Hurricanes catastrophic

Ahead of COP29 in Azerbaijan, severe tropical cyclones like Hurricane Milton spotlight climate change's role in intensifying storms. Global action is needed to mitigate these risks, enhance forecasting, and bolster community preparedness.

Hurricane Milton, now a Category 5 storm, is expected to hit near Tampa, Florida, bringing 15 ft storm surges and heavy rainfall. Residents brace for widespread flooding and destruction. Flights, schools, sports events are suspended as evacuations begin.

Atlantic hurricanes are now more than twice as likely to intensify rapidly due to sea surface warming, according to the paper, “Observed increases in North Atlantic tropical cyclone peak intensification rates” published Thursday in Scientific Reports.