New water circulation pattern discovered in Antarctic Ross Ice Shelf
An underwater robot operated by Cornell University has revealed a previously unknown water circulation pattern in a crevasse within the Ross Ice Shelf in Antarctica.
The Watchers team and our contributors bring the latest on extreme weather, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, space weather, and all things science. We're all about making sense of the natural world and keeping you informed on what’s happening. Got a tip or a question? Hit us up using the form at newstips!
Evidence of cataclysmic planetary collision 1 800 light years from Earth
In December 2021, astronomers observed unprecedented fluctuations in the light of a star identified as ASASSN-21qj, located 1 800 light years away from Earth. Now, a study published in Nature suggests these fluctuations were the result of a colossal collision between two giant planets, potentially providing a rare opportunity to witness the birth of a new planet.
Exceptionally bright gamma-ray burst offers new data on the formation of life-essential elements
Through a collaborative effort involving multiple ground and space-based telescopes, including the James Webb Space Telescope, scientists observed an exceptionally bright gamma-ray burst, GRB 230307A. This gamma-ray burst, caused by a neutron star merger, has been instrumental in advancing the understanding of nucleosynthesis, revealing the formation of rare chemical elements essential for life.
New study explains how Kolumbo volcano’s eruption led to destructive tsunami in 1650
A study published in Nature on October 26, 2023, detailed the complex mechanisms behind the 1650 volcanic eruption of Kolumbo in the Aegean Sea, which led to a devastating tsunami. Using advanced 3D seismic data and numerical simulations, the researchers identified a sequence of a landslide followed by an explosive eruption as the key events.
Researcher warns of potential M7 earthquake in Western Taiwan within 10 years
An expert has warned that a catastrophic earthquake of magnitude 7 or higher is likely to strike western Taiwan within the next 10 years. The warning came following a magnitude 6.2 earthquake off the east coast of Taiwan on October 24, 2023.
Sudden increase in volcanic earthquakes triggers Alert Level 1 for Bulusan volcano, Philippines
On October 25, 2023, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) raised the alert status of Bulusan Volcano from Alert Level 0 to Alert Level 1 due to a period of low-level unrest that began on October 14, 2023. This includes a series of 121 volcanic earthquakes and signs of ground deformation.
Storm Bernard impacts Morocco, adds to Spain’s abnormal weather patterns after record rainfall from Storm Aline
Just days after Storm Aline set rainfall records in Spain, Storm Bernard unleashed its fury over Morocco and Southern Spain on October 21 – 22, 2023. The storm caused extensive damage to Morocco’s key agricultural region of Larache and resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries in Spain.
Tropical Cyclone “Tej” makes landfall in Yemen
Tropical cyclone “Tej’ made landfall on Yemen’s southern coast on October 23, 2023, resulting in at least one death and significant infrastructural damage in Al-Mahra Governorate. The cyclone is expected to weaken and dissipate by October 25.
Tropical Cyclone “Tej” to make landfall in Yemen, bringing extremely heavy rain and significant storm surge
The Very Severe Cyclonic Storm “Tej” has slightly weakened but still poses a significant threat to the coasts of Yemen and Oman. Tej is expected to make landfall near Al Ghaidah, Yemen, between 18:00 and 21:00 UTC today, bringing extremely heavy rains, wind speeds of 125 – 135 km/h (77.6 – 83.9 mph), gusting to 150 km/h (93.2 mph), and significant storm surge.
Early winter storm to impact West and Plains with heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures
An early winter storm is set to impact the Northwest and Northern Rockies starting late Tuesday, October 24, 2023. The event, forecasted to bring heavy snowfall and strong winds, will extend into the Northern High Plains by Wednesday.
