Slide 1: Introduction

● Briefly introduce the topic of atmospheric rivers and their impact on communities
● Preview your argument for whether communities should be allowed to develop or remain
in areas in the path of atmospheric rivers

Slide 2: What are Atmospheric Rivers?

● Define atmospheric rivers and provide some basic information about how they form and
behave

Slide 3: The Science of Atmospheric Rivers

● Discuss the current state of scientific understanding about atmospheric rivers and their
potential effects on communities
● Highlight any areas where the science is uncertain or contested

Slide 4: Why Do Communities Develop in Areas in the Path of Atmospheric Rivers?

● Explain some of the reasons why communities might choose to develop in areas that are
prone to atmospheric rivers
● Consider factors like economic development, access to natural resources, and historical
settlement patterns

Slide 5: The Costs of Living in Areas in the Path of Atmospheric Rivers

● Discuss the potential costs and risks associated with living in areas that are frequently
impacted by atmospheric rivers
● Consider factors like property damage, flooding, and loss of life

Slide 6: Should We Try to Prevent Communities from Developing in Areas in the Path of
Atmospheric Rivers?

● Outline some arguments for and against attempting to prevent communities from
developing in areas that are prone to atmospheric rivers
● Consider the ethical, economic, and practical implications of such a policy
Slide 7: Adapting to Life in Areas in the Path of Atmospheric Rivers

● Discuss some strategies for adapting to life in areas that are prone to atmospheric rivers
● Consider measures like building infrastructure that can withstand flooding, implementing
early warning systems, and relocating vulnerable populations

Slide 8: Case Study: California

● Provide a case study of a state or region that is particularly vulnerable to atmospheric

rivers
● Discuss some of the measures that have been taken to mitigate the risks associated with
these storms

Slide 9: The Role of Government in Managing Atmospheric Rivers

● Discuss the role that government can play in managing the risks associated with
atmospheric rivers
● Consider measures like funding research, developing infrastructure, and providing
emergency relief

Slide 10: Balancing Development with Risk Management

● Explore some potential ways to balance the benefits of economic development with the
risks associated with atmospheric rivers
● Consider policies like zoning regulations, insurance requirements, and public education
campaigns

Slide 11: The Future of Atmospheric Rivers

● Discuss what we know about how atmospheric rivers are likely to evolve in the future,
given current climate projections
● Consider how this might impact the risk calculus for communities in areas that are prone
to these storms

Slide 12: Conclusion

● Summarize your argument for whether communities should be allowed to develop or

remain in areas in the path of atmospheric rivers
● Discuss any remaining questions or areas for future research