'll have a look back at the memorable, the hard to pronounce and the retired names of these destructive natural disasters.

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Into the Shadow: Your Guide to the Upcoming Eclipses Oct 10, 2023

We are exploring the annular solar eclipse coming this weekend and the total solar eclipse of April 2024. What's the difference between these eclipses? Where are the ideal viewing locations? How do you experience totality safely? Dave Jones from Storm Center Communications joins us to discuss everything you need to know to prepare for these stunning events.

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The Origins of Meteorology Oct 03, 2023

Aristotle is often called the "Father of Meteorology," but the science has evolved dramatically since his time. To trace the roots of modern forecasting, we spoke with historian Dr. Kristine Harper about meteorology's origins. Like the field it covers, the National Weather Desk has witnessed its own growth and innovation throughout its inaugural year. To revisit the moments that defined our first year on-air, Emily chats with colleague Matt Ritter.

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Girls Who Chase Sep 26, 2023

Jen Walton started Girls Who Chase to give female storm chasers a platform to showcase their work in a male-dominated field. She joins us to discuss her own experiences that led her to create the organization, the talented women involved, and her mission to elevate women's voices in storm chasing. We talk challenges, milestones, and the importance of representation.

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Overtopped: Visualizing the Impact of High Tide Flooding Sep 19, 2023

Coastal flooding is on the rise, even on sunny days. In this episode, we hear from NOAA Oceanographer, Dr. William Sweet and explore the impacts of high tide flooding and what's driving the trends. We'll also talk to Charleston flooding photographer, Jared Bramblett about how he combines his engineering background and artistic eye to document nuisance flooding in his community and raise awareness about sea level rise.

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Contrail Control: Can AI Help Clear the Skies? Sep 12, 2023

A new study shows airplane contrails are contributing to climate change. We interview Google's Dinesh Sanekommu about using AI to optimize flight plans and reduce contrails. Also, climate scientist Dr. Susanne Bauer explains contrail science and atmospheric effects. We discuss if Google's contrail reduction study offers a practical way to mitigate aviation emissions.

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Redefining Earth's History with a Nuclear Signature Sep 05, 2023

The nuclear fallout from the first testing of the Atomic Bomb left a lasting imprint on Earth's geological time scale, creating a mark between the Holocene and Anthropocene Epochs. Dr. Francine McCarthy, shares how her team's discovery in a Canadian lake reveals this change and why it sparks contentious debates among experts.

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The Labor Day Storm of 1935 Aug 29, 2023

In this episode, we delve into the cataclysmic Labor Day Hurricane of 1935 that reshaped The Florida Keys. First, we're joined by Meteorologist Les Still, who unravels the science behind this devastating hurricane and the history of Flagler's Railroad. Then, acclaimed author Chanel Cleeton discusses her historical fiction novel "The Last Train to Key West", which vividly brings this event to life. Join us for a captivating exploration of meteorology, history, and the human spirit in the face of nature's fury!

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The Halfway Point: Hurricane Season 2023 Aug 22, 2023

We are half-way through the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season and the tropics are getting ACTIVE! So we are checking in with two of our tropical experts - James Spann and Alex Garcia to explore the factors that fuel these storms and the ways technology is revolutionizing our ability to track and understand them. After this episode, you'll be armed with all the knowledge you need for the 2nd half of the season!

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Back to School: Weather Trivia Aug 15, 2023

We're on the brink of a brand-new school year, and what better way to kickstart your brain cells than with some mind-blowing weather trivia with guest host, 13-year-old Selah from Ohio! Meteorologists Veronica Johnson and Ed Piotrowski give us the lowdown on hail formation, hurricane hunting, climate change and meteorology career insights.

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Grounding: The Science of Earth's Healing Power Aug 08, 2023

Grounding is a simple yet powerful practice that involves physically connecting with the Earth's energy. In this episode, we'll explore the science behind grounding with Dr. Laura Koniver. She will explain how Grounding works, why it works, and the medical studies that support this.

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Amplifying Female Scientists Aug 01, 2023

In 2019, Dr. Jess Wade discovered a giant gap in female and minority scientist representation on Wikipedia, so she started writing. Over the course of three years, she wrote over 1700 bios! Here's her story.

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Blue Holes Part 2: Unexpected Discovery Jul 25, 2023

This week we wrap up the story of the research team that discovered a human bone while taking sediment cores to study ancient hurricanes in the Bahamas. Dr. Richard Sullivan shares the story of the discovery and how studying climatological conditions helps us better understand the trajectory of past indigenous communities.

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Blue Holes Part 1: Uncovering Ancient Hurricanes Jul 18, 2023

Blue Holes aren't just a natural wonder, they can also be a portal to the past. Dr. Jeff Donnelly shared with us what they have learned about ancient hurricanes by taking sediment cores from blue holes AND about an unexpected discovery.

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Weathering the World of Artificial Intelligence Jul 11, 2023

AI is everywhere these days! It's being used to locate rip currents in the ocean. It's bringing accuracy and precision to precipitation forecasts. But are there drawbacks to this cutting-edge technology? We will talk to meteorologists and oceanographers around the country about how they are using AI... for better or for worse.

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Into the Unknown: Dangers of Deep Sea Exploration Jul 04, 2023

In the wake of the OceanGate Titan tragedy, Emily sits down with marine scientist, Dr. Ellen Prager to talk about the dangers of traveling to the ocean floor, the physics behind submersible design and the wonders of deep sea exploration.

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Stage Fright: Decoding River Floods Jun 27, 2023

Diving into the world of river forecasting and clearing up confusion about river stage, emphasizing the risks posed by flooding rivers and the importance of monitoring water levels with hydrologist David Ondrejik from the Middle Atlantic River Forecast Center.

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Jumping into Fire Jun 20, 2023

While most of us run from fire, there's a brave group of men and women jumping in.... from the sky! It's firefighting meets skydiving in the wild job of a smokejumper. Smoke jumping has been in practice for more than 80 years. Today we talk to a retired jumper about his career diving into the inferno.

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Chasing Twister: the Movie, the Science & the Fandom Jun 13, 2023

The 1996 blockbuster, Twister changed the way the world looked at meteorologists and storm chasers. This week we are taking a deep dive into the movie, the fans that still love it and the science that inspired it. We are also getting a sneak peek of the sequel coming out next summer!

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The Sounds of the Northern Lights Jun 06, 2023

Did you know the Northern Lights are a treat for the eyes AND the ears? Join us as we sit down with Dr. Fiona Amery to unlock the mystery behind the sounds of the Aurora Borealis.

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From Reflection to Action: Hurricane Season 2023 May 30, 2023

June 1 marks the start of the 2023 Hurricane Season in the Atlantic Basin and this week we are reflecting on survival to prepare for the future. Listen to a story of resilience from the Florida Keys in 2017 as well as an interview with the brand new director of the National Hurricane Center, Dr. Mike Brennan.

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Hunting Hurricanes May 23, 2023

For decades, aircraft have bravely penetrated hurricanes, propelling hurricane forecasting into an unprecedented era. Embark on a thrilling journey into the realm of hurricane hunting alongside Lt. Col. Ryan Rickert, an Air Force flight meteorologist.

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The Weather on Mars May 16, 2023

As we work toward one day putting humans on Mars, atmospheric scientists like Dr. Scot Rafkin are studying it's atmosphere. Find out if you'd need an umbrella on the Red Planet!

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From Redlining to Red Hot: Inequity of Climate Change May 09, 2023

Climate change is affecting everyone across the country, but some neighborhoods are at an unfair disadvantage when it comes to those impacts;. We recently spoke to Heather McTeer Toney about how heat can incite violence in low-income neighborhoods.

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The Science of Cold Plunging May 02, 2023

We know it feels terrible, but does submersing yourself in a cold body of water benefit your health or can it actually be dangerous? We take a deep dive into the fad of cold plunging with medical expert, Dr. John Whyte.

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The Weather Detective: Inside the Life of a Forensic Meteorologist Apr 25, 2023

Meteorologists don't just forecast future weather, sometimes they look to past weather information to solve crimes! This week we talk to Dr. Elizabeth Austin about her job as a Forensic Meteorologist.

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Cow Burp Control: How Seaweed Can Help Curb Methane Emissions from Livestock Apr 18, 2023

The gas emitted by cows is a major player when it comes to global warming. Bill Gates, a known supporter of climate change reduction methods, has invested in a company that is using a seaweed additive to reduce methane emissions in cows. Methane expert, Dr. David Brown from Spark Climate Solutions chats with Emily about why methane is something we should be concerned about the science behind this seaweed additive.

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Off The Radar Trailer Apr 10, 2023

The National Weather Desk presents a brand new podcast. Off the Radar takes you beyond just the atmosphere and digs deep into topics related to weather, climate, space and much more.

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