Biden outlines plans for extreme weather

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – President Joe Biden is calling for more protections from extreme weather as he meets with disaster officials ahead of a summer that is expected to be ripe for dangerous conditions.

In particular, hurricanes and wildfires are of concern over the next few months.

The president is meeting with officials at the D.C. emergency operations center.

He’s also getting briefings from leaders of the country’s top emergency response agencies, including FEMA.

This year, emergency officials are keeping close watch on conditions for wildfires and hurricanes.

Already, Hurricane Beryl has grown to a category five storm, the earliest a hurricane of that strength has ever been recorded.

Officials fear it’s a sign this summer could see several dangerous hurricanes.

As part of Tuesday’s briefings, OSHA is also proposing the first ever federal standards for heat safety in the workplace.

Beyond that, FEMA is announcing nearly $1 billion towards helping communities protect themselves against natural disasters.

The EPA is also announcing a new report on climate change and its impact on severe weather.

The president says extreme weather caused by climate change cannot be ignored and communities must prepare.

The president also says he plans to convene a white house summit on extreme heat later this summer.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT.