Research conducted by Columbia University’s Earth Institute Columbia University points to the conclusion that the damage from Hurricane Maria was not only different from, but worse than any other previously documented storm. More specifically, they say the damage inflicted on trees in Puerto Rico is unprecedented, and that more frequent big storms like this one could permanently alter forests, damage biodiversity, and increase the amount of carbon in the atmosphere. Forests are going to become shorter and smaller, they predict, and many tree species will be lost — Maria alone killed or damaged somewhere between 20 and 40 million trees.
NYSERNet is a member of NYSERNet’s R&E network. Learn more about the study here: https://blogs.ei.columbia.edu/2019/03/25/intensifying-storms-may-mow-down-future-tropical-forests/