Greenhouse gases have resulted in a warming planet, scientists say
Over 100 people, including many children, died after torrential rains caused catastrophic flash floods across central Texas during the holiday weekend. Scientists say such extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change.
Although specific weather events can’t be directly blamed on climate change, climate experts agree that global warming is increasing the intensity of extreme rainfall and flooding. Forecasts from the National Weather Service (NWS) had predicted heavy rain, but the overnight downpours and rapidly rising rivers left little time for many to evacuate safely.
Daniel Swain, a climate scientist at the University of California, explained that highly intense rain events are already becoming more common due to a warming planet. Warmer air holds more moisture, which leads to heavier rain during storms.
Andrew Dessler, a professor at Texas A&M University, said the warming Gulf of Mexico is fueling storms with more tropical moisture, making Texas more vulnerable to flash floods. He explained that rain falling in hilly areas like Texas Hill Country funnels water into rivers faster, causing river levels to rise rapidly.
Jennifer Marlon from Yale added that global warming driven by burning fossil fuels heats the air, allowing it to carry more water and release heavier rains. She warned that more intense rainfall means more flooding.
Call to Action and Solutions:
Experts urge the U.S. to strengthen early warning systems, improve infrastructure, and move away from fossil fuels toward renewable energy like solar and wind. Dessler warned that without these changes, extreme weather will only worsen.
Marlon emphasized the need for strong leadership and public pressure, saying, “Citizens must ask their leaders how they’re helping transition the country to clean energy.”
