I never imagined I would become a climate refugee. After moving my family from California to Asheville, N.C. to escape droughts and wildfires, we found ourselves fleeing from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. This experience has made me realize the urgent need for action on climate change.
As Hurricane Helene tore through the Southeast, causing widespread destruction, I saw firsthand how climate change can turn natural disasters into catastrophic events. The storm, fueled by warmer ocean waters and increased moisture in the atmosphere, dumped unprecedented amounts of rain on North Carolina, leading to flooding, mudslides, and devastation.
Being without power, Internet, and cell service in the aftermath of the storm was a sobering experience. It became clear that the impact of such disasters goes beyond the immediate destruction, affecting essential services and infrastructure for weeks or even longer. My family was fortunate to have the means to leave town and seek shelter with relatives, but many others were not as lucky.
The fact that Asheville, a city considered relatively safe from climate disasters, was severely affected by Hurricane Helene underscores the reality that no place is immune to the effects of climate change. It is a stark reminder of the need for urgent action to address the root causes of these disasters.
As I comfort my children and try to explain to them why humans are not doing more to protect the planet, I am reminded of the importance of the upcoming elections. I firmly believe that our votes can make a difference in shaping policies that address the climate crisis. I will be supporting candidates who prioritize climate action and hold polluters accountable.
The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has left a lasting impact on my family and our community. It has highlighted the interconnectedness of our actions and the environment, and the need for collective efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change. I am hopeful that by raising awareness and taking action, we can create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
