Scientists have issued a warning about a storm in California that could inundate residential areas with floodwaters as high as 20 feet and submerge everything between San Francisco and Los Angeles. This scenario has been named ARkStorm 2.0 and involves a chain of storms hitting the state one after the other, leading to a scene similar to the biblical flood, not only in name (ARkStorm - a direct play on Noah’s Ark from the biblical Genesis flood narrative) but also in the scale of devastation.&nbsp;ARkStorm stands for "Atmospheric River 1,000-year Storm" and was developed by the US Geological Survey (USGS) and federal, state and academic experts in 2010. The purpose was to help prepare for an extreme weather disaster driven by atmospheric rivers. These long and narrow corridors flowing in the sky carry water vapour from the tropics towards higher latitudes. When they reach California, ARs slam into coastal mountains or the Sierra Nevada, with condensation leading to heavy rain or snow.&nbsp;They are integral to the state's water supply and weather, but a glitch can cause them to sometimes arrive in quick succession. This would trigger a deluge, floods of astronomical levels, and landslides. In the ARkStorm 2.0 scenario, multiple atmospheric rivers will slam into the West Coast over nearly 30 days, dumping huge amounts of rain and snow, the Daily Mail reported. Floodwaters could reach 20 feet in some areas, more than 1.5 million people would have to be evacuated, and the losses from the destruction will exceed $1 trillion.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sea-ice-twice-the-size-of-rajasthan-goes-missing-from-antarctica-in-winter-1781702114417">Sea ice twice the size of Rajasthan goes missing from Antarctica in winter</a>&nbsp;California has been historically hit by several floods, including the Great Flood of 1861-62. Storms wreaked havoc across the state for nearly 45 days, and the Central Valley turned into a lake nearly 500 kilometres long. Everything submerged in the deluge, and the capital had to be shifted to San Francisco. ARkStorm 2.0 was modelled on this massive flood.&nbsp;Historical records show that California has witnessed storms worse than the one in 1861. At least six storms have struck the state in the past 1,800 years, which proves another massive storm could be coming.<h2>How climate change worsens the storm situation in California</h2>With climate change a very real threat today, this scenario is becoming increasingly plausible. In 2022, scientists explored how this would happen in a warmer world. The "expanding atmospheric sponge effect" is one of the changes, which means for every 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit of warming, storms will have nearly seven per cent more water vapour in the atmosphere to play with. Weather events such as this that used to occur once every two centuries could happen three times per century by around 2060.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/china-storms-strong-winds-fling-woman-into-air-tornado-plucks-man-from-high-rise-building-1783571900938">China storms: Strong winds fling woman into air, tornado plucks man from high-rise building</a>&nbsp;Secondly, the frozen precipitation in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada would start falling as rainfall, with the warmer waters melting more snow, thus adding to the water levels. The runoff would rise by 200 to 400 per cent and cause rivers to be filled and spread through the Central Valley. The USGS has said that the existing flood defences, such as the levees, canals and pumping stations, are not built to withstand ARkStorm 2.0.&nbsp;California is working to strengthen the systems in place to fight such a storm. It will spend an estimated $30 billion over 30 years for this. However, experts say the timeline needs to speed up, even though there is no clarity on when this mega storm will hit California.&nbsp; &nbsp;

California could witness a catastrophic storm in the coming years, according to scientists. The scenario has been named ARkStorm 2.0, a wordplay on Noah's Ark and the Great Flood mentioned in the Bible, because this one would also be mammoth. 

Scientists have issued a warning about a storm in California that could inundate residential areas with floodwaters as high as 20 feet and submerge everything between San Francisco and Los Angeles. This scenario has been named ARkStorm 2.0 and involves a chain of storms hitting the state one after the other, leading to a scene similar to the biblical flood, not only in name (ARkStorm - a direct play on Noah’s Ark from the biblical Genesis flood narrative) but also in the scale of devastation. ARkStorm stands for "Atmospheric River 1,000-year Storm" and was developed by the US Geological Survey (USGS) and federal, state and academic experts in 2010. The purpose was to help prepare for an extreme weather disaster driven by atmospheric rivers. These long and narrow corridors flowing in the sky carry water vapour from the tropics towards higher latitudes. When they reach California, ARs slam into coastal mountains or the Sierra Nevada, with condensation leading to heavy rain or snow. They are integral to the state's water supply and weather, but a glitch can cause them to sometimes arrive in quick succession. This would trigger a deluge, floods of astronomical levels, and landslides. In the ARkStorm 2.0 scenario, multiple atmospheric rivers will slam into the West Coast over nearly 30 days, dumping huge amounts of rain and snow, the Daily Mail reported. Floodwaters could reach 20 feet in some areas, more than 1.5 million people would have to be evacuated, and the losses from the destruction will exceed $1 trillion. Also Read: Sea ice twice the size of Rajasthan goes missing from Antarctica in winter California has been historically hit by several floods, including the Great Flood of 1861-62. Storms wreaked havoc across the state for nearly 45 days, and the Central Valley turned into a lake nearly 500 kilometres long. Everything submerged in the deluge, and the capital had to be shifted to San Francisco. ARkStorm 2.0 was modelled on this massive flood. Historical records show that California has witnessed storms worse than the one in 1861. At least six storms have struck the state in the past 1,800 years, which proves another massive storm could be coming. How climate change worsens the storm situation in California With climate change a very real threat today, this scenario is becoming increasingly plausible. In 2022, scientists explored how this would happen in a warmer world. The "expanding atmospheric sponge effect" is one of the changes, which means for every 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit of warming, storms will have nearly seven per cent more water vapour in the atmosphere to play with. Weather events such as this that used to occur once every two centuries could happen three times per century by around 2060. Also Read: China storms: Strong winds fling woman into air, tornado plucks man from high-rise building Secondly, the frozen precipitation in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada would start falling as rainfall, with the warmer waters melting more snow, thus adding to the water levels. The runoff would rise by 200 to 400 per cent and cause rivers to be filled and spread through the Central Valley. The USGS has said that the existing flood defences, such as the levees, canals and pumping stations, are not built to withstand ARkStorm 2.0. California is working to strengthen the systems in place to fight such a storm. It will spend an estimated $30 billion over 30 years for this. However, experts say the timeline needs to speed up, even though there is no clarity on when this mega storm will hit California.

California could witness a catastrophic storm in the coming years, according to scientists. The scenario has been named ARkStorm 2.0, a wordplay on Noah's Ark and the Great Flood mentioned in the Bible, because this one would also be mammoth.&nbsp;

California at risk of ARkStorm, a 1,000-year megastorm caused by a 30-day lashing

Scientists are turning to an unlikely ally beneath the ocean surface: sharks.

Researchers at the University of Delaware are fitting sharks with tiny CTD tags that measure temperature, salinity and depth as the animals travel through the Atlantic Ocean.

When the sharks return to the surface, the tags transmit their data to satellites, transforming their natural movements into valuable ocean observations.

Scientists hope these measurements could provide information from parts of the ocean that are difficult and expensive to monitor using conventional methods. The data could eventually help researchers better understand the ocean conditions that influence hurricane development, intensity and movement.

Sharks Become Ocean Sensors | Scientists Explore New Way to Predict Hurricanes Using Shark Movements

A powerful El Niño event is raising concerns across emerging economies as experts warn of weaker harvests, rising food prices, and renewed inflation pressures. Forecasts suggest the climate phenomenon could become one of the strongest in decades, affecting agricultural output, energy markets, and economic stability worldwide. Countries already grappling with elevated costs and tighter financial conditions may face additional challenges as weather disruptions intensify. From farmers and consumers to policymakers and central banks, the impact could be widespread.

El Niño threatens emerging economies

Europe's relentless heatwave is doing more than drying up rivers and lakes—it is exposing long-hidden pieces of history. As water levels plunge to historic lows, World War II relics, abandoned vessels, and other forgotten artifacts are emerging from beneath Europe's waterways.

Experts say the discoveries offer a rare glimpse into one of the darkest chapters of the 20th century while also highlighting the growing impact of climate change and prolonged drought across the continent

Europe's Heatwave Uncovers WWII Secrets Beneath Rivers | Hidden Relics Emerge as Water Levels Plunge

Kashmir's breathtaking landscapes have long made it one of India's most sought-after tourist destinations. But rapid tourism-driven construction is now raising serious environmental concerns. According to official figures, more than 5,000 hotels have been built across the Kashmir Valley since 2021, with authorities stating that around 90% allegedly lack the required approvals. Popular destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Gurez, and Doodhpathri are witnessing a surge in hotels, homestays, and commercial buildings.

Kashmir's Tourism Boom Sparks Environmental Alarm | 90% of New Hotels Allegedly Illegal

Kashmir's breathtaking landscapes have long made it one of India's most sought-after tourist destinations. But rapid tourism-driven construction is now raising serious environmental concerns. According to official figures, more than 5,000 hotels have been built across the Kashmir Valley since 2021, with authorities stating that around 90% allegedly lack the required approvals. Popular destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Gurez, and Doodhpathri are witnessing a surge in hotels, homestays, and commercial buildings.


Kashmir's Tourism Boom Sparks Environmental Fears | 90% of New Hotels Allegedly Illegal

India's monsoon emergency continues to intensify as devastating floods wreak havoc across multiple states, with Assam remaining the worst affected. The flood death toll in Assam has climbed to 78, while more than 3 lakh people across seven districts continue to battle rising waters, damaged homes, and widespread destruction. Over 550 villages remain submerged, and more than 21,500 hectares of farmland have been destroyed, severely impacting livelihoods. Relief and rescue operations are underway as authorities distribute food, clothing, and essential supplies to affected communities. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reviewed the flood situation with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and assured all possible assistance from the central government. An inter-ministerial team has also completed its assessment of flood damage in Upper Assam.

Assam Flood Death Toll Rises to 78 as Heavy Rain Triggers Fresh Alerts Across India

Europe is battling one of its most destructive wildfire seasons as Spain and France continue to face rapidly spreading blazes fueled by extreme heat, dry conditions, and strong winds. In eastern Spain, a deadly wildfire near Valencia has claimed one life, while firefighters have managed to bring parts of the blaze under control. Large areas have been reduced to ashes, with nearby communities suffering extensive damage. The wildfire emergency has also spread across regions surrounding Madrid, forcing authorities to issue mass evacuation orders. Spain's Military Emergency Unit has been deployed to support rescue operations, while firefighters continue battling flames using helicopters, water bombers, and ground crews. Tens of thousands of residents have fled their homes, and many others are receiving medical treatment for smoke inhalation.

Europe Wildfires Rage On | Spain and France Battle Deadly Blazes | Thousands Evacuated

Europe is battling one of its most severe wildfire emergencies as devastating blazes continue to spread across Spain and France, forcing mass evacuations and stretching emergency services to their limits.

In eastern Spain, firefighters worked tirelessly to contain a deadly wildfire near Valencia, where one person lost their life. Dramatic visuals show emergency crews using helicopters and water tankers to battle flames as nearby buildings and landscapes were left covered in ash. Authorities say the blaze in Manises has been brought under control, but smoke continues to pose health risks for residents.

Europe Wildfires rage on: Spain & France battle deadly blazes | Thousands evacuated 

France and Spain are battling one of the worst wildfire emergencies in recent years as extreme heat, dry conditions, and powerful winds fuel massive blazes across Western Europe.

In France, thousands of residents have been evacuated after wildfires burned more than 14,000 hectares, forcing people to flee by land and sea. Tourist destinations have also been affected as emergency crews race to contain the flames.

In Spain, firefighters are battling fast-moving wildfires near Madrid and other regions, while authorities have declared emergency measures. NASA even evacuated one of its deep-space communication facilities as flames approached the area. European Union countries have deployed specialized firefighting aircraft to support efforts across both nations.

Europe Wildfire Crisis | France and Spain Battle massive blazes amid extreme heat

Tara Polar Station is an aluminium igloo travelling to the Arctic with 12 people and a dog on board. It will drift through the North Pole for nearly 500 days and collect samples to study the impact of climate change. It will be a risky affair and is the first of 10 expeditions over 20 years.

500 days, -52 C, polar bears and total isolation: 12 humans and a dog undertake an arduous North Pole expedition

Torrential monsoon rains have triggered devastating flash floods and landslides in Nagaland, leaving at least eight people dead and several others injured. Homes have been washed away, roads blocked, and rescue teams continue searching for those feared trapped under debris. Authorities have deployed disaster response teams, police, and Assam Rifles personnel as heavy rainfall continues to batter the region.

Nagaland flash floods turn deadly | 8 Killed, landslides trigger massive destruction

Heavy monsoon rains have triggered devastating flash floods and landslides across Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts, killing at least 10 people and leaving many missing. Rescue teams from the NDRF, SDRF, police, and local administration are working round the clock as roads, bridges, and homes have been destroyed. Authorities have issued fresh weather warnings as relief operations continue.

Monsoon fury in Jammu & Kashmir | Deadly flash floods and landslides wreak havoc


Massive wildfire smoke from Canada has spread across major cities in both Canada and the United States, triggering hazardous air quality alerts and reducing visibility. Toronto, Detroit, Chicago, Minneapolis, and New York have all been affected as officials warn of serious health risks from toxic smoke while wildfires continue to burn across northwestern Ontario.

Canadian wildfire smoke engulfs US & Canada | Air quality alerts issued as wildfires rage

A dramatic video shows a train surrounded by towering wildfire flames as crews rushed to safety during Canada's ongoing wildfire emergency. Authorities said rail operations were disrupted as more than 100 active wildfires continued to burn across the country, forcing precautionary measures and raising safety concerns. The incident highlights the growing impact of Canada's wildfire season on transportation networks, communities, and air quality. Emergency crews remain on high alert as firefighters battle rapidly spreading blazes fueled by dry conditions and strong winds.

Canada wildfires surround train as massive fires disrupt rail operations across the country 

How will humanity tell the story of its self-manufactured destruction? The answer lies in a striking, angular steel monolith known as "Earth's Black Box." Hidden away on Tasmania's rugged, isolated West Coast, this silent witness is being constructed to stand as an apocalyptic archive. Amid climate change, rising temperatures and an increasingly divisive world, representatives of our species have decided to set up a box that will record and keep safe the story of humans for whatever civilisation comes next. The so-called Earth's Black Box was contructed in 2022, and would be up and running by the end of this year, if all goes to plan. But, why does humanity need such a sinister thing? All you need to know.&nbsp;<h2>'History is written by the victors' but humans will be the losers</h2>Named after the black box flight recorder, an almost indestructible device on airplanes that stores flight data, including pilots’ decisions, and helps investigators reconstruct accidents, this historical record would "provide an unbiased account of the events that lead to the demise of the planet".In this dark metaphorical rewrite, for the purpose of this project, think of Earth as the plane and humanity the pilot, flying it toward a catastrophic system failure.<h2>But, why does why does humanity need such a sinister record?</h2>"Unless we dramatically transform our way of life, climate change and other man-made perils will cause our civilization to crash. Earth’s Black Box will record every step we take towards this catastrophe," read's the project's website.According to CNN, the box is actually part art installation, part data repository, part time capsule and part a warning. The box's primary purpose, as per the people behind it, including ad agency Clemenger, environmental communications agency Rouser Lab and art collective Glue Society is to generate fear and snap people into action against the escalating climate crisis.<h2>Inside the monolith engineered to outlast us: Where will humanity's tenebrous history rest for the next civilisation?</h2>The <a href="https://www.instagram.com/earthsblackbox/">Black Box</a> will be housed on a disused airport in Tasmania. According to the project's website, it will roughly be the size of a city bus and will be made using 3-inch-steel. It will be surrounded by concrete panels and a roof of tough glass with solar panels, rendering it virtually indestructible, in case of a apocalyptic future.The box will record everything that could potentially lead to humanity's demise, including climate data points and pieces of contextual information, everything from temperatures and sea level rise to political speeches and climate reports.Rob Beamish, founder and creative director of Rouser Lab, called it "an almost indestructible, self-powered device for recording data."&nbsp;The records are not just for future civilisations, people would also be able to access the findings via their phones once the box is up and running. However, the core idea is to create a historical record for future civilisations.While the box aims to provoke fear, Beamish said there's still hope. "The plane’s still in the air … there is still hope to really avoid the very worst of climate change," he said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

What if humanity disappeared tomorrow? A giant steel 'Black Box' being built in Tasmania aims to preserve the story of how civilisation changed the planet and possibly destroyed itself. Scroll down to find out why the project exists, what it will record, and who it's really meant for.

How will humanity tell the story of its self-manufactured destruction? The answer lies in a striking, angular steel monolith known as "Earth's Black Box." Hidden away on Tasmania's rugged, isolated West Coast, this silent witness is being constructed to stand as an apocalyptic archive. Amid climate change, rising temperatures and an increasingly divisive world, representatives of our species have decided to set up a box that will record and keep safe the story of humans for whatever civilisation comes next. The so-called Earth's Black Box was contructed in 2022, and would be up and running by the end of this year, if all goes to plan. But, why does humanity need such a sinister thing? All you need to know. 'History is written by the victors' but humans will be the losers Named after the black box flight recorder, an almost indestructible device on airplanes that stores flight data, including pilots’ decisions, and helps investigators reconstruct accidents, this historical record would "provide an unbiased account of the events that lead to the demise of the planet". In this dark metaphorical rewrite, for the purpose of this project, think of Earth as the plane and humanity the pilot, flying it toward a catastrophic system failure. But, why does why does humanity need such a sinister record? "Unless we dramatically transform our way of life, climate change and other man-made perils will cause our civilization to crash. Earth’s Black Box will record every step we take towards this catastrophe," read's the project's website. According to CNN, the box is actually part art installation, part data repository, part time capsule and part a warning. The box's primary purpose, as per the people behind it, including ad agency Clemenger, environmental communications agency Rouser Lab and art collective Glue Society is to generate fear and snap people into action against the escalating climate crisis. Inside the monolith engineered to outlast us: Where will humanity's tenebrous history rest for the next civilisation? The Black Box will be housed on a disused airport in Tasmania. According to the project's website, it will roughly be the size of a city bus and will be made using 3-inch-steel. It will be surrounded by concrete panels and a roof of tough glass with solar panels, rendering it virtually indestructible, in case of a apocalyptic future. The box will record everything that could potentially lead to humanity's demise, including climate data points and pieces of contextual information, everything from temperatures and sea level rise to political speeches and climate reports. Rob Beamish, founder and creative director of Rouser Lab, called it "an almost indestructible, self-powered device for recording data." The records are not just for future civilisations, people would also be able to access the findings via their phones once the box is up and running. However, the core idea is to create a historical record for future civilisations. While the box aims to provoke fear, Beamish said there's still hope. "The plane’s still in the air … there is still hope to really avoid the very worst of climate change," he said.

What if humanity disappeared tomorrow? A giant steel 'Black Box' being built in Tasmania aims to preserve the story of how civilisation changed the planet and possibly destroyed itself. Scroll down to find out why the project exists, what it will record, and who it's really meant for.

Built to outlive us all: Earth is getting an indestructible ‘black box’ to record the end of human civilisation

In a world where nuclear war and climate change have become constant threats, a company has designed individual pods that can protect the person inside from major disasters. French startup Momentum Technologies' LifePods promise to keep the inhabitant safe when power, shelter and emergency services stop working. They were showcased at VivaTech and Eurosatory 2026 as survival capsules. The demand for such capsules has risen among global uncertainty, wars, the changing weather and natural disasters.&nbsp;The general public and governments are looking for items that can keep them safe during the worst-case scenarios. The instinct is to keep going and fight situations that threaten the existence of humans. LifePods are portable bunkers that can be moved around based on the requirements. They can be shipped like regular cargo, stacked and even airlifted.&nbsp;<h2>Pods for land and water disasters</h2>Two versions of the pod have been made. One is the B-01, which can house two people and resist bullets, blasts, and fire. The second is the W-01, which can hold up to four adults plus four children. It has been specifically designed as a floating pod for floods, tsunamis, and marine immersion.&nbsp;The B-01 has multiple protective layers made of high-strength technical steel and specialised insulation. Ballistic panel tests found the pods to be resistant to a 5.56x45-mm round travelling at 950 m/s (3,117 ft/s) and a 7.62x51-mm round at 830 m/s (2,723 ft/s). The claims of bullet-stopping capability for now are limited to the material and not the pod itself.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the W-01 uses passive hydrodynamic stability, the buoyant design, over motors or moving parts. Momentum Technologies termed early flotation tests "very encouraging." The market already has such pods from other companies, such as the Survival Capsule, a patented spherical shelter aimed at tsunamis, hurricanes, and earthquakes. They are two-person units with prices starting from US$21,700.&nbsp;The W-01 is expected to cost $37,800 to $43,200, while the B-01 could be priced at $31,300, excluding delivery and installation. Both pods need to clear full certification and prove they work as complete systems.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Survival pods meant to withstand bullets, blasts, and natural calamities like tsunamis and floods were showcased by Momentum Technologies. These portable bunkers are designed for specific disasters and can hold two to four people, plus children.

In a world where nuclear war and climate change have become constant threats, a company has designed individual pods that can protect the person inside from major disasters. French startup Momentum Technologies' LifePods promise to keep the inhabitant safe when power, shelter and emergency services stop working. They were showcased at VivaTech and Eurosatory 2026 as survival capsules. The demand for such capsules has risen among global uncertainty, wars, the changing weather and natural disasters. The general public and governments are looking for items that can keep them safe during the worst-case scenarios. The instinct is to keep going and fight situations that threaten the existence of humans. LifePods are portable bunkers that can be moved around based on the requirements. They can be shipped like regular cargo, stacked and even airlifted. Pods for land and water disasters Two versions of the pod have been made. One is the B-01, which can house two people and resist bullets, blasts, and fire. The second is the W-01, which can hold up to four adults plus four children. It has been specifically designed as a floating pod for floods, tsunamis, and marine immersion. The B-01 has multiple protective layers made of high-strength technical steel and specialised insulation. Ballistic panel tests found the pods to be resistant to a 5.56x45-mm round travelling at 950 m/s (3,117 ft/s) and a 7.62x51-mm round at 830 m/s (2,723 ft/s). The claims of bullet-stopping capability for now are limited to the material and not the pod itself. Meanwhile, the W-01 uses passive hydrodynamic stability, the buoyant design, over motors or moving parts. Momentum Technologies termed early flotation tests "very encouraging." The market already has such pods from other companies, such as the Survival Capsule, a patented spherical shelter aimed at tsunamis, hurricanes, and earthquakes. They are two-person units with prices starting from US$21,700. The W-01 is expected to cost $37,800 to $43,200, while the B-01 could be priced at $31,300, excluding delivery and installation. Both pods need to clear full certification and prove they work as complete systems.

Survival pods meant to withstand bullets, blasts, and natural calamities like tsunamis and floods were showcased by Momentum Technologies. These portable bunkers are designed for specific disasters and can hold two to four people, plus children.

You can soon buy survival pods that withstand blasts, tsunamis and other disasters for $43,200

Super El Niño has driven ocean temperatures to record levels, with two agencies reporting that they touched new highs last month. Scientists have warned that this is just the beginning and the ocean surface could get even hotter. The data was confirmed by the Copernicus Climate Change Service and the Copernicus Marine Service. “With ocean temperatures at these levels and El Niño on the horizon, we are likely to see more temperature records fall in the coming months,” said Copernicus Climate Change Service director Carlo Buontempo in a statement. He warned that the world is entering "uncharted territory."&nbsp;According to both Copernicus observation programs, global ocean temperatures in June 2026 surpassed those recorded in 2023 and 2024. Experts said that this "unprecedented level of warming" was due to climate change and El Niño. Scientists had earlier warned that El Niño would assume monstrous proportions in 2026, leading to extreme heat across the globe, along with floods and droughts. It is expected to be the worst one in over 150 years. The effects are already being felt in Europe, India and the United States.<h2>Ocean temperature surged to a record high</h2>Average ocean temperatures touched nearly 21 degrees Celsius last month. What we are seeing are the effects of climate change, and the world's oceans are facing the full brunt. Greenhouse gas emissions have surged and trap infrared radiation in the Earth’s atmosphere. But it retains only a tiny bit of it, with the excess heat being absorbed by the oceans. They are taking in more than 90 per cent of this excess heat generated by humans, according to reports.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-s-66-billion-trees-in-deserts-are-absorbing-more-co2-and-growing-faster-than-natural-ones-1782903613724">China's 66 billion trees in deserts are absorbing more CO2 and growing faster than natural ones</a><h2>Why this is killing oceans and consequently humans?</h2>The oceans protect us by soaking up the excess heat because of their incredibly high specific heat capacity. However, as they continue to warm, their ability to do this is adversely affected. They become incapable of absorbing CO2 over time. The ill health of the oceans means there is more CO2 left in the atmosphere, which accelerates global warming, creating a loop where oceans are further degraded. With more heat remaining in the atmosphere, conditions deteriorate, creating an unlivable environment.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/analysis-what-india-and-europe-can-learn-from-each-other-in-heat-preparedness-1782556349271">Analysis: What India and Europe can learn from each other in heat preparedness?</a><h2>Heat dome</h2>Super El Niño and climate change have combined to create one of the worst summers in Europe. The roads have melted, and people are struggling to survive as a heat dome has formed over this part of the world. The United States is also witnessing a heat dome in the week of July 4, leaving parts of North Carolina and surrounding places searing hot.

Oceans are bearing the brunt of climate change and El Niño, with surface temperatures touching a record high in June 2026. If humans keep pumping more emissions into the atmosphere, the oceans will fall sick forever, causing chaos worldwide.

Super El Niño has driven ocean temperatures to record levels, with two agencies reporting that they touched new highs last month. Scientists have warned that this is just the beginning and the ocean surface could get even hotter. The data was confirmed by the Copernicus Climate Change Service and the Copernicus Marine Service. “With ocean temperatures at these levels and El Niño on the horizon, we are likely to see more temperature records fall in the coming months,” said Copernicus Climate Change Service director Carlo Buontempo in a statement. He warned that the world is entering "uncharted territory." According to both Copernicus observation programs, global ocean temperatures in June 2026 surpassed those recorded in 2023 and 2024. Experts said that this "unprecedented level of warming" was due to climate change and El Niño. Scientists had earlier warned that El Niño would assume monstrous proportions in 2026, leading to extreme heat across the globe, along with floods and droughts. It is expected to be the worst one in over 150 years. The effects are already being felt in Europe, India and the United States. Ocean temperature surged to a record high Average ocean temperatures touched nearly 21 degrees Celsius last month. What we are seeing are the effects of climate change, and the world's oceans are facing the full brunt. Greenhouse gas emissions have surged and trap infrared radiation in the Earth’s atmosphere. But it retains only a tiny bit of it, with the excess heat being absorbed by the oceans. They are taking in more than 90 per cent of this excess heat generated by humans, according to reports. Also Read: China's 66 billion trees in deserts are absorbing more CO2 and growing faster than natural ones Why this is killing oceans and consequently humans? The oceans protect us by soaking up the excess heat because of their incredibly high specific heat capacity. However, as they continue to warm, their ability to do this is adversely affected. They become incapable of absorbing CO2 over time. The ill health of the oceans means there is more CO2 left in the atmosphere, which accelerates global warming, creating a loop where oceans are further degraded. With more heat remaining in the atmosphere, conditions deteriorate, creating an unlivable environment. Also Read: Analysis: What India and Europe can learn from each other in heat preparedness? Heat dome Super El Niño and climate change have combined to create one of the worst summers in Europe. The roads have melted, and people are struggling to survive as a heat dome has formed over this part of the world. The United States is also witnessing a heat dome in the week of July 4, leaving parts of North Carolina and surrounding places searing hot.

Oceans are bearing the brunt of climate change and El Niño, with surface temperatures touching a record high in June 2026. If humans keep pumping more emissions into the atmosphere, the oceans will fall sick forever, causing chaos worldwide.

Oceans were hottest in June 2026, pushing humanity towards a doomsday scenario

A study has found that trees planted by China in the past 48 years to contain the spread of two major deserts are growing faster than trees in natural forests. The country has planted 66 billion trees since 1978 as part of its "Great Green Wall" project. The work is aimed at slowing down the spread of the Gobi and Taklamakan deserts. It plans to plant 34 billion more trees by 2050. Scientists decided to study how these trees were different from the ones growing in forests. The ones planted were found to absorb large amounts of CO2, and their leaf area increased 66 per cent faster than natural ones.&nbsp;Researchers don't know exactly how these trees differ from the natural ones. Yuhang Luo, first author of the study, told Live Science that "most global ecosystem models do not distinguish between forest types", and so they wanted to understand whether species diversity, density and the age of a tree affect how it responds to CO2 and climate change.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/forgotten-fossil-reveals-largest-dinosaurs-to-ever-walk-earth-lived-in-antarctica-1782796088641">82-million-year-old fossil reveals Antarctica was home to the largest dinosaurs to ever walk Earth</a><h2>Planted trees grew 66% faster than natural trees</h2>Using satellite data, the team tracked leaf area index to determine how fast these trees grew. The index is a measure of canopy density and a key driver of carbon uptake. The results showed a stark contrast between them, with planted trees increasing their leaf area 66% faster than natural ones. The study states that this is likely because of the difference in their age. The planted trees are younger, and they typically grow faster. The researchers also compared forests of similar age to see if the same held true for them as well. Surprisingly, they still found that the planted ones grew 4.6 per cent.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/180-million-year-old-fossilised-microbes-discovered-morocco-1782642776192">Scientists discover 180-million-year-old fossilised microbes in Morocco's deep sea</a>&nbsp;Scientists said this is primarily because planted trees grow with human intervention, while trees in forests compete for water and sunlight. Planted trees often include fast-growing species like eucalyptus and poplar. Weeds and other competing vegetation are removed regularly, and they are fertilised as well. So these trees do not have to fight for water and nutrients.&nbsp;However, once they reach a certain age, that is when the planted trees start declining. They peak around 30 and 40, and then start dropping. Meanwhile, trees in the wild grow slowly but steadily and at an advantage in the long run. "Planted forests can be a powerful short-term tool for carbon uptake, but this advantage is temporary," Luo said, adding that "forests remain irreplaceable." &nbsp;

China's bid to cover deserts with forests is bearing fruit, and scientists have found that the billions of planted trees are growing much faster than the ones in forests. However, the latter still holds an edge. This is what is happening in China's "Great Green Wall" project.

A study has found that trees planted by China in the past 48 years to contain the spread of two major deserts are growing faster than trees in natural forests. The country has planted 66 billion trees since 1978 as part of its "Great Green Wall" project. The work is aimed at slowing down the spread of the Gobi and Taklamakan deserts. It plans to plant 34 billion more trees by 2050. Scientists decided to study how these trees were different from the ones growing in forests. The ones planted were found to absorb large amounts of CO2, and their leaf area increased 66 per cent faster than natural ones. Researchers don't know exactly how these trees differ from the natural ones. Yuhang Luo, first author of the study, told Live Science that "most global ecosystem models do not distinguish between forest types", and so they wanted to understand whether species diversity, density and the age of a tree affect how it responds to CO2 and climate change. Also Read: 82-million-year-old fossil reveals Antarctica was home to the largest dinosaurs to ever walk Earth Planted trees grew 66% faster than natural trees Using satellite data, the team tracked leaf area index to determine how fast these trees grew. The index is a measure of canopy density and a key driver of carbon uptake. The results showed a stark contrast between them, with planted trees increasing their leaf area 66% faster than natural ones. The study states that this is likely because of the difference in their age. The planted trees are younger, and they typically grow faster. The researchers also compared forests of similar age to see if the same held true for them as well. Surprisingly, they still found that the planted ones grew 4.6 per cent. Also Read: Scientists discover 180-million-year-old fossilised microbes in Morocco's deep sea Scientists said this is primarily because planted trees grow with human intervention, while trees in forests compete for water and sunlight. Planted trees often include fast-growing species like eucalyptus and poplar. Weeds and other competing vegetation are removed regularly, and they are fertilised as well. So these trees do not have to fight for water and nutrients. However, once they reach a certain age, that is when the planted trees start declining. They peak around 30 and 40, and then start dropping. Meanwhile, trees in the wild grow slowly but steadily and at an advantage in the long run. "Planted forests can be a powerful short-term tool for carbon uptake, but this advantage is temporary," Luo said, adding that "forests remain irreplaceable."

China's bid to cover deserts with forests is bearing fruit, and scientists have found that the billions of planted trees are growing much faster than the ones in forests. However, the latter still holds an edge. This is what is happening in China's "Great Green Wall" project.

China's 66 billion trees in deserts are absorbing more CO2 and growing faster than natural ones

With a delayed southwest monsoon, 2026 is expected to deliver below-normal rains for India. India Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier estimated rainfall at around 90–92 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA). June has already signalled a weaker monsoon for the country, recording nearly 40 per cent below normal rains, making it one of the driest June in more than a decade and the fifth driest since India began keeping records in 1901. This suggests the monsoon, which accounts for nearly 70 per cent of the country’s annual rainfall, is not just getting weak but also increasingly erratic in its behaviour.<h2>A delayed start and uneven distribution</h2>This year has seen a delayed onset and fragmented progression of weather systems that result in the monsoon. Arriving late over Kerala, the monsoon stalled in central and western India before showing intermittent revival, which resulted in long dry spells with short bursts of heavy rain. This pattern is becoming more common in recent years.Meteorologists note that this “start-stop” behaviour is as significant as total rainfall deficits, because it disrupts soil moisture buildup and agricultural planning.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/monsoon-2026-why-india-watches-the-rain-so-closely-wion-decodes-1782040718564">Monsoon 2026: Why India watches the rain so closely | WION Decodes</a><h2>Why is monsoon important for India?</h2>The southwest monsoon accounts for nearly 70 per cent of India’s annual rainfall. This seasonal rainfall supports the agriculture sector of the nation. According to government data, nearly 64 per cent of Indians rely on agriculture for their livelihood. Yet only around 55 per cent of the country’s net sown area is covered by irrigation infrastructure, leaving a large portion of farmland dependent on rainfall. This makes the success or failure of the monsoon a major factor in crop production.<h2>Agriculture feels the early shock</h2>The weak and uneven rainfall impacts India’s kharif sowing season. As per early estimates, there is a significant drop in acreage for major crops like rice, soybean, cotton, and maize. In some regions, soybean sowing has drastically fallen compared to last year, while rice cultivation has also slowed due to delayed rainfall.Only a few crops such as sugarcane, which are supported by irrigation, have shown relative stability. The early disruption of farming activities highlights how sensitive India’s agriculture remains to monsoon timing rather than just total rainfall.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-decodes-what-is-godzilla-el-ni-o-and-how-can-it-impact-the-indian-monsoon-1780917581717">WION Decodes | What is 'Godzilla' El Niño and how can it impact the Indian monsoon?</a><h2>Climate drivers behind the shift</h2>According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), climate change is a driving factor leading to unpredictable or inconsistent monsoon rainfall. While some regions experience intense rainfall in short periods, others face prolonged dry spells. Climate change is also resulting in extreme weather events like heavy rainfall, floods, heatwaves and droughts.The changing weather patterns across the world have also resulted in El Nino, which occurs when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean become significantly warmer than normal, weakening trade winds and altering global atmospheric circulation. An intense El Niño may weaken monsoons in India and affect crop production, and in turn, food prices. In the past, El Nino conditions have resulted in major droughts in India, including in 1982, 1987, 2002, 2009 and 2015.<h2>A broader climate pattern emerging</h2>According to long-term trends, the monsoon in India appears to be changing structurally. The distribution of seasonal rainfall is becoming more unequal, with fewer wet days and more intense rainfall episodes, even though the overall amount may not always decrease significantly.Recent studies suggest a rise in variability of rainfall along with frequent alternations between dry spells and heavy downpours. This has also led to floods in urban areas in some regions as sudden heavy rainfall overwhelms drainage systems even during generally weak monsoon years.Monsoon 2026 brings to light a developing reality: India's monsoon is not only getting weaker or stronger, but it is also becoming less predictable, more erratic, and more influenced by the dynamics of climate change.

Monsoon 2026 shows below-normal rains, delayed onset and extreme variability, highlighting a more erratic and climate-change-influenced monsoon pattern in India.

With a delayed southwest monsoon, 2026 is expected to deliver below-normal rains for India. India Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier estimated rainfall at around 90–92 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA). June has already signalled a weaker monsoon for the country, recording nearly 40 per cent below normal rains, making it one of the driest June in more than a decade and the fifth driest since India began keeping records in 1901. This suggests the monsoon, which accounts for nearly 70 per cent of the country’s annual rainfall, is not just getting weak but also increasingly erratic in its behaviour. A delayed start and uneven distribution This year has seen a delayed onset and fragmented progression of weather systems that result in the monsoon. Arriving late over Kerala, the monsoon stalled in central and western India before showing intermittent revival, which resulted in long dry spells with short bursts of heavy rain. This pattern is becoming more common in recent years. Meteorologists note that this “start-stop” behaviour is as significant as total rainfall deficits, because it disrupts soil moisture buildup and agricultural planning. Also read | Monsoon 2026: Why India watches the rain so closely | WION Decodes Why is monsoon important for India? The southwest monsoon accounts for nearly 70 per cent of India’s annual rainfall. This seasonal rainfall supports the agriculture sector of the nation. According to government data, nearly 64 per cent of Indians rely on agriculture for their livelihood. Yet only around 55 per cent of the country’s net sown area is covered by irrigation infrastructure, leaving a large portion of farmland dependent on rainfall. This makes the success or failure of the monsoon a major factor in crop production. Agriculture feels the early shock The weak and uneven rainfall impacts India’s kharif sowing season. As per early estimates, there is a significant drop in acreage for major crops like rice, soybean, cotton, and maize. In some regions, soybean sowing has drastically fallen compared to last year, while rice cultivation has also slowed due to delayed rainfall. Only a few crops such as sugarcane, which are supported by irrigation, have shown relative stability. The early disruption of farming activities highlights how sensitive India’s agriculture remains to monsoon timing rather than just total rainfall. Also read | WION Decodes | What is 'Godzilla' El Niño and how can it impact the Indian monsoon? Climate drivers behind the shift According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), climate change is a driving factor leading to unpredictable or inconsistent monsoon rainfall. While some regions experience intense rainfall in short periods, others face prolonged dry spells. Climate change is also resulting in extreme weather events like heavy rainfall, floods, heatwaves and droughts. The changing weather patterns across the world have also resulted in El Nino, which occurs when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean become significantly warmer than normal, weakening trade winds and altering global atmospheric circulation. An intense El Niño may weaken monsoons in India and affect crop production, and in turn, food prices. In the past, El Nino conditions have resulted in major droughts in India, including in 1982, 1987, 2002, 2009 and 2015. A broader climate pattern emerging According to long-term trends, the monsoon in India appears to be changing structurally. The distribution of seasonal rainfall is becoming more unequal, with fewer wet days and more intense rainfall episodes, even though the overall amount may not always decrease significantly. Recent studies suggest a rise in variability of rainfall along with frequent alternations between dry spells and heavy downpours. This has also led to floods in urban areas in some regions as sudden heavy rainfall overwhelms drainage systems even during generally weak monsoon years. Monsoon 2026 brings to light a developing reality: India's monsoon is not only getting weaker or stronger, but it is also becoming less predictable, more erratic, and more influenced by the dynamics of climate change.

Monsoon 2026 shows below-normal rains, delayed onset and extreme variability, highlighting a more erratic and climate-change-influenced monsoon pattern in India.

Is India’s monsoon changing? What monsoon 2026 reveals about climate trends | WION Decodes

Scientists say that the worst year on Earth happened during the Dark Ages, when the Sun behaved like the Moon as something shrouded the planet. This was the year 536 AD. Experts say that this year witnessed one volcanic eruption, followed by three more in later years, either at the equator or Iceland. Dr Miles Pattenden told ABC RN’s Counterpoint that the ash reached high in the atmosphere and blocked out the sun. Written accounts from Byzantine historian Procopius and Roman statesman Cassiodorus back this claim. “The sun gave forth its light without brightness, like the moon, during the whole year,” the former wrote, describing the time around 536.&nbsp;A layer completely covered the Earth and blocked out sunlight. This led the summer temperatures to fall roughly 1.5 to 2.5 degrees Celsius below normal. This phenomenon did not change for several years. Tree rings offer additional evidence of volcanic eruptions in 536, 540 and 547. The tree rings become narrow in colder years and wider when it is warm and wet. They found signs that the tree rings grew a lot less during this time, indicating a major climate change or volcanic eruption.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-warn-major-sea-the-size-of-japan-is-vanishing-it-might-be-too-late-to-save-it-1782397231242">Scientists warn major sea the size of Japan is vanishing. It might be too late to save it</a><h2>Ice cores in three different places carried volcanic debris</h2>&nbsp;Another proof lay in the ice cores. Scientists found sulfate and volcanic traces in Greenland, Antarctica and the Swiss Alps. A team of researchers led by Paul Mayewski, a glaciologist at the University of Maine, studied a Swiss glacier core from the spring of 536. They found microscopic shards of volcanic glass, and their chemistry appeared similar to material associated with Icelandic volcanic rocks. This showed that Earth’s atmosphere was filled with volcanic debris at this time.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/nasa-satellite-photo-shows-super-el-ni-o-has-elevated-sea-levels-in-pacific-1782134815575">NASA satellite photo shows Super El Niño has triggered a very specific change in the Pacific</a>&nbsp;Then blew the Ilopango volcano, which is located today in El Salvador, around 539 or 540. The Tierra Blanca Joven ash layer spread across Central America, adding to the veil and cooling already afflicting Earth. Much of Eurasia felt the effects, with records showing “a failure of bread” followed by the plague. The Mediterranean witnessed a huge bubonic crisis in 541. The Plague of Justinian started near the Roman port of Pelusium in Egypt and spread through the Byzantine world.&nbsp;It was not a mass extinction event, but it did trigger a major crisis where populations declined, and the economy crumbled. Things did not get better for decades, as a spike in airborne lead was seen in the Swiss Alps ice core samples from 640.&nbsp;

Nearly 1,500 years ago, a series of volcanic eruptions started, which shrouded Earth, leading to a darkness that didn't lift for decades. It set the stage for cooler summers, the plague and an agricultural crisis that swamped the world.

Scientists say that the worst year on Earth happened during the Dark Ages, when the Sun behaved like the Moon as something shrouded the planet. This was the year 536 AD. Experts say that this year witnessed one volcanic eruption, followed by three more in later years, either at the equator or Iceland. Dr Miles Pattenden told ABC RN’s Counterpoint that the ash reached high in the atmosphere and blocked out the sun. Written accounts from Byzantine historian Procopius and Roman statesman Cassiodorus back this claim. “The sun gave forth its light without brightness, like the moon, during the whole year,” the former wrote, describing the time around 536. A layer completely covered the Earth and blocked out sunlight. This led the summer temperatures to fall roughly 1.5 to 2.5 degrees Celsius below normal. This phenomenon did not change for several years. Tree rings offer additional evidence of volcanic eruptions in 536, 540 and 547. The tree rings become narrow in colder years and wider when it is warm and wet. They found signs that the tree rings grew a lot less during this time, indicating a major climate change or volcanic eruption. Also Read: Scientists warn major sea the size of Japan is vanishing. It might be too late to save it Ice cores in three different places carried volcanic debris Another proof lay in the ice cores. Scientists found sulfate and volcanic traces in Greenland, Antarctica and the Swiss Alps. A team of researchers led by Paul Mayewski, a glaciologist at the University of Maine, studied a Swiss glacier core from the spring of 536. They found microscopic shards of volcanic glass, and their chemistry appeared similar to material associated with Icelandic volcanic rocks. This showed that Earth’s atmosphere was filled with volcanic debris at this time. Also Read: NASA satellite photo shows Super El Niño has triggered a very specific change in the Pacific Then blew the Ilopango volcano, which is located today in El Salvador, around 539 or 540. The Tierra Blanca Joven ash layer spread across Central America, adding to the veil and cooling already afflicting Earth. Much of Eurasia felt the effects, with records showing “a failure of bread” followed by the plague. The Mediterranean witnessed a huge bubonic crisis in 541. The Plague of Justinian started near the Roman port of Pelusium in Egypt and spread through the Byzantine world. It was not a mass extinction event, but it did trigger a major crisis where populations declined, and the economy crumbled. Things did not get better for decades, as a spike in airborne lead was seen in the Swiss Alps ice core samples from 640.

Nearly 1,500 years ago, a series of volcanic eruptions started, which shrouded Earth, leading to a darkness that didn't lift for decades. It set the stage for cooler summers, the plague and an agricultural crisis that swamped the world.

Worst year to be alive: When skies darkened in the Dark Ages as volcanoes kept erupting

Europe is in the grips of a heatwave, with temperatures climbing to almost 41 degrees Celsius in some parts. France experienced its hottest day ever since records started in 1947, with more than half the country under a red heat alert. Spain reached its highest daily average since 1950, and UK is also witnessing record heat for June. The historic and deadly heatwave across Western and Central Europe is being driven by a powerful meteorological phenomenon known as an "Omega Block". It is a weather pattern which creates a massive, stationary heat dome with intensely hot air trapped over the continent.&nbsp;A new study has found that the economic effects of extreme heat combined with drought are huge and a major trigger for the rise of poverty. An analysis by Climate Analytics shows average household incomes drop by almost 3 per cent across Europe due to heat-and-drought events. The regions hit hardest witness an even bigger reduction. The study reveals that the rising global temperatures will lead to income inequality and increase the risk of poverty for millions of people. The researcher focuses specifically on Europe, although a similar impact is expected globally, especially in the most vulnerable countries. It was published in Global Environmental Change as part of the ACCREU project.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-records-its-hottest-june-day-beating-1957-and-1976-highs-who-warns-of-risk-to-lives-1782322982631">UK records its hottest June day, beating 1957 and 1976 highs; WHO warns of risk to lives</a>&nbsp;<h2>Global warming and climate change</h2>Global temperatures are rising, and an increase of 2.7°C by 2100 will cause the average European household income to fall by 27 per cent. If humans are able to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius as per the Paris Agreement commitment, it would fall to 7 per cent. In the former scenario, 127 million in Europe will be at risk of poverty, with the figure dropping to 60 million in a 1.5 degrees Celsius world.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/killer-omega-heatwave-grips-europe-1782322956190/embed<h2>Combined effects of heatwave and droughts much larger</h2>Lead author of the study, Jessie Schleypen, says that the heatwave has affected “people’s health, livelihoods and ability to work.” The Senior Climate Change and Development Economist at Climate Analytics adds, “Where extreme heat coincides with drought, the damage can be much greater." The compound events "amplify economic losses experienced directly by European households, and they will become more frequent as global warming increases.”<h2>Reduction in household income due to heatwave and droughts</h2>The study analyses data from 2004 to 2022 and finds that heatwaves and droughts individually have a lesser impact than when they occur together. “On average, a heatwave in Europe will reduce household incomes by 0.7% and droughts by 1.8%. When they occur together – particularly in drought-stricken regions – the average income loss rises to nearly 3%,” the study states. The conditions worsen workers' health, reducing labour productivity and affecting crops, which causes a dip in food production. Critical services linked to water, such as transport and energy generation, also take a massive hit.&nbsp;The poorest will be at the greatest loss due to the economic inequalities caused by the events. “The poorest 20% will be affected the most, with incomes dropping 2% more than the rest of the population (4% vs 1.1-1.8%), further widening income inequality,” Schleypen says. In a 2.7 degrees Celsius world, Greece, Spain, Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus will likely be among the most affected countries.

Climate change, marked by heatwaves and droughts, can lead to over 100 million Europeans being defined as poor by the year 2100. A study has shown the drastic economic effects of the increasing temperatures when Europe is battling a deadly heatwave.

Europe is in the grips of a heatwave, with temperatures climbing to almost 41 degrees Celsius in some parts. France experienced its hottest day ever since records started in 1947, with more than half the country under a red heat alert. Spain reached its highest daily average since 1950, and UK is also witnessing record heat for June. The historic and deadly heatwave across Western and Central Europe is being driven by a powerful meteorological phenomenon known as an "Omega Block". It is a weather pattern which creates a massive, stationary heat dome with intensely hot air trapped over the continent. A new study has found that the economic effects of extreme heat combined with drought are huge and a major trigger for the rise of poverty. An analysis by Climate Analytics shows average household incomes drop by almost 3 per cent across Europe due to heat-and-drought events. The regions hit hardest witness an even bigger reduction. The study reveals that the rising global temperatures will lead to income inequality and increase the risk of poverty for millions of people. The researcher focuses specifically on Europe, although a similar impact is expected globally, especially in the most vulnerable countries. It was published in Global Environmental Change as part of the ACCREU project. Also Read: UK records its hottest June day, beating 1957 and 1976 highs; WHO warns of risk to lives Global warming and climate change Global temperatures are rising, and an increase of 2.7°C by 2100 will cause the average European household income to fall by 27 per cent. If humans are able to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius as per the Paris Agreement commitment, it would fall to 7 per cent. In the former scenario, 127 million in Europe will be at risk of poverty, with the figure dropping to 60 million in a 1.5 degrees Celsius world. https://www.wionews.com/videos/killer-omega-heatwave-grips-europe-1782322956190/embed Combined effects of heatwave and droughts much larger Lead author of the study, Jessie Schleypen, says that the heatwave has affected “people’s health, livelihoods and ability to work.” The Senior Climate Change and Development Economist at Climate Analytics adds, “Where extreme heat coincides with drought, the damage can be much greater." The compound events "amplify economic losses experienced directly by European households, and they will become more frequent as global warming increases.” Reduction in household income due to heatwave and droughts The study analyses data from 2004 to 2022 and finds that heatwaves and droughts individually have a lesser impact than when they occur together. “On average, a heatwave in Europe will reduce household incomes by 0.7% and droughts by 1.8%. When they occur together – particularly in drought-stricken regions – the average income loss rises to nearly 3%,” the study states. The conditions worsen workers' health, reducing labour productivity and affecting crops, which causes a dip in food production. Critical services linked to water, such as transport and energy generation, also take a massive hit. The poorest will be at the greatest loss due to the economic inequalities caused by the events. “The poorest 20% will be affected the most, with incomes dropping 2% more than the rest of the population (4% vs 1.1-1.8%), further widening income inequality,” Schleypen says. In a 2.7 degrees Celsius world, Greece, Spain, Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus will likely be among the most affected countries.

Climate change, marked by heatwaves and droughts, can lead to over 100 million Europeans being defined as poor by the year 2100. A study has shown the drastic economic effects of the increasing temperatures when Europe is battling a deadly heatwave.

Europe's heatwaves threaten to push 127 million into poverty by 2100, study finds

Climate change is reshaping agriculture in unexpected ways. In England, farmers have achieved a remarkable milestone by producing the country's first-ever extra virgin olive oil. As rising temperatures challenge traditional crops and Mediterranean olive growers face worsening droughts and heatwaves, some British farmers are betting that olives could become part of the UK's agricultural future.

Farmers Race to Adapt to Changing Climate

A study by an international team of scientists has found evidence that humans found a way to adapt to extreme climate changes instead of collapsing or relocating thousands of years ago. Ancient mud drilled from the Carmel Coast in northern Israel has thrown light on 4,000 years of environmental history in the ancient Mediterranean. The researchers said their findings prove that human societies survived through droughts. Senior author Tom Levy said, "People have always been problem solvers." Environmental stress did not stress them, and they developed new technologies and strategies to overcome it. The study was published last month in the Quaternary Science Reviews.&nbsp;Scientists state that they did not find a "direct correlation between environmental changes and settlement reorganisation from 8,000 to 4,000 years ago." The researchers say human societies did not always reside near favourable regions. Gilad Shtienberg, the paper’s first author, told Times of Israel that humans came up with creative ways to live through harsh conditions. "During the Neolithic period, many communities were concentrated near reliable freshwater sources...during the Chalcolithic period, populations expanded into the more semi-arid Beersheba valley," he said. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sea-ice-twice-the-size-of-rajasthan-goes-missing-from-antarctica-in-winter-1781702114417">Sea ice twice the size of Rajasthan goes missing from Antarctica in winter</a><h2>Humans came up with ways to live through droughts</h2>So the communities developed new strategies to survive. They came up with early floodwater farming systems, where seasonal floods were used to divert water into the agricultural fields, one of the early forms of irrigation. Instead of relying on rainfall, they planted crops like barley "under managed irrigation rather than relying solely on rainfall." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/world-environment-day-data-centres-are-coming-to-india-but-at-what-cost-1780567891256">World Environment Day in the age of AI - Are humans sacrificing the climate for data centres?</a>&nbsp;For the study, the researchers dug 52 feet into the Earth and retrieved layers of ancient mud. They were like a time capsule recording changes over centuries. Inside them, they found a clue to climate fluctuations in the form of objects like tiny shells, pollen grains, charred plant fragments and chemical traces. All these elements indicated the climate at the time. For eg. Freshwater snails and mussels indicated rain, while charcoal revealed erosion, and pollen and seeds showed the kind of plants. Also Read: Sea ice twice the size of Rajasthan goes missing from Antarctica in winter&nbsp;Piecing them together, the team created a climate timeline spanning 4,000 to 8,000 years. They found that annual rainfall had dropped by half by around 6,500 years ago along Israel’s coast. A severe drought gripped the region around 4,200 years ago. They compared this data with existing archaeological information to determine if the population declined at this time. They found that the societies found novel ways to deal with the dry conditions instead of moving away.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Droughts have typically been known to trigger migration and population decline in ancient societies. However, a study in Israel has found that humans devised methods to survive these conditions instead of retreating. 

A study by an international team of scientists has found evidence that humans found a way to adapt to extreme climate changes instead of collapsing or relocating thousands of years ago. Ancient mud drilled from the Carmel Coast in northern Israel has thrown light on 4,000 years of environmental history in the ancient Mediterranean. The researchers said their findings prove that human societies survived through droughts. Senior author Tom Levy said, "People have always been problem solvers." Environmental stress did not stress them, and they developed new technologies and strategies to overcome it. The study was published last month in the Quaternary Science Reviews. Scientists state that they did not find a "direct correlation between environmental changes and settlement reorganisation from 8,000 to 4,000 years ago." The researchers say human societies did not always reside near favourable regions. Gilad Shtienberg, the paper’s first author, told Times of Israel that humans came up with creative ways to live through harsh conditions. "During the Neolithic period, many communities were concentrated near reliable freshwater sources...during the Chalcolithic period, populations expanded into the more semi-arid Beersheba valley," he said. Also Read: Sea ice twice the size of Rajasthan goes missing from Antarctica in winter Humans came up with ways to live through droughts So the communities developed new strategies to survive. They came up with early floodwater farming systems, where seasonal floods were used to divert water into the agricultural fields, one of the early forms of irrigation. Instead of relying on rainfall, they planted crops like barley "under managed irrigation rather than relying solely on rainfall." Also Read: World Environment Day in the age of AI - Are humans sacrificing the climate for data centres? For the study, the researchers dug 52 feet into the Earth and retrieved layers of ancient mud. They were like a time capsule recording changes over centuries. Inside them, they found a clue to climate fluctuations in the form of objects like tiny shells, pollen grains, charred plant fragments and chemical traces. All these elements indicated the climate at the time. For eg. Freshwater snails and mussels indicated rain, while charcoal revealed erosion, and pollen and seeds showed the kind of plants. Also Read: Sea ice twice the size of Rajasthan goes missing from Antarctica in winter Piecing them together, the team created a climate timeline spanning 4,000 to 8,000 years. They found that annual rainfall had dropped by half by around 6,500 years ago along Israel’s coast. A severe drought gripped the region around 4,200 years ago. They compared this data with existing archaeological information to determine if the population declined at this time. They found that the societies found novel ways to deal with the dry conditions instead of moving away.

Droughts have typically been known to trigger migration and population decline in ancient societies. However, a study in Israel has found that humans devised methods to survive these conditions instead of retreating.&nbsp;

Study in Israel shows humans stood tall in front of climate change 6,500 years ago

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