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Western US Sees Sharp Increase in Extreme Weather Impact
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By News
Published 5 months ago on
April 2, 2025

A new Gallup poll shows that extreme weather events have sharply increased in the Western U.S., with 43% of residents affected, largely due to wildfires and extreme heat, while concerns about climate change continue to rise. (Shutterstock AI)

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A new Gallup poll reveals that 37% of U.S. adults have been personally impacted by extreme weather in the past two years, a notable increase from 33% in 2022 and 2023. Western residents have seen the sharpest rise, with 43% reporting they’ve experienced extreme weather, up from 30% last year.

https://news.gallup.com/poll/658745/extreme-weather-affects-sharply-western.aspx

In contrast, fewer Eastern residents reported extreme weather events, down to 21% from 30% in previous years. The South, where extreme weather is most common, saw a modest increase, while the Midwest experienced small upticks as well.

The March 3-16 poll coincides with a period of strong hurricanes, wildfires, and tornadoes across the U.S. Wildfires and extreme heat have been particularly impactful in the West. Seventeen percent of Western residents reported being affected by wildfires, up from just 5% in 2023. Additionally, 11% experienced excessive heat, compared to 5% two years ago.

https://news.gallup.com/poll/658745/extreme-weather-affects-sharply-western.aspx

Southern residents are most affected by hurricanes, with 28% reporting exposure in the past two years. Tornadoes and extreme cold also had significant impacts on those in the Midwest, while floods were the leading extreme weather event in the East.

One in four Americans affected by extreme weather reported significant life disruptions, such as power outages or property damage. The survey also found that those who had experienced extreme weather were significantly more likely to express heightened concern about climate change.

Read more at Gallup.

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