27 Feb

Papua New Guinea: Earthquake

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Click the graphic source to view the map and read more about the story.
Papua New Guinea
Earthquake
On Monday, a 7.5-magnitude earthquake, with a 22-mile radius disrupted the local villages and a large gold mine in Papua New Guinea’s Enga province. The exact death toll is unconfirmed but reports suggest that it may have climbed to 30 people. The earth tremor caused ExxonMobil to shut its $19 billion liquefied natural gas plant, the countries biggest export earner. A number of buildings collapsed and roads were blocked by the landslides. In addition, families are looking for loved ones as phone lines are cut. U.S. seismologists said the initial quake struck 56 miles south of Porgera, with over 25 aftershocks.

This map depicts the area where the earthquake struck. Click on the map to learn more.

Graphic Source: BBC
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Click the graphic source to view the map and read more about the story.
Arctic 
Records Highs
As the Eastern seaboard of the United States experienced unusually high temperatures this February, so did the Arctic. Temperatures soared about 35 degrees above average and sea levels also reached a record high since measurements began in 1979.   With no sun expected to rise over the Arctic Circle until March 20, scientists are stunned by the sharp increase in temperature even through a period of perpetual darkness.  Although record breaking, these warming events are not unusual.  In recent years, weather stations throughout the Arctic Circle are reporting more frequent, longer intervals of time with sustained temperatures over freezing. 

This map depicts the temperature anomalies of the Arctic Sea- about 35 degrees warmer on average. Click on the map to expand.

Graphic Source:  Climate Analyzer
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Click the graphic source to view the map and read more about the story.
Germany
Paves Way for Diesel Ban 
Nitrogen dioxide pollution exceeds the European Union’s rules in almost 70 German cities and towns. Following a landmark court order effective immediately, German cities are now allowed to ban older diesel vehicles in some areas. The action comes after environmental campaigners sued dozen of German cities, arguing that they have a duty to cut excessive air pollution to protect people’s health. By 2040, major cities in the UK that also regularly breach EU limits are supposed to end all sales of new petrol and diesel cars.

This map depicts the NO2 averages for the top 10 German cities most affected by the EU legal limit. Click on the map to expand.

Further Reading: BBC, CNN, Guardian, Independent, Reuters, Daily Mail

Yesterday’s Answer

Q: What is the largest U.S. State producer of coffee beans?

A: Hawaii 
Hawaii produces the most coffee in the United States. Good coffee growing conditions require high altitudes, tropical climates, and rich soil. Kona coffee is grown in the rich volcanic soil on the slopes of the active Mauna Loa volcano.
Source

Today’s Question

 

Q:  What is the tallest waterfall in Iceland?

Stay tuned for the answer to today’s question in tomorrow’s DailyGeo.

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