Topic: World news

Topic

Drones offer alternative to balloons for weather research

Pre-programmed flights gather data at different altitudes then return to bases to recharge and download Weather happens in the boundary layer, the atmosphere from ground level to a few thousand metres, but this can be difficult to study in detail: weather stations are too low, and aircraft are expensive. Instrumented weather balloons are the traditional solution, and thousands are released every day. But these are at the mercy of the wind and use irreplaceable helium. Drones offer an alternative and the US company Meteomatics has taken the idea further with Meteobase, a base station on the gro

The Guardian – Weatherwatch18 Sept 2026, 11:05 UTC

Weather

From toxic blooms to dead zones, how wildfires transform oceans and lakes

Wildfire smoke and ash can reshape aquatic ecosystems long after the flames have been extinguished Wildfires are an increasing problem in Europe and elsewhere. While their immediate effect on air quality is obvious, they can also trigger less visible but significant environmental effects, including algal blooms. An algal bloom is the rapid growth of algae and other plant-like microorganisms. These blooms can become so dense that they change the colour of the lake and seas. Although most are harmless, some produce dangerous toxins. When their blooms die, their decomposition depletes oxygen in t

The Guardian – Weatherwatch18 Sept 2026, 11:05 UTC

Weather

Why El Niño can mean less rain but heavier downpours for India

El Niño is associated with weaker monsoons in India – but research suggests it can also bring more extreme rainfall The world is bracing for a “super” El Niño, and its effects are already being felt in India, where the monsoon has brought less rain than average but more intense downpours. Meteorologists predict that the current El Niño, which is developing over the Pacific, could be one of the strongest in living memory. India is likely to be heavily affected, particularly later in the monsoon, when El Niño’s influence tends to strengthen. Continue reading...

The Guardian – Weatherwatch18 Sept 2026, 11:05 UTC