Communicating links between extreme weather events and climate change

As climate change increases the frequency, intensity, and duration of many types of extreme weather events, scientists and advocates frequently point to these events as potential “teachable moments” for climate action. Although extreme weather often has significant social, economic, and health impacts, there is mixed evidence on whether experiencing or observing such events shifts climate-related attitudes, risk perceptions, or behaviors. Communication scholars and practitioners are therefore increasingly examining how to effectively communicate climate change–extreme weather links to help galvanize climate action at individual and policy levels. In this presentation, I will discuss what is known about effectively communicating links between climate change and extreme weather events, as well as current strengths, limitations, and gaps in the literature. Evidence-based communication strategies include clearly and accessibly explaining relevant climate science such as extreme event attribution studies; using storytelling to make impacts more concrete, emotionally engaging, and tangible; and leveraging trusted messengers such as weathercasters and health professionals. Limitations include a lack of longitudinal studies with repeated message exposures; geographic bias toward Global North countries; and a stronger focus on attitudes and beliefs than behaviors. I conclude by outlining promising topics for future research to help guide impactful communication strategies that promote climate action both during and after extreme weather events.