The wave coming to the United States is a dual threat of economic downturn and climate change. The economic downturn is primarily driven by the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted global supply chains and caused widespread job losses. Concurrently, the climate crisis is intensifying, with more frequent and severe weather events such as hurricanes, wildfires, and droughts. These factors are interconnected, as economic instability can exacerbate the impacts of climate change, and climate change can further destabilize the economy.

The economic downturn is evident in various indicators. The U.S. unemployment rate, which reached a peak of 14.7% in April 2020, has gradually decreased but remains higher than pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, the GDP contracted by 3.5% in the first quarter of 2020 and has only partially recovered since then. The Federal Reserve has projected slow economic growth for the next few years, with inflation expected to remain below the 2% target. This economic uncertainty is compounded by the rise in corporate debt, which has reached record levels, making businesses more vulnerable to economic shocks.

The climate crisis is also a significant concern. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the United States experienced 22 weather and climate disasters in 2020 that each caused at least $1 billion in damage. These events have increased in frequency and severity, with the frequency of billion-dollar disasters increasing from an average of 4.4 per year in the 1980s to 10.8 per year in the 2010s. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned that the planet is on track to warm by 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with catastrophic consequences for the global economy and environment.

The interplay between economic instability and climate change is clear. For instance, the 2017 hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria caused billions of dollars in damage to the U.S. economy, leading to increased insurance premiums and reduced property values. Additionally, the 2020 wildfires in California resulted in billions of dollars in economic losses, including damage to infrastructure and lost tourism revenue. These events not only have immediate economic impacts but also long-term consequences, such as increased healthcare costs and reduced agricultural productivity.

In conclusion, the wave coming to the United States is a combination of economic downturn and climate change. These two factors are interconnected and pose significant challenges to the nation's future. Addressing both requires a comprehensive approach that includes economic stimulus measures, investment in climate resilience, and a shift towards sustainable practices.