Preparedness and Resilience in the Face of Climate Change

The increasing prevalence of severe weather- most recently exemplified with Hurricane Beryl, the earliest category five hurricane ever recorded- is driving home the need for officials at every level of local, state, and federal government to better prepare for the challenges posed by these incidents. In this issue of The SCAffold, we look at the trends of sever weather events, their connection to climate change, and then discuss the strategies that can help enhance disaster preparedness and response.?

The Trend?

While it is difficult to attribute specific storms directly to climate change as the causes of severe weather are quite complex, it is generally accepted that increasingly high sea surface temperatures are one of the key reasons why hurricanes like Hurricane Beryl are growing so powerful.??

According to NOAA , numbers of Atlantic hurricanes reaching category 4 or 5 intensity are projected to increase about 10%, and the 2024 hurricane forecast calls for an 85% chance of above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year. For many living in hurricane-impacted areas that means displacement, property damage, and an economic impact that could add up to billions of dollars.

Scientific evidence increasingly points to climate change as a significant driver of these extreme weather events. The anticipated increase in frequency and intensity of hurricane activity (as well as other global events such as heatwaves, wildfires, flooding, and intense inland storms) underscore the urgent need to address climate change through both mitigation and adaptation strategies.

Improving Disaster Preparedness and Response

While technological resources like early warning systems, weather satellites, and AI can provide accurate and timely alerts for impending severe weather, the development of comprehensive disaster preparedness plans (like building emergency kits, planning evacuation routes, and developing solid communication strategies) is a crucial step in building community resilience, no matter the hazard. Educational campaigns and collaborations between local governments, community leaders, and residents can increase self-efficacy and the long-term success of these preparedness plans.

Additionally, governments must prioritize policies that promote climate resilience and continue to fund research, infrastructure projects, and community initiatives for long-term preparedness.

Businesses and citizens should also assess their situation and do what they can to enhance their resilience. Businesses can increase resiliency by ensuring they have continuity and recovery plans, easily accessible and secure employee contact lists to ensure safety, and by having procedures for regular system backups and alternative procedures to keep the business viable during a disruption. For individuals and families, knowing evacuation routes, storing 3-5 days of food and water, identifying a relative or friend that may be able to provide temporarily shelter if needed, and ensuring that all family members learn what to do and who to call in the event of an emergency to meet, ask for help, or let loved ones know their safe.

By fostering preparedness through accurate and timely communications, collaboration, and education, we can build more resilient communities equipped to navigate the challenges posed by extreme weather events. We are all more resilient when we work together.

See how SC&A is helping EPA assist communities in planning for smoke from wildland fires.

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