Historically, hurricanes were only a concern for sailors and warm-climate coastal communities. However, with climate change, these destructive storms are becoming more frequent and severe, impacting more communities, even those far from the coast. Understanding hurricanes is crucial, regardless of where you live.
Hurricanes, typhoons, and cyclones are all tropical cyclones, rotating low-pressure thunderstorms that can cause significant damage. As ocean temperatures rise due to climate change, the potential for hurricane formation expands, leading to longer and more active hurricane seasons. The intensity of hurricanes is projected to increase in the 21st century, with higher wind speeds and heavier rains.
Insurance companies and disaster response specialists are already seeing the serious impacts of hurricanes, setting new records for disastrous seasons. With billions of dollars in damages and thousands of lives lost, the aftermath of hurricanes includes toxic debris that is costly to dispose of. There is even discussion of creating a new hurricane category, Category 6, for the most extreme storms.
Preparing for hurricane season is essential for those in high-risk areas. Creating an emergency supply kit, making plans for relocation, and getting involved in community resilience efforts are all important steps. Additionally, reducing your carbon footprint can help minimize future hurricane damage. Understanding the power and impact of hurricanes is key to staying safe and resilient in the face of extreme weather.
