The Barksdale Bubble

Host Patrick revisits the topic of space weather with guest Shawn Dahl, a forecaster from the Space Weather Prediction Center. The discussion explores how space weather forecasting compares to traditional terrestrial weather forecasting, the impact of solar activity on Earth and spaceflight missions like Artemis II, and the science behind the Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis. Dahl explains the 11-year solar cycle, the seasonal alignment factors during the equinoxes, and the best locations and methods for viewing the Northern Lights.

Andy McCready from the Texas A&M Forest Service joins the show to discuss the severe drought conditions creating extreme wildfire risks across East Texas and neighboring regions. He breaks down how low humidity, high winds, and leftover debris from past ice storms combine to form dangerous fire hazards. McCready explains the multi-tiered emergency response system, the major human causes behind local blazes, and practical steps homeowners can take right now to create defensible space around their property.

In this episode, we catch up with Louisiana state climatologist Jay Grymes to discuss the current tropical storm activity, summer weather patterns, and what to expect for the upcoming winter. We explore how meteorologists analyze models, the impact of storms, and seasonal climate predictions. 

Explore the fascinating world of space weather, its impact on Earth, and the importance of monitoring solar activity to protect our technology and infrastructure. Join us as we discuss with the Space Weather Prediction Center about solar cycles, auroras, and the future of space weather forecasting.

In this conversation, Patrick Dennis interviews Jay Grymes, the state climatologist for Louisiana, discussing his role, recent weather events, and the complexities of weather patterns and climate change. They explore the impact of recent winter weather, the importance of reliable weather information, and the differences between weather and climate. Grymes emphasizes the significance of understanding the polar vortex and the need for the public to rely on professional meteorologists for accurate forecasts.

KTBS 3's Brian Fowler chats with Dr. Gary Joiner, PhD - Chair & Professor of History at the LSUS Department of History & Social Sciences - to look back on Shreveport's waterways. We see their names on road signs & buildings downtown, but are some of Shreveport's historic waterways really a thing of the past, or are they just hidden in plain sight?

KTBS 3's Brian Fowler talks to Museum Curator Marty Loschen about how the first surveyors of Shongaloo found evidence of a hurricane wiping out part of the town. How could a hurricane do that this far north?

Bill Gisling & Brian Fowler talk about skydiving & what the weather is like a mile up in the sky, and in freefall, how it changes as you get closer to the ground.

In this conversation, Patrick Dennis speaks with Jay Grimes, the state climatologist of Louisiana, about various weather-related topics, including the current hurricane season, drought monitoring, temperature forecasts, and the challenges of weather forecasting. They discuss the unusual quietness of the hurricane season, the importance of accurate drought monitoring for agriculture, and the complexities of predicting weather patterns. The conversation emphasizes the need for public awareness and preparedness in the face of changing weather conditions.

It's the dog daze of Summer and w/ the heat comes some hot hounds needed a home but more importantly funds to keep them healthy and whole.  And you can help by going to this amazing fundraiser at The Robinson Film Festival on July 19th from 4 to 7pm.  Enjoy dinner by an award winning chef with musical guests and more!