This year has been marked by a series of extreme weather events that have dramatically impacted the lives of millions around the globe. As the planet experiences unprecedented heat, researchers have indicated that 2024 may become the hottest year on record. The World Weather Attribution (WWA) team at Imperial College and Climate Central has reported that populations worldwide endured an alarming additional 41 days of dangerously high heat due to the ongoing effects of climate change.
From April to November, countless communities faced the consequences of relentless heat. For instance, in Northern India, a severe heatwave in May led to hospitalizations, while in Gaza, the conflict-ridden population grappled with compounded stresses of displacement and soaring temperatures. Julie Arrighi from the Red Cross Climate Centre emphasized that young individuals and the elderly—particularly those in temporary housing—were disproportionately affected by the extreme conditions.
In the Amazon, a heatwave exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon resulted in drastic declines in river levels, affecting food and water supplies for nearly half a million children. As rainfall diminished, wildfires surged, threatening biodiversity in one of the world's most vital ecosystems. Dr. Regina Rodrigues from the Federal University of Santa Catarina warned that climate change may push the forest to an irreversible drier state, hampering moisture flow essential for life and climate regulation.
The Philippines endured unprecedented storms, with six typhoons striking in just 30 days. This amplified the risk of floods and landslides, which claimed over 1,200 lives across Southeast Asia, demonstrating the country's vulnerability due to its geographical position near warm ocean waters. While scientists affirm that climate change may not increase the number of typhoons, it significantly intensifies their strength.
Even affluent nations like the United States felt the effects of these extreme weather events. Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton wreaked havoc, contributing to over 260 fatalities and $115 billion in damages, attributed to the elevated ocean temperatures that fueled their formation.
Additionally, parts of Africa experienced severe flooding due to heavy rains in regions with insufficient infrastructure. Countries like Nigeria and Sudan faced catastrophic dam failures, reflecting how human-induced climate change exacerbates existing vulnerabilities.
Following this year's growing evidence of climate-induced disasters, Arrighi underscored the pressing need for improved preparedness to mitigate losses. As extreme weather continues to escalate in frequency and severity, many communities, particularly those that are indigenous and marginalized, are left grappling with the devastating consequences of climate volatility.
