Climate Change Amplifies Extreme Wet Weather in 2024

Climate change has transformed wet weather into a dangerous phenomenon, causing record levels of destruction in 2024. The year produced the hottest and wettest conditions on record, leading to significant loss of life, mass displacement, and extensive economic damage due to severe wet weather patterns, particularly in vulnerable regions of the Global South.

In 2024, extreme weather patterns worsened globally, creating significant disruptions and displacement among millions. The year, deemed the hottest and wettest recorded, saw water-related disasters claiming over 8,700 lives, displacing around 40 million individuals, and costing the global economy upwards of $550 billion, as stated by the 2024 Global Water Monitor report.

The rise in catastrophic weather events—floods, droughts, and storms—was attributed to climate change, significantly intensifying both frequency and severity. For instance, West Africa experienced severe floods, resulting in over 1,500 fatalities and forcing approximately one million people from their homes, while crops were devastated by heavy rainfall and flooding.

Notably, Nigeria suffered extensive flooding, impacting four-fifths of the nation and destroying over 100,000 hectares of farmland, exacerbating food shortages. Data reveals that extreme rainfall events were 52% more frequent in 2024 compared to the decade spanning 1995 to 2005, marking a concerning trend globally.

Bangladesh, one of the wettest countries, faced severe flooding due to unprecedented rainfall and water surges from India. The nation experienced its highest daily rainfall in 17 years, displacing half a million citizens and causing substantial economic damage, with losses estimated at nearly $500 million.

Despite contributing only 0.03% of global greenhouse gas emissions, Bangladesh remains vulnerable to increasing monsoons and severe weather events. The situation epitomizes the challenges faced by the Global South amid intensifying climate change, as reported in the Global Water Monitor assessment.

The article discusses the alarming consequences of climate change manifesting as extreme wet weather. It highlights the record-breaking weather events that occurred in 2024, linking them to a multitude of disasters—specifically water-related incidents that affected millions globally. The report underscores how these catastrophes disproportionately impact vulnerable regions, particularly in the Global South, and emphasizes the increasing intensity and frequency of these weather events.

In summary, the extreme weather events of 2024 highlight the dire effects of climate change, particularly in the Global South. The year was marked by unprecedented rainfall and devastating disasters, leading to significant human suffering and substantial economic losses. As climate change continues to alter weather patterns, the vulnerability of already affected regions like Bangladesh will likely persist, necessitating urgent global attention and action.

Original Source: www.context.news