Turmoil and Climate Concerns Dominate the Week: From FEMA to Solar Taxes and Winter Storms

This week, the United States has been embroiled in a multitude of controversies and crises, from the turmoil surrounding Kristi Noem's leadership of the Department of Homeland Security to the devastating effects of climate change. As the country struggles to come to terms with the consequences of extreme weather events, several states are taking steps to address the growing concerns. In Oregon, conservation advocates are pushing for the passage of the 1% for Wildlife bill, which aims to provide nearly $30 million annually to protect the state's biodiversity. The bill, sponsored by state representatives Ken Helm and Mark Owens, would increase the state's hotel and lodging taxes by 1.25 percent, creating a new revenue stream for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. This move comes as the state's federally required State Wildlife Action Plan identifies species at risk of extinction or decline due to habitat loss, climate change, and other threats. Meanwhile, in New Hampshire, Republicans are attempting to raise taxes on homes with solar power, arguing that the current property tax exemption for households and businesses with solar forces residents without the clean energy systems to unwittingly subsidize those who have them. However, supporters of the exemption contend that this argument is misleading and at odds with New Hampshire's tradition of letting communities shape their own local governments. As the country grapples with the complexities of climate change, the consequences of extreme weather events are becoming increasingly apparent. A severe winter storm swept across the south and east of the US and parts of Canada, causing mass power outages and the cancellation of thousands of flights. More than 870,000 people across the country were without power, and at least seven people died. Experts warn that the panic buying that often accompanies extreme weather events can have lasting consequences, both personal and planetary. According to Parke Wilde, a food economist at Tufts University, the pre-storm frenzy can be "a real nuisance, because people show up at the store and buy things they don't really want or need." This can lead to food waste, increased emissions, and strain on local food systems. The US has also formally exited the Paris Agreement, a move that has been widely criticized by climate experts and world leaders. As the country struggles to come to terms with the consequences of climate change, it is clear that a comprehensive and coordinated approach is needed to address the growing concerns. In Australia, a record-breaking heatwave has reached temperatures of almost 50C, while authorities have urged caution as three forest fires burned out of control. The Guardian reported that "the climate crisis has increased the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, including heatwaves and bushfires." As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, it is clear that a multifaceted approach is needed to address the growing concerns. From protecting biodiversity to promoting clean energy, it is essential that governments and individuals work together to mitigate the effects of extreme weather events and create a more sustainable future. Sources: * Turmoil at FEMA adds to the revolt against Kristi Noem * Visiting Oregon? You may soon have to pay a tax to protect its wildlife. * New Hampshire Republicans want to raise taxes on homes with solar * Panic buying ahead of the winter storm isn’t preparedness. Here’s who it hurts. * DeBriefed 30 January 2026: Fire and ice; US formally exits Paris; Climate image faux pas