Surge in Misinformation Threatens Meteorologists as Hurricane Milton Strikes
As Hurricane Milton barrels through Florida, meteorologists across the U.S. are facing an unprecedented wave of misinformation, conspiracy theories, and even death threats. This alarming trend has escalated as two significant hurricanes, Helene and Milton, have devastated large regions, contributing to a dangerous spread of false information.
Meteorologists Under Fire
Meteorologists like Katie Nickolaou, a Michigan-based weather expert, have remained steadfast despite becoming primary targets of baseless accusations and violent rhetoric. “I’ve never seen a storm garner so much misinformation,” Nickolaou stated. “People are claiming there are Category 6 hurricanes, which don’t exist, and saying we control the weather. The most shocking part is the violent threats, with people suggesting we should be killed for creating Milton.”
Nickolaou and her colleagues have been inundated with falsehoods, with some conspiracy theorists even suggesting meteorologists steer hurricanes. “I’ve had people say I created and directed the hurricane. Hurricanes have the energy of 10,000 nuclear bombs—no one can control that,” she added. The intensity of the rhetoric has made their jobs more dangerous.
False Claims Amplified by Prominent Figures
These conspiracy theories are not only circulating among ordinary citizens but have also been spread by notable political figures. Former President Donald Trump and some of his closest allies have contributed to these baseless claims, complicating efforts to assist hurricane-stricken communities. Trump suggested that FEMA’s resources were depleted by aid to immigrants, while Michael Flynn, his former national security advisor, claimed Hurricane Helene was caused by “weather manipulation.”
Marjorie Taylor Greene, a far-right congresswoman, further fueled the controversy by stating on social media, “Yes, they can control the weather.” These falsehoods have escalated into violent threats, with posts on TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) calling for FEMA workers to be “arrested or shot on sight.”
Impact on Hurricane Relief Efforts
The surge of misinformation has significantly hindered efforts to aid hurricane-affected communities. FEMA has struggled to operate effectively amid the chaos of false accusations. Experts emphasize that while human activity, such as burning fossil fuels, can intensify hurricanes by warming the atmosphere and oceans, no one can create or control individual storms.
Chris Gloninger, a former TV meteorologist and climate scientist, highlighted the growing danger. “The modern Republican party has an army of followers who spread misinformation online,” Gloninger said. “I’ve seen my colleagues receive threats for simply doing their job. It’s mind-blowing, and I’ve never witnessed anything like this.”
Misinformation’s Growing Threat
As misinformation surrounding hurricanes worsens, meteorologists worry about reaching a tipping point. “We’re just trying to protect lives and property during extreme weather events,” Gloninger noted. “But at this rate, burnout is inevitable. What other profession faces death threats for doing their job?”
As Hurricane Milton’s impact continues to unfold, the spread of misinformation not only endangers meteorologists but also hampers the ability to provide accurate, life-saving information to the public.