This year, extreme weather events such as heavy rain, floods, heatwaves, and droughts have frequently occurred in many parts of the world, causing significant economic losses. On June 28, a World Meteorological Organization (WMO) expert stated that these events have become the norm, with climate change driven by greenhouse gas emissions being the main cause.
WMO climate expert Silva remarked on June 28 that in recent decades, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events like heatwaves and heavy rainfall have been increasing. This year, heatwaves in Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America have caused severe damage and pose a major threat to human health and well-being. Silva analyzed that while various climatic factors such as El Niño and La Niña phenomena might contribute to extreme weather events at different times and spatial scales, human-induced climate change is the primary reason. This long-term trend explains the rising frequency and severity of extreme weather events.
May 2024 Becomes Hottest May on Record
Driven by factors such as the El Niño phenomenon and climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions, record-breaking high temperatures have persisted for longer durations. According to a recent report by the European Union’s climate monitoring agency, the Copernicus Climate Change Service, May 2024 was the hottest May on record. This marks the twelfth consecutive month where the global monthly average temperature has set a new highest value for the same period.
Global Temperatures Expected to Exceed Average Levels from July to September
Silva stated that although the El Niño phenomenon, which continued from last year into this year, has now ended, the latest seasonal forecast from the World Meteorological Organization indicates that temperatures from July to September will be above average in most parts of Africa, Europe, Asia, and tropical regions of North America, Central America and the Caribbean, and South America. This increase in temperatures will heighten the risk of heatwaves and wildfires.
Most Ocean Surface Temperatures Expected to Be Above Average in Next Six Months
According to the latest quarterly forecast from the Copernicus Climate Change Service, most ocean surface temperatures worldwide are expected to be above average over the next six months, with the exception of the equatorial Pacific and the Southern Ocean. This is related to the possible emergence of the La Niña phenomenon later this year. Meteorological experts indicate that during La Niña events, changes in Pacific sea surface temperatures directly affect precipitation patterns across the tropical regions, which in turn influence global temperatures, precipitation, and wind patterns.
Enhancing Resilience and Preparedness
In addition to mitigation, enhancing resilience and preparedness for extreme weather events is essential. This involves improving early warning systems, investing in resilient infrastructure, and promoting community-based adaptation strategies. The WMO is working with governments and international organizations to support these efforts and build capacity in vulnerable regions.
Improved weather forecasting and climate modeling are also critical components of this strategy. Advances in technology and data collection are enabling more accurate predictions, allowing communities to better prepare for and respond to extreme weather events.
A Call for Global Solidarity
Addressing the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather requires global solidarity and cooperation. The WMO calls on all nations to uphold their commitments under the Paris Agreement and to take ambitious actions to curb emissions and support adaptation efforts.
Developed countries, in particular, have a responsibility to assist developing nations, which are often the hardest hit by extreme weather despite contributing the least to global emissions. This includes providing financial support, technology transfer, and capacity-building initiatives.
The WMO’s warning about the normalization of extreme weather events serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change. As the impacts become more pronounced, the imperative for immediate and sustained action grows stronger. By working together and taking decisive measures, the global community can mitigate the effects of climate change and build a more resilient and sustainable future for all.
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