2024 11-19 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Ramsey County | Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan 75 extreme cold temperatures, such as -35°F in northern Minnesota and -25°F in the southern region, has decreased by up to 90%. While Minnesota will continue to experience periodic severe cold spells, the long-term decline in extreme cold is almost certain to persist. • Increased Intensity: Warmer temperatures can lead to more moisture in the atmosphere, potentially resulting in heavier snowfall and more intense winter storms. • Frequency of Extreme Events: While overall winter precipitation might decrease in some areas, the frequency of extreme winter weather events could increase. • Shift in Snowfall Patterns: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns could shift where and when snow falls, affecting traditional snowfall regions and potentially leading to unexpected snowstorms in areas that usually receive less snow. • More Rain than Snow: Warmer winter temperatures might lead to more winter precipitation falling as rain rather than snow, increasing the risk of flooding and reducing snowpack. • Prolonged Storm Duration: Changes in atmospheric circulation patterns could lead to slower- moving storms, resulting in longer-lasting and potentially more damaging winter weather events. • Changes in Storm Tracks: Alterations in the jet stream and other atmospheric patterns may change the paths that winter storms take, affecting which areas are most impacted. • Increased Energy Costs: More intense and frequent storms could lead to higher energy demands for heating and storm response, impacting infrastructure and increasing costs for residents. • Public Health Impacts: Greater variability and intensity in winter storms can lead to increased risks to public health, such as hypothermia, frostbite, and accidents related to icy conditions. While the exact relationship between climate change and tornadoes is complex and still under active research, the evidence suggests that climate change is likely to impact the frequency, intensity, and distribution of winter weather in the Midwest. Improved understanding and modeling of these changes are essential for developing effective mitigation and adaptation strategies. 3.12.7 VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT 3.12.7.1 People Blizzards can cause whiteout conditions, making travel dangerous and leading to numerous accidents. They can also disrupt transportation and supply chains, leaving people stranded and unable to access essential services. Extreme cold poses serious health risks such as hypothermia and frostbite, particularly for the elderly, young children, and those without adequate heating. Unhoused individuals and those living in poorly insulated homes are especially at risk. Ice storms create hazardous conditions by coating roads, power lines, and trees with ice, often resulting in widespread power outages and dangerous driving conditions. The loss of power can leave people without heat, light, and communication, exacerbating the risks, especially for those dependent on electricity for medical devices. Additionally, ice can make walkways treacherous, increasing the risk of falls.