CHARLOTTE, N.C. — An environmental expert is addressing concerns about climate change impacts on severe weather conditions frequently hitting North Carolina.

Dr. Lee F. Ball serves as vice president of sustainability and executive director for the Center for the Environment at Catawba College.

The college is well known for its sustainability efforts on campus.

“I love being able to work outside and with great people,” Ball said. “We have a strong commitment to the environment and to supporting climate. This is a great place for students to come and learn.”

Ball says climate change is contributing to some of the weather events we’re experiencing in recent times.

“It’s something we’re having to adapt to,” Ball said.

Over the last six months, the state has been hit with severe weather in areas some feel were unexpected.

Ball and others believe climate change is leading to more powerful weather patterns like Helene and other storms in Western North Carolina.

“Hurricane Hugo came to the mountains so this isn’t unheard of, but the intensity seems to be getting stronger,” Ball said.

Recently, wildfires spread in the mountain areas, especially in the Black Cove Complex in Polk County.

Fire officials confirmed two of the larger fires were caused by downed power lines. But they say drier, windy conditions contributed to the flames quickly spreading.

“The weather events are just getting more extreme. So, when it’s super dry, it’s super dry and there’s risk for fire. And when it’s super wet, it’s super wet and there’s risk for flood. So, the chaotic weather extremes are probably one of the first primary side effects of climate change,” Ball said.

Ball added population growth has an impact as well during severe weather, because it further strains resources during the events.

Ball expressed hope for future generations taking steps with addressing climate actions, because of what he’s witnessing with Catawba College students. 

“They’re smart, intelligent, they have great ideas,” Ball said. “When they graduate, they’re going to go out into the world, and they’re going to implement [their ideas].”

Alli Eudy is a junior, studying Environment & Sustainability and Biology at Catawba.

She’s one of many students passionate about prioritizing sustainability in her community.

“I think like many students in my generation, I’ve faced a lot of climate anxiety, and I wanted to be able to do something about that,” Eudy said. “I wanted to be part of the solution, what makes the world better for future generations.”

Eudy says the recent severe weather events happening in the Tar Heel State are concerning.

“Feels like an unfortunate wake-up call in a way, to remind us these issues are urgent,” Eudy said. “But I want us to keep working at this, keep looking for solutions and keep working together.”

Looking ahead, Eudy is confident more students will both join and continue the fight toward creating a more sustainable planet for all.

“Catawba has provided a well-rounded education. I learn about the different facets that goes towards creating these solutions. I think it’s important for us to just keep hope, to remember there are solutions in the works,” Eudy said.

Ball recommends things people can immediately do to support climate action.

“Using less energy, driving less and recycling. But it takes thousands if not millions of people doing this collectively to make a difference,” Ball said.