According to a new report issued by the Natural Resources Defense Council, state governments are woefully unprepared for the ways climate change will affect water resources. While 9 out of 10 states can expect more frequent or more intense storms or flooding, 29 states "nearly 60 percent" have done little or nothing to prepare for this growing threat.

Scientists are already seeing warmer temperatures, changes in rainfall and snowfall patterns, and rising sea levels. NRDC's state-by-state analysis of preparedness plans is both a wake-up call and a roadmap for all communities to understand how vital it is to prepare for climate change so we can effectively safeguard our most valuable resources. "Preparing for the impacts of a changing climate requires that states confront reality, and prioritize climate change adaptation to reduce local water risks and create healthier communities", explains NRDC Water & Climate Program director Steve Fleischli.

Watch Steve Fleischli, Director, NRDC Water & Climate Program, Talk About the Risks of Unpreparedness

NRDC calls out 6 states "Alabama, Indiana, Kansas, North Dakota, Ohio, and South Dakota" for doing virtually nothing to address climate pollution or prepare for growing climate-related water risks. Another 6 states "Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Texas, and Utah" have done so little that they also fall in the groups least prepared category.

Click to enlarge image. See the NRDC website for an interactive version of this map.

Is Your Family Prepared for an Emergency? Berkey Water Filters Can Help

Power outages from heavy storms, flooding from excessive or sudden rainfall and other extreme weather events can be frightening and dangerous. Sometimes power can be disrupted for days, tap water can be compromised, and communities can even be evacuated by authorities.

For that reason, the Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends that every household develop an emergency preparedness kit that includes food and water for each family member for several days. In addition to water filters, Berkey sells long-term food storage and an entire line of preparedness products. We even sell solar electric chargers for when you are off the grid but need some power.

Long Term Food Storage the Easy Way with Wise Food Storage

FEMA recommends setting aside a 3-day supply of nonperishable long term food storage for every family member. Wise Food Storage emergency backpack kits and/or lightweight grab-and-go food storage buckets are the perfect companion to a Berkey water filter for family preparedness. Wise meals cost only about $1.60 per serving, have a shelf life of 25 years, are easy to transport and prepare in an emergency, and taste great.

Big Berkey Water Filters Are Your Portable Safe Water Solution

FEMA also recommends keeping a minimum supply of drinkable water "3 gallons per person" on hand in case drinking water becomes compromised or unavailable. With Berkey water filters, your water supply is not limited to what you can store or carry. Gravity filters don't require a power source and Berkey's have been shown to remove common contaminants, bacteria, and other microorganisms down to barely or non-detectable levels. Berkey customers can rest easy knowing that their filter will make any available water into drinkable water.