This blog post examines recent data showing how climate change is amplifying extreme weather in the United States, the staggering economic toll these events are taking, and a close look at recovery efforts in Augusta, Georgia.
Drawing on national studies and local recovery figures, I explain why stronger Atlantic storms, rising costs, and stresses on agriculture, infrastructure, and public health demand urgent, coordinated action.
The rising cost of extreme weather and what the numbers tell us
Over my 30 years working in climate science and disaster resilience, the acceleration in both frequency and severity of weather-related disasters has been unmistakable.
Since 1980, climate- and weather-related events have caused more than $3.1 trillion in damages across the United States, a figure that underscores how exposure and intensity are increasing together.
By June 2025, the nation had already recorded 417 extreme weather events, each with costs exceeding $1 billion, according to Climate Central.
A sobering University of Chicago projection suggests that climate change could impose an economic burden of $38 trillion per year by 2049 if current trends continue.
Local impacts: the Augusta, Georgia recovery example
Local case studies illuminate how aggregate statistics translate into community hardship.
In Augusta, Georgia, recovery from Hurricane Helene is estimated at $81 million in damages.
The city submitted $62.7 million in costs to FEMA, of which $36.8 million was approved and $34.4 million has already been reimbursed.
Beyond public infrastructure and municipal recovery, FEMA distributed $65 million in aid to Augusta-area residents.
FEMA also cleared over 4.4 million cubic yards of debris.
Why Atlantic hurricanes are getting stronger
One of the clearest climate signals is the warming of ocean surfaces, which provides more energy for tropical cyclones.
Between 2019 and 2023, average wind speeds for Atlantic hurricanes increased by 18 mph, a trend consistent with higher sea surface temperatures and increased atmospheric moisture.
Stronger storms mean more destructive winds, higher storm surge, and heavier rainfall for the same storm tracks, placing additional burdens on coastal communities, insurance systems, and emergency responders.
Broader threats to agriculture, infrastructure, and public health
Scientists warn that prolonged heat, altered precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events are straining agriculture, degrading infrastructure, and worsening public health outcomes.
From crop losses and supply-chain disruption to stressed hospitals and failing drainage systems, the costs are both immediate and compounding.
Governments are being forced to spend more just to maintain essential systems.
This diverts resources that could otherwise build long-term resilience and social services.
What communities and governments should prioritize now
As an expert with decades in the field, I recommend urgent, pragmatic actions to reduce risk and costs:
Here is the source article for this story: How much is climate change costing Augusta and beyond? See this breakdown.