Extreme Weather Events’ Get a Boost With the Climate Change

It's indeed really hard for people to experience global warming firsthand because as human beings we can't see carbon in the air with the naked eye. But rather, for most of us, climate change manifests itself with heatwaves, storms, wildfires, floods, and droughts.

What About The Noticeable Consequences?

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One of the most visible consequences of a warming world is the increase in the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events. This condition, referred to as extreme weather events, is defined by scientists based on historical records of weather in a particular region. A weather event is considered extreme if it differs from 90% or 95% of similar weather events that have previously occurred in the same region.

Both the number and severity of heatwaves, heavy downpours, and major hurricanes are observed to be increased throughout the world. Climate change is expected to exacerbate the frequency, intensity, and effects of some extreme weather events.

Chain Reaction: Wildfires, Hurricanes and Floods

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Global warming can increase the intensity of heatwaves by increasing the number of very hot days and nights. Warming air also increases evaporation, which can worsen drought. More droughts create dry forests that are more prone to blazes, which means a longer wildfire season. Global warming can also increase water vapor in the atmosphere, causing more frequent heavy rain and snowstorms.

A warmer and wetter atmosphere over the oceans causes stronger hurricanes, produce more and larger rain. Global warming also causes global sea level rise due to excess rainfall pushed ashore during coastal storms. Rising seawater, along with more rainfall, can cause devastating floods.

Social and Economic Impacts of Natural Disasters

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While extreme weather conditions around the world are becoming the new normal, every extreme weather event comes with millions of dollars worth of damage and hazard. That's why many countries, cities and businesses are taking steps to get prepared for more challenging weather events.

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