What are the main causes of extreme weather events in 2024?.

Extreme weather events in 2024 are primarily caused by several interrelated factors:

Key Facts

• Climate Change: Global temperatures have risen by approximately 1.2°C since the pre-industrial era, intensifying weather patterns.
• Ocean Temperatures: The rise in sea surface temperatures has been linked to increased hurricane strength and frequency.
• Atmospheric Conditions: Changes in the jet stream due to warming can lead to prolonged weather patterns, resulting in extreme events like heatwaves and heavy rainfall.
• Human Activity: Urbanization and land use changes contribute to flooding and heat islands, exacerbating extreme weather.

Examples or Use Cases

• Hurricanes: The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season has seen an increase in Category 4 and 5 hurricanes due to warmer ocean waters.
• Heatwaves: Many regions experienced record-breaking temperatures, leading to health crises and increased energy demands.

FAQs

• How does climate change affect extreme weather? Climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme weather through various mechanisms, including higher temperatures and altered precipitation patterns.
• What can be done to mitigate extreme weather? Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving urban planning, and enhancing disaster preparedness are critical steps.