Extreme weather events are increasing worldwide, from devastating tornadoes and hurricanes to record-breaking snowstorms. Scientists warn that climate change fuels these disasters, making storms stronger, temperatures more extreme, and weather patterns more unpredictable. As a powerful winter storm moves across the U.S., bringing dangerously low temperatures and heavy snowfall, many wonder: Is this another storm or a sign of bigger changes?
The climate has been changing worldwide; for example, there have been six tornado outbreaks throughout central and southeast America and five tropical cyclones known as Beryl, Debby, Francine, Helene, and Milton. The final two southern cyclones were among the costliest storms in U.S. history. Meanwhile, wildfires continue to spread worldwide. These are just a few of the examples of changing weather patterns around the world. Still, a significant snowstorm is moving into the country, making the temperature dangerously low and having icy and dry winds.
The National Weather Service states, “The heaviest snowfall is expected north and west of the I-95 corridor, with up to eight inches possible.” The weather is even affecting the western states such as California and Nevada, with temperatures as low as 30 degrees and temperatures as low as -40 degrees in Colorado. This weather demonstrates how cold the weather is becoming from these snow storms, and this weather will continue to happen for many weeks to come. Many other snowstorms have accumulated around the United States for the past 10- 15 years; for example, from 2010 to 2024, there have been more than 15 snowstorms with 50 inches or more of snow and ice. This amount of snow is directly related to the snowstorm coming to the United States.
Specific weather events, such as fires, hurricanes, and snow storms caused by global warming. Global warming was started during the late “1800s due to man-made greenhouse gases, but scientists believe that it could have started naturally, and humans had boosted it with greenhouse emissions”. The earth is warming up around 2-4 degrees every decade, making many changes to the weather and climate of the world. In 2022, a North American winter storm hit America. This storm was a direct cause of global warming because of the rising environment; ice was melting into the ocean, and that water evaporated to form snow storms and severe rainfall. This snowstorm killed several people due to its high winds, snowfall, and very low temperatures. These hazardous conditions with zero visibility caused billions of dollars spent repairing all homes and buildings affected by this disaster. Not only did these snowstorms cause numerous deaths and damages, but they caused many severe impacts on daily life; for example, more than 18000 flights were delayed or canceled due to the severe weather conditions. Many experts believe this developing snowstorm could be as severe—if not worse—than the 2022 storm. Many people will be affected by this snowstorm and have to prepare for it properly, for example, carrying a winter storm kit that consists of but isn’t limited to phones, chargers, batteries, sleeping bags, blankets, food, water, knives, first aid kit, and much more.
