Intensifying atmospheric rivers are causing a surge in Valley fever cases in California. Last week, a powerful weather event, known as an atmospheric river, brought record-breaking rainfall and devastating flooding to California. The deluge of rain has intensified the spread of Valley fever, a deadly fungal disease caused by the Coccidioides fungus.
Climate scientist Daniel Swain warns that the wild swings between extremely wet and extremely dry conditions are making it difficult for humans to adapt. Meanwhile, the fungus responsible for Valley fever, Coccidioides, is thriving. Last year, California saw a record number of Valley fever cases, with over 9,000 new infections reported.
This surge in cases is linked to the dramatic climate events, such as back-to-back atmospheric rivers, that have hit the state. The disease, which disproportionately impacts certain ethnic groups, can cause severe illness, and there is no cure. With climate models predicting more extreme weather events in the future, experts fear that California will continue to see a rise in Valley fever cases, posing a significant threat to public health.
