Controversy Surrounding Hurricane Helene
Shortly after Hurricane Helene struck the southeastern United States, former president Donald Trump falsely accused President Biden of ignoring calls from Governor Kemp. Biden urged to keep politics out of the tragedy that has claimed 227 lives. Conspiracy theories about the disaster have spread on social media, with Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene supporting the idea that weather can be controlled, fueling further speculation.
Green has a history of promoting conspiracy theories, including the belief that wildfires can be caused by space lasers. She has a large following and has suggested that the hurricanes could influence the Republican vote. While technologies like cloud seeding exist, the control of hurricanes remains beyond current capabilities. Efforts to weaken hurricanes in the past have been inconclusive and unethical.
Modern geoengineering focuses on broader climate interventions like solar geoengineering, which reflects sunlight to cool the planet. Scientists warn of risks and ethical challenges associated with these interventions. Experts agree that reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial in mitigating climate change, a key factor in hurricane intensity.
Kristen Corbosiero, a professor, emphasized the importance of understanding the limitations of controlling weather. The debate continues as scientists and policymakers work towards sustainable solutions for climate change.
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