“Storm of the Century” Could Loom This Decade, Warn Scientists

A new wave of scientific research reveals that what were once “once-in-a-century” storms may soon become common occurrences. Climate change is amplifying the frequency and destructive power of extreme weather events, demanding urgent action from policymakers and communities alike.

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Risks Escalate: 100-Year Storms Every Decade in Bangladesh?

A groundbreaking MIT study warns that Bangladesh could see storm tides previously expected only once every century striking every ten years—or even more frequently—by late this century. Combining downscaled hurricane simulations with hydrodynamic modeling, researchers found that intensified cyclones and sea-level rise are poised to flood densely populated coastal areas with unprecedented regularity.

Eastern U.S.: “Storm of the Century” Growing Stronger

On the U.S. East Coast, destructive Nor’easter storms are gaining force. Since 1940, the maximum wind speeds of these storms have risen by around 6%, which translates into a staggering 20% increase in destructive potential. Rain and snow volumes from these storms have also climbed by 10%, further raising the threat level.

Megastorms on the Rise in Northern Hemisphere

Research from the University of Exeter warns that extra-tropical cyclones—powerful systems responsible for widespread wind and rainfall—could triple in frequency across Europe and North America by 2100 if greenhouse gas emissions remain unchecked. Such storms bring significant risks of urban flooding and infrastructure damage.

California’s ARkStorm Scenario: A Billion-Dollar Megaflood

A hypothetical megastorm scenario known as ARkStorm paints a bleak picture for California. Updated projections suggest that atmospheric rivers could deliver flood volumes 200% to 400% above historical norms, with probabilities rising to once every 25 to 50 years. Economic losses from such an event could exceed $1 trillion, possibly eclipsing the impact of Hurricane Katrina.

The Broader Storm Reality: A Storm Era Is Upon Us

Journalistic investigations echo the scientific findings, pointing to an emerging “Superstorm Era.” Examples like Hurricane Beryl and others are symptomatic of a trend toward longer, more powerful storms. Without effective emissions reductions, urban centers may face cascading infrastructure failures triggered by increasingly extreme weather.