FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell attributed the extreme flooding and destruction caused by Hurricane Helene to climate change, noting a death toll of at least 88 in affected states. She highlighted the role of warm Gulf waters in intensifying the storm and emphasized the unprecedented water damage seen in recent hurricanes. Recovery efforts are ongoing amidst significant infrastructure challenges and rising fatalities in North Carolina and other states.
The head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Administrator Deanne Criswell, attributed the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Helene to climate change during her appearance on CBS’ “Face the Nation.” The hurricane, which impacted areas from the Florida coast to the Appalachian Mountains, has resulted in a death toll of at least 88 individuals and has caused what has been characterized as “historic flooding.” Criswell noted that the storm underwent a gradual development but intensified quickly, which she linked to the warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico. “This storm took a while to develop, but once it did, it developed and intensified very rapidly,” she stated. Furthermore, she explained that the warmer ocean temperatures contribute to greater storm surges and increased rainfall as hurricanes move northward. Historically, hurricane damage has primarily been attributed to wind, but Criswell indicated a shift towards water-related damage due to climate change. She mentioned significant impacts across multiple states, including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee, highlighting damage to infrastructure such as water systems, roads, and homes. In North Carolina, where flooding and landslides have been particularly severe, Criswell remarked, “I do not know that anybody could be fully prepared for the amount of flooding and landslides that they are experiencing right now.” Local authorities also reported rising fatalities, with Sheriff Quentin Miller confirming 30 deaths in Buncombe County. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has warned that additional casualties may be discovered as rescue efforts unfold in inaccessible areas due to blocked roads and flooding.
The article discusses the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, a powerful storm that has caused significant destruction across the southeastern United States, particularly highlighting the role that climate change may play in exacerbating such natural disasters. With a rising death toll and critical infrastructure damage, local officials and FEMA have expressed urgent calls for preparedness and support in recovery efforts. The connection made by FEMA between climate change and increasingly severe weather events reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need to address environmental challenges.
In conclusion, Hurricane Helene has severely impacted several states, leading to fatalities and unprecedented flooding. The head of FEMA connected the severity of the storm to climate change, emphasizing the need for heightened preparedness and effective response measures. As recovery efforts continue, authorities remain vigilant regarding the potential for further discoveries of victims and strive to restore affected infrastructure.
Original Source: www.ibtimes.com
