Photos: YouTube Screenshots\Fabiola Espinoza Castellon/Wikimedia Commons

Desertification in parts of southern Africa contributes to the green color of waters in the Indian Ocean, new research suggests.

International oceanographers analyzed satellite images that showed how the color of waters south-east of Madagascar had changed over time.

They found that desertification, particularly in parts of Namibia and Botswana, caused large amounts of nutrient-rich dust which was carried over long distances by wind and deposited in the ocean.

Nutrients found in the dust provided conditions for the growth of phytoplankton — microscopic algae whose green pigment colors the ocean surface.

The post Desertification In Southern Africa And The Green Waters In Indian Ocean appeared first on Black Star News.

What is a Bomb Cyclone?

Anthropomorphically, a bomb cyclone, also referred to as bombogenesis, is a storm system in which the pressure decreases at least at the rate of 24 millibars within the space of 24 hours. This pressure reduction results in continued violent storm enhancement that causes stringent weather conditions. It is a coined term from ‘‘bomb’,’ the quick development of the storm, and ‘cyclone,’ the low-pressure system behind the storm.

Also read: Top Black Cultural Landmarks in the USA: African-American Historic Places

How Do Bomb Cyclones Form?

A bomb cyclone forms over the ocean and may develop into a massive storm when a cold front comes in contact with the warm front over the water. This interaction causes the warm air to rise very fast, forming a strong low-pressure system. Meteorologists pay special attention to this kind of system, especially during the period that the formation of bombs is likely to occur, that is, during the winter season.

Consequences and Result of Bomb Cyclones

The intensity of bomb cyclones can lead to various severe weather phenomena, which may include:

Heavy Snow and Blizzards: In their waking moments, bomb cyclones are responsible for heavy, dense snows that contribute to poor visibility and difficult traveling.

High Winds: Heavy winds, in the worst case, can reach explosive levels and lead to the destruction of property, including trees and power lines, and therefore disrupt the electricity supply.

Coastal Flooding: Modern storms also pose a high risk to the coastal areas as the storms produce high levels of rainfall, and storm surges may lead to flood disasters.

Other effects of bomb cyclones include rapid fluctuations in temperatures and severe wind chill, which pose a threat of freeze-burn (frostbite) and other hypothermia-related events.

Preparing for a Bomb Cyclone

This is especially so when there is a warning that a bomb cyclone is on its way, as this is precisely what happened in the case with Ophelia. Here are some essential safety tips:

Stay Informed: Ensure you observe climate announcements and forecasts so you can know when a bomb cyclone is due to arise in your region.

Emergency Substances: Try and inventory foods, water, medications, and other essentials that would remain for numerous days in case of an emergency.

Secure Property: Be a little careful as a homeowner, particularly if you live in areas with extreme weather; you should fix your patio set and make sure your windows are well shut.

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Travel Plans: Do not travel through the bomb cyclone, if possible, as roads may become slippery from snow or the blowing wind.

Alternative Power Source: If your home is in frequent blackouts, you should buy a generator and then learn how to use it correctly.

Conclusion

It is essential for residents in states that need to be prepared on how to deal with the effects of bomb cyclones. People can in fact protect themselves during these effects if they learn what to do and prepare for them in the right way. Knowledge of the signals and possible risks connected with bomb cyclones lets communities act suitably and minimize the consequences of hazardous meteorological phenomena.

Thus, observing the above measures will help save oneself and the entire family during the strengthening storms that accompany the winter.

The post What is a Bomb Cyclone? Risks, Formation, and Safety Measures Explained appeared first on Black Star News.

Photos: CARICOM

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has identified Ministerial Champions for key negotiation areas during the Twenty-Ninth Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which began 11 November in Baku, Azerbaijan. At COP29, CARICOM Member States will advocate for urgent climate action and robust financial commitments to address the unique vulnerabilities of Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

The ministerial strategic leads who will spearhead high-level political advocacy during the negotiations and engage in key bilaterals in the margins to ensure CARICOM priorities are recognised and reflected in COP29 outcomes are:

Just Transition: The Honourable Pennelope Beckles-Robinson, Minister of Planning and Development, Government of Trinidad and Tobago; 

Finance and the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG):  The Honourable Orlando Habet, Minister of Sustainable Development and Climate Change, Government of Belize; 

Loss and Damage: Senator The Hon. Dr Shantal Munro-Knight, Minister of State for Climate Resilience in the Office of the Prime Minister of Barbados. The Honourable Carlos James, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture of St. Vincent and the Grenadines will provide support. 

Global Stocktake: The Honourable Kerryne James, Minister of Climate Resilience, the Environment, and Renewable Energy Government of Grenada; 

Markets: The Honourable Dr. Marciano Dasai, Minister of Spatial Planning and Environment, Government of Suriname; and

Adaptation: The Honourable Cozier Frederick, Minister for the Environment, Rural Modernisation and Kalinago Upliftment, Government of Dominica.

CARICOM’s approach to COP29 is anchored in the principles of limiting global warming to below 1.5°C, emphasising science-driven action and reinforcing the special circumstances of SIDS. It is a landmark year for financing as CARICOM seeks to secure a climate finance goal that guarantees access for SIDS to grant-based or concessional finance, especially for Adaptation and Loss and Damage respectively, through minimum allocation floors and highest levels of concessionality for SIDS.

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climate action climate financing COP 29 loss and damage sids sustainable development

The post Climate Change: CARICOM Identifies COP29 Ministerial Champions appeared first on Black Star News.

The Cool Down Begins in South Texas

As these front advances this evening, expect highs to remain above average through the day. Morning and evening lows will be around 60 degrees and midday highs of 84 degrees roughly 12 degrees above normal. There, as late afternoon, there will be changes in wind direction from the North, thus ushering in cool, dry weather into the region. This will go down to the low 70s by 6-7 pm, and low 60s in the middle of the night at 9-10 pm.

Thursday’s Forecast South Texas

There will be a further decline in temperatures as the night starts pulling through. Thursday morning, San Antonio will start in the low 50s, while some towns in the Hill Country could be in the mid-40s. It will not be cold for a long-time clear sky will warm temperatures to the mid- to upper 70s in the afternoon.

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Friday Morning Chill

Some of the coldest air is expected on Friday morning with lows Thursday night in the upper 40s to low 50s near San Antonio and a good reason to grab that jacket. This cold morning will again cause only low seventies in the afternoon with partly cloudy and dry weather.

Warmth and Another Front Ahead

The combination of high pressure comes in, then more chances of temperature increase over the weekend, in the mid-80s on Sunday. Turning slightly colder over the weekend with increasing winds by Sunday night, there will be a chance of showers by Monday morning. As for the forecast, there is a chance that mid-next week a more powerful cold front will arrive, and Friday and Saturday may get highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s or even in the upper 30s. These fronts will probably bring the coldest air mass for this season so far. More weather updates over the next few days as fall is finally making its way to South Texas.

Conclusion

After the round of rather warm weather in the first days of October, South Texas will have the chance to enjoy the cool weather with the help of the cold front, setting the weather for the middle of fall. Though this front will only cool this area down for the time being, another and far stronger cold front next week will bring potentially colder weather with highs in the 60s and lows that could plunge into the 40s or upper 30s. What is more, these changes are more productive as they pave the way to the fall, making a transition from recently experienced warm weather. This is an ongoing weather pattern, and you should stay tuned for reports from local meteorological departments.

The post Climate Shift in South Texas: Worry Starts Tonight with Cold Front appeared first on Black Star News.

Photos: YouTube Screenshots

NAIROBI — President William Ruto is pushing for the transition of the Kenya-led security mission in Haiti to a UN peacekeeping operation, amid concerns about its effectiveness and funding.

The proposal featured in US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken’s phone call with Ruto last week. Ruto said the move was meant to “enhance the capability of the mission.” The UN-backed multinational security mission was meant to quell Haiti’s gang violence, but its impact has been limited.

Some 430 Kenyan police officers were deployed in June, with the number expected to rise to 2,500 including more officers from Kenya and other countries.

The US has footed much of the bill for the mission but future funding is unclear following the election of Donald Trump and Republican control of Congress when they take office in January. A shift to a UN peacekeeping operation would unlock new sources of funding.

— Martin

The post Kenya Pushing For Transition Of Haiti Force To UN Peacekeeping appeared first on Black Star News.

Photos: OECS\YouTube Screenshots

Among the esteemed members newly elected to GGGI’s executive is Dr. James Fletcher, Chairman of the Executive Board of the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CCREEE). At the 13th Session of the Assembly and 17th Session of the Council of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), Members of the Assembly elected new Members of the Council for the 2025-2026 term.

Dr. Fletcher will serve as one of five Expert/Non-State Actor Members, alongside notable global leaders including Ban Ki-moon, 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations, and Bambang Brodjonegoro, former Indonesian Minister of Research and Technology and National Development Planning. His appointment comes following a strong recommendation from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission which considered his pivotal work in climate resilience and policy on a global scale and on behalf of Small Island Developing States.

Recognizing the impact of Dr. Fletcher’s service as a GGGI council member, the Director General of the OECS, Dr. Didacus Jules, highlighted,

“This appointment represents a significant opportunity for our region and the citizens of the OECS in ensuring that our perspectives are included in innovations of sustainable development. Dr. James Fletcher is an apt candidate to support the work of GGGI and its initiatives.”

Dr. Fletcher’s contributions have extended globally, particularly in international climate negotiations. As a lead negotiator for the Caribbean, he played a vital role in securing the 2015 Paris Agreement and was a core advocate for the “1.5 to stay alive” campaign, underscoring the urgency of climate action for small island nations.

The GGGI Council plays a pivotal role in shaping the strategic vision and guiding the operations of the organization, particularly as it advances green growth and sustainable development initiatives across member states. The Council is responsible for approving key strategic documents, such as GGGI’s strategy, budget, work program, and financial statements.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. James Fletcher to the GGGI Council as an Expert/Non-State Actor Member”, said Helena McLeod, Acting Director-General of GGGI. “His extensive experience and dedication to sustainable development will be invaluable in shaping our initiatives and advancing the green transition in our Member States and partner countries.” ​

Dr. Fletcher is a prominent advocate for renewable energy and sustainability in the Caribbean. Serving as Saint Lucia’s Minister for Public Service, Sustainable Development, Energy, Science, and Technology from 2011 to 2016, he led initiatives to modernize the energy sector, promoted the use of renewable energy, improved water management, and increased technology access. His distinguished career has also included roles at the OECS Commission as Director of Social and Sustainable Development. He also served as Cabinet Secretary for the Government of Saint Lucia, and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries.

Dr. Fletcher’s election highlights the Caribbean’s influence in global sustainability efforts, and his expertise is expected to strengthen GGGI’s mission to support green growth and climate resilience globally.

The post OECS National Dr. James Fletcher Elected To The Council Of Global Green Growth Institute appeared first on Black Star News.

Photos: Semafor\Nduati.githae\Wikimedia Commons

UNESCO is updating its 60-year old African history curriculum with new volumes that include African diasporas and their contributions to modern-day societies.

The General History of Africa (GHA) program was introduced in 1964 to help remedy the general ignorance of Africa’s history by reconstructing it and “freeing it from racial prejudices ensuing from slave trade and colonization,” while promoting an African perspective.

In its latest effort, the UN body is developing tools that African teachers and education policymakers can use to strengthen the teaching of the GHA program. The piloting workshop on mainstreaming African history was held in Ghana in September. The objective was to incorporate this history into national school education curricula.

“Teaching a common history to Africans is crucial in decolonizing the curriculum,” said Professor Paul Abiero, a historian at Moi University in Kenya. “But successful implementation will require financial resources, which are very limited in many countries.”

— Muchira Gachenge

The post UNESCO: How To Reconstruct African History appeared first on Black Star News.

Current Weather Situation

At this hour, Oklahoma is undergoing a series of intense thunderstorms, in which the gusts may become strong enough to cause damage at even 60 mph. This enhances the chances for these storms to have spin-up tornadoes that spin up quickly and cause fatal consequences and severe property destruction impacts. The storms are supposed to produce heavy rain with amounts of 4-6 inches for most locations, while other parts could receive 8-10 inches.
Besides the tornado warnings, some severe thunderstorm warnings exist for several counties, such as McIntosh, Muskogee, Nowata, and Wagoner. A tornado watch is ongoing for many counties until 9:00 AM, in which conditions are favorable to the development of tornadoes.

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Storm Timeline and Forecast

There is a deep trough over the western United States, with a ridge of high pressure over the southeast. This has been set up and is driving the pattern. It will allow for a persistent southerly flow that brings copious amounts of moisture into the region. Disturbances rounding the base of this trough will most certainly bring more showers and storms throughout the weekend.
The first round of the storms is expected later today and into tonight, but another round is expected for Sunday afternoon and evening. Thunderstorms are expected in the early morning hours of Monday, then more severe weather in the afternoon. With these systems moving northeast into late Monday night, Election Day should be mostly dry.

Damage Reports and Ongoing Risks

Some of these tornadoes were reported in the states of Oklahoma, near Tinker Air Force Base and Harrah. Reports of downed power lines and other hazards are being assessed through active damage crews, and the Oklahoma City Fire Department has been sent into areas of damage to check the storm in affected neighborhoods.
Residents are advised to stay informed and updated on reports through local news outlets and local weather services as the situation escalates. Flooding is also a major threat while the heavy rains continue to rise.

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Safety Precautions in Case of Tornado Warnings

If a tornado is placed under watch, its residents should prepare for that tornado to come into that area. This requires getting prepared and ready to undertake action if the conditions could worsen. When one issues a tornado warning, that is, if a tornado has been spotted or caught on radar then everybody should take appropriate measures against themselves.

Move immediately to an interior room on the lowest floor and seek a sturdy building if no better shelter is available in the case of a tornado warning. A battery-powered weather radio or mobile phone with a charger should be taken and prepared for information received through updates about the development of the storm.

With severe weather conditions today, including tornado warnings and heavy rainfall, the key for Oklahoma is to stay informed and prepared. Residents are advised to heed all warnings from local authorities and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. With ongoing risks into Monday, vigilance will be key as this weather system continues to develop across the region.

The post Live Update: Tornado Warning Issued for Central Tulsa County appeared first on Black Star News.

Photos: YouTube Screenshots\Wikimedia Commons

Google is adding 15 African languages spoken by more than 300 million people to its Voice Search, Gboard talk-to-type, and Translate dictation services.

Oromo, a language spoken by nearly 40 million people, mainly in Ethiopia, was added, along with Kikuyu, an indigenous Kenyan language with 8 million speakers.

Other languages added to Google Translate dictation include Burundi’s Rundi, Tigrinya and Amharic in Ethiopia, and Chichewa in Malawi, and Nigeria’s Igbo, Yoruba, and Pidgin.

Google’s managing director of Africa, Alex Okosi, said the additions would enable millions across the continent to “interact with the web with just their voice.”

The post Google Adding 15 African Languages To Voice Search, Other Applications appeared first on Black Star News.

Photos: Wikimedia Commons

More than a third of Africans want to live somewhere else, a new high, according to a 2023 survey by Gallup. In 2012, 29% wanted to migrate; last year the number was 37%.

Not everyone wants to leave. While more Zambians want to migrate — up 13 percentage points — there was a 15 percentage point drop in Gabon. Still, the continent’s overall increased longing to set up home elsewhere mirrors global trends. Some 16% of the global adult population in 2023 wanted to move to a different country, compared with 12% a decade ago.

Even in the United States and Canada — the top two destinations for all aspiring migrants over the past decade — more people said they wanted to move abroad, compared to the previous survey. Only in the European Union was the percentage stable, Gallup said.

The post African Migration: One-Third Of Africans Want To Leave Africa appeared first on Black Star News.