A recent study by World Weather Attribution has revealed the shocking impact of human-induced climate change, suggesting that it has doubled the probability and intensity of heavy rains that have led to devastating floods in Central Europe. The study found that the torrential rain from Storm Boris in mid-September resulted in widespread damage across various Central European countries. The aftermath of the storm was catastrophic, claiming 24 lives, destroying critical infrastructure, and causing massive power outages.
The study pointed out that human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, have contributed significantly to climate change, making the severe four-day rainfall twice as probable and between 7% and 20% more intense. The researchers utilized climate models to analyze the impact of human-induced climate change, comparing how these events have evolved since pre-industrial times.
The findings of the study also warn about the future possibilities if global warming continues to rise. If global warming reaches 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, the likelihood of severe four-day storms would increase by 50%. These storms would also grow in intensity, further exacerbating the already dire situation.
Despite advanced preparation and early forecasting, the flooding caused by Storm Boris led to extensive damage, highlighting the costly consequences of climate change. In response to this disaster, the European Union has committed €10 billion in aid, indicating the significant economic toll of these climate-related occurrences.
The study, led by Joyce Kimutai of Imperial College London, found the “fingerprints of climate change” in the intense rainfall. Kimutai’s research indicates a clear link between the use of fossil fuels and the severity of weather events. She warns that if the planet warms to 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, storms like Boris will occur 50% more often and bring at least 5% more rain. This would lead to more devastating floods, posing a serious threat to people’s lives, environments, and economies.
Human-caused climate change is not only a future threat – it is already causing significant meteorological changes and catastrophic events. The situation calls for an immediate and effective response to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and slow down global warming, in an attempt to mitigate its devastating consequences.
Science4Data is committed to cut through greenwashing and measure real impact. Join the journey to a sustainable future. Your actions matter.
