Scientists have coined a new word for what’s happening in the western United States: thirstwaves. These are periods of intense atmospheric thirst, when hot, dry air rapidly pulls moisture from land, lakes, and forests. Drought conditions deepen. Fire risk rises. Infrastructure is pushed to the limit. It’s a western crisis now, but it carries lessons for every city. Climate pressure is not contained by region. Urban water systems, energy grids, and emergency response networks are all interconnected, and increasingly stressed. New York City is not immune. We plan ahead. The city’s Hazard Mitigation Plan lays out how we assess these risks and protect critical systems before disaster strikes. Read more at nychazardmitigation.com https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/04/climate/climate-change-drought.html