The Intelligence from The Economist Paradise lost: Hurricane Milton bashes Florida
Oct 10, 2024
Oliver Morton, the Planetary Affairs Editor for The Economist, discusses how Hurricane Milton exemplifies the rising intensity of storms due to climate change. Nick Pelham shares insights into the Palestinian experience following the October 7th attacks, depicting the resilience amidst chaos. Emily Steinmark explores the groundbreaking potential of nuclear clocks for advancing science. Together, they highlight the intertwining of environmental changes, socio-political strife, and technological innovation.
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Milton's Rapid Intensification
- Hurricane Milton intensified rapidly due to unusually hot water, going from a minor storm to Category 5 in just over a day.
- This rapid intensification, while not unprecedented, shocked meteorologists.
Global Warming's Impact on Hurricanes
- Global warming doesn't necessarily increase hurricane frequency but does increase their intensity.
- Warmer water fuels stronger hurricanes, and warmer air holds more water vapor, leading to more destructive rainfall.
Hurricane Preparedness in the US
- Hurricane preparedness in the US varies geographically, with some areas more accustomed to regular storms than others.
- Strong building codes and insurance are crucial for mitigating hurricane damage, but even these can't prevent all destruction.