The Aftermath of Winter Storm Fern

 

A combination of snow and ice hit the United States at the end of January. Many cities were not prepared to handle Winter Storm Fern. Large amounts of  ice continue to block roads and sidewalks. The storm also brought concerns about the safety of the homeless and those who were travelling. Inadequate infrastructure resulted in power outages. Aging poles and wires that transport electricity did not have the strength to withstand the storm. Power lines are going to vulnerable to extreme weather events. Mississippi, Louisiana, and Tennessee experienced toppled power lines, which becomes a public hazard. Loss of heating and electricity can be lethal in a winter storm. Power grids need to be more durable. The problem related to infrastructure improvement comes from cost. Projects would possibly require millions of dollars. Certain states may not be able to generate that revenue. The federal government does seem to provided assistance. Even if infrastructure is improved, few are addressing the connection between climate change and extreme weather events. Americans are going to be dealing with more power outages, limited snow or ice removal, and unsafe conditions in upcoming winter seasons.   

The Rise of Global Flooding

 

Flooding has become more lethal in various nations. Libya, Brazil, Greece, and China saw major floods. The disaster in Libya was of concern seeing as it was a country with low flood risk. Climate change does not just create heatwaves. It can make heavy rains more powerful. Combined with rising sea levels coastal arears will be effected the most. Derna Libya was vulnerable because the storm known as Daniel moved in from the Mediterranean Sea. The dams and infrastructure has fallen into a poor condition since the civil war. Turkey was also struck by heavy rainstorms. Many countries have not modeled emergency preparedness in relation to climate change. Various cities do not have the infrastructure needed to protect against such storms and flooding. The refusal to explore alternative energy or  end the use of fossil fuels means flooding will be more frequent. The aftermath of such natural disasters is homelessness, loss of life, and  financial efforts to repair the damaged properties. Government and corporations are not going to change policy on fossil fuel use and climate policy. The only result will be social and political problems that come with flooding. At some point it might force people to leave their countries. Weather warning systems and infrastructure have to be updated frequently. Otherwise, there could be populations that are refugees as a result of climate change. More data must be collect to analyze patterns and see were other floods could occur next.