SCIENCE A strong earthquake rocked Nepal early Saturday, destroying buildings, damaging historic temples, and killing more than 4,000 people. (Nat Geo News) Explore the impact of the quake and the tectonically active region of Himalayas with today’s MapMaker Interactive. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers’ Toolkit. Discussion Ideas In our video “Earthquakes 101,” we learn that most earthquakes … Continue reading Quake Devastates Nepal
ENVIRONMENT When Cyclone Pam ripped across the tiny South Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, there were fears its monstrous winds could kill thousands. But as aid workers finally reached the archipelago’s hard-hit outer islands, it appeared that residents’ careful planning had spared the lives of most. (Associated Press) Use our activity to prepare for extreme natural events in your own community. Teachers, scroll down for … Continue reading Prepared for Pam
ENVIRONMENT For the third year in a row, skies over Madagascar are black with millions of locusts—the insects of biblical fame that gobble up crops and ravage landscapes, mostly in countries where people barely get by. (NPR) Use our resources to better understand the “Lessons of a Cannibal Plague.” Thanks to Alli for the heads-up on this great current-event connection! This video, which describes Madagascar’s … Continue reading Swarming Disaster
UNITED STATES Nine wildfires are burning across San Diego County, as record dry conditions, warm temperatures, and gusty winds contribute to an early start to the Golden State’s fire season. (National Geographic News) Use our resources to make your own fire map. Discussion Ideas Take a look at the fire map above, provided by California Fire News (CFN). Compare it with this nice map from … Continue reading Wildfires Scorch San Diego
ENVIRONMENT Tornadoes left at least 17 people dead across much of the U.S. the past week. The devastation is a reminder that forecasting still needs to get better, says a leading government scientist. (National Geographic News) Learn more about preparing for tornadoes and other natural hazards. Click to enlarge and print this handy emergency-kit checklist, from the good folks at FEMA. Discussion Ideas Read through … Continue reading Improving Tornado Forecasts
