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US Drought Brings A Surprise Benefit: No Tornados (cnn.com)
Slashdot reader turkeydance tipped us off to news that America hasn't had a single tornado in November, even though last year it experienced 99, and averages 58 every November. CNN reports:
Drought is overwhelming Southeastern states this fall, and temperatures have soared, depleting ground moisture. Storms need moist air to develop, and the lack of moisture this fall has inhibited storm development both for the much needed rain and the formation of supercell storms capable of producing tornadoes. Precipitation has been near or at zero for weeks in the region. The last measurable day of rain in Birmingham, Alabama, was September 18... As a result, wildfires have become the main disaster threat this fall.
The last five years have all seen a below-average number of tornados, and between 2012 and 2014 the U.S. saw fewer tornadoes than any previous three-year stretch.
The annual number of tornadoes and the number of strong tornadoes are both trending down. The data doesn't lie.
Browsing at +1 - no ACs, I ignore their posts. So refreshing!
From the article I referenced:
With increased National Doppler radar coverage, increasing population, and greater attention to tornado reporting, there has been an increase in the number of tornado reports over the past several decades. This can create a misleading appearance of an increasing trend in tornado frequency.
Emphasis added. You're welcome.
Browsing at +1 - no ACs, I ignore their posts. So refreshing!