Summary
In this podcast episode, the hosts discuss the dangers of heat stroke and its impact on athletes, particularly high school football players who train outdoors in August. Dr. Bud Cooper from the Kinesiology department at the University of Georgia shares his findings from a three-year epidemiological study and policy suggestions to prevent exertional heat stroke. The hosts also discuss the importance of acclimatization of athletes and suggest creating a biodome to control temperature and humidity for training purposes. They also touch on the need for further research in kinesiology to address other areas of need.
The conversation then shifts to climate change, and Dr. Radley Horton, a climatologist and expert in climate extremes from Columbia University, joins the hosts to talk about the trends of heat waves and their effects on the environment. Dr. Horton explains that extreme weather events like heat waves are shifting quickly and happening much faster than predicted. The hosts ask Dr. Horton about the future of water supply for hydration, given the rise in extreme temperatures and droughts. Dr. Horton explains that human consumption of water is a tiny amount of all the water used, with inefficient approaches to agriculture and mining using much more. He also emphasizes the importance of considering how other climate variables are changing alongside higher temperatures.
The discussion then revolves around the impact of climate change on hurricanes, heavy rainfall events, and overall temperature and humidity. The warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, which can lead to heavy rainfall events, causing non-linear impacts on flooding. Climate models are limited in their ability to predict these events accurately, and there is a need for higher spatial resolution and new processes to simulate changes in ecosystems. The discussion also highlights the need for adaptation and resilience to mitigate losses and suffering, but these adaptations are not cost-free and need to be done sensibly.
Overall, the podcast episode provides valuable insights into the dangers of heat stroke, the importance of acclimatization, and the impact of climate change on the environment. The hosts and guests encourage listeners to take action to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure a livable planet for future generations.
