North Carolina ignored climate warnings, worsening hurricane destruction

North Carolina's decision to roll back climate policies left it vulnerable to Hurricane Helene's devastating impacts, raising concerns over future climate preparedness.

Lucy Dean Stockton and Freddy Brewster report for The Lever.

In short:

• North Carolina once led the South in renewable energy and climate adaptation but has backtracked due to Republican and corporate resistance since the 2010s.
• Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm, caused historic flooding and destruction across the state, exacerbated by warmer waters linked to climate change.
• Current efforts to weaken climate regulations risk more severe damage from future climate-driven disasters in the state.

Key quote:

"The Republican approach to climate change has been much like an ostrich with its head in the sand."

— Dan Crawford, director of governmental relations, North Carolina League of Conservation Voters

Why this matters:

Neglecting climate change preparations, as seen in North Carolina, heightens the risk of deadly storms, worsening both human and environmental losses. Stronger, proactive policies are critical to mitigate future impacts and protect vulnerable communities.