2024 witnessed the hottest and wettest conditions recorded, resulting in over 8,700 deaths and $550 billion in economic losses from water-related disasters. Heavy rains predominantly impacted the Global South, displacing millions and exacerbating food insecurity. Climate change is increasingly linked to these extreme weather events, with predictions of further intensification in 2025.
In the year 2024, the world experienced both unprecedented heat and heavy rainfall, marking it as the hottest and wettest on record. Water-related catastrophes, such as floods and storms, resulted in over 8,700 fatalities and displaced approximately 40 million individuals, with economic costs topping $550 billion according to the Global Water Monitor report. Climate change was identified as a significant factor behind the rising intensity and frequency of these extreme weather events.
Notably, West Africa faced severe impacts from heavy rains which led to over 1,500 deaths and forced nearly one million people from their homes. The disasters intensified by 20% due to human-induced climate changes, devastating farmland and agricultural output. Drenched soil conditions rendered thousands of hectares unsuitable for cultivation, further exacerbating food insecurity in the region.
The phenomenon of climate change is causing significant alterations in weather patterns worldwide, particularly increasing the incidence of catastrophic wet weather events. A growing body of scientific evidence highlights the correlation between climate dynamics and the rise in extreme weather, such as floods, droughts, and storms, especially in vulnerable regions like the Global South. As these countries grapple with the consequences, the economic and social strains escalate.
The findings underscore a worrying trend that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense, directly linked to climate change. The Socio-economic impacts are profound, particularly for the Global South, where disaster response challenges are compounded by limited resources and preparedness. Immediate global efforts are required to address climate mitigation and adaptation strategies to prevent further tragedies.
Original Source: www.context.news
