Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has refuted claims that the intensification of hurricanes is linked to climate change, despite the consensus among scientists. DeSantis made these remarks during a press conference held in the aftermath of Hurricanes Milton and Helene, asserting that historical data shows similar levels of destruction in the past.
The recent hurricanes, Milton and Helene, made landfall in Florida within a mere two-week timespan, leading to widespread flooding and significant damage. The combined death toll across Florida and neighbouring states amounts to approximately 250 lives lost. Hurricane Milton, in particular, spawned at least 20 tornadoes as it traversed through the state.
When questioned by a reporter about the role of climate change in the strength of hurricanes, De Santis chose to highlight past storm events dating back to the early 20th century to downplay any current climate influence. Drawing attention to the barometric pressure during Hurricane Milton, DeSantis emphasised that historical hurricanes had exhibited even lower pressures on landfall, indicating a cyclical pattern rather than a trend associated with climate change.
DeSantis referenced the devastating Labor Day Hurricane of the 1930s and the catastrophic 1928 Okeechobee hurricane, both of which caused significant loss of life in Florida, to provide context for the severity of recent storms. He urged the public to view the current hurricane season in perspective, noting that the state has a long history of dealing with tropical weather events.
These statements by DeSantis diverge from scientific assessments that attribute the increased intensity of hurricanes to human-induced climate change. Researchers at World Weather Attribution (WWA) have indicated that Hurricane Milton would have been less powerful without the influence of climate change, potentially making landfall as a weaker Category 2 storm instead of a major Category 3 hurricane.
Despite the contrasting views, DeSantis stands firm in his belief that the recent hurricanes are not evidence of climate change impacting storm intensity. His insistence on historical precedents for extreme weather events serves to shape the narrative around hurricane intensification in Florida, challenging the prevailing scientific consensus.