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Global Water Monitor Report-2024
Context:
The 2024 Global Water Monitor Report by the Australian National University highlights the significant disruption of the global water cycle caused by climate change, resulting in devastating water-related disasters, economic losses, and record-breaking weather phenomena.
Global Impact of Water-Related Disasters in 2024
- Deaths and Displacement: Over 8,700 deaths and displacement of 40 million people were reported globally due to water-related disasters.
- Economic Losses: Climate-induced disasters caused losses exceeding $550 billion worldwide.
Wayanad Landslides, India
- Extreme Rainfall: A staggering 409 millimetres of rain within 24 hours in July triggered devastating landslides.
- Casualties and Losses: The landslides claimed 375 lives, displaced 10,000 people, and caused economic losses of $140 million.
Other Notable Water-Related Disasters
- Afghanistan-Pakistan Floods: Widespread flash floods killed over 1,000 people.
- East Africa Flooding: Intense rainfall caused heavy flooding, severely impacting livelihoods.
- Amazon Basin Drought and Bushfires: Prolonged droughts led to severe bushfires, with rising sea surface temperatures as a key driver.
Rising Global Temperatures
- Record Heat: 2024 saw the highest global average land temperatures ever recorded.
- Frequency of Warm Months: The occurrence of record-warm months was the highest since 1979.
- Temperature Extremes: 34 countries reported record-high annual maximum temperatures, with minimum temperatures increasing, particularly in tropical regions.
Extreme Rainfall Events
- Increased Frequency: Extreme rainfall events occurred 52% more frequently, with record rainfall totals increasing by 4% per decade.
- Regional Records: West Africa, Europe, and Asia experienced new record-high precipitation levels.
Declining Frost Days and Increasing Humidity
- Reduced Frost Days: Thirteen countries, including India and ten in Europe, reported unusually low frost days.
- Higher Humidity: 2024 recorded the highest relative air humidity over land since 2018, especially along the Indian Arabian Sea coast.
Declining Water Storage
- Global Declines: Terrestrial water storage, including lakes and reservoirs, continued its fifth consecutive year of reductions.
- Regional Variations: South America recorded unprecedented lows, while Africa experienced record-high water levels in some areas.
Predictions for 2025
- Intense Droughts: Likely in regions such as northern South America, southern Africa, Central Asia, and parts of North America and Australia.
- Heightened Flood Risks: Expected in the Sahel, Horn of Africa, Europe, and most of Asia.
- Extreme Weather Events: An increase in flash floods, flash droughts, intense storms, and heatwaves is predicted due to ongoing climate change.
- This report emphasises the urgency of addressing climate change to mitigate its impact on the global water cycle and reduce future disaster risks.
