The hottest Natural Disasters Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Climate & Environment Topics
The Honest Broker Newsletter β€’ 4583 implied HN points β€’ 21 Jul 25
  1. The first half of 2025 saw remarkably low deaths from extreme weather events, much lower than the historical average. This suggests significant progress in disaster management and safety.
  2. Despite these achievements, there is a push from climate advocates to create more fear about climate change, aiming to mobilize public concern and policy changes.
  3. It's important to recognize and celebrate the progress made in reducing weather-related deaths while being cautious about the narrative that emphasizes only the dangers.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 8685 implied HN points β€’ 09 Jan 25
  1. The Los Angeles fires are not just a natural disaster but are largely due to human actions. This highlights how our decisions can create serious risks for communities.
  2. Government should prioritize keeping people safe, especially during crises. Failing protection, it's important for leaders to show they're in control and supportive.
  3. When disasters happen, like the LA fires, leadership matters a lot. Missing leaders during critical times can leave the public feeling unsure and unsafe.
OK Doomer β€’ 2301 implied HN points β€’ 30 Jun 25
  1. Many people are wondering when the collapse will start, but the reality is that it has already begun in various forms. These can be seen in our climate and political systems worsening over time.
  2. Collapse is subjective and affects everyone differently depending on their circumstances, such as where they live and their financial situation. Personal experiences may signify a collapse even if they seem minor to others.
  3. Despite the many signs of decline, many people prefer to ignore the reality. This leads to a false sense of normalcy, where individuals believe things will return to how they were, even as conditions worsen around them.
The Crucial Years β€’ 4882 implied HN points β€’ 09 Jan 25
  1. Climate change is making wildfires worse due to extreme heat and drought in places like Los Angeles. This is causing devastation to homes and communities.
  2. Scientific advancements, like those from Edwin Hubble, help us understand our universe and climate, but there are fears that funding for vital climate research is being threatened.
  3. There's a growing concern about losing our ability to think critically about important issues. As we face bigger problems, understanding and intelligence seem to be declining.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:
Common Sense with Bari Weiss β€’ 4363 implied HN points β€’ 12 Jan 25
  1. Los Angeles is built in a way that fire is part of its natural environment. This means wildfires will keep happening regardless of who is in charge.
  2. The area has a history of being described as a grassland, not a desert, and fires are a normal part of this ecosystem.
  3. Some experts believe that certain areas in L.A. should never have been developed because they are prone to burning, making homes there very risky.
The Honest Broker Newsletter β€’ 1943 implied HN points β€’ 30 May 25
  1. So far in 2025, there haven't been any hurricanes in the Northern Hemisphere, which could set a new record for the latest first hurricane. This shows there's a significant lack of storm activity this year.
  2. It's important to focus on data when discussing hurricane activity rather than just opinions. Data can give us a clearer picture of changes in hurricane behavior and climate science.
  3. The NOAA suggests that we shouldn't rush to say human-caused climate change has changed hurricane activity a lot. There's still a lot we don't know about how these storms are behaving.
The Honest Broker Newsletter β€’ 2973 implied HN points β€’ 27 Jan 25
  1. In 2024, there were a lot of major hurricanes, tying with 2015 for the highest since records began, which raises questions about climate patterns.
  2. Despite the increase in hurricane landfalls, there hasn't been a clear trend showing that hurricanes are becoming more intense or frequent over time.
  3. Experts believe that while human activity may influence hurricanes, detecting these changes amidst natural variability is very challenging.
Culture Study β€’ 2731 implied HN points β€’ 15 Jan 25
  1. There are many ways to help people affected by the fires in Los Angeles, including donating to specific families or organizations in need.
  2. You don't have to donate a lot; even small amounts can help provide much-needed stability for those who have lost everything.
  3. Volunteering your time or sharing resources, like lists of GoFundMes, can make a real difference for people during tough times.
The Honest Broker Newsletter β€’ 2718 implied HN points β€’ 12 Jan 25
  1. In 2024, global weather-related disaster losses reached $298 billion, with a significant portion occurring in the U.S., mainly due to hurricanes. This shows that while climate change impacts us, other factors like economic growth also play a big role.
  2. Today, disaster losses as a percentage of global GDP are less than they were 30 years ago. This suggests that despite increasing losses in dollars, extreme weather is not as devastating to the economy as it used to be.
  3. The rising insured losses are largely driven by construction in risky areas and inflation, rather than just climate change. It's important to consider these factors when looking at why disaster losses are increasing.
Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning β€’ 177 implied HN points β€’ 01 Dec 25
  1. Pompeii was buried under ash and pumice after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, trapping its citizens and preserving their last moments in time. This tragic event allows us to see a snapshot of everyday life in a Roman city.
  2. Recent genetic testing on remains found in Pompeii shows that some previous assumptions about relationships among victims were incorrect. For example, some figures thought to be a mother and child were actually unrelated men.
  3. The genetic analysis suggests that the people of Pompeii came from diverse backgrounds. This new understanding helps us learn more about the different cultures and stories of individuals in ancient Rome.
The Honest Broker Newsletter β€’ 2453 implied HN points β€’ 05 Dec 24
  1. IncorporATINGcINFORMATIONALPANTLITACORDINGPLANDTLLGLNTVNTNAIRULTOTLNDMLTSNUPLSCYNTHININGNTNAMODTNTMLITYNTMAINTPLFINAINCT_UNIDAPITANLPTRAPULNTACDLOSONGHTBOUSCO_FFI_TLANTIR_AOTUFOQPKTTSNJOBSCOTPLATULNNA_MCOPOITMRAUSOONNA_CMNCAVSCOAWLTTBA_AWOLNTNPCLTIIF_USIWYSOFOKLNCINNTIRAMOLANFOLMUNGTMLMSNALITNCPLT_ALNUM_FFYN_TVOFNNTA_THNIOF_TOR_TFNAACNCNSWATNDF_TL_AATITMNA_LWIMSPWAAINFANNNLKCURRNTNCT
  2. ForongIITNLN_NIWHMNTMLAWSN_O_LINKATNGCLS_TFLNANF_TLIFURICRFOUOG_IITLUATNIIOATCSYPISITPLWCMNLWTI_AFOCRUFOUROTL_LIGHTNNBTIMYSWPLTOAWNITCLATO_A_SHALLOORA_OWNOITLLANFOA_TLNDUTMIOUSHCIMNT
  3. HURTLYA_WA_A_STANMUN_SPOWTTOITOLTLTROUC_ANIACUWTNRCICOMTI_TOSMFINKSI_W_AYNUSAHFLANTCVIF_RAWSOUFAT_T_M_TOTWTOUFOA_BMPOLO_IT_OWASW_A_ND_S_API_NSCAASATSCOD
Richard Hanania's Newsletter β€’ 1682 implied HN points β€’ 10 Jan 25
  1. Unexpected fires can lead to urgent evacuations, often with little notice. It's important to stay alert and ready to move when living in fire-prone areas.
  2. During emergencies, normal routines can quickly change and navigating in the dark can be challenging. Using visible landmarks helps in such situations.
  3. Staying productive during stressful times can provide comfort and a sense of purpose. Finding ways to engage in work can help manage anxiety and offer distractions.
Diane Francis β€’ 1019 implied HN points β€’ 03 Aug 23
  1. Recent extreme heat and smoke in places like New York can be partly blamed on a huge volcanic eruption in Tonga. It's important to know that natural events, like volcanoes, can impact the Earth's temperature just as much as human activities.
  2. Despite alarming headlines about wildfires and their link to climate change, the actual area burned by wildfires has been decreasing over the years. Most wildfires are caused by human actions, not climate change, and better land management could help more than strict climate policies.
  3. Global warming is a significant issue, but much of it is influenced by natural events. While we need to address our consumption and behavior, some environmental changes are beyond our control and have always occurred throughout history.
The Honest Broker Newsletter β€’ 745 implied HN points β€’ 23 Jan 25
  1. The post provides updates on several important topics like the Social Cost of Carbon and Billion Dollar Disasters. It's a good way to keep up with what's been happening recently.
  2. There are also new updates on climate scenarios and influential figures in climate science, like Michael Mann. This information can help you understand changing perspectives in climate science.
  3. Finally, there's mention of Colorado football which shows a variety of topics being discussed. This keeps the content diverse and engaging for readers.
Why is this interesting? β€’ 663 implied HN points β€’ 13 Feb 25
  1. The Gladys Valley Marine Studies Building is a special structure designed to keep people safe during a tsunami. It works by taking them up high instead of out of the building.
  2. This building has features like multiple ways to get to the roof and supplies to help people stay safe for up to two days after a tsunami.
  3. Coastal communities are becoming more aware of tsunami risks and are trying to improve safety signs and evacuation plans to protect schools and public places.
Adetokunbo Sees β€’ 208 implied HN points β€’ 26 Jul 25
  1. Last year was extremely tough for many countries, with record disasters and a lot of deaths due to climate issues. Places like Saudi Arabia, the U.S., and several others faced serious problems like extreme heat and floods.
  2. The Earth's temperatures were the highest ever recorded, indicating that climate change is getting worse. Many regions are seeing more heat, heavier rain, and rising sea levels as a result.
  3. If we keep consuming resources the same way, we will face even more disasters in the future. We need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and take steps now to protect our planet.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1544 implied HN points β€’ 28 Feb 24
  1. The changing climate is causing dramatic and extreme changes around the planet, with record-breaking temperatures and reduced snow coverage indicating the ongoing warming of the Earth.
  2. The diminishing cold air supply in the Arctic is a clear sign of the planet's warming climate, leading to changes in weather patterns and ecological impacts like ice melting and more extreme weather events.
  3. The impact of the climate crisis goes beyond physical consequences, affecting the psychological and emotional connection to the changing seasons and nature, emphasizing the importance of fighting to save the beauty and meaning of the natural world.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1773 implied HN points β€’ 24 Jul 23
  1. Conspiracy theories distract from what's happening in plain sight, like Blackrock appointing the CEO of a major oil company to its board.
  2. Financial institutions are backtracking on their commitments to decarbonize portfolios, favoring profits over addressing the climate crisis.
  3. Leaders like Brad Lander are taking a stand against financial ties to the fossil fuel industry, recognizing the need for real accountability and action.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1574 implied HN points β€’ 08 Sep 23
  1. The video illustrates the impact of climate change through unprecedented floods in Greece.
  2. The urgency to take action against climate change is emphasized, as we witness extreme weather events becoming more common.
  3. Global efforts to meet climate targets, such as the Paris Agreement, are falling short and require more substantial commitments.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1295 implied HN points β€’ 24 Oct 23
  1. False information spreads quickly, like rumors about electric vehicle fires, aided by social media and anti-environmental amplifiers.
  2. Compared to fossil fuel vehicles, electric vehicles are significantly less likely to catch on fire.
  3. It's important to consider the larger picture and relative impacts when evaluating new technologies or risks, like the benefits of windmills in reducing fossil fuel use.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1375 implied HN points β€’ 25 Sep 23
  1. The fossil fuel industry is pushing to export large amounts of fossil gas to preserve their profits, even though renewable energy sources are cheaper and cleaner.
  2. The rapid expansion of LNG export terminals could cause American greenhouse gas emissions to remain stagnant since 2005, impacting global warming.
  3. It is crucial to stop the continued expansion of LNG build-out to accelerate the transition to clean and renewable energy sources worldwide.
Men Yell at Me β€’ 409 implied HN points β€’ 11 Oct 24
  1. Climate change is a big problem that we all contribute to. Our actions, like overconsumption and reliance on fossil fuels, play a part in causing extreme weather events.
  2. People often look for someone to blame during disasters like hurricanes. This can lead to the spread of conspiracy theories instead of acknowledging our collective responsibility.
  3. Despite the dire situation, there is still hope. We've solved environmental issues before and can work together to combat climate change if we focus on the facts and solutions.
Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality β€’ 269 implied HN points β€’ 08 Jan 25
  1. Al Gore and Bill Clinton came close to tackling climate change 30 years ago, but some politicians blocked progress.
  2. Dealing with global warming will likely cost a lot of money in the future, especially for managing wildfires.
  3. The biggest future dangers from climate change may not be wildfires, but issues related to water systems in Asia.
Murray Bridge News β€’ 98 implied HN points β€’ 11 Jan 24
  1. Blaze Aid volunteers are helping with River Murray flood recovery by replacing damaged fences on flood-affected farms.
  2. Farmers needing help and volunteers willing to assist can contact Blaze Aid for assistance in fixing fences or volunteering.
  3. Blaze Aid volunteers focus on boundary fences, and the organization welcomes volunteers of all skill levels to help with various tasks.
The Land Desk β€’ 157 implied HN points β€’ 12 Sep 23
  1. We are experiencing interesting and uncertain times in terms of climate and water.
  2. There is a mix of extreme weather events like flash floods and droughts happening in the same regions.
  3. Consider subscribing to The Land Desk for more detailed articles on these topics and a 7-day free trial.
Situation Normal β€’ 184 implied HN points β€’ 12 Jan 25
  1. Los Angeles is facing multiple wildfires, causing significant destruction and uncertainty for many residents. People are worried about their homes and the loss of memories associated with them.
  2. The situation is overwhelming for those living in the area, with constant alerts and the threat of evacuation on their minds. It's hard for them to find peace in such a chaotic environment.
  3. Many people need help due to the fires, and there are charities available that can assist in the recovery process. Supporting these organizations can make a real difference for those affected.
Malt Liquidity β€’ 13 implied HN points β€’ 19 Nov 25
  1. The Pacific Northwest is at high risk for a major earthquake due to the Cascadia subduction zone. Scientists estimate a one in three chance of a significant quake happening in the next fifty years, which could cause massive destruction.
  2. Traveling often doesn't lead to greater happiness or fulfillment, and can be seen as a way to escape underlying anxiety. Many people find that experiences and interactions at home can be more meaningful.
  3. Statistical predictions can feel misleading because they oversimplify complex realities. While data and expert opinions are important, they can't fully capture personal experiences or the nuances of life.
Adetokunbo Sees β€’ 312 implied HN points β€’ 11 Nov 23
  1. Millions of people are displaced by climate change-induced disasters like floods and hurricanes, leading to refugees, resettlement, and stateless populations.
  2. New technologies are emerging to combat climate change, such as voltage inverters, comparators, and XOR gates in the renewable energy sector.
  3. Climate change disasters exacerbate conflicts, food insecurity, and competition for resources, necessitating a global effort to mitigate the impacts through climate action.
Pen>Sword β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 01 Mar 23
  1. Earthquakes do not discriminate, but human actions based on race and religion can cause significant harm.
  2. Natural disasters like earthquakes can have devastating impacts, leading to loss of lives and homes that require global aid response.
  3. Prejudice and hate can worsen the suffering of victims of disasters, highlighting the importance of unity and support during crises.
The Sunday Morning Post β€’ 58 implied HN points β€’ 09 Apr 23
  1. Black Swan events are rare and unpredictable, and can have major impacts on economies and societies.
  2. Utah's Great Salt Lake is drying up due to water diversion from increased development, posing serious environmental and economic risks.
  3. Florida faces rising sea levels and stronger hurricanes, leading to potential property loss and insurance rate hikes.
eugyppius: a plague chronicle β€’ 183 implied HN points β€’ 10 Jan 24
  1. The belief in a permanent drought due to climate change led German dam operators to overfill reservoirs before winter, worsening December floods.
  2. Climate change predictions can influence human behavior like dam management, impacting flood risk.
  3. Balancing water management practices with changing climate patterns is crucial to prevent exacerbating natural disasters.
Douglass’s Newsletter β€’ 19 implied HN points β€’ 07 Feb 24
  1. Very few are aware of major trends already happening on Earth, such as deforestation, floods, and food production decline
  2. A proposed sequence envisions a path from crisis to Gardenworld through stages like Lifeboats and Security
  3. The concept of Gardenworld offers a goal for continuous experimentation and improvement in education, medicine, and other areas
KERFUFFLE β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 21 Jan 25
  1. Residents of Altadena asked SoCal Edison to turn off the power to prevent fires, but the request was ignored.
  2. A fire known as the Eaton Fire later broke out, highlighting the danger of power lines during dry conditions.
  3. The causes of fires, like the one in Pacific Palisades, can be complex and may involve various factors like fireworks and weather conditions.
C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. β€’ 24 implied HN points β€’ 16 Feb 25
  1. The next ice age could potentially arrive much sooner than expected, possibly around 2033, and many people may need to relocate due to extreme weather changes.
  2. There is growing concern that climate issues are being hidden by governments and the true cause, including past nuclear tests, is not being fully acknowledged.
  3. Digital tracking and registration are becoming more common, making it easier for governments to monitor populations, especially as crises increase due to climate change.