Earth Signals: Today's Global Geological Events

Multiple Phenomena Threaten Multiple Populations

Several regions across the globe are grappling with distinct weather hazards. These events range from extreme precipitation to geological activity. New York City is bracing for the impact of heavy rain; a flood watch is in effect as the increased rainfall poses a significant threat of flash floods. The situation is so severe that flash flooding could occur "across the region". A different landscape is being affected by the rapidly changing Aji Seamount, an underwater volcano near the Northern Mariana Islands, which has drawn USGS advisory attention due to the satellite imagery evidence of water discoloration. Also, the water discoloration signals an eruption or seismic activity. The volcanic activity calls for vigilance and readiness to respond to potential hazards from maritime and air transportation.

The USGS Advisory and Dust Plume Monitoring

Something that’s less immediately apparent is the USGS advisory for a region near a dormant underwater volcano. This underwater region has picked up a water discoloration which implies that there is an eruption or seismic activity. This could pose a risk to all maritime and aerial navigation. A different hazard affects the Mali and neighboring regions of West Africa where NASA satellites are following a substantial dust plume. The plume has the potential to spread its impact on the region, which includes the possibility of unintentional ingestion, health effects, and reduced air quality.

Volatile Water Systems Are Changing Landscape

From flooding in Italy, Slovenia and Croatia, where severe storms have brought fatal landslides, the consequences of water activity extend further across the globe. A phenomenon in the Himalayas poses longer-term risks. Retreating glaciers are not just forming picturesque glacial lakes. The Himalayan glacial lakes and small glacial lakes are expanding, and this expansion means a higher risk of sudden outburst floods. This has the potential to spread across the region downstream.

Natural Cycles, Unnatural Risks

In the United States, extreme heat persists in some areas, and severe storm risks remain active. Within these different systems, there is a commonality: our planet. The interplay of various natural cycles affects us all. There are multiple systems and phenomena that are affecting regions across the world, including landslides, volcanic activity, and dust plumes. However, the degree to which these natural phenomena are exacerbated by climate change is still a subject of study.