In 2024, extreme weather, driven by climate change, resulted in record-breaking heat and heavy rainfall, leading to over 8,700 deaths and displacing about 40 million people. The Global South, particularly regions like West Africa and Bangladesh, faced the brunt of these disasters with substantial economic losses. Urgent action is necessary to combat the effects of climate change and support vulnerable populations.
The year 2024 has garnered attention for being the hottest and one of the wettest years on record, leading to disastrous water-related events worldwide. This uptick in extreme weather resulted in over 8,700 fatalities, the displacement of around 40 million individuals, and an economic toll exceeding $550 billion, as reported by the 2024 Global Water Monitor. The phenomena included floods, droughts, and storms, primarily attributed to climate change’s increasing intensity and frequency of extreme weather events.
Regions in the Global South have experienced significant ramifications due to these climate impacts. In West Africa, heavy rains and floods led to more than 1,500 deaths and displaced nearly a million people, with damage exacerbated by climate change, which increased the severity of these disasters by up to 20%. The aftermath included the destruction of farmland, threatening food security and economic stability across affected nations.
Bangladesh, particularly vulnerable due to its geographical conditions, witnessed severe flooding as it experienced its highest daily rainfall in 17 years, with averages rising above typical measurements. The challenges prompted significant displacement, along with financial losses estimated at $500 million, compelling the government to import grain after losing over a million metric tons of rice to floods.
Experts have observed that extreme rainfall events have grown increasingly common, reported as 52% more frequent in 2024 compared to the 1995-2005 period. Although Bangladesh contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, it will inevitably face more severe monsoon seasons and extreme weather events due to human-driven climate change.
The 2024 climate report demonstrates an alarming trend wherein climate change exacerbates extreme weather events, causing widespread displacement and fatalities. This highlights a wider issue where developing regions, especially in the Global South, suffer the most from climate-related catastrophes. With a hot and wet climate becoming the new norm, the impact on agriculture and food security poses a significant challenge for these nations. Understanding this context is crucial for addressing the ongoing climate crisis and implementing effective mitigation strategies.
The extreme weather patterns of 2024 illustrate the urgent need for global action on climate change, particularly to support vulnerable regions facing catastrophic impacts. As water-related disasters increase in severity, strategies must be developed to enhance resilience, address food security issues, and finance recovery efforts in adversely affected areas. The situation in countries such as Bangladesh serves as a critical reminder of the intricate link between climate action and humanitarian relief efforts.
Original Source: www.context.news
