Oct 14, 2024, 2:30 PM
Oct 14, 2024, 2:30 PM

Musings: It's obvious why Helene, Milton hit

Provocative
Highlights
  • Hurricane Helene caused extensive damage and fatalities in the Southeast United States in September 2024.
  • Hurricane Milton followed shortly after, impacting Florida and exacerbating the situation.
  • The increasing intensity of these storms is attributed to climate change, necessitating a shift to alternative energy sources and improved preparedness.
Story

In September 2024, Hurricane Helene struck the Southeast United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities and extensive destruction of infrastructure, including roads and bridges. This catastrophic event was followed closely by Hurricane Milton, which impacted Florida less than two weeks later. The severity of these hurricanes has been attributed to climate change, primarily driven by the burning of fossil fuels. The combustion of these fuels releases greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane, which trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to increased temperatures. As the air warms, it can hold more moisture, contributing to the intensity and rainfall associated with storms. The scientific consensus indicates that as climate change progresses, we can expect to see more powerful hurricanes with higher wind speeds and greater precipitation. This situation underscores the urgent need for a transition to alternative energy sources and enhanced preparedness for future extreme weather events.

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