Nepal Floods Intensified by Human-Induced Climate Change, Study Reveals

A recent analysis by World Weather Attribution revealed that the floods in Nepal, which resulted in over 240 fatalities, were intensified by climate change, with rainfall being about 10 percent more intense. The report calls for urgent measures to limit development in flood-prone areas and to improve early warning systems to safeguard lives from future disasters.

Recent floods in Nepal that claimed over 240 lives were exacerbated by human-induced climate change, which intensified rainfall by approximately 10 percent, according to an analysis by the World Weather Attribution (WWA) team. The catastrophic flooding occurred following three days of extreme rainfall beginning on September 26, with central and eastern Nepal recording unprecedented amounts, particularly on September 28, when some weather stations measured over 320 mm. Researchers indicated that the rapid urban development in low-lying areas and along riversides has significantly heightened flood risks. Consequently, they urged the government to restrict such development in vulnerable regions and to enhance early warning systems to mitigate future disasters. Moreover, the floods in Kathmandu valley, an area notoriously susceptible due to its geographical layout and rapid population growth, underscore the urgent need for better urban planning to safeguard lives and property against inevitable extreme weather events driven by climate change.

The recent assessment by World Weather Attribution reveals the increasingly severe impact of climate change on weather patterns, particularly in vulnerable regions like Nepal. This catastrophic flooding serves as a stark reminder of the escalating risks associated with climatic alterations, particularly as urban areas continue to expand into flood-prone regions. The research is part of a broader analysis that aims to elucidate the nexus between anthropogenic climate change and extreme weather phenomena across Asia, emphasizing the critical need for strategic planning and mitigation efforts.

In summary, the devastating floods in Nepal were not only a result of natural weather patterns but were made significantly worse by human-induced climate change, demonstrating the urgent need for improved urban planning and flood management strategies. Addressing the increased risk of similar events in the future will require a combination of limiting development in at-risk areas and enhancing early warning systems to protect vulnerable populations.

Original Source: theprint.in