It is generally assumed that, in polite company, you don't talk politics, religion, or money. But in recent years, it seems "climate change"‌ needs to be added to that list. Incorporating all of the above, few topics can divide a dinner party faster....

Before Doppler radar and broadcast weather reports, Spanish-born Benito Vines (1837-1893) spent decades observing the skies at Belen Observatory in colonial Cuba, routinely issuing weather reports and forecasts to local newspapers. And before storm t...