The Intensifying Impact of Climate Change on Natural Disasters and Human Lives

Natural disasters are increasing due to climate change, with significant impacts observed globally. Recent events, such as wildfires in Hawaii and hurricanes in the Philippines, underline the urgent need for effective environmental stewardship. Individuals are encouraged to participate in conservation efforts to help mitigate these climate-related issues.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) highlights that climate-related effects are increasingly apparent today, affecting both people and the environment around the world. These impacts, which differ by region, exemplify the urgent consequences of climate change.

In August 2023, a devastating wildfire in Maui resulted in at least 100 fatalities and caused damages estimated at $5.5 billion, destroying over 2,200 structures. According to earth.org, rainfall in Hawaii has decreased by 18% over the past 30 years, worsening water shortages and leading to unusual drought conditions despite the island’s generally wet climate.

Mexico is currently experiencing a prolonged drought attributed to insufficient rainfall, which has exacerbated heatwaves, leading to agricultural distress and water scarcity. Haley Thiem, a meteorologist and science writer, reported the heat-related deaths of 125 people in June 2024 and noted the negative impact on community resources, including power outages and decreased water availability.

In September 2024, Europe faced significant flooding due to Storm Boris, which unleashed a month’s worth of rain in just 24 hours. This disaster resulted in widespread evacuations, destruction of homes, and approximately 26 casualties, emphasizing the devastating effects of such extreme weather, as noted by the Center for Disaster Philanthropy.

The Philippines endured a series of typhoons in November 2024, leading to the loss of 151 lives and impacting about 8.8 million individuals. The National Centre for Atmospheric Science explained that warmer temperatures contribute to the increased strength of typhoons, resulting from heightened humidity and sea surface temperatures, alongside changes in atmospheric circulation.

Coral bleaching, primarily caused by rising ocean temperatures, is increasingly frequent and severe as noted by Derek Manzello, a NOAA CRW coordinator. Reports indicate a 0.5 degrees Celsius rise in ocean surface temperatures since 1860, with predictions of a 1.5 degrees Celsius increase by 2030 to 2050, as stated on the Coral Guardian’s website.

Rebecca Lindsey from climate.gov pointed out that global sea levels have risen approximately 8-9 inches since 1880, driven by the melting of glaciers and ice sheets due to warming seawater. As of 2023, the global mean sea level was reported to be 101.4 millimeters above the 1993 average, marking a record high.

Alyssa Parry, a marine biology senior, reflects on the dual perspectives regarding climate conditions, suggesting that while prophecies denote an increase in natural disasters, scientific evidence indicates human actions significantly heighten these occurrences. Parry advocates for environmental stewardship through initiatives like beach clean-ups to responsibly manage resources.

In emphasizing the importance of small, proactive actions, Dean Murcillos encourages individuals to recycle and take personal responsibility in environmental efforts. Angela Kate Cruz-Murcillos echoes this sentiment, advocating for mindful stewardship to enhance appreciation for the environment, illustrating a broader commitment to preserving natural resources.

Alumnus Gerome Romero asserts that every effort counts in conserving the Earth. He urges individuals to take initiative and engage in actions that promote positive environmental change, reinforcing the idea that collective small efforts can yield substantial benefits for the planet.

In summary, climate change manifests through various natural disasters, including wildfires, droughts, flooding, typhoons, coral bleaching, and rising sea levels. The number of casualties and the extent of damage associated with these events underscore the urgency of addressing climate impacts. Individuals play a crucial role in mitigating these challenges through proactive environmental stewardship and responsible resource management, emphasizing the need for collective action to ensure a sustainable future.

Original Source: kealakai.byuh.edu