John Lloyd
While extreme winds and rain were still lashing houses in South Australia, certain politicians and commentators started blaming renewable energy for the state-wide blackout. Parts of the media ran with the story – without checking the facts.
Of course, the cause of the blackout was the severe storm. Over 80,000 lighting strikes. Winds over 90km/h. Hail the size of golf balls. 22 transmission towers toppled and damaged.
Climate Council experts were out in the media throughout yesterday correcting misinformation. You might have seen Climate Councillor & energy expert Andrew Stock on Lateline (1).
While the media often struggles to get it right, we can use our social media channels to set the record straight. In fact we reach a million people a week through the Climate Council Facebook page alone.
Can you share our latest video setting the record straight?
One thing that was missing in the coverage yesterday was climate change. As you know, climate change is driving a wetter and warmer atmosphere, which is increasing the likelihood of severe and damaging storms. We must ensure that our emergency services, health services and infrastructure are as prepared as possible for worsening extreme events, and we must tackle climate change.
The last 24 hours has exemplified why the Climate Council is vital. When unscrupulous commentators put out misinformation, we are there to correct it.
To all our members in South Australia, we hope you are staying safe and our thoughts are with you during, and in the aftermath of, this severe storm.
Best wishes,
Amanda McKenzie
Climate Council CEO
P.S. Together we can continue to set the record straight with our latest video. Can you share it far and wide on Facebook or YouTube?
P.P.S. For more information check out this fact sheet we distributed yesterday.
(1) ABC Lateline: Political storm erupts after SA loses power