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In 2024, the severe consequences of climate change became glaringly evident, as numerous record-breaking heatwaves, floods, and storms were reported globally, according to the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
The WMO’s analysis of 2024, documented as the warmest year on record, revealed a litany of destruction instigated by extreme weather, which resulted in loss of life, destruction of property, and severe harm to essential agricultural output. Over 800,000 individuals found themselves displaced, marking the highest annual figure since the onset of tracking in 2008.
The report details 151 extreme weather incidents that were deemed unprecedented, indicating they surpassed anything previously documented in their respective regions. In Japan, intense heatwaves led to thousands suffering from heat-related illnesses. In Australia, temperatures soared to an unprecedented 49.9 ºC in Carnarvon, while Iran recorded 49.7 ºC in Tabas and a 48.5 ºC peak was noted during a nationwide heatwave in Mali.
Italy experienced record rainfall that triggered significant flooding and landslides, causing electricity outages across the country. Meanwhile, Senegal faced devastating torrents that obliterated countless homes, and both Pakistan and Brazil dealt with catastrophic flash floods, resulting in major agricultural losses.
The year also saw storms intensified by global heating, with an unprecedented series of six typhoons striking the Philippines in less than a month. In the U.S., Hurricane Helene made history as the most powerful hurricane to hit the Big Bend area of Florida, while Super Typhoon Yagi impacted Vietnam, affecting approximately 3.6 million individuals. Many other extraordinary events are anticipated to have occurred without documentation.
As the report illustrates, the world has already plunged deep into the climate crisis. Notably, it reveals that for the first time, all of the ten hottest years have emerged within the last decade. Unfortunately, global carbon emissions continue to rise, raising concerns about increasingly dire consequences. Critics have pointed fingers at the Trump administration for its dismissal of climate scientists and programs, highlighting the negative impact of such actions on everyday people.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the necessity for global leaders to act decisively by harnessing renewable energy sources for the betterment of their populations and economies. He noted that new national climate strategies are expected this year.
Dr. Luke Parsons from the Nature Conservancy remarked on the unprecedented temperature highs of 2024, warning that the ensuing decade is projected to be even hotter, compounding the ongoing climate crisis.
Research has previously established that around 550 instances of heatwaves, floods, storms, droughts, and wildfires have been exacerbated by climate change.
In Vietnam, Super Typhoon Yagi made landfall on September 7, 2024, resulting in four fatalities and numerous injuries according to local media reports.
Dr. Brenda Ekwurzel from the Union of Concerned Scientists criticized the administration’s attempts to erase climate science from public view, asserting that such actions will not mitigate the severe repercussions of climate change. She underscored the urgent need for world leaders to prioritize environmental protections rather than compromising public health for the profit of fossil fuel industries.
Prof. Stefan Rahmstorf from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Science noted that climate change continues to progress as predicted since the 1980s, resulting in widespread suffering. He warned that the only solution lies in a rapid transition away from fossil fuels.
Rahmstorf further indicated that disinformation campaigns and lobbying efforts from the fossil fuel industry impede progress. Denying the realities of climate science will ultimately lead to greater harm, disproportionately affecting ordinary people.
Dr. Davide Faranda from ClimaMeter emphasized that each fraction of a degree of warming is critical, stating that the decisions made today will influence the severity of climate impacts for years to come.
Prof. Celeste Saulo, WMO Secretary-General, called the report a critical alert about the escalating risks to lives and livelihoods. She noted that WMO and the international community are enhancing efforts to bolster early warning systems and climate services to foster more resilient societies in the face of extreme weather. Notably, she pointed out that only half of the nations currently possess sufficient early warning systems, a deficiency that must be urgently addressed, with a call for increased investment in weather, water, and climate services.
The Trump administration’s policies have led to the elimination of 1,300 positions at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a key institution in climate monitoring, with additional cuts looming. Experts highlight that each $1 invested in climate resilience can prevent up to $13 in damages and cleanup costs.
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www.theguardian.com