What causes extreme weather events and how can we prepare?.

Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, heatwaves, and floods, are primarily caused by a combination of climate change, geographical factors, and atmospheric conditions. Preparing for these events involves awareness, early warning systems, and emergency planning.

Key Facts

• Climate change has increased the frequency of extreme weather by 40% since 1980.
• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported an average of 22 major disasters annually in the last decade.
• 2023 witnessed record-breaking temperatures globally, affecting weather patterns.
• The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projects more severe weather events in the coming decades.

Examples or Use Cases

• Cities implementing green infrastructure to mitigate urban flooding.
• Countries developing early warning systems for hurricanes.

FAQs

• What is considered an extreme weather event? Extreme weather events include hurricanes, tornadoes, severe storms, and heatwaves.
• How can communities prepare for extreme weather? Communities can prepare by establishing emergency plans, improving infrastructure, and conducting regular drills.