Author: Sara Merken

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Report Offers a Guide to Attract and Retain a ‘Robust and Representative’ Wildland Fire Workforce

Wildfire

A recent report from Stanford University’s Climate & Energy Policy Program explores the barriers to attracting and retaining the United States federal wildland firefighter workforce. In the western U.S., wildfires are intensifying amid rising temperatures, droughts, and decreasing snowpack. As the frequency and intensity of extreme wildfires globally continue to grow, the Stanford report lays out a set of recommendations to address the workforce challenges.

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Wildfire Emergency Planning and Responding to Include People with Hearing Loss

Wildfire

Research has recently recognized that people with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to climate disasters. One study, which examined the challenges that individuals with hearing loss face in the context of wildfires, highlights actions for emergency planners, community members, rescue teams, and others when preparing for and responding to such disasters to better protect the population.  

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Student Spotlight: Pratyusha Settipalli

Pratyusha Settipalli

Pratyusha Settipalli is a second-year Master of Public Health (MPH) student at NYU’s School of Global Public Health, with a concentration in Global Health. With over four years of experience spanning healthcare management, disaster response, and public health initiatives, Pratyusha has worked with organizations like the American Red Cross and Encore Support Services, bringing equity and resilience to the forefront of her work. Her career is defined by a commitment to underserved communities, bridging gaps in access and resources to create lasting change. Read our Q&A with Pratyusha below!

Interviewed by Sara Merken.

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Recent Hurricanes Spotlight Climate Disaster Risk to Mobile and Manufactured Homes

Home destroyed by hurricane.

Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which hit the Southeastern United States earlier this fall, put a renewed spotlight on the climate disaster risk facing people who live in mobile and manufactured homes. Recent articles in the New York Times and Grist highlight the personal stories of individuals in mobile homes in states including North Carolina and Florida, and demonstrate the increasing hazards.

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Student Spotlight: Marsha Williams

Marsha Williams headshot

Marsha Williams is a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) student at New York University’s School of Global Public Health. She conducted her ​​Advanced Applied Practice Experience (AAPE) at Americares, focusing on anticipatory action in humanitarian response to climate change. We spoke with Marsha to learn about her interests in public health, the Americares project and more. Read our Q&A with Marsha below!

Interviewed by Sara Merken.

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Tropical Cyclones Indirectly Trigger Deaths for Years, Study Says

Tropical Cyclone.

Tropical cyclones indirectly cause long-term effects on mortality for years beyond the initial event, according to a new study published in the journal Nature. The study, published on October 2, is particularly relevant in the wake of Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, which hit the Southeastern U.S. in September and October, respectively. 

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