The high cost of California's atmospheric river: $11 billion

The recent atmospheric river in California has resulted in staggering costs, both financially and in human terms.

Heather Souvaine Horn reports for The New Republic.

In short:

The atmospheric river in California has caused an estimated $11 billion in damages.
This extreme weather event highlights the increasing severity and cost of climate-related disasters.
The impact is particularly severe in expensive neighborhoods, but it also significantly affects less affluent communities.

Key quote:

"The reason the sewers and storm drains aren’t built for anything even close to the catastrophe unfolding in California is largely thanks to cost."

— Dave Levitan, The New Republic.

Why this matters:

This situation emphasizes the urgent need for infrastructure improvements and climate resilience planning, especially in areas prone to extreme weather events. The article also points to the broader implications of climate change on public policy, urban planning, and disaster preparedness.

Preparing for and building back after natural disasters should not be a one-size-fits all approach.

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