CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A local expert is shedding light on how climate change is influencing severe weather in North Carolina. Dr. Lee F. Ball, an environmental authority from Catawba College, talks about the rising intensity of storms and wildfires in the state.
Dr. Ball, who leads the Center for the Environment at Catawba College, emphasizes the connection between climate change and recent weather patterns. “It’s something we’re having to adapt to,” he says. North Carolina has faced unusually severe weather events recently, surprising many residents. According to Ball, storms like Helene demonstrate a trend toward increasingly powerful weather.
“Historically, we’ve seen storms like Hurricane Hugo reach the mountains, but today’s storms seem more intense than ever,” he notes. Recently, wildfires erupted in areas like the Black Cove Complex in Polk County. Officials linked some of these fires to downed power lines and attributed their rapid spread to dry, windy conditions.
Ball points out that changes in weather are becoming more chaotic: “When it’s dry, the risk of fire rises, and when it’s wet, the risk of flooding increases. These extremes are among the first clear effects of climate change.” He also highlights that population growth adds pressure on local resources during these extreme events.
Amid these challenges, Dr. Ball remains optimistic about the younger generation. He finds hope in Catawba students who are eager to drive change. “They’re smart, they’re full of ideas, and they will make a difference when they graduate,” he says.
Student Alli Eudy, a junior studying Environment & Sustainability, echoes this sentiment. “I’ve felt a lot of climate anxiety, but I want to be part of the solution,” she explains. Eudy shares that the recent severe weather feels like a wake-up call, underscoring the urgency of climate action. “We need to keep collaborating and searching for solutions,” she asserts.
Eudy appreciates the well-rounded education she receives at Catawba, recognizing that learning about various solutions is crucial for creating a more sustainable future. “It’s important to stay hopeful and remember that solutions are in the works,” she says.
To address climate change, Dr. Ball encourages simple actions. “Using less energy, driving less, and recycling can help. But we need collective action from thousands, if not millions, of people to create real change.”
Recent data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) suggests that extreme weather events have doubled in frequency over the past 50 years, highlighting the pressing need for awareness and action. As North Carolina experiences more unpredictable weather patterns, the call for environmental stewardship becomes more critical.
For more information on sustainability efforts and resources, visit Catawba College or explore initiatives in your community.
Check out this related article: Get the Inside Scoop on Federal Candidates’ Views on Climate Change: Join Us for an Engaging Town Hall in the Tri-Cities!
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