Extreme Weather Events

The photograph captures local firefighters helping people during the flash floods from Hurricane Ida on September 1, 2021. The storm brought three inches of rain per hour, a record-breaking rainfall (Albany). The downpour of rain is evident in the photograph. The rain is up to the people’s knees. The rain is higher than the car tires (shown on the right). The streets are mostly empty and dark. The stormy, hazardous scene highlights the firefighters who comfort and rescue the victims. While one firefighter places his hand on a victim's back, another firefighter reaches out to a young woman, who visibly is in distress. The subtle connection between the firefighters and women during this chaotic and fearful time holds the message that everything will be alright. If the firefighters were not there, the women might have been injured or trapped by the falling trees or floods of rain. Therefore, this photo also stands as a way to show appreciation for those first responders who risk their lives and selflessly help others.

The photograph captures two neighbors hugging in Northern California on July 24, 2021. The orange tint of the photo represents the fire and smoke from the nearby Dixie Fire — the second-largest fire in California state history (Washington Post). Behind the women is a car loaded up with necessities as the fierce fire prompts the women to evacuate their homes. Watching one’s home and community erupt in flames takes a considerable toll on one’s mental health. Therefore, it is comforting to have someone to hug like the two neighbors. Not only does this photo capture the empathetic gesture between the neighbors, but also the impact of climate change. It is heartbreaking to see families and neighbors splitting apart and relocating due to the rapidly spreading blaze of fire.