According to the National Hurricane Center, Tropical Storm Isaias, which formed in the southwestern Gulf this October 7, could soon impact parts of the US, becoming the first hurricane of this year’s Atlantic hurricane season, which normally runs from June 1 to November 30.
So far, the storm has sustained winds of 40 mph (nearly 65 km/h). Further forecasts suggest that Isaias could strengthen into a Category 2 hurricane, with winds reaching 100 mph (about 160 km/h) by October 9. It's expected to hit parts of the southern US this week, bringing heavy rain and gusts.
Last year, the US experienced 23 weather and climate disasters costing at least US$115 billion in total damages and resulting in 276 deaths. Those are staggering figures that cannot be ignored. These disasters are fueled by the nation's vast and diverse geography, which has everything from hurricane-prone coastlines to tornado alleys and wildfire-vulnerable regions. Additionally, human-driven climate change is intensifying these events, making them more frequent and severe.
Curious about why the US is so at risk? Click through now to find out more.