What should you do to prepare for the climate change storm? 

As climate change intensifies, much like preparing for an imminent hurricane, individuals need to take proactive measures to safeguard themselves and their homes against the escalating environmental risks. The current infrastructure, designed for a more stable climate, is proving inadequate for the severe weather events we're now witnessing. Here are essential steps to prepare for the coming "climate change storm."

Personal Preparation

1. Assess Your Risk: Understand the specific climate risks in your area, whether it be flooding, wildfires, or extreme heat. Localized knowledge is crucial for making informed decisions about whether to stay or relocate.

2. Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive insurance coverage. Flood insurance is recommended even if you're not in a designated flood zone. As climate risks grow, so do the costs, but the investment is essential for protection against unexpected disasters.

3. Home Fortification: To defend your home against floods:

   • Elevate your furnace, water heater, and electrical panels.
   • Install check valves in sewer traps.
   • Regrade your yard to direct water away from your home.
   • Use waterproofing compounds in basements.

   For wildfire protection:

   • Create a fire-resistant zone around your home.
   • Prepare a sealed room to protect against smoke.
   • Keep N95 masks on hand.

4. Emergency Supplies: Stock up on essentials like food, water, medications, and emergency lighting. Consider installing solar panels with battery backups to mitigate long power outages.

Consider Relocation

For those in high-risk areas like floodplains, wildfire zones, or coastal regions prone to sea-level rise, relocation might be the most prudent option. Climate-safe "havens" are often located in older cities in the Great Lakes region or the upper Midwest, which are less vulnerable to extreme weather. However, no place is immune; even these havens are experiencing challenges such as power outages and wildfire smoke.

Financial Planning

Reducing personal debt and reconsidering investments, particularly in fossil fuels, are crucial steps in preparing for the economic impacts of climate change. Those with financial means will have more options for adaptation and resilience.

Community and Infrastructure

Maintaining strong social connections in your community can be a critical survival mechanism during emergencies. If relocating, choose areas with robust infrastructure, as this will be vital for coping with the increasing frequency of extreme weather events.

Interactive Tools for Decision-Making

Several tools are available to help assess climate risks and potential new locations, such as the U.S. Climate Vulnerability Index and FEMA's National Risk Index. These resources can provide valuable insights into the environmental and social risks in specific areas, aiding in making informed decisions about where to live.

Conclusion

Preparation for the climate change storm is not just about physical readiness but also involves financial, social, and strategic planning. By taking these steps, you can better safeguard yourself, your family, and your assets against the growing threats posed by our changing climate.