Rising Threat: Climate Change Amplifies Deadly Storms in U.S.

Climate change is driving more intense storms and increasing their likelihood in Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, and beyond, as shown in a recent analysis by the World Weather Attribution (WWA) group. The study reveals a 9% rise in rainfall intensity, making these storms 40% more probable than in pre-industrial times.

The storms that struck from April 3-6, resulting in 24 fatalities, were fueled by abnormal moisture levels from the Gulf of Mexico, due to water temperatures that have been abnormally warm by 1.2 degrees Celsius. This warmth was 14 times more likely because of human-induced climate changes, remarked researchers from various universities and meteorological agencies in the U.S. and Europe.

With the frequency of such devastating weather events expected to rise, urgent action is required to slash emissions of greenhouse gases. While improved forecasting and alerts have mitigated some damages, concerns over safety remain due to reduced staffing in essential National Weather Service offices, raising alarms as the hurricane season approaches.

(With inputs from agencies.)