Climate hazards found to be more intense and severe in Texas

Weather-related events in Texas, especially heat waves and floods, are more frequent and dangerous than previously thought, according to a new study by University of Texas scientists Dr. Matthew Presser and Professor Paola Passalacqua. The results of the study are published in the journal AGU Advances.

Experts conducted an in-depth analysis of data from 2001 to 2020, including temperature and precipitation recorded by satellites. They found that there were three times more floods than available official sources - NOAA and the Dartmouth Flood Observatory - and that $320 million in economic damage was overlooked.

"Heat" is not just high temperatures

The study assessed hot days not only based on temperature, but also on a humidity-temperature index, which is dangerous for the human body. The index of scientists classifies days with temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius as "extreme heat." From 2003 to 2020, the number of such dangerous days amounted to 2,517 - almost 40 percent of the days during these years.

Damage estimates are underestimated - the consequences are serious

The authors note that traditional methods used to assess climate risks often do not reflect the full picture. This, in turn, leads to the fact that citizens, especially low-income or socially vulnerable groups, are at risk.

"Our research shows that an objective and inclusive approach to climate threats is required. In particular, for the benefit of vulnerable communities, completeness of data is vital," says Professor Passalacqua.

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