2024: A Pivotal Year Marked by Climate-Related Catastrophes

The year 2024 marked unprecedented climate-related disasters globally, attributed to extreme heat, floods, and hurricanes intensified by global warming. With record temperatures impacting various regions, significant human and economic losses ensued, highlighting the urgent consequences of climate change.

In 2024, the world has encountered profound climate-related disasters, with every region, from economically disadvantaged Mayotte to the affluent cities of Europe and oil-rich Saudi Arabia, experiencing devastating effects. This year has been characterized as the hottest on record, with unprecedented atmospheric and oceanic temperatures intensifying extreme weather events globally. World Weather Attribution has confirmed that nearly all analyzed disasters were exacerbated by climate change. Climate scientist Friederike Otto articulated, “The impacts of fossil fuel warming have never been clearer or more devastating than in 2024. We are living in a dangerous new era.”

The catastrophic heatwave in June climaxed with over 1,300 deaths during the Muslim hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, where temperatures soared to 51.8 degrees Celsius (125 degrees Fahrenheit). Extreme heat has also had deadly consequences in regions including Thailand, India, and the United States, leading to tragic outcomes, such as howler monkeys succumbing to the brutal conditions in Mexico and millions of children in Pakistan being confined indoors as temperatures exceeded 50C. Greece experienced its earliest heatwave, compelling the closure of historic sites and contributing to widespread wildfires during Europe’s hottest summer on record.

However, the consequences of climate change extend beyond mere heat. The phenomenon also leads to increased evaporation and moisture absorption, resulting in heavy rainfall. The United Arab Emirates encountered two years’ worth of rainfall within a single day in April, disrupting Dubai’s international airport. Similarly, Kenya faced historic flooding shortly after a severe drought, while over 1,500 people perished in devastating floods across West and Central Africa, exacerbated by the repercussions of climate change. Spain, too, endured catastrophic storms and flooding.

Tropical cyclones were intensified by warm ocean waters. The 2024 season saw fierce hurricanes impacting the United States and the Caribbean, with notable hurricanes Milton, Beryl, and Helene. The Philippines suffered six significant storms in November alone, following Typhoon Yagi’s destructive path through Southeast Asia. In December, Cyclone Chino, having been intensified by global warming, struck Mayotte with devastating effects.

Despite some regions experiencing increased rainfall, many others have succumbed to drought and wildfires, leading to catastrophic consequences in the Americas. Wildfires ravaged millions of hectares throughout the western United States, Canada, and the Amazon basin. Economic repercussions were significant; the Zurich-based reinsurance company Swiss Re assessed global damages at $310 billion for the year, in part exacerbated by disastrous flooding and extreme weather events.

The article discusses the alarming rise in climate-related disasters observed in 2024, highlighting extreme weather phenomena across the globe due to climate change. These events include unprecedented heatwaves, devastating floods, intense hurricanes, and destructive wildfires, which have collectively contributed to economic loss and human suffering. By analyzing the data presented by World Weather Attribution and other authoritative sources, the article underscores the urgent need to recognize and address the growing impact of climate change on various regions.

In summary, the year 2024 has proven to be a pivotal moment in the discourse on climate change, as the world grapples with extreme weather events leading to severe loss of life and economic devastation. From historic heatwaves to catastrophic flooding and wildfires, the effects of global warming are irrefutable. Immediate action is essential to mitigate these impacts and prevent further deterioration of our environment and wellbeing.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr