Ok, climate change and natural disasters are extremely connected. So, although we always try to look at the bright side and dicuss solutions, this is not a very positive post.
Let’s say that the global warming is a disease our dear planet is passing through, and the weather extreme events are the symptoms.
Climate change and natural disasters in 2021 – Complete video with worst moments
The video we’ll present you know might be shocking to some people. So, if you feel sensitive about this topic, maybe is not the best option for you.
You’re about to watch some global warming effects all around the world, in different countries.
All we ask is that you keep in mind that this war is not over. We can protect nature. We can avoid IPCC worst scenario – but, yeah, let’s face reality: we all need to commit to it.
In January 2021, Madrid recorded its heaviest snowfall in 50 years. Temperatures dropped to -25C°.
In the same month, in the UK, 400 houses were flooded due to a heavy rainfall.
Australia had also struggled with a immens flood.
As you might know, the sea leval rise and the change on rain patterns are making floods more common and more dangerous.
Climate change effects in China
The sandstorm in China was also super scary. Beijing experienced its worst sandstorm in a decade.
Pollution levels rose to 160 times the recommended limit in March 2021.
Global warming in Canada
In Canada, a deadly heatwave perdured from June to July. Unfortunetely, hundreds of sudden deaths were linked to this phenomenum.
In Death Valley, the temperatures rose to 54°, which is just unbearable.
The letal heat waves will affect at least 129 countries in the next years.
The temperatures are not the only problem with this, but also the wildfires, as you must remember happening on US west cost from July to August. It burned at least 1.3 acres of natural forest.
Climate change disasters in Europe
In Europe, deadly floods were responsible for more than 200 deaths in different countries.
The worst climate change effects were seen in Germany, with a life loss and a lot of desctruction.
In China, more than 300 people died because of really scary
The situation is urgent. We need to stop CO2 emissions
Countries like Vietnan, will be 95% under water if we don’t act right now. Imagine 200 million people moving from their countries because it’s just impossible to live there.
Climate change and natural disasters in the US
The United States is suffering from the destructive effects of climate change.
In the year 2021 alone, extreme global warming events will cost the U.S. government $2.15 trillion.
As you can see from the Climate.gov image, Hurricane Ida, winter storms, and the western wildfires were some of the destructive phenomenums the US went through.
You must remember that Texas and across the deep south of the country struggled with storms and cold waves in mid-february, costing over 24 billion to the government.
On top of that, there was 3 tropical cyclones (Ida, Elsa, Fred and Nicholas) and 3 tornado outbreaks.
Bringing material damage and life loss, there was 2 flood events (Louisiana and California), plus 8 severe weather events, that are still happening in 2023.
Climate Change: Descriptions and Effects of Natural Disasters
Climate change has been linked to increasing severity and frequency of natural disasters, from floods to storms to earthquakes.
Understanding these risks is key to protecting lives and preventing property damage and economic loss. Learn the facts about how climate change is affecting the planet, and find out what you can do to help create a safe future for everyone.
What is Climate Change?
Climate change is the long-term alteration of average weather patterns. It is caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, which results in higher concentrations of greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide and methane, trapped in our atmosphere.
This has been leading to a rise in air temperature, particularly near the poles, resulting in various forms of extreme weather.
Effects of Natural Disasters on the Planet
Natural disasters caused by climate change can have serious and destructive consequences. As temperatures rise due to the greenhouse effect, flooding becomes more common, leading to destruction of whole communities and loss of life.
Hurricanes, typhoons and cyclones are increasing in intensity, leading to violent winds and rain that endanger lives. Heat waves caused by climate change increase illnesses such as heat stroke and can lead to deaths in vulnerable populations.
Earthquakes are becoming more frequent due to the increased pressure on tectonic plates. These events can cause significant damage to property, displacement of people, disruption of infrastructure and famine.
Different Types of Natural Disasters and Their Impacts
Floods are among the most common and dangerous natural disasters, with water levels rising quickly in affected areas.
This can lead to destruction of homes and businesses, drowning, displacement of people, contamination of water sources and destruction of the environment due to pollution.
Hurricanes can cause high winds, heavy rains and coastal flooding that damages property, disrupts electricity supplies, causes fatalities and displaces people from their homes.
Cyclones can produce deadly storm surge heights that overflow coastal barriers and inundate adjacent areas.
Earthquakes create ground shaking which causes buildings to collapse leading to loss of life or injury in affected populations as well as destruction of property.
Heat waves occur during periods of hot weather which lead to symptoms such as dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke in vulnerable populations.
The Role of Climate Change in Increasing the Frequency and Intensity of Natural Hazards
Climate change is contributing to an increase in the frequency and intensity of natural disasters.
A rise in global temperature increases surface water evaporation creating more moisture for storms, resulting in increased sea levels which can lead to more frequent flooding and a greater risk for the spread of infectious diseases.
Extreme weather events such as hurricanes are intensifying and occurring with greater frequency due to a warmer atmosphere.
There is also evidence suggesting that climate change will result in an increase in the magnitude and number of earthquakes across the globe as well as modulation of heat waves creating prolonged periods of intense heat which can be hazardous for vulnerable populations.
Looking Forward: Strategies to Mitigate the Impact of Climate Change and Natural Disasters on Our Lives
Even though natural disasters are due in large part to a changing climate, there are strategies we can use in order to mitigate their effects.
An emphasis needs to be placed on the reduction of greenhouse gasses and an effort made to build infrastructure which is better able to withstand high winds, floods, heavy rains and other harsh conditions associated with natural disasters.
Taking action on climate change will also help by reducing its intensity and slowing down its effects. Emergency response teams should also be better prepared in case of natural disasters, ensuring they have effective plans in place that can save lives and minimize damage.
Lastly, it is important for us all to be aware of potential risks posed by extreme weather events both at home and abroad as well as plan for them if needed.