3 ways climate change is changing Maryland: floods, forest fires and anxiety.

Rapid changes to the Earth’s climate have communities across Maryland racing to adapt. Today, we zoom in on three consequences; flooding, forest fires and anxiety.

In Ellicott City, two once-in-a-millennia floods within the span of two years inundated downtown. Can ambitious construction efforts to divert severe rains coexist with the historical character of the charming town? Reporter Julekha Dash covered the story for the Baltimore Business Journal.

And forest fires, unusually large and in unusual locations, raged coast to coast in recent years. Dr. Mark Cochrane, professor at University of Maryland’s Center for Environmental Studies, says a new playbook is needed to meet the threat posed to communities across the state.

Plus, events like these might fuel climate anxiety—distress over a shifting climate. The Baltimore Banner’s climate reporter Adam Willis broke down how Baltimore residents are feeling and how the strain is felt differently across race and class.

Have thoughts on flooding, fires or climate anxiety?

We encourage your questions or comments. Email us at [email protected], or call us during the live show at 410-662-8780. You can also leave a comment on the Midday Listener Line at 410-735-1616.

Listen-in to today’s episode from 12-1pm on WYPR and the Baltimore Public Media app. Audio will be posted here following the program.