Hurricanes Fuel Weather Control Conspiracy Theories

Meteorologists have been targeted with conspiracy theories and threats amid Hurricanes Helene and Milton, with claims that they are controlling the weather, which has hampered relief efforts. This surge in misinformation, partly fueled by political figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who insists on weather control through unverified means, endangers lives and complicates disaster responses. Meteorologists like James Spann and Katie Nickolaou report an unprecedented volume of threats, including violent rhetoric and misinformation about hurricane categories and government involvement. Rep. Jared Moskowitz criticized Greene for spreading dangerous conspiracy theories, highlighting the broader issue of misinformation during natural disasters. FEMA officials have also expressed concern that falsehoods, such as those about misallocated funds, are affecting their ability to effectively support affected communities. Critics argue that Greene's claims politicize the tragic consequences of the hurricanes and spread unfounded anti-Semitic ideas.