Climate Change and Extreme Weather Events in 2024

climate change has intensified, resulting in extreme weather and record temperatures globally. The United Nations has warned that the year is on track to be the hottest on record. This alarming trend is attributed to rising greenhouse gas emissions, which continue to escalate. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) marks that the impacts of climate change are increasingly visible, manifesting in severe weather events that devastate communities.

Record Temperatures and Heatwaves

2024 has seen unprecedented heat, with temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius in various regions. This extreme heat has caused human suffering and economic losses. The WMO reported that the average surface air temperature from January to September was 1.54 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial levels. This trend indicates a continuation of the decade-long pattern of rising temperatures.

Extreme Weather Events

The year has been marked by catastrophic weather events. Intense rainfall and flooding have resulted in loss of life and destruction across multiple continents. Tropical cyclones have wreaked havoc, particularly in places like Mayotte, an overseas department of France. The frequency and severity of these events underline the urgent need for action against climate change.

The Paris Agreement and Global Response

The 2015 Paris Agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. However, current trends show that countries are falling short of these targets. The WMO stresses the need for immediate action to reduce emissions and transition to renewable energy sources. The upcoming year, 2025, is seen as crucial for implementing changes.

Focus on the Cryosphere

In 2025, the WMO will celebrate its 75th anniversary by focusing on the cryosphere, which includes ice sheets, sea ice, and permafrost. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of these frozen regions in the climate system. The WMO is also advocating for improved climate services and early warning systems to better prepare for extreme weather events.

Call to Action

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has emphasised the necessity for immediate global action. He urges countries to drastically cut emissions and support renewable energy initiatives. The message is clear – without urgent intervention, the world will continue on a perilous path towards climate breakdown.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the implications of extreme weather events on global food security.
2. Explain the role of international agreements in combating climate change and their effectiveness.
3. What are the potential socio-economic impacts of rising sea levels? Discuss with suitable examples.
4. Comment on the relationship between fossil fuel consumption and climate change. What measures can be implemented to reduce reliance on fossil fuels?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the implications of extreme weather events on global food security.

1. Extreme weather events disrupt agricultural production, leading to crop failures and reduced yields.
2. Increased flooding and droughts can cause food shortages and inflate prices, making food less accessible.
3. Extreme weather can damage infrastructure, affecting supply chains and distribution of food products.
4. Vulnerable populations, particularly in developing countries, are disproportionately affected by food insecurity.
5. Climate change-induced events threaten biodiversity, which is crucial for resilient food systems.

2. Explain the role of international agreements in combating climate change and their effectiveness.

1. International agreements like the Paris Agreement set binding targets for greenhouse gas emissions reduction.
2. They facilitate cooperation and commitment among countries to address climate change collectively.
3. Monitoring and reporting mechanisms are established to track progress towards climate goals.
4. However, effectiveness is hindered by non-compliance and insufficient enforcement measures.
5. Financial and technological support for developing nations is crucial for the success of these agreements.

3. What are the potential socio-economic impacts of rising sea levels? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. Rising sea levels can lead to displacement of populations, particularly in coastal regions (e.g., Maldives, Bangladesh).
2. Increased flooding can damage infrastructure, leading to costly repairs and economic losses.
3. Agricultural land may be salinized, impacting food production and local economies (e.g., deltas and estuaries).
4. Tourism industries in coastal areas may suffer due to loss of beaches and habitat (e.g., Florida, Caribbean islands).
5. Insurance risks and property values may decline, leading to economic instability in affected regions.

4. Comment on the relationship between fossil fuel consumption and climate change. What measures can be implemented to reduce reliance on fossil fuels?

1. Fossil fuel consumption is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, driving climate change.
2. Burning fossil fuels contributes to air pollution, which has health implications for populations.
3. Transitioning to renewable energy sources (solar, wind, hydro) can reduce emissions.
4. Implementing energy efficiency measures in industries and buildings can lower fossil fuel demand.
5. Promoting public transportation and electric vehicles can decrease reliance on oil and gas.