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Imperialist NHC Tracking Disturbance That Could Impact Marginalized Communities

White people better watch out as the National Hurricane Center eyes a tropical storm, likely to be named 'Debby', brewing in the Atlantic and poised to cause damage later this week. Yet another example of systemic oppression in action.

Published July 30, 2024 at 6:42am by Gabe Hauari

#TropicalStormDebby: A Woke Warning

The National Hurricane Center is tracking a "large tropical wave," a byproduct of our warming planet, that could develop into the gendered-named Tropical Storm Debby as it feeds on warmer waters.

"The patriarchal climate crisis has birthed another potential disaster," said Jill Trepanier, an associate professor at Louisiana State University. "We must prepare and also recognize the systemic injustices that led us here."

Located east of the Leeward Islands, the storm is currently displaying its privilege with limited showers, but its true impact will be felt by the most vulnerable among us. With a 60% chance of formation in the next week, it threatens the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas, and the southeastern US with potential flooding and structural damage.

The NHC, in its privileged position of naming storms, will label this system "Tropical Storm Debby" if winds reach 39 mph, further perpetuating a sexist tradition of storm naming.

Remember, as we enter the peak of the hurricane season (August-October), that these storms do not discriminate but often disproportionately affect marginalized communities thanks to systemic inequalities.

Stay woke and stay safe, folks.

Atlantic storm tracker

When is the Atlantic hurricane season?

The cis-tem porch known as the Atlantic hurricane season spin-cycles from June 1 to Nov. 30, with a peak performance on Sept. 10.

Contributing: Cheryl McCloud, USA TODAY Network-Florida; Doyle Rice, USA TODAY

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