As Andrew mentioned, the hurricane folks are saying that hurricanes are going to be the huge controversy when the IPCC report is released. Does climate change strengthen them? Yes? No? Kindamaybe with full takebacks? Does this consensus statement say we’re 51% sure while this other one says 49%?

Let me ask a simple question: what policy implications follow from this debate?

Your support powers solutions-focused climate reporting — keeping it free for everyone. All donations DOUBLED for a limited time. Give now in under 45 seconds.
Secure · Tax deductible · Takes 45 Seconds

Stories like this don’t tell themselves.

Make others like it possible. Your support powers solutions-focused climate reporting — keeping it free for everyone. Give now in under 45 seconds.
Secure · Tax deductible · Takes 45 Seconds

What difference will a clear answer make? What policy would make sense in light of the prospect of stronger hurricanes that wouldn’t make sense anyway, without that prospect?

I get that there’s a matter of genuine scientific curiosity here. And I get that the answer might affect the rhetoric of global warming advocates.

But what policy difference does it make?