Adrian Rubin and How Global Warming is Affecting Pittsburgh

A little under a decade ago, the average high temperature for the Pittsburgh area in September was approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit. In 2018, that high goes above 80 degrees. Although one could see this as nothing more than a coincidence, the commonality of such temperature spikes around the world is worrisome. In fact, it is difficult to find a state in the United States that has not experienced some consequence of global warming. Going back to Pittsburgh, however, what are some of the most common effects of this trend?

Increased Temperatures

Obviously, the most widespread consequence of global warming is associated with an increase in temperatures. Unfortunately, Pittsburgh is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this trend. According to NASA'S findings, the world has seen a 1.8-degree (Fahrenheit) increase in global temperatures since 1880. Even more concerning is the fact that there appears to be very little to no reduction in this pattern. Meaning, the temperatures are not showcasing any signs of slowing down with the on-going growth. For Pittsburgh residents, this means longer summers with warmer days.

Increased Likelihood of Flooding

The increase in global temperatures has slowly facilitated more precipitation and flooding. Just last year, Houston was hit with Hurricane Harvey and Florida experienced the devastating effects of Hurricane Irma. Now, the Pittsburgh area is narrowly avoiding going through the same scenario with Hurricane Florence. Thousands of people have been displaced and their homes are experiencing destruction the likes of which seldom occur in this region. Once again, these storms can be directly connected to global warming. In fact, extensive research on Atlantic Hurricanes and global warming indicates that there is a statistical relationship between the two.

Worrisome Wildfire Season

Another very common consequence of global warming pertains to wildfires. Just consider how unstoppable the burning in California was earlier this year. In fact, the fires were so widely spread that the smoke was causing issues to people who reside all the way in Philadelphia. Although global warming is not in a direct relationship with the wildfires, it is creating conditions that give birth to them. First, higher temperatures cause dryness. Then, human mistakes or carelessness pertaining to the improper disposal of flammable items start fires.

One of the most overwhelming problems related to these fires is the damage caused to the wildlife. Although homes and forests are negatively impacted as well, the number of animals that die is mind-boggling. After all, most of them are unable to evacuate the area when needed and suffer life-threatening burns or smoke poisoning.

Landslides

The United States is a home to multiple cities where landslides occur frequently. Sadly, Pittsburgh is one of those that often experience this problem. Well, global warming could mean that landslides in the future will be even more common than they are today. The reason why this area is prone to such issues goes back to the soil and rainfall. For those unfamiliar, landslides are generally caused by increased rainfall that soaks the ground. This makes it difficult for the ground to remain stable and it begins moving. If the area also has a lot of inclines, the sliding of the land is to be expected.

As mentioned above, global warming has already reached a level of rainfall that is creating hurricanes every year. Thus, the average ground wetness is slowly reaching unprecedented levels. This means that the landslides could become far more frequent.

How the Changes Affect People's Lifestyles

Given the combination of consequences of global warming, one can assume that the average lifestyle is slowly changing. For instance, buying a home used to revolve around the price and proximity to good schools. Nowadays, buyers in Pittsburgh, Houston, or Miami, per se, are more focused on the flood zones and precipitation in the area. Additionally, people who live in cities that were affected by a hurricane at some point will permanently live in fear.

Additionally, according to Adrian Rubin, global warming is keeping everyone in a state of constant anxiety. Just consider how even those who reside in Philadelphia can be affected by wildfires on the West Coast. Similarly, they could be subjected to terrible problems whenever Pittsburgh goes through a natural disaster. Meaning, global warming is effortlessly destroying one's sense of safety.

Best Course of Action

Adrian Rubin, who is an expert on global warming, further states that people should be mindful of the change in global temperatures. This means getting educated on the current trends and knowing how to handle storms. Moreover, staying informed by being connected with any government-based websites is helpful when a disastrous storm hits. Ultimately, having an escape route and knowing what to do in the worst-case scenario will minimize the odds of mortifying outcomes.