Extreme weather increasing across region due to climate change, experts say

2 women killed after flood sweeps them away in New Jersey

Clean up is underway across New Jersey and New York after deadly floods occurred Monday.

PHILADELPHIA - Dangerous storms have wreaked havoc across the Northeast this summer, and one recent study claims climate change has intensified the worrying trend over the past several decades.

What they're saying:

The Northeast has experienced the largest increase in extreme rain events in the United States, with about 60 percent more heavy downpours since the 1950s, according to a 2023 Fifth National Climate Assessment, which includes 10 regional chapters that assess climate risks.

"This region is experiencing increases in the frequency of extreme weather events and other climate-driven changes, including intense rainstorms, warmer ocean temperatures, and rapid sea level rise," the study states.

Experts say those extreme rainfall events could continue to bring an increase in flash flooding, because existing infrastructure was not designed to handle the sudden influx of water.

Local perspective:

Just last week, the Northeast region was pummeled by another round of devastating storms that brought deadly flooding and terrifying moments for stranded residents.

In New York City, several subway stations flooded as video showed water submerging a platform while passengers inside a train watched. 

The National Weather Service says Central Park recorded its second-highest hourly rainfall total since 1943.

Two people were killed in New Jersey after a flash flood swept their vehicle away during the height of the storm.

Just days later, 20 people were rescued from a building, and dozens more from vehicles as severe storms swept through the Washington D.C. area.

What's next:

The Fifth National Climate Assessment says that the region has responded with "mitigation and adaptation efforts," including the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a Climate Action Plan was developed to focus on climate action and track progress through annual reports.