Ep 3. The Surge

The third episode of the first season of Years of Living Dangerously, titled "The Surge," explores the devastating impacts of extreme weather conditions in Texas and the political decisions taken to address them. The episode follows a group of individuals, including environmental journalist Chris Hayes and climate scientist Dr. Katherine Hayhoe, as they witness the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy and the Texas drought of 2011.

As the episode opens, Chris Hayes is seen traveling to New Jersey to investigate the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. He meets with residents who were devastated by the storm and are struggling to rebuild their lives. Hayes also interviews climate scientist Heidi Cullen, who explains the connection between climate change and the increased frequency and intensity of severe weather events like Hurricane Sandy.

Meanwhile, Dr. Katherine Hayhoe is working in Texas to study the effects of the devastating drought that hit the state in 2011. She meets with local cattle ranchers who have lost their livelihoods due to the prolonged dry spell. Hayhoe explains the science behind the drought and its link to climate change, highlighting the urgent need for policy action to address the problem.

The episode also looks at the political landscape in Texas, where climate change is a highly divisive issue. Chris Hayes interviews former Republican Congressman Bob Inglis, who lost his seat in 2010 after he expressed his belief in climate change and the need to address it. The episode highlights the role of money in politics, particularly the influence of big oil and gas companies in funding climate-change denial campaigns and preventing policy action.

Later in the episode, Chris Hayes travels to Washington, D.C., to attend a hearing on climate change held by Congress. He witnesses firsthand the fierce debates between Democrats and Republicans over the issue. The episode ends with a sobering message from Dr. Hayhoe, who warns that the time for action on climate change is running out, and the consequences of inaction will be catastrophic.

Overall, "The Surge" is a powerful and thought-provoking episode that highlights the urgent need for policy action to address climate change. The episode does an excellent job of exploring the science behind extreme weather events and their link to climate change, as well as the political and economic factors that are preventing action on the issue. Through the eyes of Chris Hayes, Dr. Katherine Hayhoe, and other experts, viewers are given a sobering look at the devastating impacts of climate change and the urgent need for action.