The Global Story: The Super El Nino - what happens when it hits us?
Summary
Climate scientist Tom Deibert discusses the historic "super El Niño," explaining its mechanics and global impacts, from droughts in Central America to increased heat risks. He details how El Niño is already suppressing Atlantic hurricanes while boosting Pacific storms and warns of potential economic disruptions, including coffee price hikes. Deibert also addresses the politicization of climate science in the US and urges listeners to prepare for extreme weather events now.
Topics discussed
Intro and Nissan Rogue ad
Episode preview: Super El Niño
Guest intro: Tom DiLiberto's childhood
Tom's career path and love of weather
Early career at NOAA and forecasting
The science behind El Niño forecasts
Explaining what El Niño is
Global impacts: droughts and floods
Economic impacts: Panama Canal and markets
Projected mortality and climate change
Sponsor segments and transition
Historical context and prediction systems
Current impacts: hurricanes and droughts
Global awareness and government action
Partisanship and NOAA staffing issues
Advice for individuals to prepare
Personal feelings and closing remarks
Credits and next episode teaser
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