The World Weather Attribution’s analysis indicates that human-induced climate change intensified the rainfall during the late September floods in Nepal by approximately 10 percent, contributing to over 240 deaths and significant destruction. The report emphasizes the need for Nepal to limit development in low-lying areas and enhance early warning systems to mitigate future flood risks.
A recent analysis conducted by the World Weather Attribution (WWA) has revealed that the intense rainfall contributing to the catastrophic floods in Nepal at the end of September was approximately 10 percent more severe due to human-induced climate change. With over 240 fatalities reported from the disaster, the analysis emphasizes the urgent necessity for Nepal to reduce urban development in low-lying riverside areas to prevent future flooding incidents. Given that the floods followed an unprecedented three-day deluge beginning September 26, weather stations documented rainfalls exceeding 320 mm on September 28, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities in the population. The WWA study indicates that climate change is likely to cause increasingly severe rainfall events, calling for an urgent transition to renewable energy sources to mitigate further risks. Eye-witness accounts noted that the flooding experienced in Kathmandu Valley was unprecedented in scale, leading to extensive property damage and loss of life, particularly affecting the Bagmati river basin which has been subject to rapid urbanisation. Furthermore, researchers recommend increased early warning systems and proactive measures to protect communities from similar disasters. The consortium of 20 international scientists, including those from Nepal and other countries, highlighted the interconnectedness of climate change impacts across Asia, underscoring the pressing nature of this global threat.
The increasing prevalence of extreme weather events has been closely linked to anthropogenic factors, specifically the emissions of greenhouse gases stemming from fossil fuel consumption. This correlation is crucial for understanding the scope and impact of climate change, especially in vulnerable regions like Nepal, which experience significant rainfall variability and risk from flooding. The recent floods illustrate the changing climate dynamics in South Asia, where urban growth in flood-prone areas exacerbates the impacts of such disasters. The findings from the WWA enhance the understanding of how climate change exacerbates rainfall intensity and emphasizes the importance of instituting long-term mitigation strategies.
In conclusion, the analysis by the World Weather Attribution highlights the significant role of human-induced climate change in intensifying rainfall in Nepal, leading to devastating floods that resulted in numerous fatalities and substantial property damage. The urgent recommendations for limiting development in flood-prone areas and enhancing early warning systems are crucial for safeguarding communities against future flooding events. This study serves as a clear reminder that climate change poses an immediate threat, particularly to vulnerable regions across Asia. The transition to cleaner energy sources is imperative to avert further catastrophic weather-related tragedies.
Original Source: www.theweek.in
