This resource explains the basic forces behind atmospheric circulation on a local scale. Topics include phenomena that help to drive circulation, such as solar heating, gravity, pressure, the coriolis effect, and friction. Two types of local circulation patterns are also discussed: mountain and valley breezes; and land and sea breezes. Photos and diagrams are provided to augment the written discussion, ... Full description.

In this activity, students investigate and compare seasonal precipitation patterns in the San Francisco Bay area with locations at similar latitudes and geographic situations in the southern hemisphere. They will also characterize the pattern of annual average precipitation versus latitude for the earth as a whole. They must understand the concept of latitude, know the names of latitude zones used ... Full description.

This article provides a brief discussion of the issues surrounding global warming. Topics include greenhouse gas emissions, the possible consequences of global warming, and debates among proponents and opponents about whether global warming is indeed happening and whether it represents a danger to the planet. Full description.

The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) is an agency of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service. Materials available on the website include current weather watches, mesoscale discussions, convective outlooks, six-hour thunderstorm outlooks, and fire weather forecasts; research publications, experimental products and techniques; weather information including watch/warning ... Full description.

This site provides answers to frequently asked questions about tornadoes. The questions are grouped into the following categories: the basics about tornadoes, tornado forecasting, tornado damage, tornado safety, historical tornadoes, tornado climatology, spotting and chasing, tornado research, and scientific references. Information on related concepts is linked within each section and can also be ... Full description.

This site provides access to weather and climate imagery, including unique visuals of atmospheric and solar phenomena, pollution, clouds, research instruments, field projects, landscapes, and educational settings. It also contains links to other digital image sites and a place to store personally selected images for later viewing. Full description.

This site provides general information about floods and dams. There are sections on the science, the phenomenon, and effects of floods. One video clip shows the Mississippi River at flood and non-flood levels. Another clip shows actual footage of a flood wreaking havoc on a populated area. Full description.

These interactive simulations allow students to investigate four of nature's more violent phenomena: volcanoes, earthquakes, hurricanes, and tornadoes. Each simulation begins with a brief written tutorial describing the characteristics and destructive potential of these hazards. Users may then adjust the various factors affecting the occurrence of these phenomena (for instance, ocean temperature, ... Full description.

This is the home page for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The goal of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is to describe and predict changes in the Earth's environment, and conserve and wisely manage the Nation's coastal and marine resources. This page provides access to the many component organizations, educational resources, and opportunities at the National ... Full description.

This website was developed for undergraduate students enrolled in an introductory earth or atmospheric science course. It is designed to supplement lecture and textbooks. Its goal is to make you a better consumer of weather information by providing dynamic graphics, animations, and science content about remote sensing, visible and infrared satellite imagery, and hurricanes. As part of the module, ... Full description.