Why might poor people be at risk during extreme weather events related to climate change?

Individuals experiencing poverty are often at a heightened risk during extreme weather events related to climate change primarily because of their limited access to emergency services. This lack of access can manifest in various ways, such as residing in areas that are poorly serviced by emergency responders, having insufficient resources to prepare for or evacuate during disasters, or lacking information about impending threats.

Poor communities may not have the financial means to invest in protective measures, such as reinforced housing or emergency supplies, and they often face barriers to communication during crises. Additionally, the social networks and support systems that help individuals access resources during emergencies may be weaker in impoverished areas, making it even harder for them to respond effectively to extreme weather events.

By contrast, the other answers incorrectly attribute resilience or access to resources to poor people during these situations, which does not align with the reality of the systemic inequalities they face.