Description
A study of extreme weather events (e.g., hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, blizzards, drought, etc.) from a variety of perspectives. This non-lab course examines the atmospheric processes involved in the formation, evolution, and destruction caused by these events as well as the human impact in the region affected. Historic cases and real-time events will be utilized to illustrate these processes and impacts. In addition, the impact of the recent rapid warming of Earth’s climate system on the number and severity of different extreme weather events will be studied. In particular, evidence will be examined to help determine if there has already been a change over the past century and whether further, perhaps more profound, change is likely in the future. The physical basis for these proposed changes and possible impacts on human society will also be examined.
Course Learning Outcomes
- Understand the physical science governing extreme weather events
- Recognize and understand the potential impacts of these extreme events on the communities affected
- Have an awareness of the scientific evidence assessing the likelihood of an increase in number and severity of these events due to the recent rapid warming of Earth's climate system
- Understand the physical basis by which this rapid warming could lead to a change in frequency and intensity of these events
Semester
Special Rotation