The Insurance Department's Weather Mitigation and Resiliency Advisory Council convened on December 18, 2024, to discuss critical issues surrounding climate change and its impact on Connecticut. The meeting featured presentations from various experts, focusing on the need for inclusive disaster response and the anticipated effects of climate change on the state.

The session began with a call to recognize marginalized communities that often face neglect during disaster responses. One speaker emphasized the importance of including these voices in discussions about climate resilience, drawing parallels to experiences in other states where certain populations were overlooked. The speaker urged the council to consider the human costs associated with climate-related disasters and to ensure that all communities are represented in planning efforts.

Following this, Professor James O'Donnell presented data on climate change impacts specific to Connecticut. He highlighted trends such as rising temperatures, increased flooding, and the likelihood of more intense hurricanes. O'Donnell shared historical temperature data, noting a significant increase in mean annual temperatures over the past decades. He also discussed projections for sea level rise, indicating that Connecticut could see up to 50 centimeters of rise by 2050, which would dramatically increase flooding risks.

O'Donnell's presentation included detailed graphs illustrating the correlation between rising temperatures and health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. He explained how even small increases in temperature could lead to a substantial rise in the number of extreme heat days, which could have serious health implications.

The discussion also touched on the importance of advanced modeling techniques to predict future climate scenarios. O'Donnell noted that while current models provide valuable insights, new technologies are emerging that may enhance predictive capabilities regarding extreme weather events.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for ongoing research and policy adjustments to address the evolving challenges posed by climate change. The council emphasized the importance of proactive measures to ensure that all communities in Connecticut are prepared for the impacts of severe weather and climate-related events. The next steps will involve further collaboration among local, state, and federal agencies to develop comprehensive strategies for resilience and mitigation.