By Chris Walker
This article was originally published by Truthout
Recently, Donald Trump questioned the reality of global warming in a post on Truth Social. He noted the extreme cold weather gripping the U.S. and asked, “Whatever happened to global warming?”
Critics point out that remarks like this fuel confusion. Weather is complex and often doesn’t align with seasonal expectations. For instance, warmer temperatures globally can disrupt traditional weather patterns. Jennifer Francis, an atmospheric scientist, explains that a warm Arctic can push cold air southward, which is precisely what we’re seeing. “Big waves of cold are more common when the Arctic is unusually warm,” she said. This winter, Chicago faced a brutal wind chill of -36°F while Nuuk, Greenland, basked in a comfortable 36°F.
Such extreme weather events are becoming more frequent. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that 2025 may be the third-warmest year on record, continuing a troubling trend where the ten hottest years have all occurred since 2015. The effects are dire; over the recent cold snap, at least 30 people died, and more than 600,000 homes lost power.
Misunderstanding climate science can have real consequences. Trump has cut funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which plays a crucial role in disaster response. Although some cuts were paused during this latest storm, the stark reality is that future assistance may be hindered.
Public opinion is shifting as the consequences of climate change become increasingly visible. Social media is alive with discussions about these severe weather events, highlighting a growing concern for climate action among younger demographics. People are quickly connecting the dots between wild weather and climate change, sparking campaigns for policy changes and community action.
In a world where the temperature keeps rising, we can expect more intense winter storms, polar vortices, and other alarming weather patterns. An informed public is essential to navigate this ongoing crisis. Understanding and addressing the complexities of climate change is not just essential for our environment—it’s a matter of safety for all.
For more insights on climate change and its impacts, you can explore the reports from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
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