Advocates of the man-made global warming theory are convinced that rising temperatures will take a toll on human health and economic security, further damaging an environment rendered fragile by pollution, water shortages, and overpopulation. One effect of global warming that is of particular concern to climate forecasters is the growing prevalence of massive hurricanes, floods, and droughts. Scientists and environmentalists believe that these types of extreme weather events will become increasingly common in a world undergoing rapid warming. Many fear that humanity, particularly in poorer nations, remains unprepared to deal with consequences such as famine and displaced populations. Explains Molly O’Meara, a staff researcher at the environmental research organization the Worldwatch Institute, “Climate change would likely increase the number of people in developing nations at risk of hunger. ... But if climate change causes famine in one...