States are unprepared for climate change threats

Only nine states have taken comprehensive steps to address water-related effects of climate change, while 29 states are unprepared, according to a new report, “Ready or Not: An Evaluation of State Climate and Water Preparedness Planning.” The report by the New York-based Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) ranks Alaska and California among the most prepared states, while Alabama and Arkansas rank among the least prepared.

NRDC says states face increasing threats from water-related climate change, including more severe and frequent storms, intense rainfall, sea-level rise, warmer water temperatures and drought. Many states are woefully unprepared to meet the threats, according to the report. It ranks all 50 states in four categories from most prepared to least prepared.

Nine states rank among the most prepared, including Alaska, California, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington and Wisconsin. The report notes, however, that water preparedness activities have “slowed or stalled” in Alaska, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

States in the least prepared category include Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Texas and Utah. Seventeen other states rank as having very little preparedness.

The report includes an interactive online map showing specific threats each state faces from climate change. NRDC says states should cut polluting emissions from power plants, vehicles and other sources, as well as increase investment in energy efficiency and renewable energy.

“Rising temperatures and more extreme weather events are impacting our families, our health and our pocketbooks,” says NRDC Water & Climate Program director Steve Fleischli. “Preparing for the impacts of a changing climate requires that states confront reality, and prioritize climate change adaptation to reduce local water risks and create healthier communities.”