Economist Podcasts
Paradise lost: Hurricane Milton bashes Florida
Oct 10, 2024
Oliver Morton, the Planetary Affairs Editor for The Economist, discusses the devastating effects of Hurricane Milton, linking the storm's intensity to climate change. Nick Pelham, Middle East correspondent, offers poignant insights into the Palestinian experience post-October 7th, shedding light on their resilience amidst adversity. Emily Steinmark, the Science correspondent, explains the revolutionary potential of nuclear clocks, exploring how they can help us understand the complexities of time and the universe. Each segment weaves together urgent global issues.
21:29
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Quick takeaways
- Global warming is exacerbating hurricane intensity, evidenced by Hurricane Milton's unprecedented winds and destructive capacity in Florida.
- The political ramifications of hurricane disasters influence electoral support for disaster management, highlighting the need for resilient infrastructure and accountable government responses.
Deep dives
Hurricane Milton's Devastation
Hurricane Milton made headlines due to its unprecedented intensity and rapid development, reaching sustained winds of 180 miles per hour. The storm wreaked havoc in Florida, causing significant damage, including the destruction of a baseball stadium and widespread flooding in areas like Tampa. Meteorologists experienced emotional reactions as they witnessed the extraordinary intensification of the hurricane while it was over exceptionally hot waters, contributing to its rapid escalation. The combination of wind speed, storm surge, and torrential rain led to its classification as one of the most dangerous storms, although experts caution that future storms may prove even more destructive.
