The headlines this week are focused on the global impacts of the drought the US is experiencing, and areas of rapid warming and change across the globe.
Here’s an interactive map showing the development and spread of this drought.
Food Price Crisis Feared – “As the US suffers the worst drought in more than 50 years, analysts are warning that rising food prices could hit the world’s poorest countries, leading to shortages and social upheaval.”
Greenland’s Ice Sheet Melts at Unprecedented Rate – “The Greenland ice sheet melted at a faster rate this month than at any other time in recorded history, with virtually the entire ice sheet showing signs of thaw. The rapid melting over just four days was captured by three satellites. It has stunned and alarmed scientists, and deepened fears about the pace and future consequences of climate change.”
Global Warming’s Terrifying New Math – Bill McKibben in the Rolling Stone.
Corn Forecast 13% Below USDA Estimate – The harvest will probably drop to 11.327 billion bushels (287.7 million metric tons) in the year beginning Sept. 1, smaller than an 11.8 billion bushel estimate last week and the lowest in six years, said director of grain research Dan Cekander, who correctly predicted in March that soybeans will trade at the most expensive level relative to corn since 2010. Without increased rainfall, output may be smaller, he said.
US Drought Could Cause Global Unrest – “Twice in the last five years, rising food prices triggered global waves of social unrest. With drought baking U.S. crops, another round of soaring, society-straining price spikes may happen in coming months.”
Thoughts and comments are always welcome, and must be approved by NTP staff before they post.
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