A study by World Weather Attribution reveals that climate change exacerbated six storms in the Philippines from October to November 2024, resulting in over 170 deaths and significant economic losses. The research highlights a concerning trend of increased intensity and frequency of typhoons as climate change continues to impact weather patterns.
A recent study, published on December 13, 2024, found that climate change significantly intensified a series of six consecutive storms in the Philippines, resulting in over 170 fatalities between October and November 2024. During this 23-day period, five typhoons and one tropical storm displaced approximately 1.4 million people and incurred an estimated economic loss of nearly US$500 million. The analysis by World Weather Attribution (WWA) indicated that climate change has increased the likelihood of more powerful typhoons reaching Category 3 to 5 levels due to elevated ocean temperatures and favorable atmospheric conditions.
The research team composed of experts from the Philippines, the UK, and the Netherlands determined that climate change has nearly doubled the probability of conditions conducive to the formation of such storms, including higher sea surface temperatures and humidity levels. Utilizing advanced computer modeling, the team revealed a 25 percent increase in the likelihood of experiencing at least three powerful typhoons in a given year.
Dr. Ben Clarke, a researcher at the Centre for Environmental Policy at Imperial College London, remarked, “The barrage of typhoons was supercharged by climate change.” He noted the unusual frequency of typhoons impacting the Philippines within a month and emphasized that these conditions are likely to persist as global temperatures rise. The study aligns with the findings of the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service, which reported that 2024 is projected to be the warmest year on record, attributing this to increasing temperatures that have also warmed ocean waters.
The Philippines, located in a region of the Pacific Ocean that produces a third of the world’s tropical cyclones, experienced an unprecedented occurrence of four named storms simultaneously in November 2024. Notable storms included Tropical Storm Trami, which resulted in multiple fatalities, and Super Typhoon Kong-Rey, which caused additional destruction before reaching Taiwan. The WWA’s extensive research has consistently linked individual extreme weather events to climate change, underscoring the growing concern that these storms are becoming increasingly destructive.
Joseph Basconcillo, a climatologist with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration, noted, “Having five typhoons in less than a month was extraordinary, and our study found that climate change made them much more destructive.” The WWA continues to study the impact of climate change on various extreme weather phenomena globally, reinforcing the urgent need to address the effects of rising temperatures on our climate.
The phenomenon of climate change refers to long-term alterations in temperature and typical weather patterns in a place. It has been shown to affect various environmental and social systems, often intensifying natural disasters like typhoons and hurricanes. The Philippines, particularly vulnerable due to its geographical location, regularly experiences tropical cyclones. However, recent studies demonstrate that global warming is increasing the severity and frequency of these storms, leading to devastating human and economic impacts. Researchers advocate for a more profound understanding of how climate change influences extreme weather events to mitigate future risks and enhance preparedness efforts.
The recent study illustrates a concerning trend in how climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of storms in the Philippines, resulting in significant loss of life and property. The findings emphasize the increasing likelihood of powerful typhoons due to warmer ocean temperatures and favorable atmospheric conditions fostered by climate change. Experts urge that this alarming pattern should drive concerted efforts for climate action and disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions.
Original Source: asianews.network
