#coastal flooding is going to be widespread

[mistrstark]

Floridians are less worried about hurricanes 🌀 than most people are. We been here before lol just have to figure it out when the time comes. I just hope I’m not having to file a claim on my roof when this shit is over.

Hurricane Milton 2024

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

Another Atmospheric River Hits British Columbia

About a month after a powerful atmospheric river brought abundant rain to coastal British Columbia, another storm drenched southern parts of the Canadian province and western Washington in the U.S.

The atmospheric river made landfall over British Columbia on October 18, 2024, and moved down the coast on October 19-20. Portions of southern Vancouver Island recorded up to 300 millimeters (12 inches) of rain between October 18 and 20, while the Vancouver metropolitan area on the mainland received up to 150 millimeters (6 inches). According to the Vancouver Sun, the rain overwhelmed the city’s storm drain system, leading to widespread flooding.

Toward the south, the storm also brought rain and wind to portions of western Washington. Up to 150 millimeters of rain was also measured on the Olympic Peninsula. Gusty winds toppled trees and contributed to 14,500 households in the Puget Sound region briefly losing power on October 19. NASA-led research has shown that atmospheric rivers are associated with the most damaging storms in the middle latitudes, especially with regard to the hazardous wind they produce.

A second pulse of water vapor moved over southwest British Columbia and northern Washington on October 20, when the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the NOAA-21 satellite acquired this image. In the image, an elongated stream of water vapor—the hallmark of atmospheric rivers—had reached the western coast of North America after crossing the Pacific Ocean. When atmospheric rivers encounter land, they often release that water vapor in the form of rain or snow.

According to the Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes at the University of California, San Diego, forecasters expected the atmospheric river to hit western Canada as a Category 3 or 4 event, the second- and third-highest tiers on the scale. The storm follows an unusually strong Category 5 atmospheric river that hit British Columbia in September 2024. Experts suspect that the September atmospheric river was among the most intense events to transit the northeast Pacific in a satellite-based record going back to 2000.

NASA Earth Observatory image by Wanmei Liang, using VIIRS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE, GIBS/Worldview, and the Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS). Story by Emily Cassidy.

[tomorrowusa]

Eastern South Carolina has a forecast for over 16 inches (40 cm) of rain from Tropical Storm Debby this week.

Contrary to mass belief, it's water – not wind, which constitutes the greatest hazard from tropical weather. Flooding and storm surge have produced far more casualties than wind related trauma.

And a lot of water in the form of rain from Tropical Storm Debby will drench the coast of South Carolina and adjacent areas this week.

Jeff Masters and Bob Henson at Yale Climate Connections write:

Catastrophic extreme rainfall expected for coastal Georgia and South Carolina The main damage from Debby is going to be flooding from its torrential rains. The trough of low pressure pulling Debby to the northeast is not expected to be strong enough to finish the job, leaving the storm stranded in a region of weak steering currents near the Southeast U.S. coast for multiple days. As of Monday morning, the National Hurricane Center was predicting 16-20 inches of rain for much of the coastal plain of Georgia and South Carolina, with a pocket of 20-30 inches from the Georgia-South Carolina border to Charleston, South Carolina. Such amounts could topple the South Carolina all-time state precipitation record for a tropical cyclone – 23.63 inches from Hurricane Florence in 2018.

Ironically, much of South Carolina has been a state of drought (archived).

Although most of South Carolina is in moderate to severe drought, widespread rains in excess of 10 inches are sure to cause damaging flooding, especially near the coast where onshore winds and a storm surge will prevent rainwater from draining efficiently.

This threat levels chart is from the National Weather Service office in Charleston.

"POTENTIALLY HISTORIC RAINFALL" is not a phrase you wish to see in local weather forecasting.

Such rainfalls have become more common this century. Warmer sea temperatures mean more tropical cyclones and a greater volume of water in such storms. And a tropical cyclone doesn't have to be huge or powerful to unleash torrents of water.

In 2021 the remnants of Hurricane Ida traveled about a thousand miles after making landfall in Louisiana and still had enough moisture to produce waterfalls in the NYC subway system and flood the streets.

Many people in NYC were nonchalant in late summer of 2011 when they first heard that Hurricane Irene was on the way. They figured that the city never gets such storms and Irene would miss it or dissipate. Instead, Irene began the normalization of tropical cyclones in the Big Apple.

Hurricane Irene - August 2011

Hurricane Sandy - October 2012

Tropical Storm Fay - July 2020

Tropical Storm Isaias - August 2020

Hurricane Elsa - July 2021

Hurricane Henri - August 2021

Hurricane Ida (remnants) - September 2021

Tropical Storm Ophelia (remnants) - September 2023

^^^ That list is limited to storms which had at least a moderate impact on NYC. Eight tropical cyclones in 14 years is a lot for a place where people previously claimed that hurricanes just didn't happen in New York.

The number and intensity of Atlantic tropical cyclones have gone up on the past 30 years which corresponds to rising CO2 levels in the atmosphere. Let Tropical Storm Debby be a reminder that such levels need to come down.

[ceph-the-ghost-writer]

Happy STS! Does your world have the Olympics or something like it?

@writingamongther0ses Thank you for sending this in!

In the future Earth of Dysthanasia, the Olympics still exist and are as complicated and messy as ever. The nations and cities that can host and/or participate in the games after the Break is limited not only by how much time and money they can spare to train athletes, but by the changing climate.

Though the Olympics were brought back as a way to unite the world despite widespread death and destruction, a lot of people watch in the hopes of seeing a natural disaster streaming live. Of course, people still love sports and rooting for teams as always, but the possibility of seeing the 100 meter dash become a sprint for safety during a sudden earthquake has its own appeal. Or spectators and competitors alike collapsing en masse because the temperature that day broke heat records. Or a newly built stadium flooding after the cheaply constructed coastal levees failed. The discourse around the pros and cons of keeping the Games going is almost a sport unto itself.

In the dimension next door, the sorcerers of Arasind have a competition roughly every decade to display their prowess and win prestige for the earthly powers and deities which they serve. At least two wars have started, one Great Dragon rampage was set off, several legendary grudges were born, and dozens of political assassinations have been carried out during these events.

[mariacallous]

For most of his life, Cory Infinger has lived down a hill and along a bend in the Little Wekiva River, a gentle stream meandering northwest of Orlando. During Hurricane Ian, in September 2022, the stream swelled, inundating the homes of his family and his neighbors and also the street where they live, making it impassable.

Overnight Ian had moved slowly and violently over the state’s interior, dropping historic amounts of rain, after coming ashore in southwest Florida as a category 4 hurricane, its high winds and storm surge flattening coastal communities there.

For Infinger the deluge forced a hasty morning evacuation with his wife and youngest two of their three children. It would displace the family for months as their home underwent massive repairs. More than a year later the ordeal has left the family rattled, especially his 16- and 8-year-old children, said Infinger, who grew up fishing and trapping turtles along the Little Wekiva and now enjoys doing the same with his kids. (A 22-year-old son no longer lives at home.)

“You could tell they were sad when we came back to get the last few things,” he recalled of his kids as he described the family’s temporary stay in a rental house, and then the move back to their newly remodeled home. “It took them a while to get used to, this is our new house. Everything had changed.”

In the last seven years Florida has weathered five major hurricanes. Michael, which made landfall in 2018 in the Panhandle, was the first category 5 hurricane to strike the continental United States since Andrew in 1992. Ian, in 2022, was the costliest hurricane in state history and third-costliest on record nationwide, after Katrina in 2005 and Harvey in 2017. Recent major Florida hurricanes also include Irma in 2017, Nicole in 2022, and Idalia in 2023.

If the disasters sharpened Floridians’ resolve, in the immediate aftermath, to build back stronger and better, another crisis may be causing some to rethink where they live and the rising risk as the global climate warms.

After Ian, Infinger’s taxes and homeowners insurance, which he pays together into a bank escrow account as part of his regular mortgage payment, jumped by $450 a month. That amount could be considered moderate in a state where annual home insurance rates in the five and six figures have not been unheard of in recent years, and many homeowners have received letters from their insurers informing them that their existing policies will not be renewed.

Some homeowners have received multiple such letters from multiple insurers, leaving them scrambling from one policy to the next, as lenders require mortgage holders to carry insurance. Others whose homes are paid off are going without insurance altogether, to spare the expense.

“We deal with it,” said Infinger, who, with his wife, is considering moving away from the Little Wekiva in the coming years. For now, he said, “there’s nothing really we can do about it.”

Across the country, homeowners are grappling with skyrocketing insurance rates and dropped policies, with those in states such as California, Florida, and Louisiana hit hardest. Growing evidence suggests the soaring costs only hint at the widespread unpriced risk facing homeowners as the warming climate leads to rising seas and more damaging hurricanes and wildfires.

As many as 6.8 million properties nationwide have been affected by insurance problems, but that number represents a fraction of the 39 million homes and businesses vulnerable to flooding, hurricanes, and wildfires whose risk has not been priced into their policies, according to a study by the First Street Foundation, a nonprofit researching climate risk. Together these 39 million properties constitute what the study characterizes as an “insurance bubble,” defined by properties likely overvalued because of underpriced or subsidized insurance.

Other research suggests the changing climate has not been priced into the real estate market in a way that reflects the risk. A separate study published last year in Nature Climate Change, a peer-reviewed journal, estimates that residential properties vulnerable to flooding are overvalued by $121 billion to $237 billion, in part because of the subsidized National Flood Insurance Program.

The study found that the most overvalued properties are concentrated in coastal counties where there are no flood risk disclosure laws and where there is less personal concern about climate change. Much of the overvaluation is driven by properties situated outside of the 100-year flood zones designed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Low-income households especially are in danger of losing home equity, potentially leading to wider wealth gaps. In Florida, properties are overvalued by more than $50 billion, according to the study.

The unpriced risk is important for many reasons. Municipalities that rely on property tax revenue may be vulnerable to potential shortfalls, the study says. The National Climate Assessment pointed out last year that the overvaluation of coastal properties makes it difficult to move people out of harm’s way, because of the limited amount of compensation available through flood insurance and federal flood disaster assistance programs.

“Florida is one of the riskiest places from a climate impact standpoint that you can live in,” said Rob Moore, director of the flooding solutions team at the Natural Resources Defense Council. “One only needs to look through a few years of front pages to see how many major hurricanes have struck this state, and that definitely had an impact on how both private insurers and insurers in the public realm are looking at risk and pricing it in the state of Florida.”

“We’re so far behind in regard to pricing in the climate. That’s why we’re seeing these big [insurance] spikes in places like Florida and California and Louisiana,” said Jeremy Porter, head of climate implications research at the First Street Foundation. “It’s the first mechanism to start to price climate into the housing market.”

[ghostcrows]

Human civilisation will definitely make it through climate change intact, and if you live in a developed country, you won't see the worst of it. However, heatwaves, hurricanes, floods, rising sea levels, increasing desertification, species extinctions and wars over scarce natural resources will get more common. It's nuanced! Yes, it's bad to deny or ignore climate change, but it's also bad to get into doomer mode about it! Most issues aren't either "perfectly fine or the end of the world," but somewhere inbetween. I hate how social media's oversimplified world view seems to push us to extremes about this - and just about anything. Both climate denial (it's not happening, it's happening but it's not us, it may be a good thing, etc.) and climate doomerism (the world's going to end no matter what we do, no point in pretending otherwise) promote a "we shouldn't do anything about climate change" mentality. Since climate change denial is increasingly hard to maintain, fossil fuel companies have started to bankroll climate doomers - it has the same "might as well, nothing we can do about it" effect!

It'd be super irresponsible to ignore all the bad things that are already here and will get worse in the future - species extinctions, coastal cities flooded, the spread of deserts, more extreme weather events like heatwaves and floods, etc. But it's also a distorted picture if we don't include the fact that renewable energy is becoming really cheap and widespread, cities and countries are starting to do something about the problem, and the flip side of increased effects of climate change is increased awareness and calls for action. Human population growth is slowing and we're predicted to stabilise at around 10 billion by 2080. Already we've avoided the worst case scenario predictions from 10-20 years ago. Back then there was legitimate talk of temperature rises up to 6 degrees C by 2100, which would have been a mass extinction level catastrophe. Now the worst case scenario looks about 3 degrees C by 2100 - STILL ABSOLUTELY TERRIBLE MIND YOU! But also literally not the end of the world. Also, back then the problem seemed insurmountable as fossil fuels seemed the only way to power our planet to allow everyone to have a high standard of living. That's no longer true. We now know what to do to solve the climate crisis, and we now CAN do it! It's just a matter of political will. Also, bear in mind the climate isn't a binary switch going from "everything's fine" to "the end of the world" in an eyeblink, it's not a yes/no thing but a spectrum! Huge and irreversible environmental damage has already been done that we can't fix, sadly, but we still have an enormous scope for slowing and stopping climate change before it gets TOO bad, and maybe even reversing it in the distant future! A lot of people seem to see the future as a choice between an uninhabitable wasteland and a glittering paradise with advanced technology. But the world is already a mix of both in some ways, and will probably continue to be! I don't get why we have to pick between utopia and dystopia and assume that every little step away from utopia is inevitably a step into dystopia. The future probably won't be perfect and it won't be catastrophic - it'll probably be "eh, alright I guess?," with ups and downs like the present and the rest of human history. The great thing about the climate crisis is that it's a human crisis and that's why it's a good idea to be optimistic. Faith in humanity isn't like, for example, faith in religion. Either God exists or he doesn't, and your belief can't change that either way. Same with optimism and pessimism about a disease, a natural disaster or anything else you can't change. But if you believe in humanity, that will affect your actions as a human, and if enough of us do, that will affect our actions as a species. Optimism about the human future is a self-fulfilling prophecy! So - let's not ignore the climate crisis, but let's not fall into doomerism either. Let's have climate action fired up by enthusiastic optimism about the fact that a better world really is possible - we can do this! We can save the world!

You're right

Thank you for sending this cause I get very doomer mode about it all and it's definitely not conducive to action at all you are right about that . And it's good to hear from someone who does have hope in a realistic way

I believe in a better earth...change the world my final message goodbye

[bills-bible-basics]

What Exactly is a Storm Surge? #HurricaneMilton #StormSurge #Asheville I was inspired to write this short commentary after discovering that some of my friends didn’t quite understand how a town or city which is located many miles from a coastal area, and which is hundreds or even thousands of feet in elevation, could be so seriously affected by a hurricane coming off of the ocean, such as in the case of Asheville, North Carolina, USA for example. I think this confusion results from not fully understanding exactly what a storm surge is, which is quite understandable if a person has never been through a hurricane, and if they don’t happen to live in a coastal area. Basically, a storm surge is an abnormal rise in sea level that is caused by the strong winds and low pressure which are associated with a hurricane. This rise in water level — which can be anywhere from a few feet up to as much as perhaps 30+ feet in the severest of storms — can lead to major coastal flooding, particularly in low-lying areas. The storm surge is driven by the force of the hurricane’s winds raising and pushing water — like a giant, powerful wall of water — towards the shore, in conjunction with the storm’s low pressure, which allows the water level to rise higher than normal. But that is not all. The height of that wall of water includes not only the storm surge itself, but the regular tide level as well. For example, let’s say that at the time a hurricane makes landfall in a particular area, there is a very high tide in progress, or what is known as a spring tide. Even worse is a king tide which is higher than a spring tide. If the king tide is 2.5 feet in height, and the storm surge is 20 feet in height, that means that when that powerful wave crashes ashore, it will be 22.5 feet in total height. Wow! My friends, not only is there unimaginable force behind a storm surge, but they move very fast, typically 10-30 miles an hour, depending on the forward speed of the hurricane itself. A storm surge is one of the most dangerous and deadly aspects of a hurricane, and is often responsible for widespread destruction and loss of life in a coastal area. Here on Guam, I have witnessed firsthand the results of a powerful storm surge rushing ashore. The level of destruction is absolutely mind-boggling, as if you are in a war zone. Everything is uprooted and just gone down to the bare rock strata! Nothing is left! Now, to be clear, the destruction that some people are describing at those higher elevations is NOT the result of an oceanic storm surge, because a storm surge can only penetrate inland a few miles at best depending on the topography of the land, the size, strength and speed of the hurricane itself, etc. The destruction at those higher elevations results from a different set of factors including the following: 1. Wind speed 2. Amount of rainfall 3. Topography of the land 4. Flash floods 5. Rivers, lakes, etc. overflowing their regular boundaries. For example, even though you live in a town or city that is at a higher elevation and miles away from the ocean, if that town or city is in turn surrounded by even higher hills or mountains — kind of like a bowl — it is going to be in serious trouble! Now, if that same town or city is also located near a body of water, or even near multiple bodies of water — such as a confluence of rivers — that town or city is going to be in even worse trouble, not just from the excessive wind speed, but from all of that excessive rainfall filling up those lakes and rivers. But that is not all. You’ve also got flash floods rushing down hills and mountains at tremendous speeds. Lastly, there are landslides to boot, washed out roads, etc. My friends, that is exactly what happened at places such as Asheville, N.C. It had nothing to do with the oceanic storm surge many miles away which could not possibly reach those elevations. I hope this explanation clears things up for some of you. https://www.billkochman.com/Blog/index.php/what-exactly-is-a-storm-surge/?feed_id=257286&What%20Exactly%20is%20a%20Storm%20Surge%3F

[kingdompressnews]

Hurricane Milton: A Catastrophic Threat to Southwest Florida

As Hurricane Milton rapidly approaches the shores of Southwest Florida, the atmosphere is thick with tension and fear. This storm is not just another tropical disturbance; it is a Category 4 hurricane, boasting winds that could reach up to 140 mph and torrential rains that threaten to unleash catastrophic flooding in coastal communities. Residents from Lee, Collier, and Port Charlotte Counties must prepare for the worst as this powerful force of nature bears down on their homes and lives.

The Catastrophic Impact

Hurricane Milton is projected to make landfall within days, and the consequences could be dire. With storm surges expected to exceed 10 feet in some areas, coastal flooding will pose an unprecedented threat. Many homes and businesses along the waterfront are at risk of being completely submerged, while inland areas could experience devastating flash floods. The sheer force of the winds could result in widespread structural damage, uprooting trees, downing power lines, and wreaking havoc on infrastructure.

This storm is not just about wind and rain; it signifies a potential humanitarian crisis. Emergency services may be overwhelmed, and the possibility of power outages lasting for days or even weeks looms large. As residents brace for impact, the importance of safety and preparation cannot be overstated.

What You Need to Know: Resources for Survival and Evacuation

Evacuation Orders: Stay informed about evacuation orders issued by local authorities. If you live in a flood-prone area or a zone marked for mandatory evacuation, heed these warnings without delay.

Emergency Shelters: Lee County has designated several emergency shelters to provide refuge for those forced to evacuate. Check with the Lee County Emergency Management website for the latest information on available shelters, including locations and what to bring.

Collier County Resources: Collier County has a robust emergency management plan in place. Residents can find updates on evacuations, road closures, and shelter information via the Collier County Emergency Management website or by calling their information hotline.

Port Charlotte Preparedness: The Charlotte County Emergency Management office is actively monitoring Hurricane Milton and will provide timely updates. Keep an eye on their social media channels and local news for real-time alerts regarding safety measures and shelter locations.

Local Assistance: Numerous local organizations are mobilizing to offer assistance to those in need. The Red Cross, Salvation Army, and local faith-based organizations are prepared to provide food, shelter, and support.

Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit containing essentials such as non-perishable food, water (at least one gallon per person per day for three days), medications, batteries, flashlights, important documents, and personal hygiene items.

Communication: Keep your phone charged and have backup power sources ready. Establish a communication plan with family members to ensure everyone is accounted for during and after the storm.

A Call for Unity and Support

As Hurricane Milton approaches, our hearts and prayers go out to all communities in Southwest Florida facing this formidable threat. In these times of uncertainty, it is crucial to look out for one another. Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with mobility challenges, and offer assistance where you can.

Stay vigilant, stay safe, and stay informed. Together, we will weather this storm and emerge stronger on the other side.

Prayers and strength to all in Southwest Florida. Your resilience is our hope.

Download the LEE COUNTY APP for updates, safety and survival measurements.

Contact Us : 

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Email - subscribe@kingdompressnews.com

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Blog - Intense Clashes Erupt in Tel Aviv as Protesters Demand Action on Prisoner Exchange Deal

[thecpdiary]

Fossil Fuels Climate Crisis

Peter Kalmus, a climate scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, is an outspoken advocate for urgent action on climate change. Through his research, activism, and social media comment, Kalmus highlights the critical dangers of continued reliance on fossil fuels, which are the primary driver of the planet's rising temperatures and increasingly severe climate disruptions. His message is clear: our addiction to fossil fuels is causing the Earth to "burn up," and unless we immediately take drastic steps to reduce emissions, we are heading towards widespread ecological collapse and human disaster.

In an emotional speech in Los Angeles, Nasa scientist Peter Kalmus implored people to listen to the dire warnings of climate change experts. “We’re going to lose everything,” Kalmus said in a video of the moment. “And we’re not joking, we’re not lying, we’re not exaggerating.” – (Source: independent.co.uk)

The Dangers of Fossil Fuels: Why the Planet is "Burning Up" Fossil fuels coal, oil, and natural gas, make up our global energy system. However, their use releases vast amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. According to Kalmus and the wider scientific community these gases trap heat, leading to the warming of the planet. Over time, this has resulted in more frequent and severe weather events such as hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and droughts, all of which are becoming increasingly common. In a particularly vivid metaphor, Kalmus often describes the Earth as "burning up," as a way to convey the urgency and scale of the problem. He points to evidence such as the intensification of wildfires in places like California, Greece, and Australia, which are becoming more destructive and harder to control due to hotter, drier conditions. These fires are just one of many "burning" signals that the planet is under immense stress. Fossil fuels are also responsible for the melting of ice caps and glaciers, causing sea levels to rise and threatening coastal cities worldwide. Ocean warming and acidification, driven by CO₂ absorption, are also devastating marine ecosystems, killing coral reefs, and disrupting fisheries that millions of people rely on for food. Additionally, Kalmus notes that the global economy's dependence on these fuels is unsustainable, as it perpetuates environmental degradation and puts vulnerable communities at even greater risk. The Climate Crisis is Here: Why We Must Act – And What Must Be Done Kalmus and other climate scientists emphasise that the window for action is rapidly closing. To avert the worst impacts of climate change, global temperature rise must be limited to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, as outlined in the Paris Agreement. However, at current emission rates, the world is on track to exceed this threshold, with catastrophic consequences for ecosystems, economies, and societies. Kalmus argues that incremental changes are no longer enough. The transition away from fossil fuels must be swift and comprehensive.

Here are key steps humanity must take: Massive Reduction in Fossil Fuel Consumption

Massive Reduction in Fossil Fuel Consumption: Governments and industries must stop investing in new fossil fuel infrastructure and rapidly phase out existing coal, oil, and gas operations. This requires aggressive policies such as carbon pricing, ending subsidies for fossil fuels, and halting the exploration of new oil fields.

Adoption of Renewal Energy Adoption of Renewable Energy: Solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources must be scaled up immediately to replace fossil fuels. These energy sources are now cheaper and more efficient than ever before. Kalmus advocates for a decentralised energy grid powered by renewables, which would provide more resilience against extreme weather events.

Reimagining Transportation Reimagining Transportation: One of Kalmus's personal actions has been to reduce his reliance on cars and air travel, two of the largest sources of individual carbon footprints. He advocates for a shift to electric vehicles, public transportation, and, where possible, walking or biking. On a larger scale, governments need to invest in sustainable infrastructure like high-speed rail networks and electric public transport systems.

Changing Food Systems Changing Food Systems: Industrial agriculture, particularly the meat industry, is another significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing meat consumption and transitioning to plant-based diets can help lower emissions.

Grassroots Activism and Policy Change Grassroots Activism and Policy Change: While individual actions matter, Kalmus stresses the need for collective action. He encourages people to join climate movements, support politicians who prioritise climate action, and advocate for systemic changes. Political will is critical to making the large-scale changes necessary to decarbonise the economy.

Protecting and Restoring Nature Protecting and Restoring Nature: Protecting the planet’s remaining forests, wetlands, and other ecosystems is crucial, as these areas act as carbon sinks. Restoring damaged ecosystems builds resilience against climate impacts. Why It's Hard, But Necessary The transition away from fossil fuels is not without challenges. The global economy has been deeply tied to oil, gas, and coal for over a century, and the interests of powerful industries often conflict with the urgent need for action. Kalmus acknowledges that this inertia, economic interests, and misinformation campaigns funded by the fossil fuel industry make this transition politically and socially difficult. But he insists that the alternative continuing on our current path, will result in far greater economic, environmental, and human costs. Despite the challenges, Kalmus is optimistic about humanity’s ability to change course. He believes that public awareness of the climate crisis is growing, and with it, the demand for stronger climate policies. As extreme weather events become more frequent and devastating, more people are recognizing the urgency of the situation. Conclusion: The Path Forward Peter Kalmus’s message is clear: we MUST act now to stop the planet from "burning up." The science is clear: fossil fuels are driving the climate crisis and unless we make significant changes in how we generate energy, travel and produce food, the consequences will be dire. This isn't just about saving the environment; it's about ensuring a liveable future for all of humanity. The solution lies in drastically cutting fossil fuel use, embracing renewable energy and rethinking our consumption patterns. The responsibility rests with governments, industries and individuals alike to push for a rapid transition towards a more sustainable and resilient world. While the challenge is enormous, it is not insurmountable. With collective action, we can still turn the tide and prevent the worst outcomes of climate change from becoming our reality.

For more relatable, inspirational and lifestyle blogs, please check out my site https://www.thecpdiary.com

[weather-usa]

Severe flooding strikes North Carolina as Potential Tropical Cyclone 8 pushes inland

Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight made landfall Monday evening, approximately 100 miles northeast of Charleston, South Carolina. As the storm progresses inland across the Carolinas and into the mid-Atlantic, flash flooding remains a significant threat.

Life-threatening flooding and strong winds wreaked havoc across parts of southeastern North Carolina on Monday as Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight neared the coast before moving ashore in South Carolina.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that the system made landfall along the South Carolina coast Monday evening and is expected to weaken as it tracks farther inland through Monday night and Tuesday. The low-pressure area is forecast to dissipate over the Carolinas by early Wednesday.

The National Weather Service office in Wilmington, North Carolina, reported that several roads in southeastern North Carolina were impassable due to rising water levels. Widespread flash flooding hit Bald Head Island, which also experienced several hours of power outages on Monday.

Climate and Average Weather Year Round in 30215 - Fayetteville GA:

Around 16 miles north, FOX Weather Correspondent Brandy Campbell reported from Carolina Beach, North Carolina, where wind gusts reached up to 50 mph in parts of the area. According to the National Weather Service, emergency managers reported several vehicles had been flooded along Canal Drive.

"Folks, do not go out," warned Carolina Beach Mayor Lynn Barbee after declaring a state of emergency for the coastal town.

Barbee mentioned that the town's fire department was overwhelmed with rescue calls after the city was inundated by 18 inches of rain since midnight. Residents reported being trapped in their homes and businesses, prompting the use of high-clearance vehicles to reach the most severely affected areas. A Flash Flood Warning was in effect until 8:45 p.m. ET Monday.

Santi Neuberger, a visitor to the area, hoped to return to sunny Connecticut, where the weather was 85 degrees.

Weather Forecast For For-77072-Houston-TX:

https://www.behance.net/gallery/202000005/Weather-Forecast-For-77072-Houston-TX

"Even with an SUV, I’m not sure we’ll be able to drive through the water to reach the bridge, let alone get to the airport," he said.

Resident Ed Alexander remarked that the flooding from the storm is likely the worst he's seen since Hurricane Florence in 2018.

"It’s definitely a mess," he told FOX Weather. "I don’t think anyone was prepared for this… but living by the ocean, this is what you have to expect."

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) designated the system, formerly known as Invest 95L, as a potential tropical cyclone on Sunday to allow for the issuance of tropical storm alerts along the Southeast coast.

Once the low-pressure system moved onshore Monday evening, all Tropical Storm Warnings for the North Carolina and South Carolina coasts were lifted.

"It's an uneven system, with the worst weather concentrated north of the front that extends through the broad center," FOX Weather Hurricane Specialist Bryan Norcross explained. "The contrast in pressure between the low-pressure disturbance and a broad high over New England is compressing the air. It’s similar to squeezing a toothpaste tube, where the pressure difference speeds up the air flow. As a result, the strongest winds are focused on North Carolina and the northern coast of South Carolina."

Strong eastward winds are expected to cause flooding in coastal areas south of Cape Hatteras, particularly around Pamlico Sound and the Neuse River, Norcross noted. The flooding will be exacerbated by higher-than-usual tides, with waves potentially reaching up to 3 feet above normal in these regions.

"Be vigilant for local warnings from the National Weather Service. Inland flooding around streams and rivers in the Carolinas can be very hazardous," Norcross advised.

The remaining disturbance will move inland and dissipate, but its moisture will spread north into the mid-Atlantic and Northeast.

Regarding Potential Tropical Cyclone 8: The system made landfall about 100 miles northeast of Charleston, South Carolina. By Monday evening, all Tropical Storm Warnings were lifted as the low-pressure area continued moving inland near the South Carolina-North Carolina border.

A Flood Watch remains in effect for much of central and eastern North Carolina, including Raleigh and Wilmington, as well as northeastern South Carolina, including Myrtle Beach. Coastal Flood Advisories have been issued from New Jersey to North Carolina due to winds from Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight pushing water against the mid-Atlantic coastline.

See more:

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-99603

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-99604

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-99605

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-99606

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-99607

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has warned that Potential Tropical Cyclone Eight is expected to bring gusty winds, heavy rain with a risk of flash flooding, coastal flooding, and hazardous beach conditions to parts of the mid-Atlantic and Northeast over the next few days.

NOAA's Weather Prediction Center has highlighted northern South Carolina, much of North Carolina, and southern Virginia for potential flooding through Monday night, with the highest risk centered around Wilmington, North Carolina.

[beauila-blog]

Typhoon Yagi Devastates Northern Vietnam: Floods and Landslides Claim 143 Lives

The death toll from Typhoon Yagi in Vietnam has risen to 143, with dozens still missing, as heavy rains continue to unleash landslides and widespread flooding, particularly in the capital, Hanoi. The storm, which made landfall days ago, is the most powerful typhoon to hit the country in decades, bringing 90 mph winds and relentless downpours that have ravaged northern Vietnam.

Typhoon Yagi has caused catastrophic damage, especially in rural areas. A massive landslide buried an entire village in Lao Cai, a mountainous province on the border with China. Video footage from state media showed what was once a bustling hamlet reduced to a barren, muddy wasteland. Rescue teams recovered 22 bodies from the debris. “It’s the most deadly landslide caused by the typhoon so far,” said Nhu Thi Tam, a local official, speaking as she hurried to evacuate her family after receiving another landslide warning.

Hanoi Submerged as Red River Rises

Hanoi, one of Southeast Asia’s most densely populated river valleys, has been hit hard by the continuous rain. The Red River, which flows through the capital, rose at alarming rates, flooding many neighborhoods. Streets typically crowded with motorbikes are now navigable only by boat, as residents struggle to save what they can from their submerged homes.

Nguyen Thi Dung, 52, a lifelong resident of Hanoi, was forced to flee her flooded house. “The water has reached the second floor,” she said as she left, clutching her belongings and pet cat. “Flooding isn’t new here, but this time it came so fast.”

Widespread Devastation Across Northern Provinces

Typhoon Yagi made its initial impact on coastal cities like Haiphong and Quang Ninh, where the destruction has been extensive. Factories have closed, and families are being urged to keep children home from school as the Red River continues to rise.

In Lao Cai, the province worst hit by the storm, 45 people have been confirmed dead, and many more remain missing. Thousands of soldiers have been deployed to assist in search and rescue operations and to manage evacuations, with thousands of residents fleeing to safer areas. Photos shared by the government showed rescue workers helping residents in life vests and evacuating furniture from homes.

In Hanoi, silty floodwaters now reach waist-deep in some areas. Families, uncertain of when the floodwaters will recede, are seeking higher ground. "We have nowhere else to go," said 70-year-old Nguyen Van Tien, sitting in his flooded living room, unsure of when life might return to normal.

A Wake-Up Call for Vietnam

Analysts warn that Typhoon Yagi could be the worst natural disaster in Vietnam in a generation, with climate change likely exacerbating the severity of such storms. Alexander Vuving, a professor at the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies, said the psychological impact of the disaster could lead to greater government focus on mitigating the effects of extreme weather.

Meanwhile, Vietnam’s emergency management agency reported that most of the fatalities were caused by landslides and flash floods. Along with the dead and missing, the agency reported over 700 injuries. Concerns are also growing over potential future flooding, as water from overfilled hydropower dams along the Red River is being released into already swollen waterways.

As rescue efforts continue, residents across northern Vietnam are anxiously awaiting clearer skies and wondering how long it will take for life to return to normal.

[so-true-overdue]

Welcome to the Apocalypse

Oh, you didn’t know? We’re living in it. Climate change is real, and yes, it’s our fault. You’d think after years of scientific evidence, people would get it. But here we are, still debating facts like it’s a fun little game.

The Earth is warming. The ice caps are melting. Sea levels are rising. You can’t argue with the data. It’s all there, clear as day. But some folks prefer to stick their heads in the sand, pretending everything’s fine. Spoiler alert: it’s not.

Humans have been spewing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere for over a century. We’ve burned fossil fuels, chopped down forests, and polluted the oceans. And now we’re surprised the planet’s fighting back? It’s like throwing trash in your living room and being shocked when it stinks.

Every year, we see more extreme weather. Hurricanes, wildfires, floods. They’re not random. They’re the result of our actions. The science isn’t up for debate. It’s settled. We’ve caused this mess, and now we have to deal with it.

Some argue that fixing climate change is too expensive. Really? What’s the cost of losing coastal cities? Of widespread droughts? Of mass extinctions? Ignoring the problem won’t make it go away. It’ll just make it worse.

The zero-sum mindset is laughable. People think we can’t protect the environment and have a strong economy. Newsflash: a healthy planet and a healthy economy go hand in hand. Investing in renewable energy creates jobs. Cleaner air means fewer health problems. It’s not rocket science.

So, let’s stop pretending. Climate change is happening. We caused it. And it’s time to fix it. The clock is ticking, and denial won’t save us. Action will.

[waterdamag754]

Water Damage Naples

Understanding Water Damage in Naples: Causes, Effects, and Remediation Naples, with its picturesque landscapes and coastal charm, is not immune to the threats of water damage. Whether it's caused by heavy rainfall, flooding, plumbing issues, or hurricanes, water damage poses a significant risk to homes and businesses in the area. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the various causes and effects of water damage in Naples, shedding light on the importance of preventive measures and effective remediation strategies.

Water damage in Naples can stem from a variety of sources, each presenting its unique challenges. One common cause is heavy rainfall, especially during the tropical storm season. The city's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico makes it susceptible to sudden and intense downpours, overwhelming drainage systems and leading to flooding.

Flooding, in turn, can cause extensive damage to homes and infrastructure. It seeps into basements, saturates walls, and damages valuable possessions. Moreover, prolonged exposure to moisture creates a breeding ground for mold, further exacerbating the problems associated with water damage.

Another prevalent cause of water damage in Naples is plumbing issues. Leaky pipes, burst water heaters, and faulty appliances can result in gradual water accumulation, often going unnoticed until the damage becomes severe. The slow drip of water can weaken structural elements, damage flooring, and encourage mold growth. Hurricanes, a frequent occurrence in the region, can bring destructive winds and storm surges, leading to widespread flooding and property damage. The force of hurricanes can compromise roofs, windows, and doors, allowing water to infiltrate homes and businesses. Proper preparation and timely response are crucial to minimizing the impact of these natural disasters.

Effects of Water Damage: The effects of water damage in Naples are far-reaching and can extend beyond the immediate visible damage. Mold growth is a common consequence, thriving in damp and humid environments created by water intrusion. Mold not only poses health risks but also requires specialized remediation efforts.

Structural damage is another significant effect of water damage. Wood, drywall, and other building materials can weaken and deteriorate when exposed to water for extended periods. This compromises the integrity of the structure and can lead to costly repairs.

Water damage also has a detrimental impact on personal belongings. Furniture, electronics, documents, and sentimental items may be irreparably damaged when exposed to water. Quick and effective water extraction and drying methods are essential to salvage as much as possible.

In addition to the physical damage, water intrusion can impact the electrical systems within a property, posing a serious safety hazard. It is essential to prioritize the assessment and repair of electrical issues to prevent fires and other dangerous situations.

Remediation Strategies: When faced with water damage in Naples, swift and comprehensive remediation is crucial to minimize the long-term impact. Professional water damage restoration services are equipped to handle the complexities of the situation. These services typically involve a multi-step process, including water extraction, drying, dehumidification, and mold remediation.

Water extraction is the first step in mitigating water damage. High-powered pumps and vacuums are used to remove standing water from affected areas. This is followed by thorough drying using industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to eliminate moisture. Mold remediation is often a necessary component of water damage restoration. Mold can proliferate rapidly in damp environments, compromising indoor air quality and posing health risks. Specialized cleaning agents and techniques are employed to remove mold and prevent its recurrence.

Structural repairs are essential to restore the integrity of a property after water damage. This may involve replacing damaged drywall, insulation, and flooring, as well as reinforcing structural elements weakened by water exposure.

Preventive Measures: While timely remediation is crucial, preventive measures play a significant role in minimizing the risk of water damage in Naples. Regular maintenance of plumbing systems, prompt repairs of leaks, and installation of sump pumps can help prevent water damage from internal sources.

For external threats, such as heavy rainfall and hurricanes, property owners should invest in proper drainage systems, roof maintenance, and storm-resistant doors and windows. Additionally, securing valuables in water-resistant containers and elevating essential utilities above potential flood levels can provide added protection. Water damage in Naples is a pervasive threat that requires proactive measures, preparedness, and effective remediation strategies. By understanding the various causes and effects of water damage, residents and businesses can take steps to protect their properties and minimize the impact when faced with unforeseen circumstances. From heavy rainfall and flooding to plumbing issues and hurricanes, Naples residents must be vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their homes and businesses. By investing in preventive measures and seeking professional water damage restoration services when needed, the community can mitigate the risks and ensure a more resilient and water-resistant future.

#waterdamage #mold #firedamage #moldremediation #restoration #waterdamagerestoration #moldremoval #flooddamage #insurance #propertydamage #naplesfl #naplesflorida #naples #swfl #florida #bonitasprings

[meret118]

In North Carolina, Helene produced unusually heavy winds — up to 140 mph — on land, the strongest observed in coastal North Carolina since the start of modern meteorological recordkeeping in the 19th century.

Experts said they were most worried about the flow of debris that was yet to come.

. . .

Heavy rains from Helene set a record in Atlanta, which received its highest 48-hour rainfall on record over the past two days. The Georgia Climate Office tweeted that the area saw 11.12 inches of rain as of mid-day Friday, beating a previous record of 9.59 inches set in 1886.

In North Carolina, the rainfall totals Friday afternoon were staggering: 29.58 inches for Busick, N.C.; 24.20 for nearby Mount Mitchell State Park; about 13 inches in Boone, some 55 miles away.

----

Asheville is completely cut off. Unlike FL, areas this far from the Gulf didn't expect this level of flooding. Eastern TN/western NC is where the highest peaks in the Smokey mountains are so it's going to be even harder to get to people. ETA: Few of them will have flood insurance either, because they didn't expect to need it. ETA2: This map doesn't show the path of the storm btw, but it does show where Asheville is in relation to the Gulf.

I recommend not donating to the salvation army.

[atlanticcanada]

Aging infrastructure struggling to keep up with storms, wildfires, changing climate

The torrential rain that washed out roads, bridges and a key rail link in Nova Scotia on the weekend is being described as another sign that engineers cannot rely on past weather patterns to design infrastructure able to withstand rising sea levels and destructive storms.

Slobodan Simonovic said that when planning infrastructure, builders consider population needs, precipitation and other weather data.

"This design is usually based on historical observations, how much rain we've had in the past," said Simonovic, professor emeritus at the department of civil and environmental engineering at Western University in London, Ont.

"Now this is changing, and historical observations are not sufficiently representative of future conditions. With climate change, there is a very significant modification in both frequency and severity of these rain events."

For example, roads are not able to drain water because they aren't designed to deal with so much rain falling in a short period, he said. Officials in Halifax have called the storm that dumped as much as 250 millimetres of rain in places over the weekend a one-in-a-thousand-years weather event.

Halifax Mayor Mike Savage said the city's infrastructure had already taken a beating from post-tropical storm Fiona in September and the ferocious wildfires that scorched parts of the province two months ago.

Some of the areas in Nova Scotia that experienced flooding were denuded by the fires. That reduced their ability to absorb water and resulted in higher run-off, said John Clague, a professor of geosciences at Simon Fraser University, in Burnaby, B.C.

"The infrastructure is overwhelmed because it isn't designed for such repeated, extreme events," he said.

It might once have been calculated that such events would occur once over 100 years or 500 years, Clague said. "But the point now is that an event like that's going to happen every 50 years or every 20 years. And that's within the life cycle of engineering structures."

Nova Scotia Minister of Public Works, Kim Masland, said the effects of climate change are being considered as the province builds new roads and bridges. The minister said Nova Scotia is following Transportation Association of Canada guidelines that take climate change into account.

"So if you look at some of the projects you'll see our bridges are (built) higher and we are putting in larger culverts in areas to handle that water flow," Masland told reporters Thursday.

The Canadian government published a report this year that outlined challenges the country could face in a changing climate and provided a blueprint for how communities can respond.

"There is a need to significantly scale up investment to support Canadian communities in making their infrastructure more resilient to a changing climate," the report said.

Floods are one of the most costly and widespread hazards, it said. Annual coastal flood damage to buildings and homes is projected to increase to $300 million from the current $60 million in the next 30 years.

More wildfires are also threatening communities, infrastructure and industry. Smoke can disperse over large areas and affect human health, the report said. It added that the cost of fighting fires -- about $1 billion a year -- doesn't include property loss, industrial shutdowns and health-related expenses, which are all expected to rise.

"The increasing rate, severity and unpredictability of climate-related natural disasters are straining Canada's emergency response systems, and impacting the reliability of supply chains, putting our food security and livelihoods at risk."

Shoshanna Saxe, associate professor in the University of Toronto's department of civil and mineral engineering, said the numbers in the report underestimate the risk.

"I think it's going to be a lot more than that," said Saxe, who also holds the Canada Research Chair in Sustainable Infrastructure.

The Insurance Bureau of Canada declared last year one of the costliest in history, with $3.1 billion in insured damage in Canada, caused by flooding and storms, including post-tropical storm Fiona that hit Atlantic Canada in September.

Simonovic said most infrastructure in Canada is built to last between 50 and 100 years. Much of what is now in place was built in the period after the Second World War for a smaller population and based on data from nearly a century ago.

Water isn't the only problem, he noted. Rising temperatures and intense wildfires have also caused roads to buckle and bridges to collapse, as seen in Lytton, B.C., just over two years ago.

Saxe called Canada's infrastructure a "mixed bag." Some roads, bridges and buildings are fine but others need billions in repair. "They were designed for an older climate and that's not the kind that we live in anymore," she said. "There's a lot of money needed to keep up with change."

Saxe said governments face two choices: "We're going to have higher taxes or we're going to have rapidly degrading infrastructure."

The case to be made for improved infrastructure is that it adds to people's quality of life, she said. Most people think of roads and bridges, but infrastructure includes power and energy transmission, wastewater treatment centres, water pipes, airports, ports, schools, hockey rinks and libraries.

"It mostly operates in the background and we take it for granted. We accept (that) whenever we open the tap, water will come out. We expect roads will function, that railways will function and power will come down the power lines," she said.

"Climate change is going to make all of that harder, more expensive and less reliable."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 27, 2023.

With files from Keith Doucette in Halifax.

For more Nova Scotia news visit our dedicated provincial page.

from CTV News - Atlantic https://ift.tt/fdUxGQa

[blackmagicspecialist786-blog]

As California Faces Storms, Extreme Winds Cause Power Outage in Sacramento

A torrent of winds swept through the Sacramento region late on Saturday night, bringing down trees as well as knocking off power to over 300,000 people in the process, as California is preparing for another round of severe weather this week, that could trigger more flooding, further outages, and tree damage, along with hazardous mountains and mudslides. The winds topped out at more than 70 miles an hour on Saturday night , and early on Sunday morning in Sacramento region. One victim was killed by a homeless woman who was injured by a fallen tree as reported by according to the Sacramento Fire Department said. The storm came after the downpours that swept across California which resulted in widespread flooding and destroyed numerous trees. Six people died including a child who was struck by a tree which hit his home located in Sonoma County. State is currently being struck by a series of atmospheric rivers, massive plumes of water vapor rising from the sky, rapidly. The most powerful is expected to arrive between Monday and Tuesday, raising concerns by meteorologists about the possibility of massive destruction. "The West Coast remains under the target of a relentless parade of cyclones that form and intensify over the Pacific Ocean while moving directly toward the North American continent," forecasters from the Weather Prediction Center said on Sunday morning. A torrent of rain and snow fell throughout Northern as well as Central California over Saturday night and the heavier rain is expected to decrease towards the close of Sunday. There's going to be an interruption in the most heavy rain of the night. The forecasters from the Los Angeles weather office are calling the "main show" starts Monday morning. This powerful atmospheric river is expected to start in the northern region of California on Monday, before shifting south throughout the day, and on into Tuesday. Based on the Weather Prediction Center, many areas may experience a level of rain that only occurs once every five or ten years. The total rainfall could range from 2 to 4 inches in many areas and could go to over 8 inches in the coastal, coastal ranges, and on that western slope Sierra. "The longevity and intensity of rain, combined with the cumulative effect of successive heavy rain events dating back to the end of December, will lead to widespread and potentially significant flood impacts," the Weather Prediction Center said Sunday early in the morning. The forecasters suggested minor to minor floods in the river, which could lead to record levels of the river. Forecasters are also expecting destructive winds of as high as 60 m.p.h. Monday through Tuesday. This could result in larger-scale power outages across the region. Thunderstorms could trigger an occasional tornado in or near Central California coast. In the higher areas of the Sierra The threat was extreme snow, which could reach five feet. "The heavy snow loads will increase the threat of avalanches and damage to infrastructures," the Weather Prediction Center forecasters said. Over the Sierra The snow storm intensity index has reached its maximum which means that travel is not recommended, and widespread and extensive road closures as well as disruptions to infrastructure could be expected. The storm will be warmer than the earlier ones. The snowfall is expected to begin at 5,000 feet and will increase to 6,500 to 8000 feet throughout the day. That means areas that have new snow will get rain, which will allow melting and increasing the volume of water that enters rivers and creeks. The higher levels of snow have led to concerns about flooding according to according to the Sacramento National Weather Service office stated. The storm is expected to be beginning to diminish on Tuesday. On Wednesday, another storm system will be formed, but it's expected to be less strong than the one before. Any rain, however, will fall in an area that is susceptible to further rainfall , and could cause an increase in the swelling of creeks and rivers. There could be a brief moment of respite before another stormy river forecast is made for the weekend and could result in more severe rainfall and the threat of flooding. Forecasters at the San Francisco Bay Area office of the National Weather Service say that there's a 60 or greater chance the more wet than normal pattern will persist over the next couple of weeks. Read the full article