A recent study conducted by the World Weather Attribution (WWA) has revealed that climate change has made India's April heatwave 45 times more likely. The study warns of the increasing recurrence of extreme heat incidents as global temperatures continue to rise towards 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
The report, authored by seven scientists and reviewed by six others, focuses on the quantification of the impact of human-caused warming on extreme temperatures. It builds upon previous findings for the years 2022 and 2023, highlighting the influence of rising global mean surface temperatures on extreme heat events.
Using weather data and peer-reviewed models, the scientists compared the current climate with 1.2 degrees of global warming to the cooler pre-industrial climate. They analyzed temperature trends across different regions of Asia, including West Asia, the Philippines, and South Asia.
The study's analysis revealed a significant increase in the probability of heatwave events, with temperatures rising by approximately 1 degree Celsius in average daily maximum temperatures. This trend was particularly evident during India's summer of 2024.
While acknowledging the influence of El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on extreme weather events, the researchers emphasized that changes in ENSO are not expected to affect the global mean surface temperature-driven trend in April mean temperatures.
The study underscores the urgent need for enhanced cross-sectoral collaboration and immediate relief measures during heatwaves to mitigate their recurrent impacts and protect vulnerable populations effectively. It suggests that current efforts to prepare for extreme heat incidents must be accelerated and expanded to safeguard those most at risk.
In conclusion, the study highlights the pressing need for proactive measures to address the growing threat of heatwaves exacerbated by climate change and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the protection of vulnerable communities in the face of rising temperatures.
