Weather Heroes
Weather Heroes takes you on an insightful journey into the essential realm of disaster preparedness and response. We introduce you to key weather experts from diverse backgrounds and industries, shedding light on their vital roles before and after extreme weather events.
The financial, environmental, and human costs of weather disasters are staggering. In 2023 alone, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported 28 weather disasters, causing at least $92.9 billion in damage. This record-breaking year surpassed the previous high of 22 events in 2020. Since 1980, the U.S. has endured 376 major weather events, accumulating over $2.5 trillion in damages.
With the total damage estimate from 2024, including the L.A. Wildfire and the third costliest hurricane season (featuring Hurricane Helene), the overall cost will undoubtedly rise. Moreover, countless smaller-scale disasters also leave profound impacts on people's lives and properties.
Each weather event unfolds its own narrative, uniquely affecting individuals and communities. Weather Heroes connects you with those who rebuild lives—sharing stories of resilience and unwavering dedication.
Weather Heroes
The Bug Man Cometh!
Hurricanes, heavy storms, tornadoes, floods, and similar disasters can lead to problems with a variety of insects and other creepy crawlies. With two broods of cicadas emerging and bugs in the news we talk with Paul Bello -entomologist extraordinaire. Paul has been battling bugs and creepy crawlies for decades. As the rains and flood waters abate, these pests become unwelcome guests in and around our homes and disrupt the response and recovery to the event. It’s fascinating how nature’s smallest creatures can become such significant challenges.
Paul’s insights are invaluable for dealing with these post event pest issues and his stories provide both practical advice and a touch of humor - some of these insects can be very persistent and invasive…but, hey, don’t let that “bug” you. Listen on!
Paul J. Bello ACE, BCE, MBA Author, Consultant, Speaker, & Educator (pjbpestconsultant.com)
Pest Problems After Storms and Other Disasters | NC State Extension (ncsu.edu)
2024 cicada map: Emergence updates; where to find Brood XIII, XIX (usatoday.com)