Bernadette Woods-Placky

Bernadette Woods-Placky, Chief Meteorologist at Climate Central, provides crucial insights into the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. She discusses how climate change is intensifying hurricanes like Helene and Milton. The conversation highlights the limitations of the Saffir-Simpson scale in measuring these mega storms. Bernadette also emphasizes the evolving role of meteorologists in misinformation and the pressing need for clear public communication. The link between extreme weather events and climate change is underlined, stressing the urgency for climate action.

Bernadette Woods Plackey, Chief Meteorologist at Climate Central, joins to discuss the catastrophic Hurricane Melissa, currently hitting Jamaica. She explains how rapidly intensifying storms pose increased threats due to climate change. The conversation reveals that slower-moving storms lead to greater rainfall and damage. Bernadette highlights the structural vulnerabilities of buildings against 180+ mph winds and the compounded risks of sea level rise. Immediate needs for affected communities post-hurricane, such as shelter and clean water, are also addressed.