Hurricane Helene has emerged as one of the deadliest hurricanes in the United States in the past 50 years, claiming at least 200 lives and leaving 100 individuals unaccounted for. Surprisingly, Western North Carolina, located hundreds of miles from the coast and at a high elevation, has been among the hardest-hit areas.

In a recent discussion, climate expert Alex Stefan highlighted the shifting perceptions of climate safety in communities previously deemed havens from climate change. Asheville, known for its temperate climate and abundant fresh water, has often been celebrated as a climate-safe city. However, the devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene has prompted skepticism regarding the notion that any community is immune to the impacts of climate change.

Stefan emphasized three key takeaways from the storm's aftermath: first, that no place is entirely safe from climate-related disasters; second, that even relatively safe areas can experience tragic events; and third, that individuals and communities must proactively prepare for future challenges posed by a warming world.

He argued that while some locations may have lower risks, the focus should be on moving away from high-risk areas. Stefan anticipates that millions of Americans may relocate in the coming decades as they seek safer environments. He also pointed out the broader implications of climate change on housing, mortgages, and local economies, noting that many communities were built under assumptions that no longer hold true in today's changing climate.

As the impacts of climate change become increasingly evident, the conversation around safety and resilience in communities is more critical than ever.