Recent research has shown that waterlogged soils can rejuvenate hurricanes after they make landfall, a phenomenon known as the "brown ocean effect." This effect, observed during Hurricane Florence in 2018, occurs when a storm passes over warm, saturated ground, receiving a boost of water and heat similar to the ocean's fueling mechanism. This discovery, first described in 2013, was confirmed through satellite data and highlights the importance of soil moisture and temperature in storm intensification. As a result, forecasters may improve predictions of inland hurricane behavior, helping to better prepare and protect affected communities.

Ocean waters absorb at least a third of the carbon dioxide emitted by human activities since the Industrial Revolution began. For this reason, it is worth considering modifying the chemistry and biology of the ocean to increase the amount of carbon it absorbs and thus prevent the worst impacts of climate change.

Despite efforts, the Earth is on track to warm by about 3.2 degrees Celsius by the end of the century, that's higher than the 1.5 to 2 degrees goal set by the 2015 Paris Agreement. Each uptick in thermostat increases the risk of devastating consequences, including deadly heat waves, more intense storms, and inundations of coastal cities due to melting ice and rising seas. To prevent these scenarios, innovative methods are proposed that include seaweed farming, iron fertilization, alkalization and direct carbon capture from water.

Managing heavy rain, occasional gusty winds, and isolated thunderstorms poses challenges for regions like Portland, Oregon, which typically enjoys only three months of excellent weather annually. This year, the much-anticipated stretch of good weather coincides with the Rose Festival, running from late May to early June. However, a persistent low-pressure system and an unrelenting front are bringing excessive moisture, resulting in significant rainfall. Coastal areas are expected to receive 2 to 4 inches of rain, with the Olympics' southwest-facing slopes and the Cascades potentially seeing similar amounts. This heavy rain, combined with snowmelt, raises flooding risks for rivers, especially in areas like Snohomish.

Outdoor activities during this period require caution due to the heightened risk of flooding and other weather-related hazards. Despite the Pacific Northwest's beauty, the risks associated with heavy rain and potential flooding cannot be ignored. Climbing Mount Rainier, for instance, demands vigilance due to the expected rainfall. Seattle recently recorded 6.65 inches of rain in a single day, shattering the daily record and nearly reaching a third of the monthly average. Similarly, Portland is experiencing unusual weather with an atmospheric river in June, underscoring the need for preparedness and caution during this typically favorable time of year.

Hurricanes, among the most destructive natural phenomena, impact various countries worldwide, including the United States, which is anticipating an "extremely active" season. Historically, naming these storms has been crucial for communication and preparedness. Initially identified by coordinates, hurricanes were later named using a system of short, distinctive names for better tracking and reduced confusion. This practice began in the mid-20th century with female names, later incorporating male names in 1979. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) oversees the strict procedures for naming hurricanes, ensuring brevity, ease of pronunciation, appropriate meaning, and uniqueness. For the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, the names include Alberto, Beryl, Chris, Debby, and so forth.