The Danger of Hurricane Downpours and the End of ‘Climate Havens’
Oct 9, 2024
auto_awesome
Andrea Thompson, associate editor of sustainability at Scientific American, dives into the escalating chaos of hurricanes influenced by climate change. She reveals how shifting patterns make previously safe areas, like Asheville, vulnerable to severe flooding. The discussion highlights the long-term health impacts of hurricanes, showing that they can lead to years of challenges for affected communities. Moreover, they debunk the myth of 'climate havens,' stressing that no place is completely immune to the threats of these monstrous storms.
Hurricanes are intensifying due to climate change, shifting the focus from wind speed to flooding and rainfall impacts.
The concept of climate havens is increasingly questionable, as evidenced by severe flooding in areas once considered safe from climate impacts.
Deep dives
Evolution of Hurricanes Amid Climate Change
Hurricanes are evolving in response to climate change, with the 2024 hurricane season already demonstrating notable trends. This year began with Hurricane Beryl, the earliest recorded Category 5 in the Atlantic, igniting concerns about powerful storms. Following an unexpected lull during what typically peaks in September, the return of storms like Hurricane Helene showcased the unique challenges these cyclones now present. It's essential to look beyond wind speeds, as flooding, storm surges, and rainfall are increasingly responsible for the devastation, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of hurricane impacts.
Misconceptions of Climate Havens
The notion of climate havens, areas perceived as less vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, is misleading, as demonstrated by Asheville’s recent catastrophic flooding. Although Asheville's elevated and forested landscape made it a candidate for such classification, heavy rainfall and geographical factors led to severe flash flooding, affecting areas far from the coast. This incident emphasizes that no region is immune to the effects of climate change, particularly as patterns shift causing increased rainfall and extreme weather. The geographic qualities that once offered protection can instead amplify risks, necessitating a reassessment of preparedness strategies.
Long-Term Impacts of Hurricane Disasters
Research has revealed the extensive, often underreported long-term health impacts of hurricanes, which extend far beyond immediate fatalities. Studies indicate that tropical cyclones can lead to thousands of additional deaths over many years due to health complications linked to storm damage and displacement. This includes living conditions such as mold exposure and disruptions in access to healthcare, which create a prolonged public health burden. Additionally, the mental health effects incurred during and after such disasters contribute significantly to the toll, demonstrating the importance of comprehensive recovery planning that addresses both physical and psychological needs.
Hurricanes Beryl, Francine and Helene have battered the Gulf Coast this year. Hurricane Milton is expected to add to the destruction, particularly in parts of the west coast of central Florida that are already reeling from Hurricane Helene. Scientific American’s associate editor of sustainability Andrea Thompson joins Science Quickly to help us understand how we measure hurricanes and how climate change is magnifying the damage done by these massive storms. Plus, we discuss how the catastrophic flooding in western North Carolina dispels the myth that anywhere can be a true “climate haven.”
E-mail us at sciencequickly@sciam.com if you have any questions, comments or ideas for stories we should cover!
Discover something new every day: subscribe to Scientific American and sign up for Today in Science, our daily newsletter.
Science Quickly is produced by Rachel Feltman, Fonda Mwangi, Kelso Harper, Madison Goldberg and Jeff DelViscio. This episode was hosted by Rachel Feltman with guest Andrea Thompson, Scientific American’s associate editor of sustainability. Our show is edited by Fonda Mwangi with fact-checking by Shayna Posses and Aaron Shattuck. The theme music was composed by Dominic Smith.