Consider This from NPR cover image

Consider This from NPR

Forecasters predict another sweltering summer. Are we ready?

May 27, 2024
Kirk Siegler, an NPR correspondent specializing in environmental issues, dives into the alarming shortage of federal wildland firefighters as wildfire risks soar in the West. He discusses the severe summer of 2023 marked by extreme heat and wildfires fueled by climate change. The conversation also touches on predictions for an active hurricane season, emphasizing the urgent need for preparedness. Siegler highlights the crucial intersection of climate impacts and firefighting, shedding light on the pressure faced by emergency services in these dire times.
10:56

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • 2024 likely to have extremely active Atlantic Hurricane season
  • Shortage of federal wildland firefighters impacting wildfire season readiness

Deep dives

Record-breaking temperatures in the US

Across many parts of the US, 2023 marked the hottest summer on record with extreme weather events. Cities like Chicago, New York, Washington, and the Florida Keys experienced unprecedented heatwaves and poor air quality. Phoenix endured 110-degree temperatures for 31 consecutive days. NOAA's Karen Gleason predicts more global heat records in the upcoming months, with 2024 guaranteed to be one of the five hottest years on record.

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