The question over whether global warming is increasing the intensities of hurricanes is going to be the topic of a special program being held on the UT campus Thursday night.

One of the country's leading experts is going to be presenting his findings.

Dr. Kerry Emanuel from MIT started his research well before last years devastating hurricane season.

He says even though this year has been relatively quiet you have got to look at the big picture.

"The last five years in the Atlantic broke all the records for just about everything, the number of storms the power of them the length that they survive, it's been an extraordinary period," Emanuel.

The program is being held at Welch Hall.

It's free and open to the public.

The reception begins at 5:45 p.m. and the lecture starts at 7 p.m.