Mental Floss

WEATHER



You’ll want to work these Scottish slang terms into conversation.

Curious about Scottish slang? Learn the meanings of terms like ‘git awa’ and bile yer heid’ and impress your friends on your next visit to Scotland.

Michael Thomas Kincella




Atmospheric rivers slammed Southern California in February 2024 and caused widespread floods and mudslides.

Explore the role of these weather systems in transporting moisture from the tropics and spreading it worldwide.

Dennis Mersereau








Not always part of a balanced diet.

Fresh snow might look tasty, but just because it looks clean doesn’t mean it actually is.

Jake Rossen


Staying active and social can help.

Taking steps like moving your body, booking a trip, and tweaking your routine can keep you feeling balanced during the winter doldrums.

Mary Beth Skylis




Permafrost in Eastern Siberia.

About 11 percent of the Earth’s surface is perpetually frozen, though that will surely change as global warming continues.

Tim Brinkhof


Windsocks can tell you which way the bise blows.

Geographers and climatologists have a goody bag full of wonderful words that get super specific about wind.

Arika Okrent