In 2024, climate change caused an average of 41 additional days of dangerous heat worldwide, contributing to what is projected to be one of the hottest years on record. This amidst significant weather-related fatalities and disruptions, particularly affecting vulnerable populations. The analysis revealed strong links between many extreme weather events and climate change, further emphasizing the urgent need for global action to mitigate these effects.
In 2024, an average of 41 additional days of dangerous heat were experienced globally, primarily attributed to human-induced climate change, according to recently published findings from World Weather Attribution and Climate Central. This alarming increase in extreme heat contributed to 2024 being on track to become one of the hottest years recorded, accompanied by a series of deadly weather events around the world.
Heat waves severely impacted many regions; notable instances included extreme heat in Northern California and Death Valley, scorching temperatures in Mexico and Central America, and oppressive conditions affecting vulnerable populations in West Africa. Furthermore, record-breaking temperatures forced significant disruptions such as the closure of Greece’s Acropolis and school closures across South and Southeast Asia. This year also marked a staggering 13-month streak of high temperatures.
The scientific team assessed daily temperature data in 2024 against projections for a world unaffected by climate change, using peer-reviewed methodologies despite the results not yet undergoing peer review themselves. Findings indicated some areas suffered through more than 150 days of extreme heat, with the least developed nations disproportionately affected.
Heat-related fatalities are often underreported, complicating efforts to raise public awareness about the dangers of heat waves. According to Friederike Otto, the lead scientist at World Weather Attribution, increased fossil fuel combustion exacerbates these phenomena. The analysis further indicated that of the extreme weather events examined, 26 out of 29 displayed a connection to climate change, resulting in thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions.
While the El Niño weather pattern contributed to certain weather extremes, researchers concluded that climate change significantly intensified these events. Meanwhile, it is projected that the significant carbon emissions released this year, stemming from fossil fuel combustion, could lead to a surge in climate-related disasters moving forward. However, proactive adaptation and preparation strategies could mitigate the impacts of such extreme weather, as emphasized by Julie Arrighi, director of programs at the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre.
Climate change, driven by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels, has a significant impact on global temperatures and weather patterns. In recent years, both scientists and experts have increasingly linked extreme weather events, such as heat waves, droughts, and severe storms, to anthropogenic climate change. This year has presented some of the most intense and protracted heat events recorded, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and global action on climate issues. The implications of these findings are particularly dire for vulnerable populations who are often the most affected and least equipped to deal with the consequences of such environmental changes.
The 2024 climate analysis illustrates the critical and worsening impacts of climate change, as evidenced by the significant number of days marked by extreme heat and the related weather events that claimed lives and displaced communities globally. The overwhelming correlation between climate change and heightened weather extremes signals a pressing need for immediate action moving forward. Addressing the root causes and enhancing adaptation strategies will be vital in mitigating future impacts, especially in the least developed nations.
Original Source: www.theweek.in
