SOUTH LOUISIANA
Hurricanes & Hazards
(Summer 2023 Class)
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First: An overall guide to South Louisiana hazards & mitigation — Although published in 2008, this guide, “Louisiana Coastal Hazard Mitigation Guidebook,” remains a comprehensive look at the risks we face, as well as, mitigation methods to reduce damages.
Online PDF – Louisiana Coastal Hazard Mitigation Guidebook
… and:
Coastal Protection & Restoration Authority (CPRA) POCKET GUIDE TO FUNDING RESOURCES (for) Reducing Coastal Flood Risk — Homeowners + Renters + Business Owners, 2020 Update
… and:
Louisiana Homeowners [Etc.] Handbook to Prepare for Hazards (Online PDF)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Home Mitigation – FLOOD
1. Structural
… 1.1 Videos – Structural Flood Mit.
… 1.2 Guides – Structural Flood Mit.
2. Nonstructural
… 2.1 Videos – Nonstructural Flood Mit.
… 2.2 Guides – Nonstructural Flood Mit.
Home Mitigation – WIND
3.1 Videos – Wind
3.2 Guides – Wind
Hurricane Hazards – DIRECT
4. Overview
4.1 Storm Surge Videos
4.2 Storm Surge Articles/Graphics
4.3 Wind & Tornado Videos
4.4 Wind & Tornado Articles/Graphics
4.5 Rainfall Videos
4.6 Rainfall Articles/Infographics
*Hurricane Hazards – INDIRECT
5.1 Disaster Concepts
5.2 Katrina: Natural + Man-Made
5.3 Barry: What Could Have Been
*Know Your Risk –
2016 “no name” & 2017 Harvey
6.1 Videos: “no name” & Harvey
6.2 Articles/Graphics: “no name” & Harvey
Know Your Risk: ASSESSMENT TOOLS
7.1 Surge
7.2 River
7.3 Flood
7.4 Forecast (Hurricane, Etc.)
7.5 Land Loss
7.6 Sea Level Rise
7.7 Wind
Preparedness: HOUSEHOLD
8.1 Insurance Inventory
8.2 Preparedness Planning
Preparedness: TIPS & KITS
9.1 Preparedness Tips
9.2 Preparedness Kits
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Home Mitigation Methods
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1. FLOOD Mitigation: Structural
1.1 VIDEOS:
Flood Protection – Barrier … A concrete brick wall with metal flood gates designed by the owner to protect home and property from flooding. Dec. 10, 2014 (Link: https://youtu.be/NItGSA_ZjlU) … NOTES: 1. Please notice that “critical infrastructure,” such as HVAC system, are all protected – BEHIND the flood wall ; 2. And, the additional, nonstructural flood reduction methods, such as gravel (rather than paving) and plants, trees, etc.
Dam Easy Flood Barrier for Doors … place it in your door, extend the sides, inflate the seal. June 16, 2021 (Link: https://youtu.be/fBqI0YtyHFY)
Quick Dam Flood Barriers 16-Pk. 5ft. ea. Model# QD65-16. Jan. 28, 2022 (Link: https://youtu.be/1TFNwFhdxCw)
Texas resident uses Aqua Dam to save house from floodwater. Aug. 18, 2016 – KHOU, CBS 11 (Link: https://youtu.be/ednxK3JPsWQ)
Reducing Flood Risks at Home. Aug. 11, 2011 – Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District, MMSD (Link: https://youtu.be/ISfw8kkaCz8) … HOW TO MEASURE AND BUILD SLOPE AWAY FROM HOME, and other methods to direct water away from foundation, etc.
Homemade (garage) door water stopper water barrier. June 27, 2020 (Link: https://youtu.be/2u-SiKZZUlo)
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FLOOD Mitigation: Structural (cont.)
1.2 GUIDES:
Stop Floodwater in the Yard (Online Link – containing links to further info on flood mitigation options), LSU AgCenter
Water-inflated Barriers (Online Link), Nov. 2016, LSU AgCenter
Flood Wraps and Temporary Shields (Online Link), LSU AgCenter
Using Pumps in Flood Protection (Online Link), LSU AgCenter
Using Panels as Closures for Flood Protection (Online Link), LSU AgCenter
Using Panels as Closures in Flood Protection (Online PDF), LSU AgCenter
NOTE: Although titles may be similar/same for some LSU AgCenter guides, the online links and PDF publications offer somewhat different information & infographics
Dry Floodproofing (Online Link), LSU AgCenter
Dry Floodproofing: Making a Building Water-Tight (Online PDF), LSU AgCenter
Windows and Doors Fully Flashed (Online Link – with several tabs containing additional info – i.e. retrofitting, and links to additional info sites with further instructions, suggestions, standards, etc.)… Scope: Install properly lapped flashing around window and door openings to direct water out, not into the wall cavity … Energy.gov, Building America Solution Center
Drainage Plane Behind Exterior Wall Cladding (Online Link – with several tabs containing additional info – i.e. retrofitting, and links to additional info sites with further instructions, suggestions, standards, etc.)… Scope: Install a fully sealed continuous drainage plane behind the exterior cladding on the walls of the home to keep water out of the wall cavities … Energy.gov, Building America Solution Center
Floodproofing Improvements for Walls and Floors (Online Link), LSU AgCenter
↪IMAGE from: Floodproofing for Walls & Floors
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2. FLOOD Mitigation: Nonstructural
2.1 VIDEOS:
Gardening Tips: Create Flood-wise Landscape. Jan. 2017, City of Hamilton (Link: https://youtu.be/d0KDihhJeqI)
2.2 GUIDES:
NOTE, re: De-paving … Look for local orgs that will assist with the process
Depaving can be a life-saving climate adaptation (Online Article Link), Aug. 2021, The Earthbound Report
Landscaping After the Storms (Online Link – offering several additional info online links), LSU AgCenter
6 Backyard Flooding Solutions for Landscaping a Storm-Proof Yard (Online Article Link), April 2015, American Institute of Building Design (AIBD)
Rainfall Harvesting (Online PDF), Earth-Kind: Texas AgriLife Extension Service
Proper Mulching (Online Link), April 2015, LSU AgCenter
Landscape Mulch (Online PDF), Earth-Kind: Texas AgriLife Extension Service
Choosing trees for hurricane resistance (Online Link), Jan. 2007, LSU AgCenter
Maintaining Trees to Improve Wind Resistance (Online Link), Jan. 2007, LSU AgCenter
Best Management Practices – Planting and Mulching (Online Link), March 2005, LSU AgCenter
Avoid and Repair “Storm Spots” in the Lawn (Online Link), Sept. 2008, LSU AgCenter
Proper Debris Removal Keeps Formosan Subterranean Termites from Spreading After Hurricanes (Online Link), Feb. 2007, LSU AgCenter
NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT FORGET THE IMPORTANCE OF CHECKING FOR & TREATING FOR TERMITES … Not doing so can result in mild to serious infestations which can weaken the structure of your home, AND, weaken trees that can fall into/onto your home
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3. WIND Mitigation
3.1 VIDEOS:
Wind / Wind Impacts, by Hurricane Category. Aug. 8, 2013, The Weather Channel (Link: https://youtu.be/lqfExHpvLRY)
How to Choose Hurricane Window Protection. April 23, 2016, This Old House (Link: https://youtu.be/xXqno7k43HM)
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WIND Mitigation (cont.)
3.2 GUIDES:
Window Opening Protection (Online Link), April 2021, LSU AgCenter
FortifiedHome.org – TECHNICAL DOCUMENTS (Online Link), Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) — Extensive / Variety of technical guides on fortifying your home (including roof improvements, Etc.)
Ensure a Hurricane-Hardy Roof (Online Link), Nov. 2020, LSU AgCenter
Choosing trees for hurricane resistance (Online Link), Jan. 2007, LSU AgCenter
Maintaining Trees to Improve Wind Resistance (Online Link), Jan. 2007, LSU AgCenter
Restore for MORE than Before — with Wind-hardy Home Improvements (Online Link – with additional info links), Oct. 2020, LSU AgCenter
↪IMAGE from: Restore for MORE than Before
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Hurricane Hazards: DIRECT
Surge, Wind/tornado, Rainfall
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4. OVERVIEW:
The Weather Hazards Associated With Hurricanes (Online Article Link), Feb. 2019, ThoughtCo.
Anatomy of a Hurricane (Online Article Link), March 2017, ThoughtCo.
What It’s Like to Experience a Hurricane … with (96, 72, 48, etc.)—hour countdowns to landfall, landfall, post-landfall (Online Article Link), July 2019, ThoughtCo.
How is climate change affecting hurricanes? … nice, comprehensive explanation of main effects (Online Article Link), June 2022, WAOW – ABC 9
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STORM SURGE
4.1 Surge Videos:
Storm Surge – Fast Draw. NOAA/NWS National Hurricane Center (Link: https://youtu.be/bBa9bVYKLP0)
Hurricane Storm Surge. NOAA, Ocean Today (Link: https://oceantoday.noaa.gov/hurricanestormsurge/)
4.2 Surge Articles / Graphics:
Storm Surge. June 2016, Energy Education
Note 1.) 6meters = ~20feet ; Note 2.) 45km = 28miles
… don’t let the metric measurements deter you, this is a clear, succinct explanation of storm surge that includes a video, and mention of other important factors – such as, the storm’s angle of approach
Graphic: Storm surge. NOAA, Met Office – via this worth-a-view ArcGis Story Map about storm surge. NOTE: ANGLE OF APPROACH (left inset of graphic)
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WIND / TORNADO
4.3 Wind & Tornado Videos:
*ACTUAL WINDS OF CATEGORY 5 APPROACHING LANDFALL* … from: Hurricane Michael Documentary “The Forgotten Category Five” — footage filmed Oct. 10, 2019 ; Uploaded Nov. 2019 by StormChasingVideo (YouTube: youtu.be/qDgtRFlaZT4?t=1769)
Hurricane quadrants and tornado formation. June 2021, Nick Lilja – Meteorologist (Link: youtu.be/oN_gczOzm1w?t=98)
4.4 Wind &Tornado Articles / Graphics:
[*Good*] → Preparing for a Tornado. (Online Info-Article Link) CDC – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (last reviewed) Feb. 2022
Graphic: “Be Ready! Tornadoes,” CDC – Centers for Disease Control
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RAINFALL
4.5 Rainfall Videos:
4.6 Rainfall Articles / Graphics:
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Hurricane Hazards: INDIRECT
River/Rain/Surge/Failures -> Flood
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5.1 Disaster Concepts:
Natural Hazards
“Man-Made” Hazards
RELATED: [Report finds] 25% of all critical infrastructure in the US is at risk of failure due to flooding. CNN, October 2021
5.2 Katrina: Natural + Man-Made:
5.3 Barry: What Could Have Been:
Flood Risks from All Sides: Barry’s Triple Whammy in Louisiana (online article link), Inside Climate New, July 2019 – With climate change loading the dice for disaster, a storm fueled by warmer-than-normal Gulf water headed for a Mississippi River already swollen with floodwater…
…three-punch combo: Flooding from heavy rains over the winter and spring has been sending record floodwaters coursing down the Mississippi River, pushing the river close to the top of its protective levees in Louisiana. Now a cyclone fueled by warm offshore waters is threatening to bring downpours to the same area and to push a storm surge up the bayous at the river’s mouth. ➡ What is storm surge funneling?
RELATED: New Orleans levees sinking faster than planned (YouTube VIDEO), WWLTV News, July 2019
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Know Your Risk: (flood)
The “no name” storm, 2016
& Hurricane Harvey, 2017
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6.1 VIDEOS:
Hurricane Harvey Radar History. Aug. 31, 2017 – WKRG, CBS 5 (Link: https://youtu.be/P1dh-I1_ye8)
Lafayette man creates water filled dam to protect home from floodwaters (Harvey). Aug. 30, 2017 – KATC, ABC 3 (Link: https://youtu.be/H3hF9x5Yzso)
Family building retaining wall around home to protect it from flooding (post-Harvey). June 13, 2018 – KPRC, NBC 2 (Link: https://youtu.be/fcIAmEiVeBI)
Creating Anti Flood Defences. Sept. 30, 2014 (Link: https://youtu.be/0qotsHEqLmg)
6.2 ARTICLES / GRAPHICS:
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Know Your Risk: ASSESSMENT TOOLS
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7.1 Surge:
National Hurricane Center Storm Surge Risk Maps – zoom to location, and use the “Category 1,” “Category 2,” Etc. buttons at the top of the map to view predicted storm surge for each hurricane-wind category – Remember! Angle of approach, “funneling” of surge, and other factors, will also influence the severity of storm surge impacts.
7.2 River:
USGS Real-time River Data for Louisiana – Click on the number in the left column (river station identifier) that corresponds to the river / river location for which you are seeking information. Doing so opens a new page with graphic representations of river stages(height) with additional data for the selected river station.
7.3 Flood:
Louisiana Flood Maps (LINK TO ONLINE TOOL), Louisiana DOTD & LSU AgCenter – “Welcome to Louisiana’s Flood Maps! Use this site to: Find flood risk at your place ; See how risk has changed ; See if risk is about to change…” — Enter your location (address, zip code) for information on flood risk to your neighborhood. NOTE: Much of the information provided by this map/tool is based on “BFE” (base flood elevation), flood zoning, etc. determined by FEMA. These data have been known to underestimate the level of risk posed to an area. That said – it is still a useful and meaningful tool to learn more about, at the very least, the least possible risk posed to your location.
Also …
Louisiana CPRA (Coastal Protection & Restoration Authority) offers an interactive map – the Master Plan Data Viewer which can be used to view data on flood risk, land loss, etc. The graphic below is a screenshot of the map showing current coastal(only) flood risk for South Louisiana.
… more here on main page: Flood Risk and Resilience Program
Graphic: Master Plan Data Viewer – Coastal flood risk, South Louisiana
7.4 Forecast (Hurricane, Etc.):
Daily:
‣‣Check the National Hurricane Center (NHC) homepage for current tropical weather outlooks. NHC is also the site to visit when a tropical storm or hurricane is expected to make landfall. During potential storm approaches, click on the forecast cone or representation of the potential storm on the tropical outlook page to be brought to more detailed information and graphics depicting area risks (possible surge heights, etc.) and estimated arrival times of winds, etc.
‣‣This site, disaster.guide, also features “Current Conditions” nationally, as well as locally for residents of shoreline parishes/counties along the Gulf Coast – the most recent NHC outlook is featured on all pages (national, local), in addition to weather-related radar, alerts, etc.
‣‣Local News – Stay Informed → Whether you read the news or watch it daily, always listen for weather updates concerning Gulf of Mexico tropical storms or hurricanes. [And – Remember! Tropical storms can cause the same, sometimes more damage as a designated hurricane. They can also rapidly intensify into strong/major hurricanes overnight … Forecast news/updates concerning tropical storms are as attention-worthy as “catastrophic” etc. hurricane reports]
When Potential Tropical Storm or Hurricane:
Gulf Coast Updates (FACEBOOK) – Founded by Meteorologist Jesse Vinturella – a local who lives with his family in Kenner, LA – the Gulf Coast Updates Facebook page features a nightly “Tropics After Dark” in-depth forecast concerning tropical storms and hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico. Don’t be fooled by the kitschy name, “Tropics After Dark” is one of the most spot-on, well-delivered forecast updates for Gulf Coast residents. Subscribe to the channel to receive broadcast notifications – typically, live broadcasts take place on Facebook around 8:30 PM CDT during hurricane season. There is also a Gulf Coast Updates website, however, it is unclear whether nightly broadcasts are also posted on the site.
Tropical Tidbits – Site by Dr. Levi Cowan. When a tropical storm or hurricane is forecast to make landfall in the U.S. mainland or territories/outlying islands, Dr. Cowan will post informative analysis of the storm every evening on his site (recorded YouTube video), at approx. 7PM CDT. The broadcast is usually available on the main page (linked to in site title), while additional pages throughout the site offer satellite images, forecast modeling tools, etc.
RELATED: How climate change is making hurricanes more dangerous. (online info/article link) Yale Climate Connections, July 2019 … Some Questions Addressed: Will hurricanes become more intense? ; Does climate change affect the forward speed of hurricanes? ; How will hurricane rainfall change? ; Will hurricanes intensify more rapidly?
7.5 Land Loss:
Losing Ground [gorgeous, interactive look at land loss along the coast of Louisiana – past, present, and future] – a joint project between TheLens and ProPublica, August 2014.
7.6 Sea Level Rise:
Sea Level Rise Scenario Tool (Interagency) – The sea level scenarios and information contained in this tool originate from a 2022 technical report produced by the Sea Level Rise and Coastal Flood Hazard Scenarios and Tools Interagency Task Force [NASA, NOAA, the EPA, USGS, and USACE]. This report provides the most up-to-date sea level rise scenarios, available for all U.S. states and territories, out to the year 2150… information in the report and this tool is intended to inform coastal communities and others about current and future sea level rise to help contextualize its effects for decision making purposes.
RELATED: Why Seas are Rising Faster on the Southeast Coast. NASA, Jan. 2023 … What is the source of accelerated sea level rise in the United States’ Southeast and Gulf coasts?
7.6 Wind:
Find your home’s wind speed zone (Online Link – with explanation of, and links to online tools), Sept. 2020, LSU AgCenter
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Preparedness: HOUSEHOLD
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8.1 Insurance Inventory:
Simply Put: Performing a thorough “walk around” of you home with a smartphone or other camera device, recording as you go, and using a “filing system” of your choice (ranging from actual files → there’s an app for that) – doing your best to recall details, dates, and the monetary value of your items – with “backup” documentation when possible (receipts, certificates of authenticity, manuals with make/model or photos of serial numbers, etc.)
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PowerPoint Instructional Slides
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How to Document
… Up to you …
Three Methods:
1. Paper & Filing System
… You Will Need:
Thorough checklist / clipboard ; Files / labels
Tip: Printout checklist from your insurance provider (or, thorough one from internet – see: “Sample Letters & Claims Documents” below…)
But! Remember Two Things:
— You will need to backup – to USB drive, or the cloud (don’t want your inventory going kaput with your items)
— You will likely want to keep your inventory safe/private (which, may be slightly harder to do with more papers, etc.)
2. An App
… but! Keep in mind – data security
… and, how thorough you prefer to be (can always supplement app by documenting more items on your own, though)
Articles listing apps for Inventory:
NOTE: I have not tested these apps…
Home Inventory Apps and Templates, June 2022, NerdWallet
Apps for Making a Home Inventory, Feb. 2023, Apartment Therapy
3. An Excel Sheet
Search for suggestions on your insurance provider’s website, or better yet, ask your agent directly for their preferred “checklist” / sample Excel sheet for use in performing a home inventory.
You can also find examples below (“Sample Letters and Claim Documents”), or perform a google search such as, “Templates or Excel Sheets for thorough Insurance Home Inventory”
This article → Taking Inventory of Your Home and Personal Property (Jan. 2018, Thomas Insurance Advisors, LLC) is a good, brief read about the process, and contains several links to templates, checklists, etc.
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Sample Letters and Claim Documents
Sample Letters and Claim Documents – customizable sample letters and examples of loss and claim-related documents for use in navigating your insurance claims … (Online Link), United Policy Holders (“Empowering the Insured”), Claim Guidance Library
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ADDITIONAL ARTICLES:
(9 Steps to…) How to Create a Home Inventory List for Insurance Claims. (Online Article Link), American Family Insurance
Find a Flood Insurance Provider: Protect the life you’ve built in Louisiana (Online Link), National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), FloodSmart.gov
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8.2 Preparedness Planning:
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Preparedness: TIPS & KITS
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9.1 Preparedness Tips:
(in no particular order)
– fill bath tub prior to storm approach/landfall
(for commode flush, light washing, etc. if outages)
– lower AC for approx. 8 hours prior to storm
(will keep home cooler, longer if outages)
– charge backup power sources, phone, etc.
… begin/ongoing approx. 18 hrs prior to landfall
– charge ALL devices (old laptops, and similar)
… can be used to charge phone, etc.
– keep preparedness items in one container
… to easily move to central part of home
– have cooler ready for power outage
… to store frequently-used fridge items
(and, if w/o backup power – meds, etc.)
– have games, books, etc. for power outage
… entertain without draining phone/backup power
· ~ · ~ · ~ · ~ · ~ · ~ · ~ · ~ ·
9.2 Preparedness Kits:
(running list of kit items)
FIRST AID KIT
—————–
Adhesive bandages, various sizes
5” x 9” sterile dressing
Conforming roller gauze bandage
Triangular bandages
3” x 3” sterile gauze pads
4” x 4” sterile gauze pads
Roll of 3” cohesive bandage
Germicidal hand wipes
… or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Antiseptic wipes
Iodine
Medical-grade, non-latex gloves
Tongue depressor blades
Adhesive tape, 2” width
Antibacterial ointment
Cold pack (emergency)
Aspirin (or similar)
… see: “non-prescription” below
Compression wraps (for sprains)
Fasteners – for sprain wraps
Assorted sizes of safety pins
Thermometer
Scissors (small, personal)
Scissors (larger)
Tweezers
Tube of petroleum jelly
… or other lubricant
Antibacterial ointment
Sunscreen
N95 masks
… face shield, etc.
CPR breathing barrier
COVID-19 tests (not expired)
First Aid manual
… and, ALL PRESCRIPTION MEDICINES
… and, Extra Prescription Eyeglasses/Contacts
Non-Prescription Med Supplies
Aspirin (and/or non-aspirin pain reliever)
Anti-diarrhea medication
Antacid (for stomach upset)
Laxative
Vitamins
HYGIENE
————
Washcloth, towel
Towelettes, Wipes
Soap, hand sanitizer
Toothbrushes & paste
Mouthwash
Shampoo, comb/brush
… dry shampoo – for outages
Deodorant
Toilet paper
Razor, shaving cream
Mirror
Lip balm, sunscreen
Insect repellent
Contact lens solutions
Denture cleaner
Feminine supplies
Masculine supplies
Baby supplies
Sanitation
Disinfectant
… household bleach, etc.
Plastic bucket or garbage bin
… with tight lid
Heavy-duty plastic garbage bags
… to dispose of waste
Equipment / Tools
————————-
Solar / Hand-crank / Battery-powered radio
Flashlight, Headlamp, Lantern (chargeable or battery)
Waterproof matches (in waterproof container)
Shut-off wrench, pliers, shovel, other tools
(GOOD)Duct tape and scissors
Plastic sheeting
Tarps
Whistle
… or siren device – to call for help
Fire extinguisher
Work gloves
Paper, pens, pencils
Needles and thread
Kitchen Items
——————-
Manual can opener
Mess kits
… or, paper cups, plates, plastic utensils
All-purpose knife
Aluminum foil and plastic wrap
Resealable plastic bags
Food
——-
Ready-to-eat meats
… MREs, or, Tuna & cracker boxes, etc.
Fruits – fresh to start
Fruits – canned for long-term outages
Canned vegetables, fish
Canned soup, ravioli, etc.
Canned or boxed juices, milk
High-energy foods, such as peanut butter
Bread – at start
Low-sodium crackers
Granola bars, trail mix
Protein bars
Special foods for infants
Foods for persons on special diets
“Ensure” or similar
Instant coffee
Cereals
Powdered milk
Cookies, hard candy
Water
——–
2 gallons per person per day for:
drinking, cooking, and hygiene
Remember: children, nursing mothers, the elderly, and individuals who may become sick require more water
Also: plan for your pets.
Comfort Items:
Games, Cards, Books, Toys for kids
Clothes and Bedding
—————————–
Complete changes of clothes
Extra socks ; Extra underwear
*Sturdy* shoes or boots
Rain gear
Hat ; Work gloves
Sunglasses
Blankets/sleeping bag ; Pillow
Documents and Keys
NOTE: keep in watertight bag/container
——————————
CASH
(ATMs, CC machines do not work during outages)
Personal identification
Credit cards
Extra set of house keys
Extra set(s) of car keys
Copies of the following:
Birth certificate
Driver’s license
Social Security cards
Passports
Wills
Deeds
Lease
Medical Records
… immunization records
Pet veterinarian, etc. records
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Insurance Papers
Inventory of household items
Utility Bills
Checkbook
… bank & credit card acct #s, statements
Stocks and bonds
ELECTRONIC BACKUPS of documents
… USB drives, external hard drives, etc.
Map of the area
Phone numbers for places you could go
… hotels, family/friends
Contact list for landlord, insurance, bills, bank etc.
Contact list for neighbors, caregivers, doctors
Contact list for people / loved ones outside area
… who can help.
(with info during outages, place to stay, etc.)
Graphic: Checklist – Emergency Supplies for Home
from, Louisiana Homeowners [Etc.] Handbook – To Prepare for Disasters
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Questions? Suggestions?
Contact: DrB@disaster.guide
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Lagniappe – 1: Climate
How climate change is making hurricanes more dangerous. (online info/article link) Yale Climate Connections, July 2019 … Some Questions Addressed: Will hurricanes become more intense? ; Does climate change affect the forward speed of hurricanes? ; How will hurricane rainfall change? ; Will hurricanes intensify more rapidly?
Climate change impacts. (online info/article link) … Though we often think of climate change as something that will happen in the future, it is an ongoing process. Ecosystems and communities in the United States and around the world are being impacted today. from: NOAA, last updated: Aug. 2021
Despite pandemic shutdowns, carbon dioxide and methane surged in 2020. (online article link) … Carbon dioxide levels are now higher than at anytime in the past 3.6 million years… from: NOAA, April 2021
A perfect storm: Natural catastrophes and inflation in 2022. (online article link), Swiss Re Institute, March 2023 … A prevailing economic storm in 2022 was high inflation, which, by raising the nominal value of buildings, motor vehicles and other fixed assets that insurers cover, pushed up claims to cover the cost of repairs. Hurricane Ian was the costliest event of 2022, resulting in insured losses estimated at USD 50-65 billion. The storm made landfall in an area of high economic value, urbanisation and population growth, demonstrating the role these factors play as the main drivers of heavy losses inflicted by natural catastrophes. Rising losses from catastrophes point to the need for full understanding of all risk factors, in particular with respect to secondary perils, which are not always monitored as closely as primary peril risks.
Image Credit: Ricardo Arduengo / AFP via Getty Image (Retrieved from/Source)
Description: The only access to the destroyed Matlacha neighborhood of Fort Myers, Fla., on Sept. 30 after Hurricane Ian.
Natural disasters, boosted by climate change, displaced millions of people in U.S. in 2022. (online article link), Feb. 2023, NBC News … disasters forced an estimated 3.4 million people in the U.S. to leave their homes in 2022, according to Census Bureau data collected earlier this year, underscoring how climate-related weather events are already changing American communities. The overwhelming majority of these people were uprooted by hurricanes, followed by floods, then fires and tornados. Nearly 40% returned to their homes within a week. Nearly 16% have not returned home (and may never do so), and 12% were evacuated for more than six months.