The Big Story

What does the new era of hurricanes mean for Canada?

Oct 17, 2024

In this engaging discussion, Chris Fogarty, a meteorologist and program manager at the Canadian Hurricane Centre, delves into the evolving nature of hurricanes in Canada. He highlights the recent onslaught of storms like Helene and Milton, stressing the rising intensity linked to climate change. Fogarty also explains the unusual frequency of hurricanes and the complexities in forecasting their impacts. He emphasizes the importance of separating scientific facts from misinformation and the need for better public preparedness for future storms.

22:43

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Chris Fogarty

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Quick takeaways

The recent hurricanes Helene and Milton exemplify a potentially new era of intensified storms affecting both America and Canada, indicating urgent preparedness needs.

Climate change is likely altering storm patterns and intensifying risks, necessitating strategic infrastructure planning and public awareness to mitigate future storm impacts in Canada.

Deep dives

Impact of Recent Hurricanes

Recent hurricanes, particularly Helene and Milton, have caused significant devastation in Florida and raised concerns about the increasing intensity of storms due to climate change. Meteorologists observed that both storms, occurring in quick succession, highlighted a pattern that could signify a new era of powerful hurricanes. The rapid intensification of Hurricane Milton, reminiscent of Hurricane Otis, showcased how warm ocean waters in October can dramatically enhance storm strength. This trend has led to a greater focus on preparedness measures and the potential for similar storms impacting Canada.

Intro

3min

Understanding the Frequency of Hurricanes: Statistical Insights

2min

Hurricanes and Climate Change in Canada

6min

Hurricane Frequency and Patterns in Canada

2min

Hurricanes: Balancing Fear and Facts

10min

We all watched in horror as America was pummelled by two massive storms in the span of ten days, the second of which gained intensity incredibly quickly before making landfall. Many experts have said this is the future of storms in the climate era—regardless of whether you believe climate change influences individual storms.

In Atlantic Canada, it's hurricane season now, and our meteorologists watched Helene and Milton closely, trying to determine if the factors that created two storms so close together and so destructive might apply to our own Eastern coast. So what did they learn from what Americans suffered through? How do you separate hyperbole and conspiracy from calm, rational science? And is Canada ready for the storms of the future, whatever they might look like?

GUEST: Chris Fogarty, Meteorologist, program manager at the Canadian Hurricane Center

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