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The growing frequency and intensity of extreme weather

As climate change continues to be an urgent and pressing issue for our planet, we must recognize the consequences that this crisis will bring. Some of the most notable impacts of climate change include rising temperatures, and the increasing frequency and strength of weather events. Weather such as hurricanes, extreme rainfall, heat waves, and droughts can harm ecosystems, and cost our world economically, socially, and politically. It endangers our populations, and leaves them vulnerable to devastation.

According to the National Climate Assessment, which reports on US climate change impacts, the frequency and intensity of heat waves, heavy precipitation, and hurricanes has increased. As anthropogenic activity contributes to an enhanced greenhouse effect, our planet’s average surface temperature is warming. This climate change effect fosters the ideal conditions for storms and other weather events. With the ocean heating and ice melting, storms are being fueled by increased atmospheric moisture and rising sea levels. This consequently increases the danger for catastrophic storm surge and flooding. Undoubtedly, climate change impacts are increasing the potential for destruction held by storms. 

Tropical Storm Barry, which recently slammed southern Louisiana, is yet another example of the link between climate change and storm intensity. With above average temperatures, Tropical Storm Barry was able to gain strength in the Gulf of Mexico and threaten cities with flooding and extreme rainfall. The extreme weather events affecting our communities are an indicator of the climate crisis that the world is battling, and demonstrate that change must be made. We must invest in strong infrastructure, drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and make environmentally conscious choices in order to safeguard our communities. One simple change that can be made by individuals to combat climate change is using Treegle and Ecosia, search engines that donate to tree planting and therefore reduce atmospheric carbon levels. By addressing the climate crisis swiftly and efficiently, we can help protect our planet. There is no question that if change is not made, climate change will continue to threaten our welfare and safety.

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