Nine in 10 Americans say they are more concerned about extreme weather events than they were five years ago – and 7 in 10 say climate change has had a role. [Read more…]
Where will the next hurricane hit? Forecasts are getting more accurate
As Hurricane Ian was bearing down on Florida in September 2022, Floridians braced for a “potential historic catastrophe” in the Tampa Bay area. Instead, a convergence of circumstances, including a low pressure system that disrupted the jet stream air current and warm water, meant that Ian strengthened more quickly and blew in faster than anticipated – 75 miles to the south.
Only half of Americans say they’re prepared for a hurricane. Are you?
According to a recent survey, 54% of Americans report that they are somewhat prepared for a hurricane – with the highest portion, 71%, living in Mid-Atlantic states. Even in the South Atlantic states, including hurricane-prone Florida, just 63% say they’re at least somewhat prepared and 14% say they are extremely prepared.
Survey: Americans believe experts exaggerate storm threats
With NOAA National Weather Service forecasters predicting an above-average 2024 hurricane season, including 4 to 7 major hurricanes, people who live in the path of storms will need information they can trust. But a new national survey found that a majority of Americans believe that news outlets, meteorologists, government agencies, and political leaders exaggerate the severity of storm threats.
Residents of Mid-Atlantic states report greatest concerns about hurricanes
According to a new national survey, residents of Mid-Atlantic states report the highest level of concerns about hurricanes. In a year when NOAA is predicting a hyper-active hurricane season, 67% of Mid-Atlantic residents are concerned that their area will be impacted, compared to 48% of Americans overall.