In the news
On 18 June, multiple weather advisories were issued across the country due to the extreme weather. Dry and strong winds triggered massive wildfires in California burning 15,000 acres. Two people died due to the same. 

On 18 June, heavy rain and thunderstorms spread across the central and western Gulf Coast after a potential tropical storm warning was issued in Texas. On the other hand, a winter storm warning was issued in Montana and Idaho. 

On 19 June, the National Weather Service issued its first-ever excessive heat warning for Caribou and Maine stating: “Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 106[F] expected” where the heatwave is expected to intensify. 

On 19 June, the National Weather Service declared a flash flood emergency in New Mexico after wildfires were raging. It stated: “Water rescues are ongoing in the Ruidoso area as flood waters surge down the slopes from nearby burn scars.”
 
Issues at large
First, a brief note on extreme weather events. The US has been witnessing storms, cyclones, heatwaves, and wildfires every season highlighting an increase in the frequency, intensity, and magnitude of extreme weather events in the country. With contradictory weather anomalies occurring simultaneously, the US is witnessing compound events. It is the occurrence of multiple climate hazards occurring simultaneously in isolation or at various locations. Compound events have a greater impact on the ecosystems. It put pressure on infrastructure, water and food supplies, transportation and communication, and public health. In the US, the firefighters have been juggling across California and New Mexico between raging blazes and flash floods.

Second, climate change as the cause and effect. Climate change is the main driver of extreme weather events. With rising temperatures, these are projected to increase further.  Wildfires burning can increase pollution and emissions leading to a vicious cycle making climate change the cause and effect of the events.

Third, the increasing recurrence and intensity. In 2023, the US witnessed 27 disasters including floods, droughts, storms, and cyclones. In 2024, so far, it has experienced 12 disasters including severe storms and floods. From 1980 to 2024, the country witnessed 195 severe storms, 24 winter storms, 44 flooding, 31 droughts, 62 tropical cyclones, 22 wildfires, and nine freeze billion-dollar disaster events, according to the National Centers for Environment Information (NOAA). There is a sharp increase in the frequency and intensity of events incurring billions of losses.

Fourth, need for better governance and disaster management. With an increase in the recurrence of extreme weather events, there is a need for better governance and disaster management at the local level. Such events incur human and economic loss that demands preparedness and effective response. Developed countries are at a leverage in effective disaster management. However, for less developed countries, managing such events is a challenge.
 
In perspective
First, more focus on climate adaptation. Even though the global climate target is achieved, such events are projected to increase. This demands more focus on adaptation and the need for climate finance. Although the developed countries can adapt better, the developing and less developed countries need more finance to address such events.

Second, extreme weather events are manifestations of climate change and are expected to increase. To address them, effective governance and disaster management is required. Recurring events also demand preparedness at the local and national levels.