SciTech Express

Mount Fentale’s Methane Emission: A Rare Volcanic Phenomenon with Global Climate  Implications Introduction In an unprecedented event, massive methane plumes have been observed emitting from Mount Fentale , a stratovolcano located in Ethiopia’s East African Rift Valley . This event has drawn significant attention from both climate scientists and volcanologists due to its potential impact on climate change and geological activity . Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas , with a global warming potential (GWP) 80 times higher than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. Most methane emissions are anthropogenic , originating from fossil fuel extraction, agriculture, and landfill decomposition . However, natural methane emissions from volcanoes are rarely documented . This article explores: ✔ What is a stratovolcano? ✔ Mount Fentale's geological significance ✔ Why is methane being released? ✔ Methane's role in global warming ✔ Scientific studies and climate models ✔ Future i...

Mars Time Machine: Virtual Model Unlocks Red Planet’s Climate Evolution Introduction Scientists have developed a groundbreaking virtual model that acts like a "time machine" to study the climate history of Mars . This model aims to decode the evolution of Mars’ atmosphere, climate, and surface conditions over millions of years. By using advanced simulations and geological data from Mars rovers and orbiters , researchers can now track how Mars transformed from a potentially habitable planet to the barren desert it is today . Key Highlights of the Mars Climate Evolution Model Purpose of the Virtual Model The model helps scientists understand how Mars’ climate changed over billions of years . It simulates past weather patterns, atmospheric conditions, and surface transformations . It provides insights into the presence of liquid water in ancient Martian history. Mars’ Climate Evolution: What We Know So Far Early Mars (4 billion years ago): Evidence suggests that Mars once ha...

Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2025: India Among the Most Affected Nations Introduction to Climate Risk Index (CRI) The Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2025 is a globally recognized measure that ranks countries based on their vulnerability to extreme weather events over a defined period. This index assesses the impact of climate-related disasters such as floods, storms, heatwaves, and droughts. It serves as a critical indicator of how climate change affects human lives and economies across different regions. The CRI 2025 , published by German-watch , highlights India's growing vulnerability to climate-related disasters. India has been ranked as the 6th most affected country during 1993-2022 , highlighting the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events. Key Findings of CRI 2025 India's Climate Vulnerability India faced over 400 extreme weather events between 1993 and 2022 . The economic losses due to these disasters exceeded USD 180 billion . The death toll from climate-r...

Bomb Cyclone: A Rapidly Intensifying Storm What is a Bomb Cyclone? A bomb cyclone is an intense, rapidly strengthening storm system that experiences a sudden drop in atmospheric pressure . It is a powerful weather phenomenon that can cause strong winds, heavy rainfall, and extreme snowfall in affected regions. Key Characteristics of a Bomb Cyclone Definition : A storm is classified as a bomb cyclone when its central air pressure drops by at least 24 millibars (mb) within 24 hours . This process is called bombogenesis (rapid intensification of a mid-latitude cyclone). Formation Process : Occurs when cold and warm air masses collide, leading to a sharp pressure drop . Typically forms over oceanic regions where there is abundant moisture and heat exchange . Can result in extreme weather conditions , including: Hurricane-force winds Heavy snowfall & blizzards Severe thunderstorms & flooding Occurrence & Types : Most bomb cyclones develop over the North Atlantic & Pa...

Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) , Hyderabad, has been honored with the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2025 for its remarkable contributions to disaster management in India . About Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar Annual Award announced on January 23rd (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary).  Recognizes individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions in disaster management. Aims to enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities in India. INCOIS received this award for its excellence in ocean disaster monitoring and early warning systems. What is INCOIS? Full Name : Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services Established : 1999 Governing Body : Ministry of Earth Sciences ( MoES ) Affiliation : Unit of Earth System Science Organisation (ESSO) Global Recognition : Permanent member of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental ...

Keeling Curve: Tracking the Rise of Atmospheric CO₂   In 2024 , atmospheric CO₂ levels reached a record high , driven by wildfires and human activities , as reported by the Keeling Curve . This alarming rise underscores the accelerating impact of climate change on our planet. What is the Keeling Curve? The Keeling Curve is a graph that tracks the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in Earth's atmosphere over time, measured in parts per million (ppm) . It is one of the most critical indicators of long-term climate change and global warming trends. Key Facts About the Keeling Curve When & Where Did It Begin? Continuous CO₂ measurements began in 1958 at the Mauna Loa Observatory, Hawaii . It remains the longest-running and most reliable dataset on atmospheric CO₂ levels. Who Developed It? ✔ Charles David Keeling , an American scientist, pioneered the first accurate measurements of atmospheric CO₂. ✔ His work proved the direct link between human activities and rising ...

Extinction Filtering: The Silent Biodiversity Crisis What is Extinction Filtering? Extinction filtering is the gradual loss of species that are sensitive to human disturbances , leaving behind only those that can survive in degraded or altered environments . Key Aspects of Extinction Filtering  How It Works? ✔ Sensitive species disappear due to habitat destruction, pollution, or climate change. ✔ Resilient species dominate , leading to a more homogeneous ecosystem . ✔ Over time, biodiversity declines , and natural ecosystems become less stable . Causes of Extinction Filtering Deforestation & Habitat Loss – Conversion of forests into agriculture or urban spaces. Pollution & Climate Change – Rising temperatures and pollutants affecting species survival. Hunting & Poaching – Direct elimination of vulnerable species. Fragmentation of Habitats – Breaking up of ecosystems into smaller, isolated patches. Consequences of Extinction Filtering Eosystem Weakening – Reduced ...