UN Reports 150+ Unprecedented Climate Disasters in 2024, Urging Urgent Action
In 2024, the UN reported over 150 unprecedented climate disasters, highlighting the climate crisis’s severity as the hottest year recorded. The destruction displaced over 800,000 people and included extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, and storms. The rising trends in global carbon emissions continue to intensify these impacts, necessitating urgent action for climate resilience and adaptation.
In 2024, the effects of the climate crisis escalated significantly, as reported by the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organization (WMO). This year was recorded as the hottest in history, with devastating heatwaves, floods, and storms leading to widespread destruction. Over 800,000 individuals were displaced, marking the highest annual figure since 2008.
The WMO identified 151 extreme weather events in 2024, declaring them unprecedented as they surpassed all previously recorded incidents in their respective regions. Japan endured severe heatwaves, contributing to hundreds of thousands suffering from heatstroke. The highest temperatures reached 49.9 degrees Celsius in Western Australia, 49.7 in Iran, and 48.5 in Mali during a national heatwave.
Italy faced record rainfall, resulting in floods and landslides that disrupted electricity supplies, while Senegal grappled with torrents that destroyed numerous homes. Additionally, countries such as Pakistan and Brazil experienced flash floods that led to significant agricultural losses.
Tropical storms intensified due to global warming, with the Philippines hit by six typhoons within a month. Hurricane Helene recorded unprecedented strength in Florida, and Super Typhoon Yagi affected 3.6 million residents in Vietnam. Notably, many extreme weather instances likely went unreported.
The WMO report emphasized that the last decade witnessed all ten of the hottest years on record, in contrast to rising global carbon emissions which exacerbate the crisis. Critics, particularly regarding former President Donald Trump’s actions against climate science, highlighted the consequences of ignoring climate realities.
“Leaders must step up – seizing the benefits of cheap, clean renewables for their people and economies – with new national climate plans due this year,” stated UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
Dr. Luke Parsons from the Nature Conservancy commented on the urgency, noting, “2024 is the hottest year modern society has ever experienced,” and indicated that the upcoming decade may witness even more severe temperatures.
Research indicates that 550 extreme weather events, including heatwaves and storms, have intensified due to climate change. Dr. Brenda Ekwurzel criticized efforts to obscure climate science and stressed the need for strong environmental policies. Prof. Stefan Rahmstorf from the Potsdam Institute stated, “Global warming continues unabated, exactly as predicted,” and called for expedited action against fossil fuel reliance.
The report advocates for enhanced early warning systems and climate services as critical for societal resilience. Prof. Celeste Saulo, WMO’s secretary-general, emphasized that improvements are necessary, given that only half of countries have adequate systems in place. She urged significant investment in weather and climate services to avert further disaster.
Amidst these dire circumstances, the Trump administration’s cuts to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have drawn criticism, underscoring the importance of robust climate agencies. Experts suggest that every dollar spent on climate resilience can save thirteen in damages and recovery costs.
The WMO report underscores the escalating impacts of climate change globally, with unprecedented extreme weather events causing extensive destruction and human displacement in 2024. With the increasing frequency and intensity of such events, immediate action is essential to enhance disaster preparedness and sustainable practices. The investment in climate resilience is crucial for safeguarding human lives and minimizing future damages. Coordinated global efforts, led by informed leaders, are vital to transition towards a sustainable future.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
