Editorial: Severe weather raises questions about climate change
What a week for severe weather. We've all seen the destruction left by the tornadoes that hit Arkansas, Illinois, and Kentucky last weekend. The death toll from those storms topped 88 people across all three states. In Kentucky alone, 74 people died: a number that's likely to go up. 10,000 homes were destroyed leaving thousands without shelter.
On Wednesday, Iowa was the target for extreme weather. The vlog team covered a severe weather outbreak Wednesday that spawned numerous tornadoes and winds that topped 80 miles per hour. Several records were broken in Iowa. The tornadoes in Kentucky were the deadliest on record.
These extreme weather events have once again put the spotlight on our climate and the accelerated changes we're seeing. But let's face it, the Earth's climate has always been dynamic and changing. After all, at one point where we live was covered in ice. But why does it seem like the weather patterns are changing more rapidly lately? How much of this is man-made? Is the path we're on reversible or inevitable? All important questions to answer, and data to objectively analyze. Especially in a state like Iowa where the weather has such a profound impact on our top industry: agriculture.
Unfortunately, like a lot of our critical conversations, this has become another political and polarizing debate. Today, what's not up for debate, is the tornados in Kentucky have left whole communities destroyed. Families have lost loved ones. Homes are gone. Business flattened. Here in Iowa our neighbors are digging out and cleaning up. And this couldn't have happened at a worse time. The fact people are mourning loss during this season of hope makes it hurt even more.
Please consider giving something to those in need. The easiest way to give is through the American Red Cross. You can do this by going . Our hearts go out to those impacted here at home and in Kentucky. Thank you for helping in any way you can.