Topic: Category 4

Climate scientists claim that melting ice sheets in Greenland are contributing to rising sea levels and higher storm surges in the Gulf of Mexico. There is a noted shift in meteorological reporting toward using millibars instead of inches for barometric pressure to make data seem more dramatic. Additionally, the wind speed ranges for Saffir-Simpson hurricane categories are scrutinized for being inconsistent, particularly the 27-mph range assigned to Category 4 storms.

British Cycling has announced a new policy banning trans women from competing in the female category, instead creating an "Open" category for all non-biological female athletes. This decision follows a similar move by other international sporting bodies and aims to ensure fairness in elite competition. The hosts mock the terminology of "assigned female at birth" while discussing the implications for professional cycling.

Amalgamated Bank CEO Priscilla Sims Brown is advocating for a unique merchant category code for firearm sellers to track "suspicious" gun purchases. Major credit card companies like Visa and Mastercard have twice rejected the application, stating it is the responsibility of elected officials to address gun violence. Skeptics argue this tracking is a precursor to a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) that could be used to block legal firearm transactions.

Hurricane Laura was downgraded to a category one storm after initially being categorized as a dangerous category four. The storm's path shifted northeast of Houston toward Port Arthur, sparing Austin and surrounding areas from significant rainfall.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has postponed the introduction of a "popular film" category following widespread criticism. The category was seen by some as a way to ensure a win for Black Panther without awarding it Best Picture. The hosts conclude the show by previewing upcoming segments for the Sunday episode, including travel updates from Switzerland.

The hosts discuss the approach of Hurricane Matthew toward the Florida coast. They advise listeners in the region to take the Category 4 storm seriously and check on neighbors. The segment notes the intensity of the storm and the potential for significant damage along the coast.

On the tenth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, the hosts play clips from 2005 featuring scientists and reporters predicting a permanent increase in devastating storms and the creation of "Category 6" hurricanes. They point out that these dire predictions of sea-level rise and constant urban extinction have failed to materialize over the last decade.