Weather Tracker: Record Rain and Extreme Temperatures Across the Globe

Spain is experiencing historic rainfall leading to flooding, with Jerez de la Frontera setting a record for rainfall in 24 hours. South Africa faces severe storms resulting in injuries and fatalities. Japan has recorded the longest period without snow on Mount Fuji, and Western Australia is experiencing unusually high temperatures, prompting concerns for both conditions and responses to climate change.

In recent weeks, a low-pressure system has brought severe weather conditions to Spain, resulting in significant rainfall that has led to catastrophic flooding in Valencia and other southern regions. Notably, Jerez de la Frontera experienced an unprecedented downpour of 115mm within a 24-hour period, marking the wettest day in the city’s history. This intense rainfall has triggered flooding and road closures, with concerns that the River Barbate in Cádiz may overflow as additional rain is anticipated through Friday and into the weekend. While the stringent red weather warning for Valencia has been lifted, the national meteorological service, Aemet, has retained yellow and orange warnings for other southern and Mediterranean areas as storms persist. Simultaneously, in northeastern South Africa, severe thunderstorms have prompted the South African Weather Service to issue a yellow warning, following reports of strong winds, hail, and heavy rain that resulted in over 40 injuries and four fatalities due to collapsing infrastructure. Notably, hail damage has severely affected more than 30 schools, compounding the impact of flooding, which has led to road closures and significant power outages. In Japan, October has seen the establishment of a new record for the longest duration without snow atop Mount Fuji, surpassing the previous record set in 1955. Traditionally, snow falls on Mount Fuji in early October; however, this year, warm summer temperatures and elevated sea temperatures have delayed snowfall, which is expected to persist for several more days. Lastly, northern regions of Western Australia have experienced unusually high temperatures in recent days, with Roebourne recording a staggering 45.3°C over the weekend, marking the highest October temperature in 15 years. Although a cold front is expected to provide some relief, the heat is projected to move across central and southern Australia, with Adelaide and Sydney anticipating temperatures significantly above seasonal averages for the upcoming weekend.

This article discusses the extreme weather events affecting various parts of the world, particularly focusing on Spain’s recent catastrophic flooding, rainfall records, and ongoing storms. It also highlights related weather phenomena in South Africa, Japan, and Australia. The analysis underscores the impact of climate variability and changing weather patterns on local communities, infrastructure, and environmental conditions, stimulating a broader discussion about climate resilience and preparedness.

In conclusion, various regions are currently facing significant weather challenges. Spain grapples with historical rainfall and the consequent flooding, South Africa deals with severe thunderstorms causing injuries and fatalities, Japan observes an unprecedented delay in snowfall on Mount Fuji due to climatic conditions, and Australia experiences unseasonably high temperatures. These events underline the pressing need for effective weather monitoring and emergency preparedness to mitigate the impact of adverse weather on communities and infrastructure.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com