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West Point climate scientist fired
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The gist
Scientists warn of more intense extreme weather as long as fossil fuels are used. Even reaching net zero won't stop constant extreme events, experts say.
Background
Scientists have long warned that continued use of gas, oil, and coal will lead to more intense heat waves, storms, floods, and droughts. Recent reports highlight that even immediate net zero emissions won't halt these events, and climate change is already increasing the frequency of glacier-related hazards like the Nepal floods.
How it unfolded
- Aug 21, 2026New Scientist reports that the developing super El Niño is already the strongest since records began, according to James Hansen.
- Aug 24, 2026AP News publishes 'The world inches toward catastrophic climate events: Bigger shocks are on the way,' featuring warnings from climate scientists.
- Aug 28, 2026Reports link a melting glacier to deadly Nepal floods, with experts saying climate change made the event more likely.
Who’s saying what
- Expert
- Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick says she had a 'come to Jesus moment' realizing constant extreme weather won't stop even with immediate net zero.
- Expert
- Daniel Swain warns that the risk of exaggerating extreme climate events is that people think you are exaggerating.
- Expert
- Twila Moon states there's no question the Nepal flood was made more likely by climate change.