Asheville Faces Harsh Reality After Hurricane Helene
Asheville, once considered a refuge from severe climate effects, is now grappling with the harsh consequences of Hurricane Helene. The storm, which devastated multiple states, led to significant destruction in Buncombe County, including over 50 fatalities and many individuals missing. City officials remarked on the dire state of essential services like food, water, and electricity as Asheville’s image of safety from climate threats shatters under the reality of climate change. Kathie Dello, North Carolina’s state climatologist, emphasizes the lesson learned: “If you live in a place that can rain, you live in a place that can flood.” Read more.
Astronomy Class Bridging Climate Change Awareness
In an effort to integrate climate change education into higher learning, many astronomy professors are using their courses to teach about the realities of climate change on Earth. Travis Rector, a professor at the University of Alaska Anchorage, is leading this initiative through his organization, Astronomers for Planet Earth. By connecting astronomical concepts to climate discussions, educators like him aim to equip students with the knowledge needed to understand and combat global warming. Juan Madrid, a professor from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, highlights the importance of creating a dialogue that transforms student fears into action and optimism. Read more.
