FEMA’s Administrator, Deanne Criswell, has linked the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, including a rising death toll and historic flooding, to climate change. The warmer waters are noted to cause storms that develop more rapidly, resulting in increased water damage compared to previous hurricanes. Significant damage has been reported across several states, particularly in North Carolina.
On Sunday, during an appearance on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Administrator Deanne Criswell, attributed the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene to climate change. The storm has resulted in a death toll exceeding 88 and has caused historic flooding from the coast of Florida to the Appalachian Mountains. Administrator Criswell highlighted that the storm developed gradually but intensified rapidly due to warmer waters in the Gulf of Mexico. She indicated, “This storm took a while to develop, but once it did, it developed and intensified very rapidly… And so, it’s more storms that are reaching this major category level than we’ve seen in the past.” Criswell noted that the warm waters not only escalate the intensity of storms but also lead to greater storm surges and increased rainfall as the hurricanes move northward. She pointed out that the nature of damage has shifted over time, stating, “In the past, when we would look at damage from hurricanes, it was primarily wind damage, with some water damage. But now we’re seeing so much more water damage. And I think that is a result of the warm waters, which is a result of climate change.” The FEMA administrator reported extensive damage across several states including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee, with significant impacts on water systems, communications, transportation infrastructure, and numerous homes destroyed. Criswell specifically mentioned that North Carolina has experienced historic flooding, particularly in its western regions, where damage from flooding and landslides has been unprecedented. She expressed concern for the ongoing recovery efforts, stating, “I don’t know that anybody could be fully prepared for the amount of flooding and landslides that they are experiencing right now.” In Buncombe County, NC, where the city of Asheville is located, Sheriff Quentin Miller reported that 30 fatalities have occurred, contributing to the escalating death toll. Governor Roy Cooper indicated that more bodies could be discovered once rescue teams reach previously inaccessible areas due to collapsed roads and flooding.
The article discusses the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which has been notably destructive, leading to numerous fatalities and significant damage across multiple states. FEMA’s Administrator has provided insights into the relationship between climate change and the increasing severity of hurricanes, illustrating how warmer ocean temperatures contribute to heightened storm intensity and flooding. This context underscores the ongoing challenges faced by emergency responders and emphasizes the urgent need for addressing climate change impacts.
In conclusion, Hurricane Helene has brought about historic flooding and a tragic death toll that highlights the devastating effects of climate change on natural disasters. FEMA’s analysis suggests that the warming climate is intensifying storms, necessitating major infrastructure improvements and heightened preparedness strategies for future events. The situation in North Carolina and surrounding states serves as a critical reminder of the increasing risks posed by climate-induced weather phenomena.
Original Source: www.ibtimes.com
