More People with First-Hand Knowledge of Extreme Weather Events

From hurricanes to flooding to wildfires, two-thirds of Americans say extreme weather events across the country have been occurring more often than in the past, according to a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center. In addition, 46% of U.S. adults say they have had first-hand experiences with extreme weather in the area where they live.

Global leaders are set to meet this fall at COP26, a United Nations conference on climate change, where attendees will discuss progress on cutting greenhouse gas emissions to limit global warming. Climate activists have argued that urgent action is needed as the world faces more frequent extreme weather events.

When asked to think about the government’s role when it comes to building in areas at high risk from major storms, floods, and wildfires, 62% of U.S. adults say they are more concerned that the government will not go far enough in limiting new construction in areas prone to severe weather events.