A year of record-breaking heat and extreme weather events has left billions around the world reeling. Scientists say that climate change is to blame for the increased frequency and severity of these events, which have resulted in unprecedented natural disasters.
According to researchers at Imperial College London’s World Weather Attribution group and Climate Central, people experienced an additional 41 days of dangerous heat due to climate change this year, making it the hottest on record. This has led to widespread suffering, particularly among vulnerable populations such as young people, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
The Amazon rainforest, a critical ecosystem that supports thousands of species and helps regulate the planet’s temperature, is also facing severe impacts from climate change. The region experienced a regional heatwave exacerbated by El Niño, leading to reduced rainfall, wildfires, and devastating effects on power supply, crop yields, and wildlife habitats.
In other parts of the world, extreme weather events continued to unfold. The Philippines was hit with six typhoons in just 30 days, killing over 1,200 people across Southeast Asia. The US experienced two back-to-back hurricanes that left significant damage and loss of life. Meanwhile, flooding in Sudan and Nigeria in August and September claimed dozens of lives and forced thousands from their homes.
Experts warn that climate change is not only increasing the frequency and severity of these events but also making them more intense. The World Weather Attribution group’s findings suggest that record ocean temperatures in 2024 fueled the formation of extreme weather events, a trend that is expected to continue as global warming accelerates.
The impacts of these extreme weather events are far-reaching and devastating, with widespread suffering and significant economic losses. As climate change continues to worsen, it is essential for governments and individuals to take immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance preparedness for extreme weather events.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckg8dg3ke40o