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Tag: Meteorologist Keith Bryant

  • How to reuse your pumpkins after Halloween

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    Halloween was a few days ago, but don’t throw out those pumpkins. There are lots ways to reuse your pumpkins or jack-o’-lanterns now that the trick-or-treating is done. 

    What You Need To Know

    • There are several ways to recycle your pumpkins

    • Leftover pumpkins can make tasty dishes

    • Pumpkin scraps are also an excellent fertilizer for your garden.

    Turn pumpkins into food

    If you didn’t carve the pumpkins yet, consider using it for food. You can scoop out the guts of the pumpkin and turn it into a puree.

    To make a puree, you need to cut up the pumpkin and roast the halves. After they’ve roasted, scoop out the flesh and blend it to turn into a puree.

    The puree could then be used to make pies, soups and sauces.

    (Pexels)

    You can also the roast the pumpkin seeds too after taking out the guts and rinsing them. One cup of pumpkin seeds is equivalent to approximately 12 grams of protein. 

    Pumpkin for animals

    Leftover pumpkins can also become bird feeders.

    You just have to cut off the top third of the pumpkin, empty the cavity, fill it with bird seeds and hang it in the yard for the birds.

    Check with your local zoo. Some will take donated pumpkin scraps and use them as feed for animals. Polar bears enjoy them as a snack.

    Composting pumpkins

    Pumpkins are also good for composting. You can use the pumpkin scraps to help fertilize your garden.

    You can even make it a game for kids to smash leftover pumpkins and use it as compost.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Meteorologist Keith Bryant

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  • How to reuse your pumpkins after Halloween

    [ad_1]

    Halloween was a few days ago, but don’t throw out those pumpkins. There are lots ways to reuse your pumpkins or jack-o’-lanterns now that the trick-or-treating is done. 

    What You Need To Know

    • There are several ways to recycle your pumpkins

    • Leftover pumpkins can make tasty dishes

    • Pumpkin scraps are also an excellent fertilizer for your garden.

    Turn pumpkins into food

    If you didn’t carve the pumpkins yet, consider using it for food. You can scoop out the guts of the pumpkin and turn it into a puree.

    To make a puree, you need to cut up the pumpkin and roast the halves. After they’ve roasted, scoop out the flesh and blend it to turn into a puree.

    The puree could then be used to make pies, soups and sauces.

    (Pexels)

    You can also the roast the pumpkin seeds too after taking out the guts and rinsing them. One cup of pumpkin seeds is equivalent to approximately 12 grams of protein. 

    Pumpkin for animals

    Leftover pumpkins can also become bird feeders.

    You just have to cut off the top third of the pumpkin, empty the cavity, fill it with bird seeds and hang it in the yard for the birds.

    Check with your local zoo. Some will take donated pumpkin scraps and use them as feed for animals. Polar bears enjoy them as a snack.

    Composting pumpkins

    Pumpkins are also good for composting. You can use the pumpkin scraps to help fertilize your garden.

    You can even make it a game for kids to smash leftover pumpkins and use it as compost.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Meteorologist Keith Bryant

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  • Discover the carbon footprint of your Thanksgiving feast

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    Thanksgiving is just around the corner. While the cost of your holiday meal may impact your wallet, what you’ll eat at your dining room table could affect the climate too. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The highest producer of carbon dioxide of your meal is macaroni and cheese

    • Potatoes are the most climate friendly option

    • Vegetables also have a low climate impact

    This blog is going to make you hungry.

    Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday for food. My favorite dishes are sweet potato casserole with marshmallows on top, dressing and macaroni cheese.

    Plus, my favorite holiday desserts are sweet potato pie and mom’s 7UP! pound cake.

    So, I was curious about the impact some of my favorite dishes had on our environment. I looked over data from Our World in Data, a nonprofit that focus on global issues from the environment to agriculture.

    So let’s discuss the environmental impact of your holiday feast.

    Turkey

    The data classifies turkey as poultry meat. The main course of your meal will contribute about 21 pounds of carbon dioxide (CO2) to the atmosphere.

    Raising and the transport of turkeys from farms to processing is factored into the environmental impact of the main dish.

    Mashed Potatoes

    Now to some of your favorite sides during this festive feast.

    Potatoes are climate friendly. I really enjoy mashed potatoes with gravy.

    They produce about 1 lb of greenhouse emissions. Potatoes are the most climate friendly option because they are sustainably grown.

    The starchy vegetable uses less water and land to grow. 

    Macaroni and Cheese

    It’s a different story for macaroni and cheese, which is a popular side dish during this time of year. The cheesy side contributes about 37 lbs of CO2 to the atmosphere.

    Macaroni and cheese has a high climate compact because the milk needed to make the cheese comes from cows, goats and sheep.

    Livestock from these animal groups creates and emits greenhouse gases.

    Vegetables

    Vegetables are also important for the Thanksgiving meal. Whether it’s asparagus, broccoli or peas, all of them have a lower climate impact.

    All three vegetables contribute less than 2 lbs of greenhouse gases.

    Just like potatoes, it takes less natural resources to grow these vegetables.

    Biscuits

    We cannot forget about those Thanksgiving biscuits. The buttery bread has a climate impact of 4 lbs of CO2.

    The ingredients are key in determining the impact of this item. Flour, butter, salt, sugar and milk make up biscuits.

    So, the study is taking in account the ingredients used to determine the impact of this flaky bread. 

    Desserts

    Let’s discuss some deserts. Unfortunately, the study does not include pumpkin pie or sweet potato pie, but they list apple pie and carrot cake.

    Apple pie contributes about 3 lbs of CO2 to the atmosphere, while carrot cake contributes 4 lbs of greenhouse emissions.

    Like biscuits, the study took into account the ingredients to make the desserts.

    No matter what you eat this Thanksgiving, enjoy it and be happy with your friends and family.

    I know I am going to grab 2 to 3 plates myself.

    There’s a lot to be thankful for this year, so enjoy and have a festive and safe holiday.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Keith Bryant

    Source link

  • How to reuse your pumpkins after Halloween

    How to reuse your pumpkins after Halloween

    [ad_1]

    Halloween may have ended, but you can find a lot of ways to reuse your pumpkins or jack-o’-lanterns now that the trick-or-treating is done. 

    What You Need To Know

    • There are several ways to recycle your pumpkins

    • Leftover pumpkins can make tasty dishes

    • Pumpkin scraps are also an excellent fertilizer for your garden.

    Turn pumpkins into food

    You can use the leftover pumpkins to make food. You can scoop out the guts of the pumpkin and turn it into a puree.

    To make a puree, you need to cut up the pumpkin and roast the halves. After they’ve roasted, scoop out the flesh and blend it to turn into a puree.

    The puree could the be used to make pies, soups and sauces.

    (Pexels)

    You can also the roast the pumpkin seeds too after taking out the guts and rinsing them.

    Pumpkin for animals

    Leftover pumpkins can also become bird feeders.

    You just have to cut off the top third of the pumpkin, empty the cavity, fill it with bird seeds and hang it in the yard for the birds.

    Check with your local zoo. Some will take donated pumpkin scraps and use them as feed for animals.

    Composting pumpkins

    Pumpkins are also good for composting. You can use the pumpkin scraps to help fertilize your garden.

    You can even make it a game for kids to smash leftover pumpkins and use it as compost.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Meteorologist Keith Bryant

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  • DaNa Carlis’ role at the National Severe Storms Lab is a historic homecoming

    DaNa Carlis’ role at the National Severe Storms Lab is a historic homecoming

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    Dr. DaNa Carlis is breaking barriers as the first African-American to lead NOAA’s National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL) in Norman, Oklahoma.

    The laboratory studies severe weather, from tornadoes to winter weather. The National Weather Service uses their research to warn us and keep us safe from disruptive weather events.

    What You Need To Know

    • DaNa Carlis is the first African-American to be named NSSL director

    • Carlis co-founded NOAA’s Diversity and Professional Advancement

    • He holds three degrees from Howard University

    • One of his top priorities is to increase the engagement between the underserved communities and the NSSL

    Historic accomplishment

    NOAA appointed Carlis to the role in January 2023. Carlis is the first Black man named as a lab director.

    We spoke to the NSSL director in 2023 about his historic appointment, his future for the NSSL and how he plans to inspire more Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) in meteorology.

    “It feels amazing! I am humbled by the opportunity to serve in this capacity as director of the National Severe Storms Laboratory,” said Carlis, describing his accomplishment.

    A few years ago, the NSSL Director didn’t think he’d be taking this path in his career. However, he said he was striving for an opportunity to be a leader of science within NOAA.

    Carlis is excited to inspire the next generation of science leaders.

    “I’m looking forward to continuing to uplift others with the BIPOC community that can serve in this capacity. It’s been a passion of mine to help and develop the next generation workforce,” said Carlis.

    Over his 20-year career, Carlis led efforts to advance diversity, equity and inclusion within NOAA. He’s the co-founder of NOAA’s Diversity and Professional Advancement Working Group (DPAWG).

    Eight members of NOAA’s Diversity and Professional Advancement Working Group in 2023. Clockwise from the top left: Vankita Brown, John Moore, Terence Lynch, Maddie Kennedy, DaNa Carlis, Lonnie Gonsalves, Ashley Turnbull, and Janae Elkins. (NOAA)

    Carlis knows how big of a deal it is to be the first African-American to lead this agency.

    “I’m a firm believer that there are more talented people than me out there that will deserve this opportunity and probably have deserved it in the past. So, that I’m the first is humble… but you know I got to continue to strive for change and NOAA is right behind me in terms of diversity, inclusion and equity in our senior leadership ranks,” Carlis told Spectrum News.

    NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. supports Carlis’ mission. Spinrad gave this statement in a news release: “NOAA is fortunate to have a leader with deep scientific expertise and the strong skills to elevate diversity, equity and inclusion into all aspects of NSSL’s culture.”

    Back to his roots

    The role is a homecoming for Carlis, who grew up in Tulsa. Carlis is happy to be back in his home state and doing what he loves.

    “I am going to full circle, returning to my roots of being in Oklahoma…. I have kept myself grounded on who I am and where I come from,” said Carlis.

    The Tulsa native says his upbringing made him the man he is today.

    The NSSL director credits his mentors with sparking his passion for science.

    “It was mentors that really drew me in and after that first course in atmospheric science I fell in love with it because it was so applicable to people’s everyday lives,” Carlis recounted.

    He also takes great pride in graduating from Howard University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Washington D.C.

    “The main thing that really helped me… that I really needed was the support system. I needed to believe in me, I needed to be supported by people that was going to help raise me up and make sure and hold me accountable for being excellent, being a high achiever… that’s what Howard University gave to me,” Carlis told us.

    Bright future

    “I got to go in and learn the organization. So, I’ll sit back and listen for a few months and try to figure out… where we need to improve weather that is on the business side or science and technology side,” said Carlis.

    The severe storms lab is a busy place, with its PERiLS project, radar improvements, field campaigns and much more.

    The NSSL director says his mission for the agency is to meet their goals and make sure they’re successful. One of his priorities is to increase the engagement between the underserved communities and the NSSL.

    “The integration of social science and physical sciences like in meteorology and atmospheric is going to be really key to us being able to engage and serve those folks that are from underserved communities even better,” said Carlis.

    In addition, Carlis thinks this is an opportune time for aspiring meteorologists to get into the field. He has this advice for them.

    “I would love to see more African-American, Black meteorologists or just BIPOC meteorologist coming into this field because it just such a gratifying field of work that we do because of the impact that we have on people’s lives… so we need you.”

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Keith Bryant

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  • Most powerful laser in the world could lead to cancer treatment

    Most powerful laser in the world could lead to cancer treatment

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    A University of California, Irvine professor is being tasked to help design the most powerful laser in the world.

    Franklin Dollar, a professor of physics & astronomy at UCI, is part of the effort to build the laser called the EP-OPAL (Optical Parametric Amplifier Lines).

    What You Need To Know

    • A UC Irvine Professor is helping contribute to building the most powerful laser in the world

    • The laser could lead to breakthroughs in cancer treatment and space science

    • Physicists will build the laser at the University of Rochester


    The National Science Foundation awarded an $18-million grant to build the laser at a university in New York. EP-OPAL will house it at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics at the University of Rochester.

    The laser will open the door for more research in astrophysics and the medical field, from telescopes to medical imaging.

    EP-OPAL could also develop radiation techniques to help treat cancer patients.

    Plus, it could lead to new developments in nuclear physics, particle acceleration and quantum mechanics.

    The instrument has two separate 25-petawatt lasers and will fire in a millionth of a billionth of a second.

    Dollar’s team will focus on particle acceleration and light sources.

    I talked to Dollar’s team about the laser and how he’s mentoring the next generation of plasma physicists. Watch the video above to see more.

    Franklin Dollar, assistant professor of physics and astronomy (Photo by Steve Zylius/UCI)

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Meteorologist Keith Bryant

    Source link

  • Most powerful laser in the world could lead to cancer treatment

    Most powerful laser in the world could lead to cancer treatment

    [ad_1]

    A University of California, Irvine professor is being tasked to help design the most powerful laser in the world.

    Franklin Dollar, a professor of physics & astronomy at UCI, is part of the effort to build the laser called the EP-OPAL (Optical Parametric Amplifier Lines).

    What You Need To Know

    • A UC Irvine Professor is helping contribute to building the most powerful laser in the world

    • The laser could lead to breakthroughs in cancer treatment and space science

    • Physicists will build the laser at the University of Rochester


    The National Science Foundation awarded an $18-million grant to build the laser at a university in New York. EP-OPAL will house it at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics at the University of Rochester.

    The laser will open the door for more research in astrophysics and the medical field, from telescopes to medical imaging.

    EP-OPAL could also develop radiation techniques to help treat cancer patients.

    Plus, it could lead to new developments in nuclear physics, particle acceleration and quantum mechanics.

    The instrument has two separate 25-petawatt lasers and will fire in a millionth of a billionth of a second.

    Dollar’s team will focus on particle acceleration and light sources.

    I talked to Dollar’s team about the laser and how he’s mentoring the next generation of plasma physicists. Watch the video above to see more.

    Franklin Dollar, assistant professor of physics and astronomy (Photo by Steve Zylius/UCI)

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Meteorologist Keith Bryant

    Source link

  • Most powerful laser in the world could lead to cancer treatment

    Most powerful laser in the world could lead to cancer treatment

    [ad_1]

    A University of California, Irvine professor is being tasked to help design the most powerful laser in the world.

    Franklin Dollar, a professor of physics & astronomy at UCI, is part of the effort to build the laser called the EP-OPAL (Optical Parametric Amplifier Lines).

    What You Need To Know

    • A UC Irvine Professor is helping contribute to building the most powerful laser in the world

    • The laser could lead to breakthroughs in cancer treatment and space science

    • Physicists will build the laser at the University of Rochester


    The National Science Foundation awarded an $18-million grant to build the laser at a university in New York. EP-OPAL will house it at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics at the University of Rochester.

    The laser will open the door for more research in astrophysics and the medical field, from telescopes to medical imaging.

    EP-OPAL could also develop radiation techniques to help treat cancer patients.

    Plus, it could lead to new developments in nuclear physics, particle acceleration and quantum mechanics.

    The instrument has two separate 25-petawatt lasers and will fire in a millionth of a billionth of a second.

    Dollar’s team will focus on particle acceleration and light sources.

    I talked to Dollar’s team about the laser and how he’s mentoring the next generation of plasma physicists. Watch the video above to see more.

    Franklin Dollar, assistant professor of physics and astronomy (Photo by Steve Zylius/UCI)

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Keith Bryant

    Source link

  • Finding a love for all seasons

    Finding a love for all seasons

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    Mother Nature, flowers and candy could be your recipe for finding a love for all seasons or Valentine’s Day.

    It is that time of the year, when romance is in the air. But can the weather, or even the season, spark love? Or do less than ideal conditions dampen love’s flame and blow it out? 

    What You Need To Know

    • Cuffing season is the time between September and November

    • The “turkey drop” is when you breakup with someone after Thanksgiving

    • Some consider gloomy or cold weather romantic

    • Talking about the weather is not a good conversation starter

    We talked to celebrity matchmaker and dating expert Alessandra Conti, co-founder of Matchmakers In The City in Beverly Hills.

    We chatted with her about how the time of season and weather might influence someone’s dating behavior.

    Cuffing season

    Autumn may be the best season to ‘fall’ in love. Many people refer to the fall as cuffing season for couples.

    Conti says cuffing season is the time between September and November. She told us during those months the weather gets colder and people want to find love for the holidays.

    “Everyone wants love for the holidays. Especially leading up to the holidays, that’s when people who are normally single want to be in relationships,” Conti told Spectrum News.

    The matchmaking maven says her business is booming during cuffing season for people wanting to find love just in time for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

    “[People] will usually fast track something that they maybe did not consider in the summertime.”

    The cuffing part comes in as people just wanting to find a partner for the colder months and just come together during that time.

    The turkey drop

    Though cuffing season runs through November, it might be the best opportunity to breakup with someone.

    Conti says the day after Thanksgiving is the time when couples break apart. The celebrity matchmaker calls it the “turkey drop.”

    “You can see it in tons of celebrity couples, that right after Thanksgiving so many couples breakup,” Conti said.

    She said couples like Harry Styles and Olivia Wilde broke up during that time too, among other couples.

    Conti says a lot of couples “turkey drop” right after Thanksgiving.

    A new year for love

    We are a month into the new year and finding that special someone is top priority for some singles. When a new year begins, Conti says people are deliberate about wanting to find love.

    “While cuffing season is over, it’s the new year season, which is people desiring to find that partner,” Conti told us.

    As far as other seasons like spring and summer, she says business doesn’t experience that same uptick in clientele during the winter and fall months.

    Like cuffing season, there is also the something known as a summer fling. A summer fling is between May and September.

    “You see more casual dating during the summertime because that’s more of the weather vibe. It’s sunny out, everyone is relaxed… there’s not that deep longing for connection because it’s freezing cold outside and you want to be cuddling with someone indoors,” Conti said.

    Heartbreak weather

    Now let’s talk about how the weather could lead you to heartbreak or romance.

    Conti laments many dates get cancelled because of bad weather.

    “It is really sad, but a lot of people do if it’s raining. We have experienced that people will cancel a date if it’s raining… even if it’s through a matchmaker.”

    She notes that people really don’t enjoy driving in the rain to go on a date. However, she has one important piece of advice if there is rain or snow in the forecast for a date.

    “My advice to anyone considering in canceling a date if it’s raining or snow… Don’t, you are self sabotaging yourself!,” exclaimed Conti.

    The dating expert said this sabotaging equates to flakiness. She says you have to follow through on the plan.

    “You need to make a shift and make a change. If that means going on an ice skating date, go for it… if that means leaving your house when it’s drizzling outside, go for it!” exclaims Conti. 

    Love is in the air

    The ideal weather for date ranges from person to person. Some like sunny and while others enjoy overcast skies.

    Talking with Conti, she says colder weather might actually be more romantic.

    “I actually think a little colder for a date, actually quite romantic, as long as you are indoors… it’s very cozy. So get a really cute winter jacket and enjoy,” she said.

    Conti might be right about colder weather, because one of the greatest Christmas songs “Let It Snow!” is a romantic song about a couple getting cozy during a blizzard (even though the songwriters wrote it in the summer).

    It all comes down to the people’s preference.

    “I don’t think cold weather is bad for a date. I think it’s cozy. If it’s a little rainy outside, it makes your indoor experience more special and romantic. Use it to your advantage,” Conti told Spectrum Networks. 

    Forecasting romance

    The perfect weather for a date may be in April, if you are Miss Rhode Island from the movie “Miss Congeniality.”

    But for others, it could be something else. We talked to our Spectrum News meteorologists and digital weather team about their ideal weather for date. Watch their responses.

    No matter what season you’re in, you have to be intentional about finding love and being in the moment.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Keith Bryant

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  • Surviving avalanches: What you need to know

    Surviving avalanches: What you need to know

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    This time of year, snowboarders and skiers head to some of the most popular snow summits across the country. However, snowy natural disasters called avalanches can become a concern. 

    What You Need To Know

    • An avalanche is a mass of snow moving down a slope

    • Someone in the victim’s party triggers 90% of avalanche incidents

    • The natural disaster kills about 30 people in the U.S. yearly

    According to the National Weather Service, an avalanche occurs when there’s a rapid flow of snow down a hill or mountainside.

    Avalanches happen suddenly and “occur during or just after snowstorms on slopes between 30 and 45 degrees.”

    Also, look out for Avalanche Watches and Warnings from the Weather Service.

    The NWS says 90% of avalanche incidents become triggered by someone in the victim’s party.

    They also kill about 30 people a year in the U.S.

    So far this year, avalanches have killed four people; in California, Wyoming, Idaho and Colorado.

    Placer County sheriff vehicles are parked near the ski lift at Palisades Tahoe where avalanche occurred on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, in Tahoe, Calif. (AP Photo/Andy Barron)

    There are resources people can use to get avalanche safety training and spot potential avalanches.

    One resource there is the NWS and Avalanche.org.

    Here’s a breakout of avalanche safety tips and warning signs.

    Remember, stay vigilant and safe during avalanches and be aware of the signs when you’re on the slopes. 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Keith Bryant

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  • How rainbow clouds dazzle the skies

    How rainbow clouds dazzle the skies

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    Clouds come in many shapes and forms, but did you know there are rainbow clouds? 

    What You Need To Know

    • Rainbow clouds form when light scatters through tiny ice crystals and creates a cascade of colors

    • These types of clouds form in altocumulus, cirrocumulus, lenticular and cirrus clouds

    • High-altitude clouds, the uniform distribution of ice crystals, sunlight and a sun that is high in the sky is the recipe of iridescence

    According to NOAA, “a rainbow cloud can occur because of something called cloud iridescence.”

    You’ll see this dazzling phenomena in altocumulus, cirrocumulus, lenticular and cirrus clouds.

    These rainbow clouds, or as they’re scientifically known, ‘nacreous clouds’, form when small ice crystal scatter the sun’s light. Once the light hits the droplets, it creates a vibrant hue of colors.

    Check out this video of rainbow clouds see above Aylesford, United Kingdom in late December.

    Cloud iridescence is a rare phenomenon. Clouds need to be thin and have a lot of water droplets that are about the same size.

    Iridescence is a combination of high-altitude clouds, the uniform distribution of ice crystals, sunlight and a sun that is high in the sky.

    (Photo by: CameraLeon/WEATHER TRAKER/TMX)

    Nacreous clouds are rare sites to see. According to the World Meteorological Organization, you can see these dazzling sites in Alaska, Canada and parts of Scandinavia and the Arctic.

    Plus, the clouds form in colder climates because the ice crystals in the clouds need to be chilled to freezing or below.

    Whenever you see rainbow or nacreous clouds, enjoy these color clouds and experiences.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Keith Bryant

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  • Safety tips for driving through the rain

    Safety tips for driving through the rain

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    From drizzle to downpours, driving in the rain could be difficult and dangerous if you are not careful. According to U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, over 3,400 people are killed and over 357,300 people are injured in rainfall-related crashes. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Over 357,000 people are injured in rainfall-related crashes

    • AAA says wet pavements contribute to more than one million traffic crashes each year

    • Check the maintenance of your car before you drive in the rain

    • Hydroplaning happens when your vehicle glides on top of a thin film of water and your tires lose contact with the ground

    We want you to understand the hazards of driving in the rain and how you can drive defensively in the elements. AAA says wet pavement contributes to more than one million traffic crashes each year.

    Before driving in the rain

    Before you drive in the rain, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is prepared. You want to check your windshield wipers and make sure they don’t leave streaks and clear any rain on a single swipe. 

    Plus, you want to check if all your headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals are working as well. 

    Next, you want to check your tire tread depth. The tire tread and inflation of your tires are important in maintaining traction on wet roads. 

    You can check the tread by using a quarter. If you turn it upside down and dip it into the tread of a tire and you can see the entire head of the president, that means you need to replace them.

    You also need to check the tire pressure, as well.

    Driving in the elements

    When driving in the rain, it’s important to leave room between vehicles. Safety experts suggest following the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you. In addition, the National Weather Service (NWS) suggests adding an extra two-seconds when you’re driving in heavy rain.

    The NWS also say to be careful during the first half hour of rainfall because grime and oil on the road could mix with water to make them slippery. Check out our “Weather Explained: Slick roads after a dry spell” for more information.

    According to AAA, “with as little as 1/12 inch of water on the road, tires have to displace a gallon of water per second to keep the rubber meeting the road.” To navigate driving in the rain, it’s best to stay toward the middle lanes, since water pools in the outside lanes. Plus, drive at the speed to correspond to the amount of rain on the roads. 

    Beware of hydroplaning

    Hydroplaning is one risk of driving in the rain. Hydroplaning happens when your vehicle glides on top of a thin film of water and your tires lose contact with the ground.

    It only happens in a few seconds, but it can feel like your vehicle is veering on its own. You should avoid hard braking and sharp turns. AAA says pressing the breaks will make hydroplaning worse and cause you to swerve out of your lane.

    To reduce your risk of hydroplaning, slow down, turn off cruise control and don’t panic.

    If you feel like your hydroplaning, ease your foot off the gas to regain control of the vehicle and pull over and park your car until the rainfall lightens.

    If you feel your card is skidding, don’t panic and avoid hard braking. Just look and steer in the direction you want your car to go. 

    Turn Around, Don’t Drown®

    Now, if water is over the road because of heavy rain, you should never drive through it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that over half of all flood-related drownings happen when a vehicle has driven into flood water.

    Whenever you encounter a flooded road, practice Turn Around, Don’t Drown®.

    The NWS says it takes 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks.

    An empty vehicle is surrounded by floodwaters on a road in Oakland, Calif., Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)

    So it’s important to beware and drive defensively in the rain and avoid any hazards if you can. 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Keith Bryant

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