MEET A FIRE SCIENTIST: Miguel Villarreal, Ph.D.
I study how wildfires affect landscapes and determine ways we can reduce community risk and help the environment recover after a fire.
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Steven Sobieszćzyk is a scientist and spokesperson. While "Sobie" spent most of his career researching landslide hazards, flooding, sediment transport, and stream ecosystems, he now focuses on science communication and promoting scientific literacy. Steve is a multihazard first responder and has spoken extensively about seismic, wildfire, landslide, flooding, and volcanic hazards.
CURRENT WORK
Public Affairs Specialist • U.S. Geological Survey • 2020 – Present
Develop, create, and execute national-level Bureau communication content (e.g., news releases, social media posts, videos), events (e.g., open houses, press conferences), and media & science communications training. Writer. Illustrator. Videographer. Webmaster. Instructor. Public Speaker.
Public Information Officer & Hydrologist • U.S. Department of Interior • 2017 – Present
Multi-incident first responder. Create talking points, press releases, videos, social media content, and online story maps. Coordinate community meetings and press conferences. DOI Burned Area Emergency Response hydrologist.
Co-founder • Association of Science Communicators • 2016 – 2023
Founding member and executive officer of an international non-profit science communication organization. Help guide internal/external communication and community marketing strategies, including graphic design, branding, and conference development.
Geographer & Hydrologist • U.S. Geological Survey • 2001 – 2020
Study debris flow, flooding, and sediment transport-related issues. Professional background in GIS, including runoff modeling and bathymetric surveys. Advised Leadership on strategies and methods to achieve better public understanding of science content.
Adjunct Professor • Portland State University • 2011 – 2017
Taught Hydrology (GEOG 4/514), GIS for Water Resources (GEOG 4/594), River Restoration, Part II: Ecological Processes (EPP 222), and Site Evaluation and Assessment Tools (EPP 223).
Research Assistant • NASA • 1999
Mapped, analyzed, and compiled a database of crater impacts on Ganymede, the largest moon of Jupiter, using Galileo and Viking satellite images.
Portland State University • M.S. • 2010
Landslide Engineering Geology and Hydrology
Portland State University • GISP • 2005
Licensed Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Professional
University of Wisconson - Oshkosh • B.S. • 2000
Geology, minor in Geography
I Am A ... Fire Ecologist is part of our "I Am A..." series of USGS whiteboard animations that highlight USGS careers. The concept is to show "what society (or my mom) thinks I do" compared with "what I really do." One image captures a more whimsical representation of a "scientist" in the field and the second demonstrates a more accurate representation of what we really look like. Next up Fire Ecologist.
A Fire Ecologist is someone who studies fire behavior and its effects! The USGS has lot of scientists that do this.
Below we feature the animated video and a coloring page.
I Am An ... Ornithologist is part of our "I Am A..." series of USGS whiteboard animations that highlight USGS careers. The concept is to show "what society (or my mom) thinks I do" compared with "what I really do." One image captures a more whimsical representation of a "scientist" in the field and the second demonstrates a more accurate representation of what we really look like.
An Ornithologist is someone who studies birds! The USGS has lot of scientists that do this.
Below we feature the animated video and a coloring page.
I Am A ... Herpetologist is part of our "I Am A..." series of USGS whiteboard animations that highlight USGS careers. The concept is to show "what society (or my mom) thinks I do" compared with "what I really do." One image captures a more whimsical representation of a "scientist" in the field and the second demonstrates a more accurate representation of what we really look like.
A Herpetologist is someone who studies amphibians and reptiles! The USGS Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative is an "ARMI" of scientists that do this.
Below we feature the animated video and a coloring page.
When it comes to talking to others, especially when explaining science, the key is consequences outweigh precision. You should always be honest, tell the truth, but don't sweat the small stuff. People care about relatability, not the mundane. Knowing what information isn't worth sharing is hard. There are professionals out there who can help. Like me.
MEET A FIRE SCIENTIST: Miguel Villarreal, Ph.D.
I study how wildfires affect landscapes and determine ways we can reduce community risk and help the environment recover after a fire.
MEET A FIRE SCIENTIST: Miguel Villarreal, Ph.D.
I study how wildfires affect landscapes and determine ways we can reduce community risk and help the environment recover after a fire.
Infographic description features and function of micro ocean-bottom seismometers.
Infographic description features and function of micro ocean-bottom seismometers.
There are three fire-related triangles used to explain fire growth and expansion. The smallest scale "Fire Triangle" factors in oxygen, heat, and fuel. The "Fire Behavior Triangle" factors in topography, fuel, and weather. While the large-scale "Fire Regime Triangle" factors in ignition source, vegetation, and climate.
There are three fire-related triangles used to explain fire growth and expansion. The smallest scale "Fire Triangle" factors in oxygen, heat, and fuel. The "Fire Behavior Triangle" factors in topography, fuel, and weather. While the large-scale "Fire Regime Triangle" factors in ignition source, vegetation, and climate.
Fast-moving, highly destructive debris flows triggered by intense rainfall are one of the most dangerous post-fire hazards. The risk of floods and debris flows after fires increases due to vegetation loss and soil exposure. Cases of sudden and deadly debris flow are well documented along the western United States, particularly in Southern California.
Fast-moving, highly destructive debris flows triggered by intense rainfall are one of the most dangerous post-fire hazards. The risk of floods and debris flows after fires increases due to vegetation loss and soil exposure. Cases of sudden and deadly debris flow are well documented along the western United States, particularly in Southern California.
USGS fire science informs land, water, and emergency management decisions. Each year tens of thousands of wildfires cause billions of dollars of damage.
USGS fire science informs land, water, and emergency management decisions. Each year tens of thousands of wildfires cause billions of dollars of damage.
How hot do wildfires get?
How hot do wildfires get?
MEET A FIRE SCIENTIST: Rachel A Loehman, Ph.D.
I study the complexities between people and nature, particularly the impacts of wildfires on landscapes, habitats, and natural resources
MEET A FIRE SCIENTIST: Rachel A Loehman, Ph.D.
I study the complexities between people and nature, particularly the impacts of wildfires on landscapes, habitats, and natural resources
Every 11 years the Sun's magnetic field flips. This period is referred to as a solar cycle. As we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, activity on the Sun’s surface will increase, including more solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections.
Every 11 years the Sun's magnetic field flips. This period is referred to as a solar cycle. As we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, activity on the Sun’s surface will increase, including more solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections.
Every 11 years the Sun's magnetic field flips. This period is referred to as a solar cycle. As we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, activity on the Sun’s surface will increase, including more solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections.
Every 11 years the Sun's magnetic field flips. This period is referred to as a solar cycle. As we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, activity on the Sun’s surface will increase, including more solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections.
How Streamgages are Used in Postfire Flood Forecasting
Stream data is recorded in real time and posted online.
Stream data include water level, velocity, and turbidity.
During storms, rainfall data is compared to the stream data.
The National Weather Service uses the data to issue flood warnings.
How Streamgages are Used in Postfire Flood Forecasting
Stream data is recorded in real time and posted online.
Stream data include water level, velocity, and turbidity.
During storms, rainfall data is compared to the stream data.
The National Weather Service uses the data to issue flood warnings.
Ever wonder how scientists measure how thick landslides are? There are a few ways, but the one Kate Allstadt explains might surprise you.
Ever wonder how scientists measure how thick landslides are? There are a few ways, but the one Kate Allstadt explains might surprise you.
On February 6, 2023, magnitude 7.8 and 7.5 earthquakes struck Turkey near the Syrian border. Over 50,000 people lost their lives. Earthquake shaking was not the only hazard. The quake triggered landslides, liquefaction, and other cascading hazards.
On February 6, 2023, magnitude 7.8 and 7.5 earthquakes struck Turkey near the Syrian border. Over 50,000 people lost their lives. Earthquake shaking was not the only hazard. The quake triggered landslides, liquefaction, and other cascading hazards.
KOTE GEN TRANBLEMANNTÈ
(Modèl risk tranblemanntè nan nivo nasyonal, 2023)
TRANBLEMANNTÈ NAN VIL NEW YORK
KOTE GEN TRANBLEMANNTÈ
(Modèl risk tranblemanntè nan nivo nasyonal, 2023)
TRANBLEMANNTÈ NAN VIL NEW YORK
DÓNDE SE PRODUCEN LOS TERREMOTOS
Modelo Nacional de Riesgo Sísmico, 2023
TERREMOTOS EN LA CIUDAD DE NUEVA YORK
DÓNDE SE PRODUCEN LOS TERREMOTOS
Modelo Nacional de Riesgo Sísmico, 2023
TERREMOTOS EN LA CIUDAD DE NUEVA YORK
CÁC TRẬN ĐỘNG ĐẤT XẢY RA Ở ĐÂU
Theo Mô Hình Cảnh Báo Nguy Hiểm Động Đất Toàn Quốc, 2023
ĐỘNG ĐẤT TẠI THÀNH PHỐ NEW YORK
CÁC TRẬN ĐỘNG ĐẤT XẢY RA Ở ĐÂU
Theo Mô Hình Cảnh Báo Nguy Hiểm Động Đất Toàn Quốc, 2023
ĐỘNG ĐẤT TẠI THÀNH PHỐ NEW YORK
ГДЕ БЫВАЮТ ЗЕМЛЕТРЯСЕНИЯ
Общенациональная модель сейсмической опасности 2023 г.
ЗЕМЛЕТРЯСЕНИЯ В НЬЮ-ЙОРКЕ
ГДЕ БЫВАЮТ ЗЕМЛЕТРЯСЕНИЯ
Общенациональная модель сейсмической опасности 2023 г.
ЗЕМЛЕТРЯСЕНИЯ В НЬЮ-ЙОРКЕ
LÀ OÙ LES SÉISMES SE PRODUISENT
Modèle de l’aléa sismique au niveau national, 2023
LES SÉISMES DANS LA VILLE DE NEW YORK
LÀ OÙ LES SÉISMES SE PRODUISENT
Modèle de l’aléa sismique au niveau national, 2023
LES SÉISMES DANS LA VILLE DE NEW YORK
地震发生区域
国家地震灾害模型,2023 年
纽约市的地震
您知道自己生活在“地震带”吗?这是真 的。纽约市等地过去曾发生过地震,将来 还会发生。如果您感到地面在震动,请确 保知道怎么做:趴下、掩护和稳住!
如果您感觉到地面在震动
趴下 掩护 稳住
规模最大的地震 - 纽约市 - 1884年8月10日 - 震级 5.2
地震发生区域
国家地震灾害模型,2023 年
纽约市的地震
您知道自己生活在“地震带”吗?这是真 的。纽约市等地过去曾发生过地震,将来 还会发生。如果您感到地面在震动,请确 保知道怎么做:趴下、掩护和稳住!
如果您感觉到地面在震动
趴下 掩护 稳住
规模最大的地震 - 纽约市 - 1884年8月10日 - 震级 5.2
TITLE: WHERE EARTHQUAKES OCCUR
MAP: National Seismic Hazard Model, 2023
HEADING: EARTHQUAKES IN NYC
TITLE: WHERE EARTHQUAKES OCCUR
MAP: National Seismic Hazard Model, 2023
HEADING: EARTHQUAKES IN NYC
Social media graphic used for promoting the 2023 update to the National Seismic Hazard Model | U.S. Geological Survey (usgs.gov)
Social media graphic used for promoting the 2023 update to the National Seismic Hazard Model | U.S. Geological Survey (usgs.gov)
We can’t predict exactly when an earthquake might occur. However, if you live on the West Coast, there is a chance you could get alerted that earthquake shaking is coming. This video is all about earthquake early warning.
We can’t predict exactly when an earthquake might occur. However, if you live on the West Coast, there is a chance you could get alerted that earthquake shaking is coming. This video is all about earthquake early warning.
Steven is interested in landslide hazards, sediment transport, water quality, and stream ecosystems and has published numerous scientific reports, journal articles, and data sets on these topics (see subject links below for respective publications).
**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.
I Am A ... Fire Ecologist is part of our "I Am A..." series of USGS whiteboard animations that highlight USGS careers. The concept is to show "what society (or my mom) thinks I do" compared with "what I really do." One image captures a more whimsical representation of a "scientist" in the field and the second demonstrates a more accurate representation of what we really look like. Next up Fire Ecologist.
A Fire Ecologist is someone who studies fire behavior and its effects! The USGS has lot of scientists that do this.
Below we feature the animated video and a coloring page.
I Am An ... Ornithologist is part of our "I Am A..." series of USGS whiteboard animations that highlight USGS careers. The concept is to show "what society (or my mom) thinks I do" compared with "what I really do." One image captures a more whimsical representation of a "scientist" in the field and the second demonstrates a more accurate representation of what we really look like.
An Ornithologist is someone who studies birds! The USGS has lot of scientists that do this.
Below we feature the animated video and a coloring page.
I Am A ... Herpetologist is part of our "I Am A..." series of USGS whiteboard animations that highlight USGS careers. The concept is to show "what society (or my mom) thinks I do" compared with "what I really do." One image captures a more whimsical representation of a "scientist" in the field and the second demonstrates a more accurate representation of what we really look like.
A Herpetologist is someone who studies amphibians and reptiles! The USGS Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative is an "ARMI" of scientists that do this.
Below we feature the animated video and a coloring page.
When it comes to talking to others, especially when explaining science, the key is consequences outweigh precision. You should always be honest, tell the truth, but don't sweat the small stuff. People care about relatability, not the mundane. Knowing what information isn't worth sharing is hard. There are professionals out there who can help. Like me.
MEET A FIRE SCIENTIST: Miguel Villarreal, Ph.D.
I study how wildfires affect landscapes and determine ways we can reduce community risk and help the environment recover after a fire.
MEET A FIRE SCIENTIST: Miguel Villarreal, Ph.D.
I study how wildfires affect landscapes and determine ways we can reduce community risk and help the environment recover after a fire.
Infographic description features and function of micro ocean-bottom seismometers.
Infographic description features and function of micro ocean-bottom seismometers.
There are three fire-related triangles used to explain fire growth and expansion. The smallest scale "Fire Triangle" factors in oxygen, heat, and fuel. The "Fire Behavior Triangle" factors in topography, fuel, and weather. While the large-scale "Fire Regime Triangle" factors in ignition source, vegetation, and climate.
There are three fire-related triangles used to explain fire growth and expansion. The smallest scale "Fire Triangle" factors in oxygen, heat, and fuel. The "Fire Behavior Triangle" factors in topography, fuel, and weather. While the large-scale "Fire Regime Triangle" factors in ignition source, vegetation, and climate.
Fast-moving, highly destructive debris flows triggered by intense rainfall are one of the most dangerous post-fire hazards. The risk of floods and debris flows after fires increases due to vegetation loss and soil exposure. Cases of sudden and deadly debris flow are well documented along the western United States, particularly in Southern California.
Fast-moving, highly destructive debris flows triggered by intense rainfall are one of the most dangerous post-fire hazards. The risk of floods and debris flows after fires increases due to vegetation loss and soil exposure. Cases of sudden and deadly debris flow are well documented along the western United States, particularly in Southern California.
USGS fire science informs land, water, and emergency management decisions. Each year tens of thousands of wildfires cause billions of dollars of damage.
USGS fire science informs land, water, and emergency management decisions. Each year tens of thousands of wildfires cause billions of dollars of damage.
How hot do wildfires get?
How hot do wildfires get?
MEET A FIRE SCIENTIST: Rachel A Loehman, Ph.D.
I study the complexities between people and nature, particularly the impacts of wildfires on landscapes, habitats, and natural resources
MEET A FIRE SCIENTIST: Rachel A Loehman, Ph.D.
I study the complexities between people and nature, particularly the impacts of wildfires on landscapes, habitats, and natural resources
Every 11 years the Sun's magnetic field flips. This period is referred to as a solar cycle. As we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, activity on the Sun’s surface will increase, including more solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections.
Every 11 years the Sun's magnetic field flips. This period is referred to as a solar cycle. As we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, activity on the Sun’s surface will increase, including more solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections.
Every 11 years the Sun's magnetic field flips. This period is referred to as a solar cycle. As we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, activity on the Sun’s surface will increase, including more solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections.
Every 11 years the Sun's magnetic field flips. This period is referred to as a solar cycle. As we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, activity on the Sun’s surface will increase, including more solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections.
How Streamgages are Used in Postfire Flood Forecasting
Stream data is recorded in real time and posted online.
Stream data include water level, velocity, and turbidity.
During storms, rainfall data is compared to the stream data.
The National Weather Service uses the data to issue flood warnings.
How Streamgages are Used in Postfire Flood Forecasting
Stream data is recorded in real time and posted online.
Stream data include water level, velocity, and turbidity.
During storms, rainfall data is compared to the stream data.
The National Weather Service uses the data to issue flood warnings.
Ever wonder how scientists measure how thick landslides are? There are a few ways, but the one Kate Allstadt explains might surprise you.
Ever wonder how scientists measure how thick landslides are? There are a few ways, but the one Kate Allstadt explains might surprise you.
On February 6, 2023, magnitude 7.8 and 7.5 earthquakes struck Turkey near the Syrian border. Over 50,000 people lost their lives. Earthquake shaking was not the only hazard. The quake triggered landslides, liquefaction, and other cascading hazards.
On February 6, 2023, magnitude 7.8 and 7.5 earthquakes struck Turkey near the Syrian border. Over 50,000 people lost their lives. Earthquake shaking was not the only hazard. The quake triggered landslides, liquefaction, and other cascading hazards.
KOTE GEN TRANBLEMANNTÈ
(Modèl risk tranblemanntè nan nivo nasyonal, 2023)
TRANBLEMANNTÈ NAN VIL NEW YORK
KOTE GEN TRANBLEMANNTÈ
(Modèl risk tranblemanntè nan nivo nasyonal, 2023)
TRANBLEMANNTÈ NAN VIL NEW YORK
DÓNDE SE PRODUCEN LOS TERREMOTOS
Modelo Nacional de Riesgo Sísmico, 2023
TERREMOTOS EN LA CIUDAD DE NUEVA YORK
DÓNDE SE PRODUCEN LOS TERREMOTOS
Modelo Nacional de Riesgo Sísmico, 2023
TERREMOTOS EN LA CIUDAD DE NUEVA YORK
CÁC TRẬN ĐỘNG ĐẤT XẢY RA Ở ĐÂU
Theo Mô Hình Cảnh Báo Nguy Hiểm Động Đất Toàn Quốc, 2023
ĐỘNG ĐẤT TẠI THÀNH PHỐ NEW YORK
CÁC TRẬN ĐỘNG ĐẤT XẢY RA Ở ĐÂU
Theo Mô Hình Cảnh Báo Nguy Hiểm Động Đất Toàn Quốc, 2023
ĐỘNG ĐẤT TẠI THÀNH PHỐ NEW YORK
ГДЕ БЫВАЮТ ЗЕМЛЕТРЯСЕНИЯ
Общенациональная модель сейсмической опасности 2023 г.
ЗЕМЛЕТРЯСЕНИЯ В НЬЮ-ЙОРКЕ
ГДЕ БЫВАЮТ ЗЕМЛЕТРЯСЕНИЯ
Общенациональная модель сейсмической опасности 2023 г.
ЗЕМЛЕТРЯСЕНИЯ В НЬЮ-ЙОРКЕ
LÀ OÙ LES SÉISMES SE PRODUISENT
Modèle de l’aléa sismique au niveau national, 2023
LES SÉISMES DANS LA VILLE DE NEW YORK
LÀ OÙ LES SÉISMES SE PRODUISENT
Modèle de l’aléa sismique au niveau national, 2023
LES SÉISMES DANS LA VILLE DE NEW YORK
地震发生区域
国家地震灾害模型,2023 年
纽约市的地震
您知道自己生活在“地震带”吗?这是真 的。纽约市等地过去曾发生过地震,将来 还会发生。如果您感到地面在震动,请确 保知道怎么做:趴下、掩护和稳住!
如果您感觉到地面在震动
趴下 掩护 稳住
规模最大的地震 - 纽约市 - 1884年8月10日 - 震级 5.2
地震发生区域
国家地震灾害模型,2023 年
纽约市的地震
您知道自己生活在“地震带”吗?这是真 的。纽约市等地过去曾发生过地震,将来 还会发生。如果您感到地面在震动,请确 保知道怎么做:趴下、掩护和稳住!
如果您感觉到地面在震动
趴下 掩护 稳住
规模最大的地震 - 纽约市 - 1884年8月10日 - 震级 5.2
TITLE: WHERE EARTHQUAKES OCCUR
MAP: National Seismic Hazard Model, 2023
HEADING: EARTHQUAKES IN NYC
TITLE: WHERE EARTHQUAKES OCCUR
MAP: National Seismic Hazard Model, 2023
HEADING: EARTHQUAKES IN NYC
Social media graphic used for promoting the 2023 update to the National Seismic Hazard Model | U.S. Geological Survey (usgs.gov)
Social media graphic used for promoting the 2023 update to the National Seismic Hazard Model | U.S. Geological Survey (usgs.gov)
We can’t predict exactly when an earthquake might occur. However, if you live on the West Coast, there is a chance you could get alerted that earthquake shaking is coming. This video is all about earthquake early warning.
We can’t predict exactly when an earthquake might occur. However, if you live on the West Coast, there is a chance you could get alerted that earthquake shaking is coming. This video is all about earthquake early warning.
Steven is interested in landslide hazards, sediment transport, water quality, and stream ecosystems and has published numerous scientific reports, journal articles, and data sets on these topics (see subject links below for respective publications).
**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.