A recent study has revealed that the extreme rainfall experienced in East Africa between March and May was amplified by the dual forces of climate change and rapid urban growth. This catastrophic weather event led to widespread flooding, causing a significant loss of life, displacement of thousands of individuals, and severe damage to livestock and crops.
The research findings indicate that climate change has not only doubled the likelihood of such heavy rains occurring but also increased their intensity by 5%. Furthermore, this trend of increased rainfall frequency and intensity is projected to continue as global warming progresses.
Urbanization is another key factor contributing to the increased risk of flooding in East Africa. As cities in the region experience rapid growth, densely populated urban areas become more susceptible to flood damage. The floods exposed glaring weaknesses in urban planning for rapidly growing populations, with homes and roads being severely affected.
The study strongly advocates for the use of the loss and damage fund for climate disasters to repair and upgrade infrastructure, making it more resilient to the impacts of climate change. By investing in infrastructure improvements, the region can better equip itself to deal with the devastating aftermath of flooding and other weather-related disasters.
While extreme rainfall and flooding have made headlines, other weather events in East Africa have also been exacerbated by climate change. The study points out that the region’s “short rains” in late 2023 and a preceding three-year drought were similarly intensified by the ongoing changes in global climate.
The study underscores the urgent need for more robust urban planning and infrastructure development in East Africa, as well as the crucial role of global efforts to mitigate climate change. By addressing these issues, East Africa can better prepare for and respond to extreme weather events, minimizing their devastating impacts on communities and economies.
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