The Stream, January 10: U.S. Spends a Record $306bn on Natural Disasters in 2017
The Global Rundown
The United States spends a record-high amount on natural disasters in 2017. The Democratic Republic of Congo attempts to contain a rapidly-spreading cholera epidemic. Rising ocean temperatures could devastate the marine food web, scientists warn. A study finds that U.S. rivers and streams are getting progressively saltier. Torrential rains trigger flooding, mudslides, and freeway closures in Southern California.
“Cholera is preventable, it can be cured. We don’t need this type of crisis.” –Fatoumata Nafo-Traore, IFRC’s Africa director, in reference to the cholera epidemic spreading throughout the Democratic Republic of Congo. The waterborne disease broke out in July, but has begun to spread more quickly in recent weeks. Reuters
Latest WaterNews from Circle of Blue
2018 Preview: What Not to Ignore About Water Infrastructure – Communities need to invest in and maintain water systems.
Cape Town’s “Day Zero” Approaches – Local authorities estimate that taps will be turned off by April 29, 2018.
By The Numbers
13 Number of people killed by flooding and mudslides in Southern California. Heavy rains have caused freeway closures and have left at least 25 people injured. Los Angeles Times
$306 billion Cost of the damages brought on by natural disasters in the U.S. in 2017. The majority of the damage was caused by hurricanes, wildfires, flooding, and drought. The total surpassed the previous record of $215 billion in 2005. The Guardian
Science, Studies, And Reports
Many rivers and streams across the United States are becoming saltier, according to new research. Researchers attribute the increase of salt to certain fertilizers, mining waste, and the use of salt on winter roads. The Washington Post
On The Radar
Scientists have warned that rising ocean temperatures could lead to a collapse of the marine food web. Warming waters restrict energy flows between species in the marine ecosystem, reducing food availability for bigger animals such as fish. Reuters
Kayla Ritter is a recent graduate of Michigan State University, where she studied International Relations and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. She is currently based in Manton, Michigan. Kayla enjoys running, writing, and traveling. Contact Kayla Ritter
