Forces of Nature

Any avid traveler knows there are far too many gorgeous landscapes and jaw-dropping views to make one all-encompassing list of the most beautiful countries in the world. We're lucky to have such a diverse world, and beauty is subjective.

By Karina Ryan

The United States has a wide range of climate zones, from the subtropical to the arctic. On the low end of the thermometer, there are plenty of options for a deep winter chill. Here, we look at a couple different ways to determine the coldest state in the U.S. — and by both definitions, there's one winner.

By Zach Taras

If you're looking for a place to live and you don't mind some seriously frosty winters, you have plenty of options to choose from. But some places endure more than a few blustery months, and no parka or insulated mittens will feel like enough. Those are contenders for the title of coldest city in the world.

By Zach Taras

Earthquakes are among the most powerful natural forces on Earth, often causing widespread devastation, triggering tsunamis and altering the landscape of a region. But how strong was the strongest earthquake of all time?

By Marie Look

The world's oceans and seas are vital arteries for global trade, yet they also pose significant risks to those who navigate them. From piracy to maritime disasters, the dangers that mariners face are numerous and varied.

By Marie Look

If you're lucky, you've never seen a tsunami in person, but you know that this type of massive wave can cause enormous damage. They can be measured, too, which easily leads to the question: What was the largest tsunami ever recorded?

By Zach Taras

When discussing the weather, humidity is a constant topic of conversation and consternation, especially during those muggy summer months. When people say, "At least it's a dry heat," that's just another way of saying, "Phew! At least it's not humid!"

By Mack Hayden

When challenged to name the hottest place on Earth, sprawling desert environments like Death Valley or the African Sahara probably spring to mind. However, extreme heat nearly matching those examples can occur on five continents, and some of these hottest places are even densely populated by humans.

By Talon Homer

Death Valley is one of the hottest places on Earth. With a record high of 134 degrees Fahrenheit (56.7 degrees Celsius), the California national park is sweltering, but it is not even one of the top 10 hottest states in the U.S.

By Yara Simón

Did you know that some places on Earth can get so hot that local wildlife has evolved specifically to survive the extreme conditions? In these regions, the heat isn't just a summer wave; it's a constant presence.

By Desiree Bowie

The U.S. government is investing over US$7 billion in the coming years to try to manage the nation's escalating wildfire crisis. That includes a commitment to treat at least 60 million acres in the next 10 years by expanding forest-thinning efforts and controlled burns.

By Jamie Peeler

Discover the impact of a Category 3 hurricane. Explore its characteristics and effects. Understand the force of a Category 3 hurricane today.

By HowStuffWorks

Discover the impact of a Category 1 hurricane. Explore its features and effects. Understand the dynamics of Category 1 hurricanes today.

By HowStuffWorks

Explore the impact of Hurricane Katrina. Understand its devastation and aftermath. Learn about the history of Hurricane Katrina today.

By HowStuffWorks

Explore the impact of Hurricane Irma. Understand its path and effects. Learn about the history of Hurricane Irma today.

By HowStuffWorks

Explore the impact of Hurricane Sandy. Understand its destruction and aftermath. Learn about the history of Hurricane Sandy today.

By HowStuffWorks

Explore the impact of Hurricane Ida. Understand its path and aftermath. Learn about the history of Hurricane Ida today.

By HowStuffWorks

Explore the impact of Hurricane Harvey. Understand its devastation and aftermath. Learn about the history of Hurricane Harvey today.

By HowStuffWorks

Explore the impact of Hurricane Andrew. Understand its devastation and historical significance. Learn about Hurricane Andrew today.

By HowStuffWorks

Explore the impact of Hurricane Maria. Understand its devastation and aftermath. Learn about the history of Hurricane Maria today.

By HowStuffWorks

Explore the impact of Hurricane Michael. Understand its devastation and aftermath. Learn about the history of Hurricane Michael today.

By HowStuffWorks

Discover how a hurricane forms. Explore the process of hurricane formation and its stages. Uncover the science behind hurricanes.

By HowStuffWorks

Typhoon vs. Hurricane: Uncover the differences and similarities between these powerful tropical storms. Learn about their formation and impact.

By HowStuffWorks

Hurricane Charley: Unveiling the Impact and Aftermath of this Devastating Storm. Explore its path, damage, and lessons learned.

By HowStuffWorks

California Hurricane: Exploring the Rare Phenomenon and Potential Impacts. Learn about the history, preparation, and coastal vulnerability.

By HowStuffWorks