2024: A Year of Climate Extremes and its Global Impact
In 2024, climate change caused record-breaking heat, extreme storms, droughts, and flooding, impacting billions globally. Research shows an additional 41 days of dangerous heat compared to a climate-neutral world. Vulnerable populations suffered the most, and urgent action is needed to address the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events driven by climate change.
In 2024, climate change manifested through an unprecedented series of extreme weather events affecting billions globally. This year is anticipated to set a record for the highest temperatures, with research indicating that the population endured an additional 41 days of dangerously high heat compared to a hypothetical world without climate change. Notable events included intense heatwaves, severe droughts, and catastrophic storms, all of which underscored the pervasive impact of human-induced climate alterations on weather patterns.
The heatwave in April decimated numerous countries across continents, with extreme temperatures notably affecting vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young individuals with pre-existing health conditions. In areas experiencing conflict, inadequate housing and compromised water systems exacerbated the challenges presented by extreme temperatures. “Young people and those over 65 particularly those with pre-existing health conditions [are at risk] – they are physiologically less able to cope with extreme heat,” stated Julie Arrighi, Director of Programmes at the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre.
The Amazon region also faced dire consequences, as the heatwave, intensified by the El Niño phenomenon, led to extreme water shortages, with reports indicating that the Amazon River’s levels fell by 90%. This critical reduction in water flow significantly impacted local agriculture and environmental stability, threatening biodiversity across the region. Dr. Regina Rodrigues remarked, “We fear [climate change] might push the forest irreversibly to a drier state, leading to a reduction of moisture flow and carbon sink, as well as loss of biodiversity.”
Conversely, the Philippines battled a record-breaking typhoon season, witnessing six typhoons in just 30 days, resulting in over 1,200 fatalities across Southeast Asia. While the intensity of these storms may be exacerbated by climate change, ongoing research indicates that the overarching frequency of such events presents a growing concern. Dr. Zach Zobel of the Woodwell Climate Research Centre commented that scientists have long warned of increased extreme weather patterns linked to a warming climate.
In the United States, the country was not immune to extreme weather, experiencing devastating storms such as Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Together, these hurricanes resulted in over 260 deaths and approximately $115 billion in damages. Dr. Friederike Otto highlighted the extraordinary conditions caused by elevated ocean temperatures that contributed to the storm severity this year, suggesting the warm ocean significantly influenced hurricane behavior.
Lastly, heavy rainfall resulting in flooding ravaged regions in Nigeria and Sudan, where neglected infrastructure exacerbated the impacts of these extreme weather events. The data from WWA and Climate Central indicate that these types of rainfall anomalies are likely to occur more frequently due to anthropogenic climate change. Arrighi expressed the pressing need for enhanced preparedness, urging, “Our studies continue to show the need to enhance preparedness for extreme weather to reduce loss of life and damages.”
Overall, 2024 exemplifies the intensifying effects of climate change, calling for urgent global action to bolster resilience against future weather-related catastrophes.
The article discusses the significant impacts of climate change manifested through extreme weather events in 2024. It frames the current state of the climate emergency, highlighting the record heat, storms, droughts, and flooding that affected various regions and populations throughout the year. This year’s phenomena illustrate the unequal burden on vulnerable communities, emphasizing the need for increased preparedness and response strategies to mitigate the catastrophic effects of extreme weather, especially as climate change continues to exacerbate these challenges.
In summary, 2024 proved to be a pivotal year characterized by extreme weather events that profoundly affected billions of individuals worldwide. The alarming rise in temperatures, coupled with unprecedented natural disasters, underlines the necessity for immediate and effective actions against climate change. As experts cultivate a deeper understanding of these changes, it remains crucial for governments and communities to adapt and enhance resilience, taking into account the disproportionate impacts experienced by vulnerable populations. Coordinated global efforts are essential to mitigate further adverse effects and ensure sustainable management of natural resources.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
