A Charlotte Harbor-based member of the national estuary program will host a summit later this month to bring together scientists, local officials, and residents to discuss how climate change is impacting Southwest Florida and ways to deal with the challenges.

The summit is designed to expand the region’s ability to prepare for and recover from climate change — global warming, rising seas, stronger hurricanes, heavier rain, frequent flooding, longer and stronger heat waves—so people stay safe, homes and businesses are protected, and daily life can continue.

A warmer world means hotter oceans, and when water heats up it expands, which increases sea level. Warmer water feeds hurricanes, and warmer air means they can hold more rain.

“The past year brought hurricanes Helene and Milton as wel

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