The Virginia Tech media relations office has the following experts available for interviews this week surrounding issues in the news. To schedule an interview, please contact mediarelations@vt.edu.

Virginia Tech experts available to discuss headlines in the news

Causes of, responses to Texas floods

People living in Central Texas continue their widespread response and recovery efforts after the deadly flooding on July 4th. Hydroclimatology expert Craig Ramseyer can address what contributed to the rapid, unforeseen water rise, and whether we should expect more of these severe events even in places where they don’t often happen. Liesel Ritchie, an expert in disaster events, is available to speak to the social impacts of hazards and disasters, particularly how communities respond to, react to, and recover from them, as well as the importance of disaster preparedness.

Using satellites to help predict flooding

Researchers from NASA and Virginia Tech have recently used satellite data to measure the height and speed of potentially hazardous flood waves traveling down U.S. rivers, the first-ever such application. There is currently no database that compiles satellite data on river flood waves, but the new study highlights the potential of space-based observations to aid hydrologists and engineers, especially those working in communities along river networks with limited flood control structures such as levees and flood gates. Hydrology expert George Allen can discuss the significance of the groundbreaking research, as well as how it can apply to flood threats.

Health risks tied to Texas flooding

According to Julia Gohlke, a professor of environmental health with the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, flooding poses risks like gastrointestinal illness, dehydration, and carbon monoxide poisoning from improper generator use. Pregnant women face an increased risk of premature labor or preterm birth, and long-term mold exposure can exacerbate asthma. Gohlke can elaborate on those risks as well as the particular challenges flooding poses for rural communities.

Israel’s Netanyahu goes to Washington to meet Trump

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet with President Donald Trump at the White House today to discuss a possible ceasefire in Gaza. “There will be two issues on the agenda,” says Middle East expert Joel Peters. “First, the talks over the terms of a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of the remaining Israeli hostages. Second, what Trump might want from Israel after his support of Israel’s campaign against Iran and the U.S. bombing of Iranian nuclear sites.” Available 3-4 p.m. EST today via Zoom.

Highest number of measles cases reported since 1992

The U.S. has reached its highest number of annual measles cases in 33 years. There are at least 1,277 confirmed cases across 38 states and the District of Columbia. Virginia Tech infectious disease epidemiologist Lisa M. Lee is available to discuss the reason behind the uptick and preventative measures.

Elon Musk declares intent to found third political party

Unhappy with the Trump-endorsed domestic policy bill passed by a Republican-led Congress last week, tech billionaire Elon Musk has announced the formation of a new political party, the “America Party.” Musk has suggested the party could field candidates to challenge Republican representatives who supported the bill. Yet recently and historically, efforts to shape a third viable political party have found little traction in the United States. Political scientist Karen Hult can provide context. Available starting Wednesday.

U.S. could be facing $25 billion tourism shortfall

Last month, the World Travel & Tourism Council analyzed the economic impact of tourism in 184 countries and revealed that the U.S. was the only country forecast to see international visitor spending decline in 2025. Tourism Economics initially projected a 9% increase in international travel to the U.S., but now projects an 8.2% decrease, potentially creating a shortfall of more than $25 billion. Zheng “Phil” Xiang from the Pamplin College of Business is an expert in travel behavior and tourism analytics, and can discuss the impacts of this change on the economy. Available Wednesday a.m., and Thursday-Friday this week

True crime expert on Dexter’s enduring appeal

Fictional forensic analyst Dexter Morgan — a serial killer who hunts other serial killers — returns to the small screen Friday in “Dexter: Resurrection,” the third spinoff since the original show ended in 2013. Ingrid Johnson, who teaches a popular class on true crime narratives, offers her thoughts on this antihero’s enduring appeal. “One explanation is that we desire justice, and a crime story that has a conclusion fills that need,” she says. “In terms of a character like Dexter, he exists to ‘serve justice,’ albeit through criminal means himself.” Read more here.

 

Contact:

Tags

Share this story