Florida Weather and Climate: More Than Just Sunshine

Florida is home to two major climate types, is vulnerable to severe weather, and has a history of significant weather incidents. This book explores the conditions, forces, and processes behind Florida's varied and dynamic weather, including the influence of atmospheric circulation patterns, fronts, and climate change. It provides an accessible guide to Florida's dramatic weather and climate with maps, diagrams, and clear explanations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2019
Publisher: University Press of Florida

Florida is a state that experiences a wide range of climates, including tropical wet-dry and humid subtropical. It is known for its frequent occurrence of tornadoes, lightning, and thunderstorms, making it one of the most vulnerable states to these weather events. Additionally, Florida is susceptible to fog, drought, and wildfires, which can have significant impacts on the state's environment and economy.

One of the most notable natural events in Florida is the hurricane, which can cause widespread damage and loss of life. Hurricanes are formed over warm ocean waters and are characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges. Florida is located in the Atlantic Ocean, which makes it particularly vulnerable to hurricanes, with the state experiencing an average of six hurricanes per year.

The conditions that contribute to Floridas varied and dynamic weather include its location, landscape, and population. Florida is located on the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, which provide warm waters and a conducive environment for the development of hurricanes. The state's geography is also varied, with mountains, forests, and wetlands, which can affect the weather patterns in different parts of the state.

The position of the sun and the importance of evaporation and condensation are also factors that contribute to Floridas weather. The sun's rays provide energy to the Earth's atmosphere, which causes evaporation and condensation. The state's location along the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean allows for a lot of evaporation, which contributes to the formation of clouds and rain.

Atmospheric circulation patterns, such as the Hadley Cell, the Coriolis force, and the Bermuda-Azores High, also play a significant role in determining Floridas weather. These patterns bring warm and moist air from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean to the state, which can lead to the development of thunderstorms and hurricanes.

The qualities of cold, warm, stationary, and occluded fronts are also important in determining Floridas weather. Cold fronts bring cooler air from the north, which can lead to the development of snow and freezing temperatures. Warm fronts bring warmer air from the south, which can lead to the development of thunderstorms and hurricanes. Stationary fronts bring calm weather, while occluded fronts bring heavy rain and thunderstorms.

Severe weather systems and phenomena like hail and lightning occur due to a variety of factors, including atmospheric circulation patterns, temperature and humidity differences, and the presence of moisture and instability in the air. These events can cause significant damage to crops, buildings, and infrastructure, and can also pose a risk to human life.

To track and measure these events and warn citizens in danger, a number of procedures are in place. These include weather satellites, radar systems, and weather stations that provide real-time data on weather conditions. Additionally, emergency management agencies and local governments have developed warning systems and procedures to alert citizens to the potential for severe weather.

Major weather incidents from Floridas history are narrated in the book, including often overlooked accidents caused by smoke and fog. These incidents highlight the importance of preparedness and response in the face of severe weather. The book also shows how climate has changed in the past and looks ahead to what further climate change would mean for the future.

With many maps, helpful diagrams, and clear explanations, this book is an illuminating and accessible guide to Floridas dramatic weather and climate. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the conditions, forces, and processes that contribute to Floridas weather and the measures that are in place to track and measure these events. Whether you are a resident of Florida or simply interested in the weather and climate of the state, this book is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the fascinating and dynamic weather of Florida.

Weight: 432g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813064284