Hurricane Season this 2012 Extends an Expedition in the Atlantic

November 30 marks the end of the 2012 Atlantic Hurricane season, one that produced 19 named storms, of which 10 became hurricanes and one became a major hurricane.  The number of named storms is well above the average of 12. The number of hurricanes is also above the average of six, but the number of major hurricanes is below the average of three.

Based on the combined number, intensity, and duration of all tropical storms and hurricanes, NOAA classifies the season as above-normal.  2012 was an active year, but not exceptionally so as there were 10 busier years in the last three decades.

This season marks the second consecutive year that the mid-Atlantic and Northeast suffered devastating impacts from a named storm. Sandy, and Irene last year, caused fatalities, injuries, and tremendous destruction from coastal storm surge, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, and wind. Storms struck many parts of the country this year, including tropical storms Beryl and Debby in Florida, Hurricane Isaac in Louisiana, and Post-tropical Cyclone Sandy in New Jersey.

“This year proved that it’s wrong to think that only major hurricanes can ruin lives and impact local economies,” said Laura Furgione, acting director of NOAA’s National Weather Service. “We are hopeful that after the 2012 hurricane season, more families and businesses all along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts become more “weather ready” by understanding the risks associated with living near the coastline.  Each storm carries a unique set of threats that can be deadly and destructive. Mother Nature reminded us again this year of how important it is to be prepared and vigilant.”

An interesting aspect of the season was its early start, with two tropical storms, Alberto and Beryl, developing in May before the season officially began. Also, this is the seventh consecutive year that no major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5) have hit the United States. The only major hurricane this season was Hurricane Michael, a Category 3 storm that stayed over the open Atlantic.

Several storms this year were short in duration, weak in intensity, and went largely unnoticed by the general public because they stayed out over the Atlantic. A persistent jet stream pattern over the eastern portion of the nation helped steer many of this season’s storms away from the United States. The number of named storms and hurricanes was higher than predicted in NOAA’s pre-season outlook, in large part because El Niño – which likely would have suppressed overall storm activity – never materialized as predicted by many climate models.

Hurricane forecasters remind us that a well-established climate pattern puts us in an ongoing era of high activity for Atlantic hurricanes that began in 1995. Since that time, more than 70 percent of seasons have been above normal, including 2012. Historically, Atlantic high-activity eras have lasted 25-40 years, with the previous one occurring from the mid-1930s until 1970. Several inter-related atmospheric and oceanic factors contribute to these high activity years, including warmer Atlantic Ocean temperatures, an enhanced West African monsoon, and reduced vertical wind shear.

NOAA will release its pre-season outlook for the 2013 hurricane season in May.

NOAA’s National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts and warnings for the United States and its territories. The National Weather Service operates the most advanced weather and flood warning and forecast system in the world, helping to protect lives and property and enhance the national economy. Working with partners, the National Weather Service is building a Weather-Ready Nation to support community resilience in the face of increasing vulnerability to extreme weather. Visit us online at weather.gov and on Facebook.

NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. Visit us at www.noaa.gov and join us on Facebook, Twitter and our other social media channels.

Granite or Marble – What is the Best Countertop?

Granite or marble? What is the best granite countertop? When we build a home, we want to use all the best materials the market can offer. Sure, it is expensive. But you see, a house is the best investment we could make after all our hard work and sacrifices. A house is a reflection of the owner’s personality. We want to see luxury and elegance in every detail of our home. Even the kitchen and the bathroom needs to be perfect and flawless. A number of households use granite and marble for countertops. But what is really the best kind to use? Well, home owners should be the one to decide on this matter.

These are some of the facts about granite and marble when used as countertops.
Marble rock came from a process called metamorphism that causes recrystallization of carbonate mineral grains. There are several types of marbles that can be found in different places. These varieties of marbles come also in different colors. There are white, pink, red, green, violet, etc. Granite on the other hand, is an igneous rock formed from magma. It is physically hard and tough and mainly constructed as stones. Granite’s colors range from pink to gray.

When it comes to susceptibility to scratches, marble is more susceptible than granite. Granite can tolerate heat than marble which will somehow burn when expose to high temperatures. Marble stains more than granite. Sealants, substances used to prevent staining, are utilized applied to the surface of granite and marble. Resealing is done every six months for marble and 1-3 years for granite.

Remember to use cleaners that are not harsh. It may damage the countertop. There are a lot of factors to consider determining its cost. These factors include its country of origin, color, finish and of course, its availability. If you want to purchase, never settle for pictures. You will appreciate the stones’ color and texture when you see the real thing.

Some prefer to use marble and many love granite countertops. Well, you just have to weigh the situation. Bottom line, it is all up to you to decide which suits best for your home.

Tips in Buying Granite Countertops

An elegant and luxurious house is what every home owner wants. It is not only the architectural design of the house that makes it pleasing to the eyes. The materials used add to the stylish touch of the house. Granite countertops in kitchens contribute to its attractiveness. Because of its effects to kitchens, bathrooms, fireplaces and homes (in general), granite countertops’ popularity in the market continues to increase. A lot of home owners shift to the use of granite as countertops.
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma. Its physical properties can be described as hard and tough that is why granite is used in structures centuries ago. It has different colors ranging from pink to gray. Granite countertops are anti-bacterial, heat resistant and low rate of susceptibility against scratches. Granite is truly perfect to be used as a countertop.
Granite is one of the most expensive stone that is used for kitchen countertops. Plus, you have to pay the service of the person who will install this. Keep in mind that this investment is worth every penny. However, there are granite tiles available in the market. These are composed of granite leftovers. Luckily, these kinds are less expensive. The effect might not be what you expect from the pure granite countertop but at least, you are still suing granite. These are also easy to install. Home owners can save the money they are supposed to pay for the installer.
Some home owners require the use of granite. Because nowadays, people who want to buy houses look for granite countertops. If home owners decide to sell their houses, then it would be sold immediately. Granite countertops do not only make your kitchen elegant but it can also keep your money in your pocket because granite countertop last a lifetime.