Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Pickup Truck Smashed by Rock Slide Near Minturn, Driver Not Hurt
News Link
A close call, if the boulder had hit just 12 inches higher it could have been fatal.
A close call, if the boulder had hit just 12 inches higher it could have been fatal.
Monday, December 29, 2014
Sunday, December 28, 2014
3.2 Quake West of Trinidad
News Link
Looks like the waste injection well near Trinidad is on the same path as the Rocky Mountain Arsenal waste water injection well in the late 60's - hundreds of earthquakes with the occasional 5+ quake.
Looks like the waste injection well near Trinidad is on the same path as the Rocky Mountain Arsenal waste water injection well in the late 60's - hundreds of earthquakes with the occasional 5+ quake.
Friday, December 26, 2014
Rabid Horse Confirmed in Jackson County
News Link
26 horse cases since 1994, 2,000 reports of rabid raccoons.
26 horse cases since 1994, 2,000 reports of rabid raccoons.
Winter Storm Blasts Colorado with High Winds and Heavy Snowfall
News Link
100 mph+ winds in the high country. Power out in Telluride. Avalanche danger extreme.
100 mph+ winds in the high country. Power out in Telluride. Avalanche danger extreme.
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
Ice Storm Causes Many Spinouts in Foothills and Mountains
News Link
In my area, the roads were covered in black ice with dozens of vehicles stranded on the side of the road. 14" of snow and high winds are making travel in the mountains difficult.
In my area, the roads were covered in black ice with dozens of vehicles stranded on the side of the road. 14" of snow and high winds are making travel in the mountains difficult.
Monday, December 22, 2014
CDOT Completes Rock Bolting on Hwy 3 Near Durango
News Link
There have been 5 accidents caused by rockfall on this stretch of highway in the past 10 years. With an average of 8,700 vehicles per day on the highway and an average passenger load of 1.5, the incident rate is about 1 in 9 million, the same rate as the average for the whole state of Colorado. Maybe this mitigation work will knock the rate down a bit.
There have been 5 accidents caused by rockfall on this stretch of highway in the past 10 years. With an average of 8,700 vehicles per day on the highway and an average passenger load of 1.5, the incident rate is about 1 in 9 million, the same rate as the average for the whole state of Colorado. Maybe this mitigation work will knock the rate down a bit.
Saturday, December 20, 2014
Review of the Arkansas River's Deadly Toll This Summer
News Link
7 people drowned in the section in Fremont County in June and July. 7 others drowned river running in Colorado this year.
7 people drowned in the section in Fremont County in June and July. 7 others drowned river running in Colorado this year.
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Video Summary of Boulder Floods of 2013
Video
This news report surfaced in my RSS feed for some reason. It is a good video documentation of the week-long flooding in the Boulder area and downstream. Some sensationalist stuff like saying it was a 1,000 year flood ( it was somewhere in the range of a 50 to 100 year flood) and the rescue of Roy Ortiz from his van submerged in raging flood waters. After his rescue, Ortiz sued the rescue team for not getting to him fast enough. After the suit was filed, Ortiz turns out to be an illegal immigrant!
This news report surfaced in my RSS feed for some reason. It is a good video documentation of the week-long flooding in the Boulder area and downstream. Some sensationalist stuff like saying it was a 1,000 year flood ( it was somewhere in the range of a 50 to 100 year flood) and the rescue of Roy Ortiz from his van submerged in raging flood waters. After his rescue, Ortiz sued the rescue team for not getting to him fast enough. After the suit was filed, Ortiz turns out to be an illegal immigrant!
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Sunday, December 14, 2014
Saturday, December 13, 2014
Quietest 3 Year Period for Tornadoes in the US on Record
News Link
Every weather pattern goes through regular cycles of roughly 60 years, building up to an extreme maximum and then declining to an extreme minimum. The records only go back through 1953 which means one cycle or less has been observed in detail with weather satellites.
Here's the graph of the number of tornadoes in Colorado vs the number of hurricanes in the US from an earlier post. You can see that the number of tornadoes peaked in the 1990's and is currently declining toward a minimum.
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Every weather pattern goes through regular cycles of roughly 60 years, building up to an extreme maximum and then declining to an extreme minimum. The records only go back through 1953 which means one cycle or less has been observed in detail with weather satellites.
Here's the graph of the number of tornadoes in Colorado vs the number of hurricanes in the US from an earlier post. You can see that the number of tornadoes peaked in the 1990's and is currently declining toward a minimum.
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Russian Scientist Discovers 1,200 Foot Asteroid
News Link
NASA has done a good job of identifying and tracking the largest near earth asteroids but so far only 11,000 of the more than 100,000 estimated near earth objects are identified and tracked. This 1,200 foot asteroid wouldn't be a world-ender if it struck earth but would completely destroy an area the size of Colorado.
NASA has done a good job of identifying and tracking the largest near earth asteroids but so far only 11,000 of the more than 100,000 estimated near earth objects are identified and tracked. This 1,200 foot asteroid wouldn't be a world-ender if it struck earth but would completely destroy an area the size of Colorado.
Saturday, December 6, 2014
Friday, December 5, 2014
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Beavers in Breckenridge Test Positive for Tularemia
News Link
15 human cases in Colorado this year, the most since the 1980's. As with all natural hazards, there is a cycle that builds up to a maximum and then declines to a minimum, repeating over and over again.
15 human cases in Colorado this year, the most since the 1980's. As with all natural hazards, there is a cycle that builds up to a maximum and then declines to a minimum, repeating over and over again.
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Bears Still Hanging Around in Aspen After Bad Food Year
News Link
Study shows there are 2 bears for every square mile in the Roaring Fork valley.
Study shows there are 2 bears for every square mile in the Roaring Fork valley.
Monday, December 1, 2014
Saturday, November 29, 2014
Car-Elk Collision Near Del Norte
News Link
One of about 4,000 collisions that will happen this year in Colorado.
One of about 4,000 collisions that will happen this year in Colorado.
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Sunday, November 23, 2014
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Colorado Geological Survey Identifies 2 Faults Through Colorado Springs That Could Have Mag 7 Quakes
News Link
Colorado has a low to moderate earthquake potential and 7 is the maximum that could be produced, although it has never been observed. My book lays out the case that mag 7 could occur once in 500 years statistically. Colorado has been settled for less than 300 years, and the Front Range for less than 200 years.
The CGS also has this map on their website with 14 different faults throughout the mountains of Colorado capable of producing Mag 7 earthquakes (in their opinion).
Colorado has a low to moderate earthquake potential and 7 is the maximum that could be produced, although it has never been observed. My book lays out the case that mag 7 could occur once in 500 years statistically. Colorado has been settled for less than 300 years, and the Front Range for less than 200 years.
The CGS also has this map on their website with 14 different faults throughout the mountains of Colorado capable of producing Mag 7 earthquakes (in their opinion).
Friday, November 14, 2014
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Moose Wandering Along Boulder Creek Path, Tranquilized and Relocated
News Link
Boulder attracts lots of wildlife that aren't students.
Boulder attracts lots of wildlife that aren't students.
Saturday, November 8, 2014
Friday, November 7, 2014
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Study Says Different Approach Needed for Wildfire Hazard
News Link
The current approach of aggressively fighting wildfires hasn't reduced the vulnerability for people living in wildfire landscapes. The researchers recommend that wildfire hazards be approached like earthquakes, hurricanes and floods through a combination of zoning and building codes.
The current approach of aggressively fighting wildfires hasn't reduced the vulnerability for people living in wildfire landscapes. The researchers recommend that wildfire hazards be approached like earthquakes, hurricanes and floods through a combination of zoning and building codes.
Mountain Lion in Boulder's University Hill District Tranquilized for Relocation
News Link
Several pets missing in the past few weeks.
Several pets missing in the past few weeks.
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
2.7 Quake West of Trinidad
News Link
Looks like another fracking-related event - lots of oil drilling in the area.
Looks like another fracking-related event - lots of oil drilling in the area.
Parks and Wildlife Discussion of Wildlife Behavior During Seasonal Change
News Link
A lot of useful information about avoiding wildlife attacks, especially for dogs.
A lot of useful information about avoiding wildlife attacks, especially for dogs.
Friday, October 31, 2014
USGS Opinion That 2011 Trinidad 5.3 Earthquake Caused by Wastewater Injection
News Link
There has been a lot of small earthquake activity in that area recently, similar to the swarm of small quakes near the Rocky Mountain Arsenal wastewater wells in the 60's and 70's.
There has been a lot of small earthquake activity in that area recently, similar to the swarm of small quakes near the Rocky Mountain Arsenal wastewater wells in the 60's and 70's.
Video of Man Thrown from Motorcycle After Hitting Deer near Pagosa Springs
News Link
His protective gear, especially his helmet, saved him but I wonder if it blocked his peripheral vision to notice the deer along the side of the road in the first place. Definitely wear a helmet anyway.
His protective gear, especially his helmet, saved him but I wonder if it blocked his peripheral vision to notice the deer along the side of the road in the first place. Definitely wear a helmet anyway.
Thursday, October 30, 2014
The Hot New Trend - Taking Bear Selfies - It Might Be the Last Thing You Ever Do
News Link
Same thing can be said for elk and moose.
Same thing can be said for elk and moose.
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Monday, October 27, 2014
November Is Peak Time for Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions
News Link
There is a great photo of a elk calf nursing in the middle of the highway. This article has a complete set of statistics. Last year, there were 3,437 wildlife-vehicle collisions reported. 250 people were injured and there were 4 fatalities.
There is a great photo of a elk calf nursing in the middle of the highway. This article has a complete set of statistics. Last year, there were 3,437 wildlife-vehicle collisions reported. 250 people were injured and there were 4 fatalities.
Sunday, October 26, 2014
Friday, October 24, 2014
Colorado Mountain Lion Migrates to Kansas
News Link
A sign that Colorado's mountain lion population is growing.
A sign that Colorado's mountain lion population is growing.
Study Completed - 1,138 Landslides During September 2013 Floods
News Link
Most of these landlsides were debris flows - severe erosion that occurs during intense rain storms. The interesting part of the study was that most occurred on south-facing slopes. That probably means that tree-covered slopes are effective in preventing erosion.
Most of these landlsides were debris flows - severe erosion that occurs during intense rain storms. The interesting part of the study was that most occurred on south-facing slopes. That probably means that tree-covered slopes are effective in preventing erosion.
Sunday, October 19, 2014
NASA Scientists Declare Drought of 1934 the Worst in 1,000 Years
News Link
I guess it depends on what the definition of "worst" is. They used the criteria percentage of the US that had drought conditions, which was 72% in 1934. But you could also look at duration ( how many years ), or how dry it was (how low stream flow was based on tree ring studies). On the basis of those criteria, 1934 was the third or fourth worst drought in the past 1,000 years. Tree ring studies in California show a drought of 240 years duration that started in 850 AD, followed 50 years later by another drought of 180 years. I'd vote for that to be the worst drought.
I guess it depends on what the definition of "worst" is. They used the criteria percentage of the US that had drought conditions, which was 72% in 1934. But you could also look at duration ( how many years ), or how dry it was (how low stream flow was based on tree ring studies). On the basis of those criteria, 1934 was the third or fourth worst drought in the past 1,000 years. Tree ring studies in California show a drought of 240 years duration that started in 850 AD, followed 50 years later by another drought of 180 years. I'd vote for that to be the worst drought.
Saturday, October 18, 2014
Friday, October 17, 2014
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Monday, October 13, 2014
Saturday, October 11, 2014
Remnant of Tropical Storm Simon Causes Street Flooding in Colorado Springs, Snow in Mountains
News Link
The third tropical storm to cause flooding in Colorado this season.
The third tropical storm to cause flooding in Colorado this season.
Thursday, October 9, 2014
Bear Gets in Car, Can't Get Out, Trashes Car in Castle Pines
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Mountain Lion Wandering Fort Collins Relocated
News Link
18 months old - just starting out to establish its own territory heads the wrong direction.
18 months old - just starting out to establish its own territory heads the wrong direction.
Coyote in Boulder Tests Positive for Rabies
News Link
20 animals have tested positive for rabies in Boulder County this year.
20 animals have tested positive for rabies in Boulder County this year.
Sunday, October 5, 2014
Bow Hunter Feels Threatened by Mountain Lion
News Link
Hunter shoots mountain lion after it comes toward him after downing an elk.
Hunter shoots mountain lion after it comes toward him after downing an elk.
Friday, October 3, 2014
CDPHE Warns Small Game Hunters About Tularemia
News Link
Colorado has had 11 human cases this year and more that might be confirmed. The most since the 1980's.
Colorado has had 11 human cases this year and more that might be confirmed. The most since the 1980's.
Thursday, October 2, 2014
Storm Brings Golf-Ball Sized Hail to Denver, Snow to Mountains
News Link
I was driving over Wolf Creek Pass on Monday and it was total chaos. 6" of heavy snow fell quickly and semis, Winnebagos and cars were strewn across the road. My trusty Land Cruiser was able to navigate around and through the mess but most cars were spinning out.
I was driving over Wolf Creek Pass on Monday and it was total chaos. 6" of heavy snow fell quickly and semis, Winnebagos and cars were strewn across the road. My trusty Land Cruiser was able to navigate around and through the mess but most cars were spinning out.
NOAA Researcher - Last September's Floods Not Caused by Climate Change
News Link
Just what I said last year when it happened. The researcher also found the storm strikingly similar to the Boulder flood of 1938 and similar to the June, 1965 flood. Did they read my blog?, because it sounds exactly like what I posted last year when it happened.
Just what I said last year when it happened. The researcher also found the storm strikingly similar to the Boulder flood of 1938 and similar to the June, 1965 flood. Did they read my blog?, because it sounds exactly like what I posted last year when it happened.
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Colorado's 4th Case of Tularemia in Erie
News Link
I am sure that the rabbit population has exploded this year with the plentiful rain all summer.
I am sure that the rabbit population has exploded this year with the plentiful rain all summer.
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Photos of Flooding in Durango Last Weekend
News Link
I didn't catch this one - part of the residual from the Baja hurricane.
I didn't catch this one - part of the residual from the Baja hurricane.
Saturday, September 20, 2014
Mountain Lion Gets Aggressive with Steamboat Hikers
News Link
An interesting account, wrongly reported as an attack. The mountain lion was aggressive and threatening, but did not make physical contact with anyone. We had a similar incident in our Open Space park about 10 years ago, when a hiker encountered a cat that was standing over a fresh deer kill. In that case the hiker made himself "big", yelled at the cat and was able to back away slowly facing the cat the whole time, and return back down the trail.
An interesting account, wrongly reported as an attack. The mountain lion was aggressive and threatening, but did not make physical contact with anyone. We had a similar incident in our Open Space park about 10 years ago, when a hiker encountered a cat that was standing over a fresh deer kill. In that case the hiker made himself "big", yelled at the cat and was able to back away slowly facing the cat the whole time, and return back down the trail.
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Monday, September 15, 2014
Friday, September 12, 2014
Space Science Institute Has Online Tool to Estimate the Impact of Meteor Strikes
Web Link
Some interesting things can be seen with this game. If a school bus-sized meteor were to hit head-on in downtown Denver, the crater would cover most of the city and the blast zone would level buildings throughout much of the immediately surrounding suburbs. A 1,000 foot asteroid, the size of Apophis would cause a crater about 7 miles in diameter and the fireball would cause 1st degree burns all the way from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs. While a 7 mile crater sounds pretty big, the La Garita caldera from a supervolcanic eruption in Colorado 25 million years ago was 47 miles across. The chances of another supervolcanic eruption in Yellowstone are about 20 times greater than a small asteroid hitting Colorado.
Some interesting things can be seen with this game. If a school bus-sized meteor were to hit head-on in downtown Denver, the crater would cover most of the city and the blast zone would level buildings throughout much of the immediately surrounding suburbs. A 1,000 foot asteroid, the size of Apophis would cause a crater about 7 miles in diameter and the fireball would cause 1st degree burns all the way from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs. While a 7 mile crater sounds pretty big, the La Garita caldera from a supervolcanic eruption in Colorado 25 million years ago was 47 miles across. The chances of another supervolcanic eruption in Yellowstone are about 20 times greater than a small asteroid hitting Colorado.
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Big Solar Storm Headed for Earth
News Link
Scientists sure storm will disrupt power and communications, unsure whether today or the next few days and which part of earth will be facing sun when it arrives.
Scientists sure storm will disrupt power and communications, unsure whether today or the next few days and which part of earth will be facing sun when it arrives.
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Sunday, September 7, 2014
Another Case of Tularemia Surfaces in Larimer County
News Link
In this case, they think the man got it from mowing tall grass where rabbits had been. This is the first time I've heard that theory. More likely the mower ran over part of a dead rabbit or he was bitten by mosquitoes that were carrying the bacteria . That's four cases in Colorado this year, a normal number of cases.
In this case, they think the man got it from mowing tall grass where rabbits had been. This is the first time I've heard that theory. More likely the mower ran over part of a dead rabbit or he was bitten by mosquitoes that were carrying the bacteria . That's four cases in Colorado this year, a normal number of cases.
Longmont Infant with Tularemia Recovers in Hospital
News Link
Tularemia is carried mainly by rabbits. They think the child was bitten by an insect that had been in contact with a rabbit.
Tularemia is carried mainly by rabbits. They think the child was bitten by an insect that had been in contact with a rabbit.
Friday, September 5, 2014
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Friday, August 29, 2014
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
West Nile Cases in Colorado Now Stands at 43
News Link
Far below last year's pace but August and September are the months that most West Nile infections occur.
Far below last year's pace but August and September are the months that most West Nile infections occur.
2 Students Struck by Lightning in Denver
News Link
One had no pulse and was not breathing when EMTs arrived. He is in critical condition.
Look at the picture of where this happened - sitting under a tall tree in the middle of an open field. That is called a lightning rod. Seeking shelter under a tree during a lightning storm is the second most likely place to be struck by lightning. The most likely is making yourself the lightning rod by standing on high ground in an open field or on a rock outcropping.
One had no pulse and was not breathing when EMTs arrived. He is in critical condition.
Look at the picture of where this happened - sitting under a tall tree in the middle of an open field. That is called a lightning rod. Seeking shelter under a tree during a lightning storm is the second most likely place to be struck by lightning. The most likely is making yourself the lightning rod by standing on high ground in an open field or on a rock outcropping.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Plague Warning for Boulder
News Link
Prairie dog colony has die-off in open space park, fleas test positive for plague.
Prairie dog colony has die-off in open space park, fleas test positive for plague.
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
2nd Rabbit Tests Positive for Tularemia in Mesa County
News Link
Keep those kids away from dead rabbits!
Keep those kids away from dead rabbits!
Golfers Slammed to Ground By Air Blast From Lightning
News Link
At Garden of the Gods. This happened to me in Wyoming.
At Garden of the Gods. This happened to me in Wyoming.
Sunday, August 17, 2014
State Patrol Reports Vehicle-Wildlife Collisions
News Link
Few of the more than 4,000 collisions that occur each year in Colorado make the news.
Few of the more than 4,000 collisions that occur each year in Colorado make the news.
Saturday, August 16, 2014
Friday, August 15, 2014
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
2nd Case of Tularemia Reported in Larimer County
News Link
Tularemia can be spread by ticks or fleas, and fleas spread plague which also has had more cases than usual, so it must be the wet conditions are keeping the flea population up this year.
Tularemia can be spread by ticks or fleas, and fleas spread plague which also has had more cases than usual, so it must be the wet conditions are keeping the flea population up this year.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Monday, August 11, 2014
Saturday, August 9, 2014
Friday, August 8, 2014
Thursday, August 7, 2014
3 Rescuers Injured by Hiker-Triggered Rockslide on Capitol Peak
News Link
They were recovering a body from Capitol Peak. I have climbed it, it is one of the busier 14er routes in Colorado.
They were recovering a body from Capitol Peak. I have climbed it, it is one of the busier 14er routes in Colorado.
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Flash Flooding Pushes Home Off Foundation in DeBeque
News Link
Grand Junction had a record 1.2" of rain in less than one hour.
Grand Junction had a record 1.2" of rain in less than one hour.
Woman "Stalked" by Mountain Lion on Trail Near Placerville
News Link
An interesting, detailed account of the experience.
An interesting, detailed account of the experience.
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Friday, August 1, 2014
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Colorado's 5th West Nile Case of Season in Mesa County
News Link
Very few West Nile cases this year, way down from 2013.
Very few West Nile cases this year, way down from 2013.
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Monday, July 28, 2014
Friday, July 25, 2014
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Lightning Sparks Small Wildfire Near Steamboat Springs
News Link
In the same area as one of the largest wildfires in Colorado history in 2002.
In the same area as one of the largest wildfires in Colorado history in 2002.
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Monday, July 21, 2014
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Broomfield Resident Tests Positive for Tularemia
News Link
The second case in Colorado this year. Colorado averages about 4 cases per year.
The second case in Colorado this year. Colorado averages about 4 cases per year.
Saturday, July 19, 2014
Mountain Lion Attacks 2 Dogs in Glenwood Springs
News Link
I wonder if this is one the 2 young mountain lions seen there last spring.
I wonder if this is one the 2 young mountain lions seen there last spring.
3 Additional Cases of Plague Reported by CDPHE
News Link
All cases are believed linked to the dog owned by the first person to contract pneumonic plague. The dog is believed to have been bitten by fleas that obtained the plague from prairie dogs or rabbits. The dog spread it to the people via inhalation. The health department's privacy policy doesn't allow identification of who was affected.
All cases are believed linked to the dog owned by the first person to contract pneumonic plague. The dog is believed to have been bitten by fleas that obtained the plague from prairie dogs or rabbits. The dog spread it to the people via inhalation. The health department's privacy policy doesn't allow identification of who was affected.
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Residents in Cascade Cleanup After Severe Flooding
News Link
Cascade is located upstream of Manitou Springs on Hwy 24 and Fountain Creek. The Waldo Canyon fire of 2012 burned much of the surrounding high country.
Cascade is located upstream of Manitou Springs on Hwy 24 and Fountain Creek. The Waldo Canyon fire of 2012 burned much of the surrounding high country.
A Little-Known Natural Hazard
News Link
This story is from London where a crystal doorknob focused the sun's rays and started a fire.
Something similar happened in my house about 5 years ago. My wife had a small makeup mirror with a stand in our bathroom. It was a circular 2-sided mirror with a flat mirror on one side and a concave mirror on the other. Every day about 2 PM I would smell smoke and could not figure out where it was coming from. Finally, I looked in our bathroom and there was smoke coming from a small spot on the woodwork framing the window. The afternoon sun came in a west facing window, hit the concave mirror sitting at about a 45 degree angle on the counter top, and reflected a focused light beam on the woodwork. Over a week's time it had burnt a hole about 1 inch in diameter and 1/2 inch deep - quite the repair job and quite lucky a fire didn't start!
This story is from London where a crystal doorknob focused the sun's rays and started a fire.
Something similar happened in my house about 5 years ago. My wife had a small makeup mirror with a stand in our bathroom. It was a circular 2-sided mirror with a flat mirror on one side and a concave mirror on the other. Every day about 2 PM I would smell smoke and could not figure out where it was coming from. Finally, I looked in our bathroom and there was smoke coming from a small spot on the woodwork framing the window. The afternoon sun came in a west facing window, hit the concave mirror sitting at about a 45 degree angle on the counter top, and reflected a focused light beam on the woodwork. Over a week's time it had burnt a hole about 1 inch in diameter and 1/2 inch deep - quite the repair job and quite lucky a fire didn't start!
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Parks and Wildlife Could Have Easily Avoided Problem with Cow Elk in Steamboat
News Link
Parks and Wildlife has now captured the calf of that was abandoned when they relocated the mom to the Flat Tops Wilderness. This whole sorry situation could have been avoided by closing the trail to the public like they are doing with moose near Maroon Bells.
Parks and Wildlife has now captured the calf of that was abandoned when they relocated the mom to the Flat Tops Wilderness. This whole sorry situation could have been avoided by closing the trail to the public like they are doing with moose near Maroon Bells.
Monday, July 14, 2014
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Survivor of 1994 Storm King Mountain Fire Makes a Film About It
News Link
Eric Hipke - an incredible story. Not sure how to get a hold of this film - it is apparently a training film for forest service firefighters.
Eric Hipke - an incredible story. Not sure how to get a hold of this film - it is apparently a training film for forest service firefighters.
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Lightning Strike Kills 1, Injures 7 Other Hikers in Rocky Mountain National Park
News Link
The hikers were on a trail just off of Trail Ridge Road. Trail Ridge Road, as the name implies, is an exposed high point along the continental divide that is one big lightning rod. Just about every year, out-of-state tourists that are unaware of the risk of hiking on exposed mountain ridges in the afternoon are struck in Rocky Mountain National Park. RMNP and the Pike's Peak area near Colorado Springs have had the most incidents of lightning strike casualties in Colorado over the past 60 years.
The hikers were on a trail just off of Trail Ridge Road. Trail Ridge Road, as the name implies, is an exposed high point along the continental divide that is one big lightning rod. Just about every year, out-of-state tourists that are unaware of the risk of hiking on exposed mountain ridges in the afternoon are struck in Rocky Mountain National Park. RMNP and the Pike's Peak area near Colorado Springs have had the most incidents of lightning strike casualties in Colorado over the past 60 years.
Friday, July 11, 2014
Elk Cow in Steamboat Relocated to Flat Tops, Calf Left to Fend on Its Own
News Link
The photo shows 2 dogs off-leash harassing the elk. When this happens with a moose at Maroon Lake the trails are closed to the public - seems like an inconsistent policy. Maybe the dogs should be trapped and relocated.
The photo shows 2 dogs off-leash harassing the elk. When this happens with a moose at Maroon Lake the trails are closed to the public - seems like an inconsistent policy. Maybe the dogs should be trapped and relocated.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Colorado Man Diagnosed with Rare Pneumonic Plague
News Link
This unusual case was a transmission of the disease from the man's dog. The dog is believed to have been infected by flea bites or inhalation in an eastern Colorado county.
This unusual case was a transmission of the disease from the man's dog. The dog is believed to have been infected by flea bites or inhalation in an eastern Colorado county.
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Hiker Encounters Moose at Air Force Academy
News Link
Moose were introduced into northern Colorado in the 1970's. The moose population has thrived and grown but for the most part has stayed north of I-70. This siting shows that the population is expanding southward.
Moose were introduced into northern Colorado in the 1970's. The moose population has thrived and grown but for the most part has stayed north of I-70. This siting shows that the population is expanding southward.
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Rock Slide Closes Hwy 14 in Poudre Canyon
News Link
The monsoon brings heavy rains which cause landslides.
The monsoon brings heavy rains which cause landslides.
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Friday, July 4, 2014
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Rita Valentine Trail Near Steamboat Closed Because of Aggressive Elk
News Link
Mother elk protective of its calf. Probably hikers with dogs involved here also.
Mother elk protective of its calf. Probably hikers with dogs involved here also.
Maroon Lake Trail Closed After Multiple Moose Incidents
News Link
Moose think dogs are wolves and charge.
Moose think dogs are wolves and charge.
Bull Elk Spotted in Urban Lakewood
News Link
Unusual to see elk this far into Denver urban development.
Unusual to see elk this far into Denver urban development.
Monday, June 30, 2014
Saturday, June 28, 2014
Bear Protecting Cubs Attacks Woman While Jogging
News Link
Doesn't say where in Colorado this happened.
Doesn't say where in Colorado this happened.
Severe Thunderstorms Over Eastern Plains
News Link
Tornado spotted on the ground in Kit Carson County.
Tornado spotted on the ground in Kit Carson County.
Friday, June 27, 2014
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Monday, June 23, 2014
West Nile Researcher Says There Could Be a Lot of Cases This Year
News Link
Recent wet conditions with summer warm up adds up to a lot of mosquitoes which transmit the disease. Birds carry the disease and both humans and horses are at risk. The mosquitoes that carry West Nile are most active at dawn and dusk. Most cases in Colorado occur where there are a lot of irrigation canals and ponds in the Ft Collins-Greeley-Longmount area and the Grand Junction-Montrose-Delta area. There were 322 cases reported in 2013 with 7 deaths.
Recent wet conditions with summer warm up adds up to a lot of mosquitoes which transmit the disease. Birds carry the disease and both humans and horses are at risk. The mosquitoes that carry West Nile are most active at dawn and dusk. Most cases in Colorado occur where there are a lot of irrigation canals and ponds in the Ft Collins-Greeley-Longmount area and the Grand Junction-Montrose-Delta area. There were 322 cases reported in 2013 with 7 deaths.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Friday, June 20, 2014
Research Shows Large Catastrophic Floods on the Colorado River Happened 40 Times in the Past 2,000 Years
News Link
The researchers found that the so-called 100-year and 500-year flood events statistically calculated from the relatively short stream gauge records have happened far more often. The 500-year flood calculated from stream gauge records was exceeded 26 times in the past 2,000 years - an average of once every 77 years. This is completely consistent with the obviously wrong conclusions that the floods in the Boulder area last September were 1 in 500-year or 1 in 1,000-year events caused by global warming. Big Thompson Canyon has had 2 "500-year flood events" in the past 40 years. As I stated last September, it is pretty clear that the traditional flood frequency estimates based on limited stream gauge records are flawed and way off the mark. Tree ring studies dating back 1,000 years along the Colorado River have shown that the climate has gone through a regular cycle of extreme drought to extreme wet. Past cycles have shown both more extreme drought conditions and more extreme wet conditions than have happened in the past 100 years.
The researchers found that the so-called 100-year and 500-year flood events statistically calculated from the relatively short stream gauge records have happened far more often. The 500-year flood calculated from stream gauge records was exceeded 26 times in the past 2,000 years - an average of once every 77 years. This is completely consistent with the obviously wrong conclusions that the floods in the Boulder area last September were 1 in 500-year or 1 in 1,000-year events caused by global warming. Big Thompson Canyon has had 2 "500-year flood events" in the past 40 years. As I stated last September, it is pretty clear that the traditional flood frequency estimates based on limited stream gauge records are flawed and way off the mark. Tree ring studies dating back 1,000 years along the Colorado River have shown that the climate has gone through a regular cycle of extreme drought to extreme wet. Past cycles have shown both more extreme drought conditions and more extreme wet conditions than have happened in the past 100 years.
A Novel Way to Control Plague in Prairie Dogs
News Link
Research being conducted by Colorado Parks and Wildlife near Durango is using a vaccine to try and prevent large outbreaks of plague in rodent populations. Peanut butter flavored pellets are the delivery system for the vaccine. Limiting plague in rodents is a way to reduce the potential for people to be exposed.
Research being conducted by Colorado Parks and Wildlife near Durango is using a vaccine to try and prevent large outbreaks of plague in rodent populations. Peanut butter flavored pellets are the delivery system for the vaccine. Limiting plague in rodents is a way to reduce the potential for people to be exposed.
New Viral Threat Chikungunya Similar to West Nile
News Link
165 cases in the southern US were all contracted outside the US. Health officials see the spread of this disease as very similar to West Nile and probably will be here in the next few years. it is not fatal, like West Nile can be, but symptoms are more intense than the worst flu you've ever had.
165 cases in the southern US were all contracted outside the US. Health officials see the spread of this disease as very similar to West Nile and probably will be here in the next few years. it is not fatal, like West Nile can be, but symptoms are more intense than the worst flu you've ever had.
Thursday, June 19, 2014
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Friday, June 13, 2014
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
US Wildlife Officials Killed More than 4 Million Wild Animals in 2013
News Link
In the name of safety and property protection, the natural hazards removed were a surprisingly large number. Most are birds removed in the vicinity of airports. The second largest group is coyotes.
In the name of safety and property protection, the natural hazards removed were a surprisingly large number. Most are birds removed in the vicinity of airports. The second largest group is coyotes.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Tornado Stories
Monday, June 9, 2014
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Saturday, June 7, 2014
Thursday, June 5, 2014
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Colorado's May Hail Storms Caused $109 Million in Damages
News Link
18,000 car insurance claims and 10,000 property damage claims so far. My garden took a beating :(
18,000 car insurance claims and 10,000 property damage claims so far. My garden took a beating :(
Wildlife Officer Chases Bear in Lovelnad
News Link
Looks just like the typical action scene from a movie - check out the moves by the bear.
Looks just like the typical action scene from a movie - check out the moves by the bear.
Monday, June 2, 2014
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Saturday, May 31, 2014
Friday, May 30, 2014
2-Year-Old Boy Hospitalized After Rattlesnake Bite
News Link
A young mom with a 6-year-old and 2-year old was more than a mile up the trail in Devil's Backbone Park near Loveland when the rattlesnake bit the 2-year-old. A good samaritan ran carrying the child down to the trail head to waiting med evac.
A young mom with a 6-year-old and 2-year old was more than a mile up the trail in Devil's Backbone Park near Loveland when the rattlesnake bit the 2-year-old. A good samaritan ran carrying the child down to the trail head to waiting med evac.
Flash Flood Watch for NE Colorado
News Link
Snow melt has also led to a Flood Watch for the Colorado River and the Cache la Poudre.
Snow melt has also led to a Flood Watch for the Colorado River and the Cache la Poudre.
Lake Forming at Head of Landslide
News link
Water is filling the void created at the top of the Colbran landslide and could cause a catastrophic failure similar to the failure of a dam. People downstream all the way to the town of Colbran are being told to be ready to evacuate.
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Doctor Develops Simple Solution for Flesh-Eating Disease
News Link
Flesh-eating bacteria occur naturally in soils, and when incorporated into a deep scrape from a bicycle crash or other type of fall can quickly ravage a person's body. This is a rare occurrence in Colorado, perhaps a dozen cases per decade. The technique uses irrigation with a chlorine solution which is more effective than the traditional approach of surgically removing infected flesh. Sounds much better than amputation.
Flesh-eating bacteria occur naturally in soils, and when incorporated into a deep scrape from a bicycle crash or other type of fall can quickly ravage a person's body. This is a rare occurrence in Colorado, perhaps a dozen cases per decade. The technique uses irrigation with a chlorine solution which is more effective than the traditional approach of surgically removing infected flesh. Sounds much better than amputation.
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Denver Post Live Blog Update on Colbran Landslide
News Link
Photos of the landslide show it is located in remote unpopulated area. Does not look good for 3 missing men. They are a family of ranchers who were inspecting damage to an irrigation ditch from the first movements of the slide when the big one let go.
Photos of the landslide show it is located in remote unpopulated area. Does not look good for 3 missing men. They are a family of ranchers who were inspecting damage to an irrigation ditch from the first movements of the slide when the big one let go.
Monday, May 26, 2014
Saturday, May 24, 2014
Treed Bear in Cortez Returned to Wild
News Link
Check out the photo of firemen with a blanket waiting to catch a falling 350 pound bear. There must have been some sore arms after that one.
Check out the photo of firemen with a blanket waiting to catch a falling 350 pound bear. There must have been some sore arms after that one.
Flash Flooding Hits Loveland, Manitou Springs
News Link
3.5" of rain in one hour in Loveland, 5.5" in 24 hours. Definitely a rate that will cause flash-flooding.
3.5" of rain in one hour in Loveland, 5.5" in 24 hours. Definitely a rate that will cause flash-flooding.
Friday, May 23, 2014
Denver Post Puts Together Nice Interactive Graphic on Tornado History in Colorado
News Link
Gives a very good representation of where tornadoes have happened. There are a few minor errors in the database. The map shows an F3 tornado near Fowler Colorado on October 20, 1953. There is a tornado in the NOAA database for this location and date but it was never confirmed nor classified. A tornado shown as an F4 in the very southeastern corner of Colorado on May 18, 1977 was almost entirely in New Mexico and may have just crossed the state line at an unknown F rating. The article states that 3 people have been killed by tornadoes since 1950 but the total is 5 - 2 were killed near Holyoke in an F3 tornado on June 27, 1960.
Gives a very good representation of where tornadoes have happened. There are a few minor errors in the database. The map shows an F3 tornado near Fowler Colorado on October 20, 1953. There is a tornado in the NOAA database for this location and date but it was never confirmed nor classified. A tornado shown as an F4 in the very southeastern corner of Colorado on May 18, 1977 was almost entirely in New Mexico and may have just crossed the state line at an unknown F rating. The article states that 3 people have been killed by tornadoes since 1950 but the total is 5 - 2 were killed near Holyoke in an F3 tornado on June 27, 1960.
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Woman Stomped by Moose near Blackhawk
News Link
Incredible description of a bull moose that knocks woman down and then returns repeatedly to stomp her breaking 4 ribs. Another case of dogs running off leash.
Incredible description of a bull moose that knocks woman down and then returns repeatedly to stomp her breaking 4 ribs. Another case of dogs running off leash.
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Mountain Lions Dine on Deer in Boulder Backyard
News Link
This happens all the time in foothills residential areas adjacent to open space. After a kill, the cats usually drag the deer to a nearby secluded location. The cougars are very protective of their food and dogs or humans that get too close are at risk of being attacked.
This happens all the time in foothills residential areas adjacent to open space. After a kill, the cats usually drag the deer to a nearby secluded location. The cougars are very protective of their food and dogs or humans that get too close are at risk of being attacked.
Monday, May 12, 2014
Mother's Day Winter Storm Could be in Top 10 May Snowfall Events for Denver
News Link
Th record event was a 5 day storm in 1898 that dumped 15.5 inches.
Snow in May is normal for the Front Range but this is the first time in the 30 years I have lived here that I have seen a full blown winter storm with below freezing temperatures during the day. There are 2 hummingbirds that camped out in this tree overnight that might not make it.
Th record event was a 5 day storm in 1898 that dumped 15.5 inches.
Snow in May is normal for the Front Range but this is the first time in the 30 years I have lived here that I have seen a full blown winter storm with below freezing temperatures during the day. There are 2 hummingbirds that camped out in this tree overnight that might not make it.
Sunday, May 11, 2014
Saturday, May 10, 2014
Tornadoes Hit Colorado and Minnesota
News Link
Colorado has had F3 tornadoes during May in 1958, 1971, 1996 and 2001.
Colorado has had F3 tornadoes during May in 1958, 1971, 1996 and 2001.
Thursday, May 8, 2014
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Smalll Wildfire Breaks Out North of Silverthorne
News Link
Dry conditions persist but some moisture is coming tonight through next week.
Dry conditions persist but some moisture is coming tonight through next week.
Monday, May 5, 2014
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Mountain Lions Sighted Numerous Times in Glenwood Springs
News Link
Look at the photo of the mountain lion. This is a young one. As I've said many times before, mountain lion sightings like this are common when 18 month old cubs are sent off by their moms in the spring to find their own territory. Some of them have not developed any fear of humans and seem "bold". It is true that the few mountain lion attacks that have occurred in Colorado have been young ones that have not figured out what they are supposed to do, like this one, so it is wise to keep your distance. Mountain lions usually have 2 or 3 cubs, so the multiple sightings make sense for a batch that have just been let go by the mother. Usually, they figure things out in about a month or less and are not seen again.
Look at the photo of the mountain lion. This is a young one. As I've said many times before, mountain lion sightings like this are common when 18 month old cubs are sent off by their moms in the spring to find their own territory. Some of them have not developed any fear of humans and seem "bold". It is true that the few mountain lion attacks that have occurred in Colorado have been young ones that have not figured out what they are supposed to do, like this one, so it is wise to keep your distance. Mountain lions usually have 2 or 3 cubs, so the multiple sightings make sense for a batch that have just been let go by the mother. Usually, they figure things out in about a month or less and are not seen again.
Monday, April 28, 2014
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
New Study Shows Asteroids Strike More Often
News Link
A new study shows that asteroid explosions in the atmosphere with a force greater than a nuclear bomb happen twice per year. Since 70% of the earth is covered by oceans, most are not observed by people. Perhaps 10% of the earth's surface is inhabited by people. That works out to about once per decade over inhabited areas. The last one observed was over Russia last year, which injured over 1,000 people.
A new study shows that asteroid explosions in the atmosphere with a force greater than a nuclear bomb happen twice per year. Since 70% of the earth is covered by oceans, most are not observed by people. Perhaps 10% of the earth's surface is inhabited by people. That works out to about once per decade over inhabited areas. The last one observed was over Russia last year, which injured over 1,000 people.
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Saturday, April 19, 2014
University of Colorado Researcher Unlocks Mystery of West Nile Virus
News Link
Discovery of how the virus attaches to cells and reproduces may lead to treatments and vaccine.
Discovery of how the virus attaches to cells and reproduces may lead to treatments and vaccine.
Dumb and Dumber
News Link
People (visitors?) in Vail are surrounding an injured elk and having their pictures taken. I am sure they will sue Vail when the elk heaves one of them over its shoulder.
People (visitors?) in Vail are surrounding an injured elk and having their pictures taken. I am sure they will sue Vail when the elk heaves one of them over its shoulder.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
More Earthquakes in Challis
News Link
Here's the quote from the state geologist:
Here's the quote from the state geologist:
"Much is perplexing about the series of tremors, said Bill Phillips, a geologist with the Idaho Geological Survey at the University of Idaho. Such earthquake swarms typically are associated with the movement of molten rock below ground, which geologists credited for the recent quake cluster at Yellowstone National Park, or they are linked to an active fault."
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Red Cross Offers Free Apps for Natural Hazards
News Link
A really good idea from the Red Cross on what to do when confronted by a natural hazard. Covers everything from floods, tornadoes, wildfires, and earthquakes to people and pet first aid.
A really good idea from the Red Cross on what to do when confronted by a natural hazard. Covers everything from floods, tornadoes, wildfires, and earthquakes to people and pet first aid.
Sunday, April 13, 2014
4.9 Earthquake Rattles Challis, Idaho near Yellowstone
News Link
Challis has been hit by a swarm of about 20 earthquakes in the past 2 weeks. It is located about 150 miles west of Yellowstone and lies on a fault connected to the fault that runs through Yellowstone. Yellowstone had a 4.8 quake two weeks ago.
Challis has been hit by a swarm of about 20 earthquakes in the past 2 weeks. It is located about 150 miles west of Yellowstone and lies on a fault connected to the fault that runs through Yellowstone. Yellowstone had a 4.8 quake two weeks ago.
Saturday, April 12, 2014
Another Small Earthquake in the San Luis Valley
News Link
This one is magnitude 3.1. Two weeks ago there was a 2.7. Magma moving?
This one is magnitude 3.1. Two weeks ago there was a 2.7. Magma moving?
Monday, April 7, 2014
Minneapolis Father and Son Hiking at Echo Lake Missing Since Wednesday
News Link
Doesn't look promising for these two. I drove across the mountains this morning and it was a complete white-out blizzard.
Doesn't look promising for these two. I drove across the mountains this morning and it was a complete white-out blizzard.
Saturday, April 5, 2014
Friday, April 4, 2014
Meteorite Narrowly Misses Norwegian Wingsuit Skydiver
News Link
Amazing helmet cam view of a basketball-sized meteorite whizzing by. It makes me think that meteorites of this size hitting the earth are far more common than reported.
Update: After thinking about it, what happened might have been rockfall. It wasn't moving that fast and wasn't hot like a meterorite that just went through earth's atmosphere.
Amazing helmet cam view of a basketball-sized meteorite whizzing by. It makes me think that meteorites of this size hitting the earth are far more common than reported.
Update: After thinking about it, what happened might have been rockfall. It wasn't moving that fast and wasn't hot like a meterorite that just went through earth's atmosphere.
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Ridiculous Mountain Lion Article in Durango
News Link
A mountain lion killed a fawn within the city limits of Durango - this is news? and a tragedy? Guess what - mountain lions eat one deer every week or two.
A mountain lion killed a fawn within the city limits of Durango - this is news? and a tragedy? Guess what - mountain lions eat one deer every week or two.
Monday, March 31, 2014
SE Colorado Under Red Flag Warning
News Link
High winds and continued severe drought conditions in SE Colorado are ripe conditions for a wildfire. This time of year lightning is not usually a factor, so it would have to be a man-made ignition source like sparks from a skidding vehicle or live cigarette butts out the window.
High winds and continued severe drought conditions in SE Colorado are ripe conditions for a wildfire. This time of year lightning is not usually a factor, so it would have to be a man-made ignition source like sparks from a skidding vehicle or live cigarette butts out the window.
4.8 Earthquake in Yellowstone Biggest in 34 Years
News Link
Scientists say there is no danger for a repeat of a supervolcanic eruption.
Scientists say there is no danger for a repeat of a supervolcanic eruption.
Friday, March 28, 2014
100 Acre Grass Wildfire near Pike's Peak
News Link
Despite last September's soaking, it's been a dry winter on the plains.
Despite last September's soaking, it's been a dry winter on the plains.
Small 2.7 Earthquake in San Luis Valley
News Link
This an old volcanic rift zone dotted with volcano cones from Alamosa south, continuing into Mew Mexico. I'm always interested to see if volcanic activity will start again in this area.
This an old volcanic rift zone dotted with volcano cones from Alamosa south, continuing into Mew Mexico. I'm always interested to see if volcanic activity will start again in this area.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Flash Flood Risk High in Boulder and Larimer County for This Spring
News Link
A combination of the 3rd largest snow pack in 35 years with saturated ground conditions from last September's floods. Historically, Front Range catastrophic floods tend to come in bunches followed by periods of a decade or more of no flooding. Last year's flood was the first catastrophic flood in northern Colorado since 1997. Clear Creek and Bear Creek are overdue for a big one.
A combination of the 3rd largest snow pack in 35 years with saturated ground conditions from last September's floods. Historically, Front Range catastrophic floods tend to come in bunches followed by periods of a decade or more of no flooding. Last year's flood was the first catastrophic flood in northern Colorado since 1997. Clear Creek and Bear Creek are overdue for a big one.
Cougar Lounging on Decks in Aspen
News Link
This happens in the spring when cubs are about 18 months and are let go by Mom to go fend for themselves but they haven't quite figured out what to do yet.
This happens in the spring when cubs are about 18 months and are let go by Mom to go fend for themselves but they haven't quite figured out what to do yet.
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Snohomish Landslide in Washington Slid Many Times in Past 60 Years
News Link
An article from the Seattle Times documents how the area that slid 2 days ago, with 14 dead and 176 missing, was called "Slide Hill" by locals in the 1960's. The head of Snohomish County's Department of Emergency Management claimed “It was considered very safe,” Pennington said. “This was a completely unforeseen slide. This came out of nowhere.” So, even if you do know what has happened in the past, like the last time this landslide moved down the hill in 2006, you can choose to put your hands over your eyes and claim you never saw it coming.
An article from the Seattle Times documents how the area that slid 2 days ago, with 14 dead and 176 missing, was called "Slide Hill" by locals in the 1960's. The head of Snohomish County's Department of Emergency Management claimed “It was considered very safe,” Pennington said. “This was a completely unforeseen slide. This came out of nowhere.” So, even if you do know what has happened in the past, like the last time this landslide moved down the hill in 2006, you can choose to put your hands over your eyes and claim you never saw it coming.
Monday, March 24, 2014
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Parks and Wildlife Has Received 33 Reports of Mountain Lion Sightings in Colorado Springs Area
News Link
A surprisingly high number. 5 were reports of attacks on dogs.
A surprisingly high number. 5 were reports of attacks on dogs.
Friday, March 21, 2014
German Snowboarder Dies after Hitting Tree at Snowmass
News Link
The article also mentions that a 56-year-old man died at Aspen after hitting a tree while snowboarding January 11.
The article also mentions that a 56-year-old man died at Aspen after hitting a tree while snowboarding January 11.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
CDOT Warns That It Is Rockslide Season
News Link
Freeze-thaw action this time of year loosens rock faces. Clear Creek Canyon, the I-70 corridor from Idaho Springs to Georgetown Hill and Glenwood Canyon are all potential rockfall areas.
Freeze-thaw action this time of year loosens rock faces. Clear Creek Canyon, the I-70 corridor from Idaho Springs to Georgetown Hill and Glenwood Canyon are all potential rockfall areas.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Wildfires Possible in March
Monday, March 17, 2014
Moose and Calf Wandering around Silverthorne
News Link
Dogs running off-leash and moose protecting their calves were a recipe for attacks and serious injuries for several people in Colorado last year.
Dogs running off-leash and moose protecting their calves were a recipe for attacks and serious injuries for several people in Colorado last year.
Sunday, March 16, 2014
Thursday, March 13, 2014
A Couple of Recent Stories About People that Just Don't Get It about Natural Hazards
Here's a story in the Coloradoan about some brain-dead parents that let their kids walk up to a bull elk in Rocky Mountain National Park. The rack on the elk is bigger than the kids.
News Link
Then there is the case of Roy Ortiz, rescued from his submerged SUV in the floods last September.
News Link
He is suing the rescuers for $500,000. Putting himself into the top tier of irresponsible, unaccountable, "it wasn't me", in a category by himself as he explains: The rescuers took too long to get to him, causing psychological damage and problems with one shoulder. Further raising his credibility, Ortiz is also going after Boulder County, saying they are accountable for allowing him to drive across the flooded road. My own opinion is that he should go after the Motor Vehicle Division for allowing him to have a driver's license. He is also suing the insurance companies of the drivers of 2 cars that were in the flood waters with him for medical expenses he incurred. Apparently, he didn't have car insurance or health insurance to cover his injuries and hospital costs. The lawyer that convinced him to move forward with these suits should be disbarred.
Update: 3/14
News Link
Turns out, Roy Ortiz is also an illegal immigrant. Maybe he should sue the US government that caused his injuries by allowing him to be here illegally. Or he could sue his lawyer for fraud for representing that he is a qualified attorney. The attorney made this unbelievable statement:
"If divers went into the water in an attempt to locate Roy and they didn't see him there, as dangerous a job that it is - and we are thankful for first responders - that was a mistake. And the legal term for that mistake is negligence."
This attorney's twisted logic along with a lack of understanding of what negligence is, really should at a minimum make him liable for the costs that will be incurred by the government and the individual responders to defend against this suit. Let's see, guys are risking their lives trying to swim in turbid water carrying tree limbs and other debris at 5 feet per second attempting to check out three different vehicles, and they are negligent because they didn't see him?! First responders- you should sue the attorney for wrongful defamation of character.
News Link
Then there is the case of Roy Ortiz, rescued from his submerged SUV in the floods last September.
News Link
He is suing the rescuers for $500,000. Putting himself into the top tier of irresponsible, unaccountable, "it wasn't me", in a category by himself as he explains: The rescuers took too long to get to him, causing psychological damage and problems with one shoulder. Further raising his credibility, Ortiz is also going after Boulder County, saying they are accountable for allowing him to drive across the flooded road. My own opinion is that he should go after the Motor Vehicle Division for allowing him to have a driver's license. He is also suing the insurance companies of the drivers of 2 cars that were in the flood waters with him for medical expenses he incurred. Apparently, he didn't have car insurance or health insurance to cover his injuries and hospital costs. The lawyer that convinced him to move forward with these suits should be disbarred.
Update: 3/14
News Link
Turns out, Roy Ortiz is also an illegal immigrant. Maybe he should sue the US government that caused his injuries by allowing him to be here illegally. Or he could sue his lawyer for fraud for representing that he is a qualified attorney. The attorney made this unbelievable statement:
"If divers went into the water in an attempt to locate Roy and they didn't see him there, as dangerous a job that it is - and we are thankful for first responders - that was a mistake. And the legal term for that mistake is negligence."
This attorney's twisted logic along with a lack of understanding of what negligence is, really should at a minimum make him liable for the costs that will be incurred by the government and the individual responders to defend against this suit. Let's see, guys are risking their lives trying to swim in turbid water carrying tree limbs and other debris at 5 feet per second attempting to check out three different vehicles, and they are negligent because they didn't see him?! First responders- you should sue the attorney for wrongful defamation of character.
Horses Can be Vaccinated Against Rabies
Most horses are kept in areas where rabid skunks, foxes or raccoon can get into. There were 47 cases of equine rabies in 2012.
News Link
News Link
Monday, March 10, 2014
Africanized Bees Sting California Woman More Than 1,000 Times
A surprising series of events.
News Link
We don't have Africanized bees in Colorado yet, but if the climate continues to warm they could make it to southeastern Colorado someday.
News Link
We don't have Africanized bees in Colorado yet, but if the climate continues to warm they could make it to southeastern Colorado someday.
Sunday, March 9, 2014
Part of Lionshead Rock near Minturn Breaks Off and Falls on Railroad Tracks
News Link
Rockfall is a constant ongoing process.
Rockfall is a constant ongoing process.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
25th Anniversary of Solar Flare That Took Out Quebec's Power Grid
News Link
An X15 solar flare, the largest observed.
An X15 solar flare, the largest observed.
Friday, March 7, 2014
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Rabid Skunk Shot and Killed in Weld County
News Link
According to officials, this is the fourth rabies case in Colorado so far this year. In 2013, the state had 191 animal rabies cases. Weld County had 26 rabies cases in 2013.
According to officials, this is the fourth rabies case in Colorado so far this year. In 2013, the state had 191 animal rabies cases. Weld County had 26 rabies cases in 2013.
Monday, March 3, 2014
Denver Post Article Provides Nice Graphical Summary of Avalanche Incidents in Colorado
News Link
It covers the period 1997 to present. It shows that the number of incidents have increased by about 50% in the past 15 years, probably because of increased numbers of backcountry skiers and snowmobilers. In my book, incidents are summarized from 1950-2010, with about half occurring since 1997.
It covers the period 1997 to present. It shows that the number of incidents have increased by about 50% in the past 15 years, probably because of increased numbers of backcountry skiers and snowmobilers. In my book, incidents are summarized from 1950-2010, with about half occurring since 1997.
Sunday, March 2, 2014
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Skunk Tests Positive for Rabies near Longmont
Skunks and bats are the main carriers of rabies in Colorado.
News Link
News Link
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Mountain Lion Warning for Coal Creek Canyon
A mountain lion consumed 7 dogs in the past couple months.
News Link
News Link
Skiers Killed in Avalanche Were Best Buddies from Portage, WI
One of the few times the news reports about who the victims were.
News Link
News Link
Monday, February 17, 2014
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Scientist Says Storm that Caused Flooding near Calgary in June, 2013 Almost Identical to Colorado Flood Storm
The problem with traditional methods of calculating the 100 year or 500 year flood is that it only looks at past historical occurrences of rainfall at a single location. The reality is that the meteorological conditions which produce floods like last September's in Boulder happen every 5 to 15 years somewhere along the Front Range. This study shows that the same conditions develop on the east side of the Rockies all the way up to northern Canada - News link . The exact location of these extreme rainfall events in Colorado depends on unique, localized conditions developing which are impossible to forecast at a specific location. 100-year flood zones along the Front Range should be based on an event of 14" of rain in 6 hours. This will never be accepted by developers and zoning officials because when you throw in the landslide potential along creeks in the mountains from these extreme rainfall events, the cost for a lot of real estate and infrastructure development will be prohibitive.
Saturday, February 15, 2014
Roaring Chinooks Overnight
The house was creaking all night, probably 70 mph+.
This huge 16" diameter limb just came crashing down from a cottonwood tree in my yard.
This huge 16" diameter limb just came crashing down from a cottonwood tree in my yard.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Skier Killed at Keystone After Hitting Tree
He was in-bounds and wearing a helmet, so he must have been going fast and lost control.
News Link
News Link
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
New Colorado 24-Hour Rainfall Record Set During 2013 Floods
It's not where you think it would be.
News Link
As the state climatologist points out this is a record for established, long term official rain gauges at 11.85". Many of Colorado's most severe storms like, the 1965 flood and the Big Thompson Canyon flood in 1976 had localized rainfall of 14 inches in 4 hours. The highest 24-hour rainfall estimated in Colorado was near Bonny Reservoir during the 1965 floods at 24".
News Link
As the state climatologist points out this is a record for established, long term official rain gauges at 11.85". Many of Colorado's most severe storms like, the 1965 flood and the Big Thompson Canyon flood in 1976 had localized rainfall of 14 inches in 4 hours. The highest 24-hour rainfall estimated in Colorado was near Bonny Reservoir during the 1965 floods at 24".
Friday, January 31, 2014
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Stunning Photos of Boulder Rock Slide in Italy
Something similar to this happened in Telluride in 2007.
News Link
News Link
Consequences for Letting Backyard Fires Get Out of Control
A Dolores man has to pay restitution to property owners for a wildfire he started by burning a leaf pile in his yard.
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Monday, January 27, 2014
Elk Injures Woman in Edwards Open Space
This is a strange story, lacking details. It is very unusual for a yearling cow elk to attack someone. My guess is her dogs were harassing the elk.
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Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
High Winds Blow Over Truck North of Fort Collins
Monday, January 13, 2014
Friday, January 10, 2014
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Teen Injured in 60 Foot Fall While Rock Climbing in Ken Caryl Open Space Park
I took 17 rescuers 5 hours with an elaborate pulley system to pull the young man off the cliff face after sunset.
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Tuesday, January 7, 2014
1 Killed, 3 Injured in Vail Avalanche
Grandson of Vail founder killed in east Vail chutes.
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