http://cptv.vo.llnwd.net/o2/ypmwebcontent/Heather/Morning%20Edition%2008-07-2012.mp3
Tropical Storm Irene, record snowfalls in 2011, and a freak snowstorm last October: even in a part of the country that has unpredictable weather, Connecticut has had its share of extreme weather in the last few years.
Environment Connecticut has released a report that looks at the frequency and intensity of extreme weather in the state since 1948. Here to talk about the report is Nathan Willcox, Federal Global Warming Director for Environment America.
"In the report, we're quick to point out that we really need to heed scientists' warnings that this trend is linked to global warming, and do everything we can to cut carbon pollution now," Willcox says.
Global warming leads to warmer temperatures, and warmer air can hold more moisture. This means we are more likely to get increased precipitation and faster evaporation, feeding the storms.
"Scientists predict that we can expect to see longer periods of prolonged drought in between these extreme downpours and snowstorms, like what much of the country is experiencing," Willcox added.