And Disasters…

Article From LA Times

This article discusses the difference in responses to rebuilding to Hurricane Ian and wildfires in California.

In Florida at least the initial response includes discussion on whether rebuilding in areas where repeated disasters makes sense. While the discussion is happening, I find it unlikely that in a few short years much of what has been lost in Florida will be rebuilt in some manner. The authors praise this discussion.

In California most of the damage is in rural areas, and the discussion is on how to rebuild and not whether it makes sense to rebuild in areas where future fires are likely.

The article also discusses the different demographics of urban and rural. Ian hit a growing urban metropolis. There is a mixture of wealthy, middle class, and poor. The obvious result is the wealthy will rebuild. The middle class will make a choice, and the poor will struggle as always. The California wildfires hit mostly the middle class. Retirees are part of both groups.

What is different?

After Ian the Republicans hit with a disaster eagerly looked for assistance from the Federal Government and a conversation about rebuilding. In California, the Republicans look at it as a chance to take swipes at Democrats.

Climate Change?

What is clear is that the earth is warming, we can argue about the reasons but it is a fact. As a world community we need an honest discussion of what can be done to deal with this fact.

The result is there are many regions of this country which are experiencing extended drought. When storms do occur, more of these storms are creating major damage. As a country and a world we need real discussion about how to deal with the consequences.

And one item in this discussion is there a way to slow down the process? Withdrawing from the Paris Accords is not part of the solution. Isolating ourselves from the world community is not part of the solution. We must be part of the conversation.

Denying Climate Change exists.

This one really puzzles me. Ron DeSantis passed legislation to deal with rising seas. To me this is like taking a aspirin to deal with a headache. It may relieve the pain temporarily, but if a tumor is causing the pain, it is putting of the cure to a point when the cure may not be possible.

In truth there may not be a cure for global warming. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try and it certainly doesn’t mean we shouldn’t have the discussion.

Politics.

As with so much in our country, politics and greed is getting in the way. Those making money don’t want major changes in our life styles. To be truthful everyone in the middle class and above will find life style changes uncomfortable. Changes to address this global problem will have unwanted consequences for everyone. That doesn’t mean we have a blind spot and don’t try.

It means we need to open our eyes and start the discussion on how to best move forward.

Respect.

Which gets me back to the title. RESPECT. There are different points of view. This discussion we must respect and hear all those views. The plans created should lessen the impact for everyone.