Submitted by Anonymous on Sun, 08/28/2011 - 13:44
Forums
Adaptations of Marine Worms in Antarctica

Mike -

I was wondering if the scientists down there are all a buzz about the major weather events that have been happening this year. The major earthquakes, hurricanes, tsunamis, etc? Are there any big weather events happening in Antarctica? Are these weather events and indicator of future weather?

Thanks, Alli

Sun, 08/28/2011 - 23:24

Michael League

Alli, Mostly I am hanging out with benthic ecologists (scientist studying
animals that live on the bottom of the ocean) and geneticists
(scientists studying DNA), so we don't have a meteorologist (scientist
who studies the weather). All of that being said, scientists are
curious and knowledgeable people, and we have had many discussions about
the earthquakes in Christchurch and then on the East Coast of the USA.
We have also had many discussions about Hurricane Irene and storm
tracks, flooding risks, air pressure, wind speeds, and more! You are
right, it has been quite a lot to take in since we arrived!
Here at McMurdo, the weather has been a little dodgy. After our
flight, we went almost a whole week before another flight arrived.
There were supposed to be 4 flights in that time!
I don't think these are necessarily indicators of future weather
events, but it does show how dynamic (changing) our planet is.
Great thoughts! Thanks for sharing.
Mike