Hurricane Helene: How Climate Change Fuels the Storm
On September 26, 2024, Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc across six states: Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. With a storm surge of 6-8 feet and winds reaching 140 mph, this Category 4 hurricane tragically claimed at least 228 lives and left around 4 million people in Appalachia without power. With a total of approximately 326 hurricane-related fatalities this season—and with a month and a half left in the hurricane season—the impact of Helene was devastating, particularly in North Carolina, which faced unprecedented flooding.
Climate scientists are sounding the alarm: we are likely to see an increased frequency of such catastrophic storms as the climate crisis intensifies.
How Does Global Warming Relate to Hurricanes?
As global temperatures rise, weather patterns change dramatically. Warmer air can hold more moisture, resulting in heavier rainfall in some areas while causing droughts in others. Hurricanes, in particular, draw their strength from warm ocean waters. When sea surface temperatures exceed about 26°C (79°F), they provide the necessary heat and moisture for hurricanes to intensify.
This warming is not just theoretical; the upper layers of the ocean have already warmed by approximately 0.5°C to 1.5°C (0.9°F to 2.7°F). This increase contributes to sea level rise due to thermal expansion, further exacerbating the impacts of storms.
**TL;DR:** Climate change is linked to an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including hurricanes, heatwaves, and storms, as the climate system becomes more unstable.
What Can You Do About It?
You can help combat climate change through sustainable lifestyle choices:
1. Support Sustainable Practices: Choose products from companies committed to environmentally friendly practices. Advocate for policies that promote sustainability.
2. Eat More Plant-Based Meals: Reduce meat consumption, as the meat industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Reduce Waste: Minimize single-use plastics by using reusable bags, bottles, and containers.
4. Minimize Car Use: Walk, bike, use public transport, or carpool whenever possible.
5. Conserve Water and Energy: Switch to renewable energy sources and be mindful of your water usage.
6. Stay Informed and Advocate: Educate yourself about climate issues and share your knowledge. Join community efforts to advocate for climate-friendly policies and support organizations focused on climate action. After all, you’re advocating for the health and safety of your families and communities.
How To Help those affected by Hurricane Helene
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