In 2017, 350 people died from wildfires, floods, cyclones, and other extreme weather events in the U.S.
The government needs to do more to protect Americans from these events, which are becoming more deadly due to climate change, experts say. Weather disasters are also becoming increasingly costly.
Hurricanes Harvey, Maria, and Irma, along with wildfires and other weather disasters cost the nation a record $306 billion in 2017, which was the third warmest year on record. Government action to shore up infrastructure, homes, and businesses is critical because damaging weather events are becoming more frequent, says a professor at the University of Alaska's Institute of Arctic Biology.
Harbors, bridges, power plants, and other key infrastructure in vulnerable states, such as California, Alaska and Texas, need better protection from extreme weather. Roads, sewer systems, and train routes across the country are also likely to suffer as the climate changes.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Nov 15, 2021
Intl. Code Council and Modular Building Institute release new off-site construction standards
‘Will create consistency for off-site construction; accelerate the industry’.
Codes and Standards | Nov 12, 2021
GSA will likely shrink federal office space post-COVID
Agency also needs to address maintenance backlog.
Codes and Standards | Nov 10, 2021
Los Angeles launches fast-track office tenant improvements program
Red tape to be cut to make interiors healthier and safer.
Codes and Standards | Nov 9, 2021
Florida state building professionals call for mandatory high-rise building inspections
Group recommendation comes in wake of Surfside condo collapse.
Codes and Standards | Nov 8, 2021
Dept. of Energy to fund 10 pilot smart building projects
Connected communities will accelerate renewable energy adoption and grid resilience.
Codes and Standards | Nov 3, 2021
Fact sheets offer strategies to improve indoor air quality in schools
Center for Green Schools at USGBC document for people without a technical background.
Codes and Standards | Nov 2, 2021
Rapid acceleration of affordable housing development expected over next five years
Federal government programs will spur construction.
Codes and Standards | Nov 1, 2021
New bird-friendly technical design guide released
National Glass Assn. document offers design and installation best practices for glazing.
Codes and Standards | Nov 1, 2021
World’s first chief heat officer tackles how to protect Miamians from extreme heat
Focus on chronic exposure for outdoor workers and for those that can’t afford AC.
Codes and Standards | Oct 28, 2021
Design competition launched to show role of mass timber in decarbonization
Forest Service and Softwood Lumber Board will award $2 million in grants to winning teams.