Hurricane Helene: Climate Change Fuels Deadly Rain and Wind
- Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic flooding and wind damage in the United States, particularly affecting the Appalachians.
- Scientists found that climate change increased the storm's rainfall by 10% and wind intensity by 11%, leading to over 230 fatalities.
- The situation highlights the urgent need for improved emergency preparedness and resilience planning in the face of increasing storm intensity due to climate change.
In September 2023, Hurricane Helene struck the United States, causing catastrophic flooding and wind damage, particularly in the Appalachians. Scientists attributed approximately 10% of the rainfall and 11% of the wind intensity to human-induced climate change, which has made such extreme weather events more likely. The storm resulted in over 230 fatalities and left millions without essential services. The unprecedented rainfall, estimated at over 40 trillion gallons, was exacerbated by warmer air and sea temperatures, which are now 200 to 500 times more likely due to climate change. The analysis of Helene's impact highlights the urgent need for improved emergency preparedness and resilience planning as climate change continues to increase the frequency and severity of hurricanes. The situation serves as a warning for future storms, including Hurricane Milton, which followed closely behind Helene, indicating a troubling trend in storm intensity linked to ongoing fossil fuel consumption.