The Intensifying Impact of Climate Change on Natural Disasters
The article discusses the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters caused by climate change, including wildfires, droughts, floods, and coral bleaching. It highlights specific incidents and their impacts on humanity and the environment across the globe, while advocating for individual responsibility and proactive stewardship to mitigate these effects.
The increasing temperatures of the Earth are causing significant changes, observable today rather than in the distant future. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), these climatic changes have various effects on people and the environment, differing across global regions.
In August 2023, a devastating wildfire swept through Maui, claiming at least 100 lives and causing damages estimated at $5.5 billion, with over 2,200 structures destroyed. Notably, rainfall in Hawaii has decreased by 18 percent over the past 30 years, which has led to rare drought conditions and water shortages despite the island’s traditionally wet climate.
Mexico is currently undergoing a long-term drought due to insufficient rainfall, as noted by meteorologist Haley Thiem. This drought has exacerbated heatwave occurrences, which in June 2024 resulted in 125 heat-related deaths, power outages, and reduced water availability. The burning of fossil fuels has made heat events more intense, underscoring climate change’s impact on natural disasters.
In September 2024, many European nations were affected by flooding from Storm Boris, which dumped a month’s worth of rain in just 24 hours, resulting in significant damage, evacuations, and 26 casualties. Flooding can arise from a variety of factors, including heavy rains, storm surges, and poor water management, as detailed by Melissa Denchak from the Natural Resources Defense Council.
Several typhoons struck the Philippines in November 2024, resulting in 151 fatalities and impacting approximately 8.8 million people. According to the National Centre for Atmospheric Science, warmer temperatures contribute to the strengthening of typhoons, driven by higher humidity and sea surface temperatures.
Coral bleaching is becoming increasingly common due to ocean warming, as stated by Derek Manzello of NOAA. Climate changes, along with overfishing and pollution, are significant contributors to coral degradation. The surface temperature of the ocean has risen by 0.5 degrees Celsius since 1860, with predictions of a further rise of 1.5 degrees between 2030 and 2050.
Global sea levels have risen by approximately 8-9 inches since 1880, primarily due to glacier and ice sheet melting, according to Rebecca Lindsey from climate.gov. This trend reached its peak in 2023, marking the highest average recorded since satellite measurements began. The urgent need for understanding climate change is underscored by various perspectives from individuals advocating for stewardship of the environment.
Students like Alyssa Parry emphasize the importance of sustainability and stewardship, advocating for conscious actions such as beach clean-ups to combat pollution. Similarly, Dean Murcillos encourages recycling and proactive environmental care among individuals. Angela Kate Cruz-Murcillos highlights accountability and mindfulness as essential practices for resource management.
Gerome Romero, a biochemistry alumnus, asserts that engaging in conservation efforts, regardless of scale, is vital for making a positive impact. These discussions reflect a collective commitment towards responsibility in environment management, emphasizing that individual actions contribute to broader ecological health.
Natural disasters, driven by climate change, are increasingly affecting communities worldwide, from wildfires and droughts to floods and coral bleaching. The rising global temperatures exacerbate these phenomena and require active engagement from individuals towards sustainable practices. Collective stewardship and awareness of environmental conservation can foster a positive impact on the planet’s health.
Original Source: kealakai.byuh.edu
