The summer of 2023 was the hottest in world history. More than 460,000 hectares of forest have been burned by wildfires this year. The latest data from April and May 2024 suggests that a new record could be set this year as well.
Over the past decades, Europe has experienced frequent and severe weather and climate-related natural disasters, including droughts, forest fires, heat waves, storms and heavy rains. Climate change will make these events more intense and frequent.
Extreme temperatures are not only affecting the health of vulnerable people, but also causing sleep disorders for everyone. Rivers and lakes are drying up, affecting all life that depends on them. Soils are also drying out, increasing the risk of fires and reducing agricultural productivity.
Other parts of Europe are experiencing extreme rainfall, which can flood buildings within minutes and damage property and infrastructure. Coastal areas are at increased risk of storm surges, which can flood buildings and farmland. Wind speeds are reaching unprecedented levels in Europe, causing accidents and severe damage to property. Other parts of Europe are experiencing severe cold spells.
These events are, unfortunately, a reminder of the changeable and volatile climate to which Europe needs to adapt and prepare, while taking steps to drastically reduce carbon emissions to slow and limit climate change.
