A study by the World Weather Attribution initiative found that climate change has intensified seasonal rainfall in Africa’s Niger and Lake Chad basins, resulting in deadly flooding that has claimed over 2,000 lives and displaced millions. Researchers note that such extreme flooding is likely to become more common if global warming continues, exacerbated by poverty and conflict in the region. Urgent action is required, including improved water management, early warning systems, and financial support from developed nations.
A recent study carried out by a team from the World Weather Attribution (WWA) initiative has concluded that human-induced climate change intensified seasonal rainfall across the Niger and Lake Chad basins, resulting in severe flooding in Africa this year. This natural disaster affected countries including Chad, Cameroon, Niger, Nigeria, and Sudan, claiming more than 2,000 lives and displacing millions of people from their homes. The heavy rains, which overwhelmed existing dam infrastructures in Nigeria and Sudan, were recorded to be 5 to 20 percent more intense than in previous years. In light of these findings, researchers noted that such extreme rainfall patterns have become the expected norm due to ongoing climate change and are likely to continue annually if global warming trends persist. Moreover, the compounded effects of pre-existing poverty, rapid urbanization, and inadequate water management have further exacerbated the impacts of these floods. Ongoing conflicts in the region have resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis, particularly in Chad, Nigeria, and Sudan, where millions now reside in precarious living conditions, increasing their vulnerability to flooding events. The floods experienced from June to September have significantly worsened an already delicate humanitarian situation in Sudan, stretching the capabilities of aid organizations and government bodies to respond effectively. The WWA emphasizes the urgent need for the region to brace for even more substantial rainfall events in the coming years. It is imperative that water management strategies be strengthened to reduce community vulnerability. Scientists advocate for enhanced investments in early warning systems and infrastructure improvements for dams in the region. Furthermore, rich nations are called upon to provide substantial financial resources to assist in these efforts. In light of the upcoming United Nations COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan, researchers urge delegates to take decisive actions toward transitioning from fossil fuel dependency, recognizing that these resources are major contributors to global climate change, accounting for over 75 percent of greenhouse gas emissions and nearly 90 percent of carbon dioxide emissions.
The adverse effects of climate change are increasingly discernible, particularly in developing regions where communities are already vulnerable due to socio-economic factors. In Africa, seasonal rains have become more erratic and intense, contributing to frequent and severe flooding events. The Niger and Lake Chad basins are vital ecological zones, and their altered rainfall patterns have direct repercussions on human settlements and agricultural practices. Furthermore, the intersection of climate change with other regional crises, such as conflict and urban displacement, complicates humanitarian responses and heightens risks for affected populations.
The findings of this recent study by the World Weather Attribution initiative underscore the severe and multifaceted impact of climate change on flooding patterns in Africa. The loss of life and displacement resulting from intensified seasonal rains demonstrate a pressing need for comprehensive strategies to manage water resources and mitigate vulnerability. Furthermore, collective international efforts and substantial investments are essential to prepare for future climatic shifts and ensure the resilience of communities across the region against increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
Original Source: www.africanews.com
