With Helene on the way it may be a good time to share the science of "Are there more hurricanes now than before?"
NOAA has posted that:
"Future projections include increased risk of coastal inundation during storms due to sea level rise, likely increased hurricane rain rates and wind intensities, and possible increased numbers of Category 4-5 hurricanes, along with decreased numbers of tropical storms and hurricanes (all categories combined)."
https://lnkd.in/edMNREWi
As we're already seeing with Helene sometimes the problem isn't the direct impact of the Hurricane itself, which is isolated, it's the tidal surge that is pushed up an expanse of coastline. Higher stillwater elevations (we've been regularly hitting marks about 6-12" higher than predicted) and dense coastal development mean capital damages and insurance claims, or loss. It will be interesting to see the many different ways that communities will approach this. Some are trying to raise land, others are creating 'floodable neighborhoods,' some will rely on raising sea walls and pumps, and most are just riding it out and pointing fingers at stormwater departments.
"Storm inundation levels during hurricane surge events will increase due to sea level rise, anticipated to rise by about 2 to 3 ft (0.4 to 0.8 meters) by 2100. This sea level rise will contribute toward significantly more coastal destruction and increased economic damages."
There are real solutions out there for those that are willing to accept the challenge, but it isn't simple!
Here's a picture of Sunset Beach in Treasure Island at 8:15am this morning with a full day of surge on the way (photo from their morning email update).
