The Rise of Extreme Weather Events
The effects of climate change are being felt around the world, with the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events on the rise. Rising global temperatures are linked to more frequent and severe heatwaves, droughts, floods, and storms. In recent years, we’ve witnessed unprecedented weather events, such as Category 5 hurricanes, wildfires that spanned millions of acres, and torrential rainfall that caused devastating landslides.
The Impact on Human Lives and Infrastructure
The consequences of these events are far-reaching, with devastating effects on human lives, infrastructure, and local economies. The World Health Organization estimates that extreme weather events account for 90% of all natural disasters, causing nearly 200,000 deaths annually. The economic toll is equally staggering, with estimated losses reaching $1.2 trillion in 2017 alone.
Climate Change Drives the Increase in Extreme Weather Events
Central to the rise of extreme weather events is the increasing average global temperature, now at 1.1 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This warming is causing more frequent and intense weather patterns, known as an “unstable atmosphere.” The resulting extreme weather events are then exacerbated by human activities, such as deforestation, pollution, and the release of greenhouse gases.
The Link Between Climate Change and More Frequent Storms
Research has consistently shown a strong correlation between climate change and an increase in severe storm activity. For example, a study published in the Journal of the American Meteorological Society found that a 1.5°C rise in temperature above pre-industrial levels would lead to a 21% increase in intense and violent weather events.
