Research from World Weather Attribution and Climate Central indicates that climate change has contributed to an average of 41 extra days of dangerous heat in 2024, leading to significant health impacts and increased climate risks. The findings underscore the need for immediate transition away from fossil fuels to mitigate the increasing severity of climate-related disasters and protect vulnerable populations.
A recent study conducted by World Weather Attribution (WWA) and Climate Central reveals that human-induced climate change resulted in an average of 41 additional days of extreme heat in 2024, adversely impacting public health and ecosystems worldwide. The research highlights the necessity for every nation to enhance preparedness for escalating climate risks to avert increased mortality and damage in the coming years. The findings stress that the current trajectory necessitates a rapid transition away from fossil fuels to mitigate future occurrences of destructive weather patterns such as heatwaves, wildfires, storms, and flooding.
The report emphasizes that climate change has intensified 26 out of 29 significant weather events analyzed, which collectively resulted in the deaths of at least 3,700 individuals and displacement of millions. It asserts that the influence of climate change on extreme weather phenomena has surpassed that of natural factors, including El Niño. Friederike Otto, the lead of the WWA and a senior lecturer in Climate Science at Imperial College London, remarked that the effects of climate change caused by fossil fuel emissions have reached unprecedented levels, marking a new perilous period for humanity.
The alarming findings of this report come amidst projections indicating that 2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record, following a 13-month streak of unprecedented temperatures. This trend places additional emphasis not only on the critical state of the climate but also on the growing urgency for international cooperation and action against fossil fuel dependency. The consequences of unchecked climate change are being observed globally, with extreme weather leading to significant humanitarian crises and environmental degradation, making immediate action imperative.
In conclusion, the 2024 study underscores the dire consequences of climate change, as evidenced by the significant rise in dangerous heat days and the associated risks to human health and safety. The urgent call for nations to pivot away from fossil fuels and to increase resilience measures is fundamental in addressing impending climate challenges. The ongoing rise in extreme weather incidents and their toll on populations serve as compelling evidence that immediate and collaborative action is paramount for sustainable recovery and future preparedness.
Original Source: www.pna.gov.ph
