Your Opinion: Prevent flood damage

Dear Editor:

News agencies report that flooding in the United States over the past five years cost $34 billion and that the Louisiana Flood will cost over $15 billion. It is important that we understand these extreme weather events are becoming less natural as they become more expensive. Science warns that humanity has become the major influence on Earth's climate, and if we do not act responsibly, flooding will become more severe.

There is little dispute among climate scientists that carbon dioxide emissions are the main reason for the global temperature records we have been setting in the 21st century. Because it is easier for water to evaporate from warmer oceans, and warmer air can hold more moisture, we should expect more extreme rains as Earth warms.

Princeton University researcher Karin van Der Wiel is among the many scientists who have studied the link between climate change and increased flooding. She concluded all climate models show higher levels of CO2 result in precipitation extremes.

Furthermore, van Der Wiel has written excellent articles on the reality of climate change. She states even though 97 percent of scientists agree humans cause climate change, she occasionally struggles "to convince people with faulty beliefs of the reality of climate change." Ironically, a recent letter in the News Tribune took a few of her words out of context to support "faulty beliefs" about climate change.

In her article, "How To Respond To Climate Science Denial," van Der Wiel said we must take global steps to reduce the impact of climate change. We should do what we can to reduce emissions while demanding politicians and businesses do the same.

Recent flood events in Louisiana as well as what we have experienced here in Jefferson City add to many recent wakeup calls that we must act responsibly to reduce emissions. I also volunteer with Citizens' Climate Lobby to encourage Congress to place a price on carbon and will vote for candidates who support climate action. What are you willing to do to slow down flooding in our community and around the country?