Extreme Weather and the Media

This timely book examines how media reporting of extreme weather events informs and influences the public perception of climate change. Phil McManus argues that media reporting has changed over time, varies between places, is influenced by political stance and must improve if we are to avoid the worst aspects of anthropogenic climate change. Case studies of media coverage of extreme heat, wildfires and floods from around the world demonstrate that while attribution science is identifying the influence of climate change in disasters, this is not always conveyed via media. Incorporating scientific knowledge and philosophical approaches to living with climate, the book identifies how everyday reporting of weather should include references to the influence of climate change where appropriate. This book is a valuable resource for scholars and students of geography, sociology, environmental management and media and communication. It will also benefit practitioners reporting on weather, climate scientists and urban planning specialists who are seeking more information on the role of public perception in the climate crisis.