How Hurricane Helene Illustrates the Impact of Climate Change on Intense Inland Storms

Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it’s here and affecting us now. Take Hurricane Helene, for example. Experts say storms like this show how climate change is making extreme weather worse and even reshaping where they hit.

Dr. Daniel Gilford, a climate scientist, emphasizes that humans have increased greenhouse gases for over 150 years, steadily warming our atmosphere and oceans. This warming leads to more severe weather. “Extreme weather events are worsening around the world because of climate change,” he points out.

Bill Murphey, the state climatologist for Georgia, explains that hurricanes are increasingly “rapidly intensifying.” This means they grow much stronger, very quickly, posing a bigger threat to areas that were once considered safe. He notes, “The atmosphere today holds about 10% more moisture. That means heavier rainfalls, like those from Helene.”

In fact, in 2024 alone, seven hurricanes saw rapid intensification, resulting in extreme rain and widespread inland flooding. These storms are changing, and so are their paths. Gilford notes that hurricanes, particularly in the North Atlantic, are becoming “wetter, slower, and more intense,” which increases the risk of flooding.

Many people confuse climate change with global warming. Climate change refers to a variety of shifts, including warming temperatures, more intense rainstorms, and frequent droughts. Global warming focuses solely on rising surface temperatures. Understanding both is key to grasping the full picture of our changing planet.

There are still many questions about how hurricane patterns might evolve in the coming years. While it’s likely that hurricanes will make landfall farther north, scientists are still studying how their intensity will change.

Gilford stresses that climate change influences hurricanes significantly, but some debates remain. While it’s clear climate change increases the intensity of storms, the exact role of human activities is still being discussed.

“We do know storms will bring more rainfall due to climate change,” Gilford adds, “but how much more is still up for debate.” This uncertainty shows that while we’ve made progress in understanding hurricane changes, there’s still much to explore.

As for solutions, Gilford believes collective action is crucial. “We all need to unite and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Shifting away from fossil fuels is vital for our long-term survival.” He advocates for conversations about climate change in our communities. Talking about how climate impacts our lives can lead to better awareness and action.

With storms like Helene showcasing these changes, it’s essential to engage in discussions about climate change. Not only does it help us understand, but it also prepares us for future challenges.

As we witness shifts in weather patterns, whether through hurricanes or other extreme events, keeping informed and engaged is essential. This isn’t just a scientist’s problem; it’s a shared journey. Understanding and action can pave the way to a more resilient community.

For further reading, check out the [Climate Central](https://www.climatecentral.org/) website, which offers in-depth analysis and insights into climate change and its impact.

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