Scientists Look at Climate Change, the Superstorm

Michael Oppenheimer, a climate scientist reported eight months ago that the “once in-a-century devastating floods in New York City would soon happen every three to twenty years.”  Oppenheimer cites global warming for the rise in sea levels and changing hurricane patterns.  A 2000 federal report also reported global warming effects on the United States and the possibility of flooding; yet, scientists still caution they “cannot link a single storm to global warming and any connection is not as clear and simple as environmental activists might content.”  Gerald North, a climate professor at Texas A&M University stated that “these things do happen, like the drought. It's a natural thing."

Scientists and hurricane experts now agree that as our climate temperature increases there will be fewer hurricanes; however, they will be “stronger and wetter.”  Oppenheimer researched New York City's record flood of 1821; Hurricane Sandy flooded even higher.

On October 30, 2012, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg stated, "What is clear is that the storms that we've experienced in the last year or so, around this country and around the world, are much more severe than before," Bloomberg said. "Whether that's global warming or what, I don't know. But we'll have to address those issues."  Governor Cuomo contends that major flooding appears to be occurring every two years now.

Obviously, I’m not a scientist but I still believe that climate change is having an impact causing this extreme weather.  All parts of this great country are seeing more frequency of these extreme events which are more deadly and costly than in years past.  With that being said, the evidence is clear- rising sea levels (which appear to be caused by global warming) are changing the intensity of hurricanes and increasing their destructive path.  I’m also still curious…how will this hurricane affect the presidential election in exactly one week?

As of October 30, 2012 the Weather Channels reports its five latest findings:

1.       Millions Without Power: some 8 million customers were without power.

2.      Numerous Fatalities Reported: The Associated Press has reported 45 fatalities; many of which were killed by falling trees.  Sandy also killed 69 people in the Caribbean.

3.      Next: Cold to Hamper Recovery: Behind the storm, cold air has moved into areas where the power is out where morning lows are in the 30s.

4.      More than Two Feet of Snow: over two feet in the central Appalachians; 29 inches in Redhouse, Md.; 24 inches in Terra Alta, W.V.

5.      Monday’s Hurricane-Force Wind Gusts: ranging from JFK airport 79 mph to 96 mph in Eatons Neck, N.Y.  Additionally, downed trees, power lines and other wind-related damage have been reported all along the east coast.

Source: http://www.weather.com/news/weather-hurricanes/sandy-top-five-20121028

Article source: By SETH BORENSTEIN AP Science Writer

WASHINGTON October 31, 2012 (AP)