Map Discussions
Last week a devastating ice storm ravaged parts of the United States; as of this writing, a little under 500,000 customers remain without power. Three days from now will be the first anniversary of the deadliest tornado outbreak in over 20 years. May will mark the 10th anniversary of the 3 May 1999 tornadoes in Oklahoma and southern Kansas. I know most people won’t think anything of these events, however, to me, these events are what either got me interested in meteorology or further my curiosity on the subject.
Synoptic meteorology is a sub-discipline within meteorology that focuses on analysis and prediction of large-scale atmospheric phenomena. The events mentioned above all stem from synoptic systems. Unfortunately, meteorology as a science is rapidly moving away from studying and, as a result, teaching synoptic-scale meteorology. Researchers will argue this is because there is “no money” in studying these topics, and to some degree they are true – money is going to radar research, large supercomputers for running numerical models, and building new satellites. (Congressmen need to have a large piece of “hardware” or equipment to stand in front of for their photo-op.) I had hoped when I came to OU that this “Mecca of Meteorology” would be immune to this de-emphasis. I was sadly mistaken. Norman is rapidly becoming a radar town.
So, what does this have to do with “map discussions”? I have had the fortune of being a member of a listserv that is dedicated to synoptic meteorology. Reading the emails that come across the listserv has been a source of pleasure for me lately, but at the same time, a source of disappointment. I long to have something of this locally – where students, faculty, and operational meteorologists can argue over the ongoings of the atmosphere. It is in this setting – where passionate discussion prevails – where learning occurs. It is also in this setting where the next generation of inspirational meteorologists are born.
I have been told by a great researcher – one whom I respect greatly – that if I wish to see something like this here in Norman, it’s going to take inspired students taking the initiative. It is my hope and prayer that before I graduate something like this will take hold here in Norman. I know I’ll do my part.
