Rising Tides Newsletter - July 2025

How rivers fuel hurricanes — and how that knowledge can improve forecasts

A recent analysis of Hurricane Idalia led by researchers at the USF College of Marine Science demonstrates how an extensive river plume in the Gulf may have influenced the tropical storm’s rapid intensification.

Study finds ‘pressure point’ in the Gulf could drive hurricane strength

Researchers identify how the absence of a strong current at a critical location in the Gulf led to unusually high subsurface sea temperatures and influenced the rapid intensification of Hurricane Ian.

Hurricanes and heat fluxes: Doctoral graduate explores mechanisms driving tropical storms

Combining his background in meteorology with physical oceanography, Luis Sorinas Morales worked with data from buoys and moorings stationed in the Gulf to help improve our understanding of how hurricanes gain strength.

Understanding the value of plankton to humanity

A new paper co-authored by Frank Müller-Karger, USF Distinguished University Professor, explores the many benefits that plankton bring to humans and the planet.

Social Media News

🎉 We are proud to celebrate the achievements of the Making Waves REU Class of 2025! 🌊

This week marked a major milestone for many—presenting their first research posters at our summer symposium. Their dedication, growth, and passion for discovery have been nothing short of inspiring.

To the next generation of researchers and innovators: congratulations, and keep making waves. 🌟

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Forget the sensational shows and instead help spread awareness about shark conservation and the crucial role sharks play in maintaining the health of our oceans.

Watch the reel on Instagram

CMS in the News

Last year, a team of reporters from Telemundo joined the Ocean Circulation Lab on a research cruise into the Gulf. That trip is now featured in a three-part, Spanish-language documentary that explores the value of buoys for weather and hurricane forecasting.

Reporters from the Tampa Bay Times, WUSF, WMFN, and several other outlets covered a study about the influence of a freshwater plume on the development of Hurricane Idalia. The study was led by researchers in the Optical Oceanography Lab and included researchers from the Ocean Technology Group and the University of Miami.

Recently finishing its 35th summer camp, the Oceanography Camp Especially for Girls was featured in a segment on News Channel 8.

The unseen flooding risk in South Florida: Rising water beneath our feet

In a series of article about flooding in South Florida, the Miami Herald spoke with Dean Frazer, executive director of the Flood Hub, concerning the issue of compound flooding, which involves multiple flood factors occurring simultaneously.

The college’s sargassum research was featured in coverage by NBC News, Fox Weather, the Associated Press, and more.

Felipe Stanchak was selected as a recipient of the Geological Society of America Graduate Student Research Grants.

A handful of students celebrated successful defenses, including:

Natalia López Figueroa
Hannah Hunt
Laura Carvalho Britto C Azevedo
Jordan Meyer
Lisa Rose-Mann
Yao Yao
Jing Shi
Luis Sorina Morales

Jacob Stock, a hydrographic surveyor at the Center for Ocean Mapping and Innovative Technologies, recently completed a cruise aboard the Ocean Exploration Trust's E/V Nautilus. Learn more about his experience at sea!

Does your student, classmate, professor, or colleague deserve a shoutout in the next Rising Tides Newsletter? Contact Dyllan (dfurness@usf.edu) with suggestions.

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