A new threat to humanity is on the way. Climate change isn’t just raising sea levels. As per a study, climate change is also likely to unleash devastating pathogens from melting permafrost. This ice has been trapped for thousands of years.

How ancient time-travelling pathogens could pose threat to human kind

<p>The United Kingdom has pledged to grant “hundreds” of licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, on Monday (July 31), in a bid to bolster its energy security, said the government. The announcement has since drawn criticism from environmental groups in the country and could hinder the country’s goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does UK government plan to do?</strong></h2>

<p>The plan was confirmed by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who had previously said that hundreds of future licences could also be granted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security and capitalise on that independence to deliver more affordable, clean energy to British homes and businesses,” said the British PM’s office&nbsp;in a statement. &nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “Investment in the North Sea will continue to unlock new projects, protect jobs, reduce emissions and boost UK energy independence.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunak, during his visit to Aberdeenshire on Monday, argued that the plan will help the UK reach its target of meeting net zero by 2050 and even by this date the country is expected to get more than a quarter of its energy from oil and gas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, the government also said that while a “more flexible application process” would be used for the licence requests, they would still be subject to a “climate compatibility” test for carbon reduction goals.</p>

<p>The oil and gas industry regulator expects the first of the new licences to be awarded in the fall, said the UK government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK PM also spoke about how the move will help reduce reliance on “hostile states”, including Russia, and improve energy security. “We have all witnessed how (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has manipulated and weaponised energy... Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UK’s carbon capture and storage</strong></h2>

<p>Sunak also announced support for two carbon capture and storage (CCS) clusters in Scotland and northern England, along the North Sea coast, in addition to the two already under construction. The statement also said that the four clusters could support up to 50,000 jobs by 2030.</p>

<p><strong>A ‘wrecking ball’ for UK’s climate commitments</strong><br />
<br />
The Conservative-led government’s plans are also in complete contradiction with the pledges from the opposition Labour Party to ban new oil and gas projects in the North Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move comes as record-breaking temperatures were witnessed across Europe, the United States and China, with scientists <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-deadly-heatwaves-across-europe-us-would-be-virtually-impossible-without-climate-change-619402">predominantly blaming</a> human-induced climate change and burning fossil fuels. Environmentalists warn that these new projects by the Sunak government are incompatible with the country’s targets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Extracting more fossil fuels from the North Sea will send a wrecking ball through the UK’s climate commitments at a time when we should be investing in a just transition to a low-carbon economy and our own abundant renewables,” said Oxfam’s climate policy adviser, Lyndsay Walsh, as quoted by <em>The Guardian</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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The United Kingdom has pledged to grant “hundreds” of licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, on Monday (July 31), in a bid to bolster its energy security, said the government.

The United Kingdom has pledged to grant “hundreds” of licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, on Monday (July 31), in a bid to bolster its energy security, said the government. The announcement has since drawn criticism from environmental groups in the country and could hinder the country’s goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. What does UK government plan to do? The plan was confirmed by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who had previously said that hundreds of future licences could also be granted. “Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security and capitalise on that independence to deliver more affordable, clean energy to British homes and businesses,” said the British PM’s office in a statement. It added, “Investment in the North Sea will continue to unlock new projects, protect jobs, reduce emissions and boost UK energy independence.” Sunak, during his visit to Aberdeenshire on Monday, argued that the plan will help the UK reach its target of meeting net zero by 2050 and even by this date the country is expected to get more than a quarter of its energy from oil and gas. Furthermore, the government also said that while a “more flexible application process” would be used for the licence requests, they would still be subject to a “climate compatibility” test for carbon reduction goals. The oil and gas industry regulator expects the first of the new licences to be awarded in the fall, said the UK government. The UK PM also spoke about how the move will help reduce reliance on “hostile states”, including Russia, and improve energy security. “We have all witnessed how (Russian President Vladimir) Putin has manipulated and weaponised energy... Now more than ever, it’s vital that we bolster our energy security.” UK’s carbon capture and storage Sunak also announced support for two carbon capture and storage (CCS) clusters in Scotland and northern England, along the North Sea coast, in addition to the two already under construction. The statement also said that the four clusters could support up to 50,000 jobs by 2030. A ‘wrecking ball’ for UK’s climate commitments The Conservative-led government’s plans are also in complete contradiction with the pledges from the opposition Labour Party to ban new oil and gas projects in the North Sea. The move comes as record-breaking temperatures were witnessed across Europe, the United States and China, with scientists predominantly blaming human-induced climate change and burning fossil fuels. Environmentalists warn that these new projects by the Sunak government are incompatible with the country’s targets. “Extracting more fossil fuels from the North Sea will send a wrecking ball through the UK’s climate commitments at a time when we should be investing in a just transition to a low-carbon economy and our own abundant renewables,” said Oxfam’s climate policy adviser, Lyndsay Walsh, as quoted by The Guardian. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK to approve ‘hundreds’ of new North Sea oil and gas licences despite net zero carbon emissions aim

As extreme weather becomes more frequent and intense, scientists warn climate change is now contributing to becoming the worst-ever wildfire season.

Wildfires in 2023 & the role of climate change | WION Climate Tracker

Meanwhile, decades after being nearly wiped out and slaughtered for their humpback whales have made a comeback in Brazil.

Humpback whales return decades after mass killings

In recent weeks Greece experienced 667 fires and according to the country's senior climate crisis official, most of them were started by people.

Climate change to cost Greece over $700 billion: Report

In summary, the G20 leaders were unable to reach consensus on all the necessary measures to adhere to the Paris Agreement's aim of keeping global warming far below 2°C, let alone target the more ambitious 1.5°C limit, beyond which the globe is predicted to experience severe floods, droughts, and natural disasters.

No agreement at G20 to address issues to tackle climate crisis

<p>The remains of a German climber, who went missing nearly 37 years ago, have been recovered from a Swiss glacier.</p>

<p>Thanks to the melting ice, the body became visible enough to be spotted by a group of climbers passing by. &nbsp;</p>

<p>A DNA test confirmed that the remains belonged to a 38-year-old hiker from Germany who went missing near the Matterhorn mountain, Switzerland’s most famous peak, around four decades ago.</p>

<p>Police in the Valais canton said: “DNA analysis enabled the identification of a mountain climber who had been missing since 1986."</p>

<p>“In September 1986, a German climber, who was 38 at the time, had been reported missing after not returning from a hike,” the statement added.</p>

<h2><strong>Not an isolated incident</strong></h2>

<p>As the planet heats up due to climate change, glaciers in Switzerland are unveiling secrets long hidden beneath the snow.</p>

<p>In 2015, the remains of two Japanese hikers were recovered who went missing on the Matterhorn in a 1970 snowstorm. Their identities were confirmed after DNA tests.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Switzerland works to slash dependence on imported oil &amp; gas</strong></p>

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<p>Similarly, in 2014, the remains of British climber Jonathan Conville were recovered, who vanished on the Matterhorn in 1979. His remains were spotted by a helicopter pilot.</p>

<p>Last year, plane parts were found on the Aletsch glacier from a Piper Cherokee that crashed in 1968.</p>

<h2><strong>Climate change leading to record glacier melting</strong></h2>

<p>Switzerland, with 1,400 glaciers, possesses the highest number in Europe, representing approximately half of all European Alps glaciers.</p>

<p>Last year, Swiss glaciers experienced a worrying record melting, losing over 6 per cent of their volume, a level previously considered extreme by experts at the Swiss Academy of Sciences.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/switzerland-tourist-plane-crash-near-french-border-leaves-several-dead-594537"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Switzerland: Tourist plane crash near French border leaves several dead</strong></a></p>

<p>Additional research revealed that since the early 1930s, the country's glaciers have lost more than half of their total volume, far surpassing scientists' predictions for their shrinkage rate. If this trend continues, nearly all Alpine glaciers may vanish by the end of this century.</p>

<p>“Glacier retreat is accelerating. Closely observing this phenomenon and quantifying its historical dimensions is important because it allows us to infer the glaciers’ responses to a changing climate,” said Daniel Farinotti, a co-author of the study.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The remains of a German climber, who went missing nearly 37 years ago, have been recovered from a Swiss glacier. Thanks to the melting ice, the body became visible enough to be spotted by a group of climbers passing by.

The remains of a German climber, who went missing nearly 37 years ago, have been recovered from a Swiss glacier. Thanks to the melting ice, the body became visible enough to be spotted by a group of climbers passing by. A DNA test confirmed that the remains belonged to a 38-year-old hiker from Germany who went missing near the Matterhorn mountain, Switzerland’s most famous peak, around four decades ago. Police in the Valais canton said: “DNA analysis enabled the identification of a mountain climber who had been missing since 1986." “In September 1986, a German climber, who was 38 at the time, had been reported missing after not returning from a hike,” the statement added. Not an isolated incident As the planet heats up due to climate change, glaciers in Switzerland are unveiling secrets long hidden beneath the snow. In 2015, the remains of two Japanese hikers were recovered who went missing on the Matterhorn in a 1970 snowstorm. Their identities were confirmed after DNA tests. Watch: Switzerland works to slash dependence on imported oil & gas × Similarly, in 2014, the remains of British climber Jonathan Conville were recovered, who vanished on the Matterhorn in 1979. His remains were spotted by a helicopter pilot. Last year, plane parts were found on the Aletsch glacier from a Piper Cherokee that crashed in 1968. Climate change leading to record glacier melting Switzerland, with 1,400 glaciers, possesses the highest number in Europe, representing approximately half of all European Alps glaciers. Last year, Swiss glaciers experienced a worrying record melting, losing over 6 per cent of their volume, a level previously considered extreme by experts at the Swiss Academy of Sciences. Also read: Switzerland: Tourist plane crash near French border leaves several dead Additional research revealed that since the early 1930s, the country's glaciers have lost more than half of their total volume, far surpassing scientists' predictions for their shrinkage rate. If this trend continues, nearly all Alpine glaciers may vanish by the end of this century. “Glacier retreat is accelerating. Closely observing this phenomenon and quantifying its historical dimensions is important because it allows us to infer the glaciers’ responses to a changing climate,” said Daniel Farinotti, a co-author of the study. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Melting Swiss glacier coughs up body remains of hiker who went missing in 1986

From torrential rains causing floods and landslides to scorching heat waves taking a heavy toll extreme weather patterns are becoming frequent across the world. Now a bigger threat seems to be on the rounds, a new study reveals that a vital system of ocean currents could collapse within a few decades due to global warming.

Vital ocean currents could collapse by mid-century: Study

Unprecedented high temperatures have the entire world in disarray. As tourists flee raging wildfires in Greece, U.N. Secretary General Antonio Gutierrez has issued a stern warning about the region's climate concerns, saying that the era of global warming has ended and that the era of global boiling has begun. The air is toxic, the heat is intolerable, and the level of fossil fuel profits and climate change in action are intolerable.

UN Chief talks about climate change, says 'It is here and is terrifying' | World DNA

<p>Climate change is a pervasive global phenomenon that affects all aspects of life. The rise in temperatures since the advent of industrialisation is evident, with the last decade marking one of the warmest periods in human history. This increase in temperature is primarily attributed to the emission of greenhouse gases during industrial processes.</p>

<p>If current greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions continue on their present trajectory, the planet is projected to surpass 2.8°C temperature increase by the end of the 21st century (13th UN Emission Gap Report 2022), leading to catastrophic and irreversible consequences. Already, temperatures have risen by 1.1˚C, and the evidence of this rise is apparent in the form of extreme weather events and escalating disasters. The frequency and intensity of cyclones, typhoons, and hurricanes are on the rise, while heatwaves have become more pronounced, frequent, and severe, even occurring in previously unheard-of seasons.</p>

<p>An illustrative case is the early March heatwave in 2022, which originated in the northwest parts of India and Pakistan, subsequently impacting the Horn of Africa and battering Europe. The United Kingdom experienced one of the most severe heatwave conditions in recorded human history, with temperatures soaring to 41°C in London and causing a week-long emergency situation marked by raging forest fires, melting runways, and highways. The heatwave then spread to the United States and China, severely affecting the latter. Post-pandemic China faced electricity generation disruptions due to massive water scarcity and endured a drought-like situation, resulting in disruptions to supply chains and significant crop yield losses, estimated at 15%.</p>

<p>These events illustrate the urgent need to address climate change through mitigation measures and adapt to the changing environment. Failure to take timely action could lead to irreversible consequences with severe impacts on ecosystems, societies, and economies. It is crucial to pursue sustainable solutions and global cooperation to combat climate change effectively and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.</p>

<h2><strong>Causes of Climate Change</strong></h2>

<p>The earth's atmospheric system has historically maintained a temperature of around 15˚C, with an atmospheric CO2 concentration of approximately 280 ppm, remaining relatively stable for a staggering period of 800,000 years (climate.nasa.gov). This remarkable stability is attributed to the earth's well-balanced carbon cycle, which manages greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and their absorption by natural sinks.</p>

<p>However, with the advent of industrialisation, a significant shift occurred. Unprecedented amounts of fossil fuels, such as coal, gas, and oil, have been extracted and utilised to meet the growing energy demands of humanity and various industries. The combustion of these fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, particularly CO2. As a result, the current atmospheric CO2 concentration stands at 421 ppm, as observed in the Mauna Loa lab of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on&nbsp; 3 June 2022.</p>

<p>To better understand the impact of these emissions, it is estimated that 2.13 billion tonnes of CO2 released into the atmosphere result in an increase of 1 ppm of CO2 concentration. Considering the latest observations, the excess CO2 in the atmosphere can be calculated by subtracting the historical level of 280 ppm from the current level of 421 ppm, resulting in 141 ppm. By applying the conversion factor, approximately 300 billion tonnes of excess CO2 have accumulated, contributing significantly to the acceleration of global warming and climate change.</p>

<p>The dramatic increase in GHG emissions, particularly CO2, due to human activities is the primary driver of climate change. As these emissions continue to rise, it is essential to recognise the urgency of taking collective action to mitigate impacts of the climate change. By transitioning to sustainable energy sources, implementing climate-resilient policies, and adopting responsible practices, we can strive to preserve the delicate balance of the earth's atmosphere and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.</p>

<p><img alt="Pic 1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="838f744d-73c7-4ca7-9206-ebfdbea2ce5f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pic%201.jpg" /></p>

<p><em>Source: Global Climate Change (NASA)</em></p>

<h2><strong>Consequences of Climate Change</strong></h2>

<p>Climate change presents two primary categories of risks: physical risks, which include acute events like extreme weather phenomena such as heatwaves, floods, heavy rainfall, and intense cyclonic storms, and chronic risks, encompassing long-term impacts like glacier melting, permafrost thawing, and rising sea levels. While chronic risks may take time to fully manifest, we are already witnessing the occurrence of extreme weather events, moving from one disastrous event to another. A notable example is the early heatwave in March 2022, affecting India, Europe, and China, followed by the devastating floods in Pakistan in September 2022. The manifestation of such events underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and its immediate consequences.</p>

<h2><strong>Increased Visibility of Climate Change Impacts</strong></h2>

<p>The evidence of climate change impacts has become more pronounced in recent times. One striking example is the extremely severe cyclonic storm named 'Biparjoy,' which made landfall on the Gujarat coast during mid-June. This storm was exceptional in several ways, as such intense storms were historically uncommon in the Arabian Sea during the monsoon onset phase in the Indian region. 'Biparjoy' disrupted the monsoon system and caused a delay in its onset by nearly 20 days.</p>

<p>Simultaneously, while the cyclonic storm was affecting the region, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh experienced severe heat waves, compounded by increased humidity, which intensified heat stress and tragically claimed around 200 lives, as reported by the various media houses in India although respective state governments did not link it directly to the severe heat wave.</p>

<p>Eventually, the monsoon regained momentum and rapidly covered the entire Indian region. However, it brought extreme weather events to different areas. Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi experienced widespread cloud bursts, leading to massive water deluge in the hills and causing extensive property damage and hundreds of fatalities. The monsoon's progress across India exhibited significant spatiotemporal variations, keeping professionals and the national disaster response force on high alert. Despite the overall monsoon rainfall surpassing the normal levels, there is still a 15% area that is under deficit rainfall. Although monsoon rainfall has exceeded its normal by 5% as of 26th July 2023 and is in a good state, still around 15% of areas are under deficit rainfall and even these areas may be catching up soon.</p>

<p><img alt="Pic 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="98d6e805-d869-4128-b309-a2680c71a12f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pIC%202.jpg" /><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>&nbsp;(Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall Coverage as of 26th July 2023. Source: India Meteorological Department.)</em></p>

<p>While India is witnessing rainfall, floods and cloud bursts, severe heat waves continued to afflict regions outside of India. The United States and Europe witnessed scorching temperatures, with few places in Italy reporting highs as extreme as 48˚C (Sicily and Sardinia) during 12 to 20th July 2023 and this heat wave engulfed Spain, France, Germany and Poland.</p>

<p><img alt="Bhunter valley Bhuntar Valley Bridge Collapse in Kullu, H.P. India, courtesy PTI" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="414df28e-b28b-487e-b8e0-c083de7fdcd7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pic%203.jpg" /></p>

<p><em>(Bhuntar Valley Bridge Collapse in Kullu, H.P. India.&nbsp;courtesy PTI)</em></p>

<p><em><img alt="Pic 4" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="780746ed-3ffd-41b6-a613-2a8d5606d993" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic%204.jpg" /></em></p>

<p><em>(A visitor is affected by the heat atop the Acropolis hill, during a heatwave in Athens, Greece, July 14, 2023.)</em></p>

<p><img alt="Pic 5" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d6793caf-b6e7-44fa-a24d-c5b407cd3c7d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pic%205.jpg" /></p>

<p><em>(Land Surface Temperature Image from Copernicus Sentinel-3 on 17 July 2023 Indicating Temperatures between 45˚C-50˚C, Severe Heatwave Conditions.)</em></p>

<p><br />
The impacts of these hydrometeorological disasters have resulted in significant economic losses. From 2007- 2021, the estimated losses by the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) were approximately 87 billion US dollars for India alone. Globally, the total losses from such events during 2022 alone was estimated to be &nbsp;a staggering 313 billion US dollars and increasing going forward (WMO report).</p>

<p><img alt="Pic x" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="76e65e41-4e87-45a1-bfcb-830069a225b1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pic%20x.jpg" /></p>

<p>These events serve as clear indications of the escalating consequences of climate change, emphasising the urgent need for effective mitigation and adaptation measures on a global scale. Addressing climate change is crucial to safeguarding lives, property, and the environment for future generations.</p>

<h2>Mitigation and Adaptation in the Face of Climate Crisis</h2>

<p><br />
The IPCC AR6 report, titled "A Code Red for Humanity," released in August 2021, serves as a stark warning of the escalating occurrences of extreme weather events worldwide. Asia, in particular, is highly vulnerable due to its limited adaptive capacity, long coastlines, and tropical climate.</p>

<p>While this year's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have only risen by 1%, as reported by the International Energy Agency (IEA), every passing day represents a lost opportunity. The window for climate action is rapidly closing, and the time to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs) is running out. Despite targets to achieve net neutrality by 2050, existing nationally determined commitments (NDCs) fall significantly short. The Paris Agreement, aimed at limiting temperature rise to below 2˚C and preferably to 1.5˚C by the end of 2012, appears to be at risk of breaching much earlier, potentially as soon as 2030, especially considering the impact of El Niño phases.</p>

<p>Even if we manage to achieve carbon net neutrality by 2050, the excess GHGs already present in the environment will continue to exacerbate extreme weather events for at least the next three to four decades.</p>

<p>To address the challenges ahead, it is imperative to accelerate mitigation efforts by transitioning to carbon-neutral energy, decarbonising industrial processes, and improving sustainable transportation methods. However, alongside mitigation, adaptation efforts must also be scaled up significantly. This includes climate-proofing critical infrastructure along coastlines and enhancing the adaptive capacity of vulnerable communities, especially in the global South.</p>

<p>A collaborative and comprehensive approach to both mitigation and adaptation is essential to combat the climate crisis effectively. By taking urgent action now, we can pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.</p>

<p>Time is of the essence, as the window for effective climate action is narrowing. International cooperation and commitment are crucial to meet the targets set by the Paris Agreement and limit global warming to below 2˚C, preferably to 1.5˚C. To ensure a sustainable future for generations to come, collective efforts are needed to address the causes of climate change, acknowledge the consequences, observe the increased visibility of impacts, and embrace mitigation and adaptation strategies as vital components of a global climate response. Only through concerted action can we navigate the challenges of climate change and secure a resilient and prosperous future for our planet.</p>

<p><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></p>


Climate change is a pervasive global phenomenon that affects all aspects of life. The rise in temperatures since the advent of industrialisation is evident, with the last decade marking one of the warmest periods in human history.

Climate change is a pervasive global phenomenon that affects all aspects of life. The rise in temperatures since the advent of industrialisation is evident, with the last decade marking one of the warmest periods in human history. This increase in temperature is primarily attributed to the emission of greenhouse gases during industrial processes. If current greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions continue on their present trajectory, the planet is projected to surpass 2.8°C temperature increase by the end of the 21st century (13th UN Emission Gap Report 2022), leading to catastrophic and irreversible consequences. Already, temperatures have risen by 1.1˚C, and the evidence of this rise is apparent in the form of extreme weather events and escalating disasters. The frequency and intensity of cyclones, typhoons, and hurricanes are on the rise, while heatwaves have become more pronounced, frequent, and severe, even occurring in previously unheard-of seasons. An illustrative case is the early March heatwave in 2022, which originated in the northwest parts of India and Pakistan, subsequently impacting the Horn of Africa and battering Europe. The United Kingdom experienced one of the most severe heatwave conditions in recorded human history, with temperatures soaring to 41°C in London and causing a week-long emergency situation marked by raging forest fires, melting runways, and highways. The heatwave then spread to the United States and China, severely affecting the latter. Post-pandemic China faced electricity generation disruptions due to massive water scarcity and endured a drought-like situation, resulting in disruptions to supply chains and significant crop yield losses, estimated at 15%. These events illustrate the urgent need to address climate change through mitigation measures and adapt to the changing environment. Failure to take timely action could lead to irreversible consequences with severe impacts on ecosystems, societies, and economies. It is crucial to pursue sustainable solutions and global cooperation to combat climate change effectively and secure a sustainable future for generations to come. Causes of Climate Change The earth's atmospheric system has historically maintained a temperature of around 15˚C, with an atmospheric CO2 concentration of approximately 280 ppm, remaining relatively stable for a staggering period of 800,000 years (climate.nasa.gov). This remarkable stability is attributed to the earth's well-balanced carbon cycle, which manages greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and their absorption by natural sinks. However, with the advent of industrialisation, a significant shift occurred. Unprecedented amounts of fossil fuels, such as coal, gas, and oil, have been extracted and utilised to meet the growing energy demands of humanity and various industries. The combustion of these fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, particularly CO2. As a result, the current atmospheric CO2 concentration stands at 421 ppm, as observed in the Mauna Loa lab of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on 3 June 2022. To better understand the impact of these emissions, it is estimated that 2.13 billion tonnes of CO2 released into the atmosphere result in an increase of 1 ppm of CO2 concentration. Considering the latest observations, the excess CO2 in the atmosphere can be calculated by subtracting the historical level of 280 ppm from the current level of 421 ppm, resulting in 141 ppm. By applying the conversion factor, approximately 300 billion tonnes of excess CO2 have accumulated, contributing significantly to the acceleration of global warming and climate change. The dramatic increase in GHG emissions, particularly CO2, due to human activities is the primary driver of climate change. As these emissions continue to rise, it is essential to recognise the urgency of taking collective action to mitigate impacts of the climate change. By transitioning to sustainable energy sources, implementing climate-resilient policies, and adopting responsible practices, we can strive to preserve the delicate balance of the earth's atmosphere and secure a sustainable future for generations to come. Source: Global Climate Change (NASA) Consequences of Climate Change Climate change presents two primary categories of risks: physical risks, which include acute events like extreme weather phenomena such as heatwaves, floods, heavy rainfall, and intense cyclonic storms, and chronic risks, encompassing long-term impacts like glacier melting, permafrost thawing, and rising sea levels. While chronic risks may take time to fully manifest, we are already witnessing the occurrence of extreme weather events, moving from one disastrous event to another. A notable example is the early heatwave in March 2022, affecting India, Europe, and China, followed by the devastating floods in Pakistan in September 2022. The manifestation of such events underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and its immediate consequences. Increased Visibility of Climate Change Impacts The evidence of climate change impacts has become more pronounced in recent times. One striking example is the extremely severe cyclonic storm named 'Biparjoy,' which made landfall on the Gujarat coast during mid-June. This storm was exceptional in several ways, as such intense storms were historically uncommon in the Arabian Sea during the monsoon onset phase in the Indian region. 'Biparjoy' disrupted the monsoon system and caused a delay in its onset by nearly 20 days. Simultaneously, while the cyclonic storm was affecting the region, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh experienced severe heat waves, compounded by increased humidity, which intensified heat stress and tragically claimed around 200 lives, as reported by the various media houses in India although respective state governments did not link it directly to the severe heat wave. Eventually, the monsoon regained momentum and rapidly covered the entire Indian region. However, it brought extreme weather events to different areas. Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi experienced widespread cloud bursts, leading to massive water deluge in the hills and causing extensive property damage and hundreds of fatalities. The monsoon's progress across India exhibited significant spatiotemporal variations, keeping professionals and the national disaster response force on high alert. Despite the overall monsoon rainfall surpassing the normal levels, there is still a 15% area that is under deficit rainfall. Although monsoon rainfall has exceeded its normal by 5% as of 26th July 2023 and is in a good state, still around 15% of areas are under deficit rainfall and even these areas may be catching up soon. (Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall Coverage as of 26th July 2023. Source: India Meteorological Department.) While India is witnessing rainfall, floods and cloud bursts, severe heat waves continued to afflict regions outside of India. The United States and Europe witnessed scorching temperatures, with few places in Italy reporting highs as extreme as 48˚C (Sicily and Sardinia) during 12 to 20th July 2023 and this heat wave engulfed Spain, France, Germany and Poland. (Bhuntar Valley Bridge Collapse in Kullu, H.P. India. courtesy PTI) (A visitor is affected by the heat atop the Acropolis hill, during a heatwave in Athens, Greece, July 14, 2023.) (Land Surface Temperature Image from Copernicus Sentinel-3 on 17 July 2023 Indicating Temperatures between 45˚C-50˚C, Severe Heatwave Conditions.) The impacts of these hydrometeorological disasters have resulted in significant economic losses. From 2007- 2021, the estimated losses by the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) were approximately 87 billion US dollars for India alone. Globally, the total losses from such events during 2022 alone was estimated to be a staggering 313 billion US dollars and increasing going forward (WMO report). These events serve as clear indications of the escalating consequences of climate change, emphasising the urgent need for effective mitigation and adaptation measures on a global scale. Addressing climate change is crucial to safeguarding lives, property, and the environment for future generations. Mitigation and Adaptation in the Face of Climate Crisis The IPCC AR6 report, titled "A Code Red for Humanity," released in August 2021, serves as a stark warning of the escalating occurrences of extreme weather events worldwide. Asia, in particular, is highly vulnerable due to its limited adaptive capacity, long coastlines, and tropical climate. While this year's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have only risen by 1%, as reported by the International Energy Agency (IEA), every passing day represents a lost opportunity. The window for climate action is rapidly closing, and the time to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs) is running out. Despite targets to achieve net neutrality by 2050, existing nationally determined commitments (NDCs) fall significantly short. The Paris Agreement, aimed at limiting temperature rise to below 2˚C and preferably to 1.5˚C by the end of 2012, appears to be at risk of breaching much earlier, potentially as soon as 2030, especially considering the impact of El Niño phases. Even if we manage to achieve carbon net neutrality by 2050, the excess GHGs already present in the environment will continue to exacerbate extreme weather events for at least the next three to four decades. To address the challenges ahead, it is imperative to accelerate mitigation efforts by transitioning to carbon-neutral energy, decarbonising industrial processes, and improving sustainable transportation methods. However, alongside mitigation, adaptation efforts must also be scaled up significantly. This includes climate-proofing critical infrastructure along coastlines and enhancing the adaptive capacity of vulnerable communities, especially in the global South. A collaborative and comprehensive approach to both mitigation and adaptation is essential to combat the climate crisis effectively. By taking urgent action now, we can pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable future for generations to come. Time is of the essence, as the window for effective climate action is narrowing. International cooperation and commitment are crucial to meet the targets set by the Paris Agreement and limit global warming to below 2˚C, preferably to 1.5˚C. To ensure a sustainable future for generations to come, collective efforts are needed to address the causes of climate change, acknowledge the consequences, observe the increased visibility of impacts, and embrace mitigation and adaptation strategies as vital components of a global climate response. Only through concerted action can we navigate the challenges of climate change and secure a resilient and prosperous future for our planet. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Climate Change: Uniting the threads of causes, consequences, and visible impacts

The news of wildfires and heat waves have been coming from all across the world but in particular the Mediterranean Coast has really been hit hard from Italy to Greece well in West Asia the Mediterranean part Syria and Turkey were hit as well. locals have been scrambling to find affordable ways to survive temperatures as high as 40 degrees celsius lining up to fill water containers purchasing ice blocks to help cool down are all efforts that seem to be in vain.

Wildfires scorch Syria and Turkey, huge losses for Tourism, agriculture

The world is suffering from unprecedentedly high temperatures. Tourists are fleeing the raging wildfires in Greece. Now the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has begun warning about the terrible conditions of our planet Earth. To know more watch this interview with former Assistant Executive Director of the UN Environment Program, Svein Tveitdal.

UN Chief: Climate change is here and it is terrifying

The world is suffering from unprecedentedly high temperatures. Tourists are fleeing the raging wildfires in Greece. Now the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has begun warning about the terrible conditions of our planet Earth. Take a look.

UN Chief pleads for immediate radical action on climate change

<p>Thousands of dead Magellanic penguins have washed up dead in Uruguay, leaving authorities alarmed and puzzled. Science Alert reported more than 2,000 dead penguins that showed up on the beaches had “tremendously thin skins” and empty stomachs, leading to speculations that the penguins might have died of starvation.</p>

<p>Carmen Leizagoyen, who works at Uruguay's Environment Ministry, was quoted by AFP as saying, “Ninety per cent are young specimens that arrive without fat reserves and with empty stomachs."</p>

<h2><strong>Mass death of penguins - An annual trend</strong></h2>

<p>For the past three decades, hundreds of such dead penguins have been showing up on the eastern beaches of South America each year.</p>

<p>Experts argue while it is not uncommon for some young penguins to die every year, the number of dead birds has astonishingly risen over the past few years.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Climate Change: US, Europe reel under historic heatwave, while Asia battles floods</strong></p>

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<p>For instance, in 2010, around 500 dead penguins washed up on the beaches of Brazil. They most likely died of starvation.</p>

<p>Two years later, more than 700 dead penguins showed up on Brazil’s coastlines.</p>

<p>In 2019, more than 350 penguins were reported dead in Argentina because of extreme weather and storms.</p>

<h2><strong>What is causing this phenomenon?</strong></h2>

<p>Experts believe this is happening due to the confluence of several deadly factors, including climate change, which may have resulted in the death of these penguins every year.</p>

<p>"Food shortages as a result of overexploitation of South Atlantic fishing and the impact of climate change on offshore currents could be the causes of this sad event," explains&nbsp;animal welfare organisation SOS Rescate de Fauna Marina on Facebook.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-may-become-water-deficit-desert-due-to-climate-change-study-618822"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India`s Punjab may become `water deficit desert` due to climate change: Study</strong></a></p>

<p>This year, there are suspicions among experts that a subtropical cyclone off the coast of Uruguay may have further weakened an already starving population of Magellanic penguins.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, other sea creatures such as sea birds, turtles, and sea lions have been discovered dead in the surrounding areas, providing support to this theory.</p>

<h2><strong>Penguins facing deadly threats since the 1990s</strong></h2>

<p>Since the 1990s, scientists have been aware of the struggles faced by Magellanic penguins in finding sufficient food. Unfortunately, little action has been taken in the intervening years to ensure the sustainability of their main food sources, such as anchovies, sardines, and other essential snacks in this region.</p>

<p>The decline in food availability is largely attributed to overfishing, but the impact of changing weather patterns due to climate change is also a significant factor. These changing patterns can disrupt the distribution of crucial ocean prey, exacerbating the penguins' plight.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Thousands of dead Magellanic penguins have washed up dead in Uruguay, leaving authorities alarmed and puzzled. Science Alert reported more than 2,000 dead penguins that showed up on the beaches had “tremendously thin skins” and empty stomachs, leading to speculations that the penguins might have died of starvation.

Thousands of dead Magellanic penguins have washed up dead in Uruguay, leaving authorities alarmed and puzzled. Science Alert reported more than 2,000 dead penguins that showed up on the beaches had “tremendously thin skins” and empty stomachs, leading to speculations that the penguins might have died of starvation. Carmen Leizagoyen, who works at Uruguay's Environment Ministry, was quoted by AFP as saying, “Ninety per cent are young specimens that arrive without fat reserves and with empty stomachs." Mass death of penguins - An annual trend For the past three decades, hundreds of such dead penguins have been showing up on the eastern beaches of South America each year. Experts argue while it is not uncommon for some young penguins to die every year, the number of dead birds has astonishingly risen over the past few years. Watch: Climate Change: US, Europe reel under historic heatwave, while Asia battles floods × For instance, in 2010, around 500 dead penguins washed up on the beaches of Brazil. They most likely died of starvation. Two years later, more than 700 dead penguins showed up on Brazil’s coastlines. In 2019, more than 350 penguins were reported dead in Argentina because of extreme weather and storms. What is causing this phenomenon? Experts believe this is happening due to the confluence of several deadly factors, including climate change, which may have resulted in the death of these penguins every year. "Food shortages as a result of overexploitation of South Atlantic fishing and the impact of climate change on offshore currents could be the causes of this sad event," explains animal welfare organisation SOS Rescate de Fauna Marina on Facebook. Also read: India`s Punjab may become `water deficit desert` due to climate change: Study This year, there are suspicions among experts that a subtropical cyclone off the coast of Uruguay may have further weakened an already starving population of Magellanic penguins. Additionally, other sea creatures such as sea birds, turtles, and sea lions have been discovered dead in the surrounding areas, providing support to this theory. Penguins facing deadly threats since the 1990s Since the 1990s, scientists have been aware of the struggles faced by Magellanic penguins in finding sufficient food. Unfortunately, little action has been taken in the intervening years to ensure the sustainability of their main food sources, such as anchovies, sardines, and other essential snacks in this region. The decline in food availability is largely attributed to overfishing, but the impact of changing weather patterns due to climate change is also a significant factor. These changing patterns can disrupt the distribution of crucial ocean prey, exacerbating the penguins' plight. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

More than 2,000 dead penguins wash ashore in Uruguay, cause remains unknown

John Kerry met with india's finance minister Nirmala Seetharam in New Delhi on Wednesday. The two of them discussed joint efforts and commitments by both the countries to achieve climate, economic and strategic technology cooperation goals. Both sides also discussed the creation of innovative investment platform for deployment of greenfield renewable energy projects in India.

John Kerry meets with India's finance minister ahead of G20 climate working group in Chennai

Large areas of the Mediterranean are sweltering under an intense summer heatwave. The dry conditions have led to severe wildfires in multiple nations in Europe Asia & North Africa. Firefighters are battling to put out blazes across the region, from Portugal, To Italy, And Algeria. Forests are burning in at least nine countries across the Mediterranean And Turkiye is the latest country to feel the wrath Russian amphibious planes were roped in to tackle fires in the city of Antalya.

Wildfires spreading across Mediterranean nations, Turkiye feels the wrath

Climate change has likely changed the colour of the Earth's oceans significantly over the past two decades, according to a study. The research, published recently in the journal Nature, detected changes in ocean colour over the past 20 years that cannot be explained by natural, year-to-year variability alone. Watch this to know more.

Climate change is shifting the oceans' colours: Study

<p>As soaring temperatures continue to bake swathes of North America and Europe this month, researchers, on Tuesday (July 25) confirm what <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/temperatures-reach-new-highs-world-witnesses-record-breaking-heat-616853">many speculated</a>, that this weather phenomenon would be “virtually impossible” without human-induced climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From record-breaking temperatures in the United States to life-threatening wildfires burning parts of Europe, we only have ourselves (and our greenhouse gas emissions) to blame as July 2023 may be the hottest month for the planet.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Record-breaking temperatures ‘virtually impossible’ without climate change</strong></h2>

<p>A new rapid analysis of the scorching temperatures was published by an international team of scientists at the World Weather Attribution which found that the heatwaves in parts of Europe and North America would have been impossible if it was not for human-induced climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“European and North American temperatures would have been virtually impossible without the effects of climate change,” Izidine Pinto of the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute, one of the authors, told journalists, on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The research also noted that climate change has also caused recent record-setting heatwaves in China, which are to become 50 times “more likely,” when compared to previous years. This comes as the country witnessed its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-records-522-celsius-temperature-in-arid-northwest-616575">record-setting</a> temperature of 52.2 degrees Celsius in Sanbao township in Xinjiang’s Turpan Depression.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scientists also noted how the extreme weather events witnessed in July across the world would have been “extremely rare” if it was not for climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rise in greenhouse gas concentrations made the European heatwave 2.5 degrees Celsius hotter than it would have been. They also helped worsen North American heatwaves by two degrees Celsius and also in China by one degree Celsius.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
This comes nearly a week after NASA climatologist Gavin Schmidt told reporters how July 2023 is not only on track to become the hottest month since records began but also the hottest in “hundreds, if not thousands, of years.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Situation to worsen</strong></h2>

<p>“The role of climate change is absolutely overwhelming,” said climate scientist Friederike Otto, of the Grantham Institute for Climate Change and the Environment, Imperial College London.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The weather data collected was used to run through computer model simulations to compare today’s climate with that of the past years. Otto and her colleagues at the WWA said they focused on periods when “the heat was most dangerous in each region.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Otto, in the past, it would have been “basically impossible” to witness these record-breaking temperatures and heatwaves happening around the same time. But at the same time, “It’s not surprising from a climatological point of view, that these events are happening at the same time,” said the researcher.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The findings were published using peer-reviewed methods but the study has yet to undergo the formal academic review process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers from Imperial College London, the Dutch National Weather Service and the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre, estimated that these severe heatwaves can now be expected once every 15 years in North America, every decade in southern Europe and every five years in China.</p>

<p>Scientists also expect these prolonged periods of extreme heat would be as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extreme-heatwaves-to-continue-through-august-wmo-adviser-says-618150">frequent</a> as every two to five years if the global temperatures rise over two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is expected to happen around 30 years from now unless countries fulfil their Paris Agreement and cut down emissions. Currently, the average temperatures are estimated to have risen by over 1.1 degrees Celsius.</p>

<h2><strong>About the cause</strong></h2>

<p>These effects have largely been attributed to the generation of greenhouse gases by burning fossil fuels. “As long as we keep burning fossil fuels we will see more and more of these extremes,” Otto. She added, “I don’t think there’s any stronger evidence that any science has ever presented for a scientific question.”</p>

<p>Scientists also noted that while the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-declares-onset-of-el-nino-says-itll-break-temperature-records-611836">El Nino weather pattern</a> may have contributed to the additional heat in some regions, these extreme events cannot solely be attributed to the phenomenon, as the weather pattern is not expected to strengthen until later on in the year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They added that these heatwaves will become increasingly likely if measures to slash emissions are not taken.</p>

<h2><strong>Impact and calls for urgent measures</strong></h2>

<p>Recent record-breaking temperatures have also directly impacted human health, caused large-scale crop damage and livestock losses, said the scientists. These adverse effects of heatwaves seen in North America, southern Europe and China have accelerated the need for heat preparedness, they added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A study published, earlier this month, in the journal Nature Medicine found that Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain saw the highest number of deaths, according to population size, when Europe was hit by the sweltering heatwaves last summer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also estimated that more than 61,600 people may have died from heat-related causes across 35 European countries between late May to early September 2022, suggesting that the countries’ heat preparedness efforts fell fatally short.</p>

<p>The World Health Organization (WHO) said they are particularly concerned about people with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and asthma during the heatwaves in Europe and the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wmo-warns-about-risk-of-heart-attacks-deaths-amid-intensifying-heatwaves-617213">World Meteorological Organization (WMO)</a> issued a warning about a high risk of deaths due to the extreme weather and said such events will only intensify and the world needs to be better prepared for them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While we are focusing on the maximum day temperatures, it is the high overnight minimum temperatures that we should be worried about as they have the “biggest health risks”, particularly for vulnerable populations, said WMO senior extreme heat advisor, John Nairn, on July 18.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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As soaring temperatures continue to bake swathes of North America and Europe this month, researchers, on Tuesday (July 25) confirm what many speculated, that this weather phenomenon would be “virtually impossible” without human-induced climate change.

As soaring temperatures continue to bake swathes of North America and Europe this month, researchers, on Tuesday (July 25) confirm what many speculated, that this weather phenomenon would be “virtually impossible” without human-induced climate change. From record-breaking temperatures in the United States to life-threatening wildfires burning parts of Europe, we only have ourselves (and our greenhouse gas emissions) to blame as July 2023 may be the hottest month for the planet. Record-breaking temperatures ‘virtually impossible’ without climate change A new rapid analysis of the scorching temperatures was published by an international team of scientists at the World Weather Attribution which found that the heatwaves in parts of Europe and North America would have been impossible if it was not for human-induced climate change. “European and North American temperatures would have been virtually impossible without the effects of climate change,” Izidine Pinto of the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute, one of the authors, told journalists, on Tuesday. The research also noted that climate change has also caused recent record-setting heatwaves in China, which are to become 50 times “more likely,” when compared to previous years. This comes as the country witnessed its record-setting temperature of 52.2 degrees Celsius in Sanbao township in Xinjiang’s Turpan Depression. Scientists also noted how the extreme weather events witnessed in July across the world would have been “extremely rare” if it was not for climate change. The rise in greenhouse gas concentrations made the European heatwave 2.5 degrees Celsius hotter than it would have been. They also helped worsen North American heatwaves by two degrees Celsius and also in China by one degree Celsius. This comes nearly a week after NASA climatologist Gavin Schmidt told reporters how July 2023 is not only on track to become the hottest month since records began but also the hottest in “hundreds, if not thousands, of years.” Situation to worsen “The role of climate change is absolutely overwhelming,” said climate scientist Friederike Otto, of the Grantham Institute for Climate Change and the Environment, Imperial College London. The weather data collected was used to run through computer model simulations to compare today’s climate with that of the past years. Otto and her colleagues at the WWA said they focused on periods when “the heat was most dangerous in each region.” According to Otto, in the past, it would have been “basically impossible” to witness these record-breaking temperatures and heatwaves happening around the same time. But at the same time, “It’s not surprising from a climatological point of view, that these events are happening at the same time,” said the researcher. The findings were published using peer-reviewed methods but the study has yet to undergo the formal academic review process. Researchers from Imperial College London, the Dutch National Weather Service and the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre, estimated that these severe heatwaves can now be expected once every 15 years in North America, every decade in southern Europe and every five years in China. Scientists also expect these prolonged periods of extreme heat would be as frequent as every two to five years if the global temperatures rise over two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This is expected to happen around 30 years from now unless countries fulfil their Paris Agreement and cut down emissions. Currently, the average temperatures are estimated to have risen by over 1.1 degrees Celsius. About the cause These effects have largely been attributed to the generation of greenhouse gases by burning fossil fuels. “As long as we keep burning fossil fuels we will see more and more of these extremes,” Otto. She added, “I don’t think there’s any stronger evidence that any science has ever presented for a scientific question.” Scientists also noted that while the El Nino weather pattern may have contributed to the additional heat in some regions, these extreme events cannot solely be attributed to the phenomenon, as the weather pattern is not expected to strengthen until later on in the year. They added that these heatwaves will become increasingly likely if measures to slash emissions are not taken. Impact and calls for urgent measures Recent record-breaking temperatures have also directly impacted human health, caused large-scale crop damage and livestock losses, said the scientists. These adverse effects of heatwaves seen in North America, southern Europe and China have accelerated the need for heat preparedness, they added. A study published, earlier this month, in the journal Nature Medicine found that Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain saw the highest number of deaths, according to population size, when Europe was hit by the sweltering heatwaves last summer. It also estimated that more than 61,600 people may have died from heat-related causes across 35 European countries between late May to early September 2022, suggesting that the countries’ heat preparedness efforts fell fatally short. The World Health Organization (WHO) said they are particularly concerned about people with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and asthma during the heatwaves in Europe and the US. Last week, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) issued a warning about a high risk of deaths due to the extreme weather and said such events will only intensify and the world needs to be better prepared for them. While we are focusing on the maximum day temperatures, it is the high overnight minimum temperatures that we should be worried about as they have the “biggest health risks”, particularly for vulnerable populations, said WMO senior extreme heat advisor, John Nairn, on July 18. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Why deadly heatwaves across Europe, US ‘virtually impossible’ without climate change

<p>The surface ocean temperature in and around Florida Keys in the US has risen to hot tub levels this week as global weather monitors continue to warn about the dangerous impact of warming waters on ecosystems.</p>

<p>A water temperature buoy in the Everglades National Park recorded a high of 101.19 degrees Fahrenheit (38.44 Celsius). The temperature was recorded in the waters of Manatee Bay. Other buoys nearby topped 100ºF (38ºC) and the upper 90s.</p>

<p>According to United States' National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), normal water temperatures for the area during this time of the year should be between 73ºF and 88ºF (23ºC and 31ºC). The NOAA published the findings from the National Data Buoy Centre.</p>

<p>These reading have been obtained close on the heels of previous warnings over heating up of Florida's waters. Prolonged heat has continued to bake other parts of the country.</p>

<p>Global, human-driven climate change is fuelling extremes in the weather. The growing frequency and intensity of severe weather is considered to be symptomatic of climate change.</p>

<p>United Nations' World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said earlier this month that temperatures in the global seas have reached monthly record highs since May. This is also driven in part by El Nino weather phenomenon.</p>

<p>The WMO and NOAA have both said that the temperatures like those recorded in South Florida can prove to be deadly for marine life. This in turn can threaten ocean ecosystems. The rising temperatures can also impact human food supplies and livelihoods of those who depend on the seas to earn their money.</p>

<p>As he worked his knife to filet fish hauled into Key Largo on Tuesday, fishing boat captain Dustin Hansel said the catch has been getting "slower and slower" for the past five summers. He's also been seeing more dead fish in waters around Key Largo.</p>

<p>"As far as all of our bay waters, any near-shore waters, everything is super, super hot," Hansel told Reuters.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, NOAA warned that warmer water around Florida can supercharge hurricanes and tropical storms. Such storms gain more energy over warmer waters. Rising temperatures are also severely stressing coral reefs, the agency said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The surface ocean temperature in and around Florida Keys in the US has risen to hot tub levels this week as global weather monitors continue to warn about the dangerous impact of warming waters on ecosystems.

The surface ocean temperature in and around Florida Keys in the US has risen to hot tub levels this week as global weather monitors continue to warn about the dangerous impact of warming waters on ecosystems. A water temperature buoy in the Everglades National Park recorded a high of 101.19 degrees Fahrenheit (38.44 Celsius). The temperature was recorded in the waters of Manatee Bay. Other buoys nearby topped 100ºF (38ºC) and the upper 90s. According to United States' National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), normal water temperatures for the area during this time of the year should be between 73ºF and 88ºF (23ºC and 31ºC). The NOAA published the findings from the National Data Buoy Centre. These reading have been obtained close on the heels of previous warnings over heating up of Florida's waters. Prolonged heat has continued to bake other parts of the country. Global, human-driven climate change is fuelling extremes in the weather. The growing frequency and intensity of severe weather is considered to be symptomatic of climate change. United Nations' World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said earlier this month that temperatures in the global seas have reached monthly record highs since May. This is also driven in part by El Nino weather phenomenon. The WMO and NOAA have both said that the temperatures like those recorded in South Florida can prove to be deadly for marine life. This in turn can threaten ocean ecosystems. The rising temperatures can also impact human food supplies and livelihoods of those who depend on the seas to earn their money. As he worked his knife to filet fish hauled into Key Largo on Tuesday, fishing boat captain Dustin Hansel said the catch has been getting "slower and slower" for the past five summers. He's also been seeing more dead fish in waters around Key Largo. "As far as all of our bay waters, any near-shore waters, everything is super, super hot," Hansel told Reuters. Earlier this month, NOAA warned that warmer water around Florida can supercharge hurricanes and tropical storms. Such storms gain more energy over warmer waters. Rising temperatures are also severely stressing coral reefs, the agency said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ocean temperature around Florida reaches hot tub levels

<p>A recent study suggests that the Gulf Stream system, known as the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (Amoc), could collapse as early as 2025, posing catastrophic climate impacts.</p>

<p>Researchers had previously identified Amoc as being at its weakest point in 1,600 years due to global heating.</p>

<p>In 2021, warning signs of a tipping point were observed. The new analysis estimates a potential collapse between 2025 and 2095, with the central estimate being 2050 if global carbon emissions continue unabated, reported the Guardian.</p>

<p>Past collapses have resulted in temperature changes of up to 10 degree&nbsp;Celsius&nbsp;within a few decades, although those instances occurred during ice ages, reported the Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While some scientists believe the assumptions and uncertainties surrounding the tipping point's timing are too significant for a precise estimate, all agree that the prospect of an Amoc collapse is deeply concerning and should drive immediate reductions in carbon emissions.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/exquisitely-preserved-fossil-forest-from-late-miocene-epoch-found-in-japan-619245">Exquisitely preserved fossil forest from late Miocene epoch found in Japan</a></p>

<h2><strong>Tipping point warning: Amoc's weakening and past collapses</strong></h2>

<p>Amoc plays a crucial role by carrying warm ocean water northwards, cooling, and sinking it, which drives the Atlantic's currents. However, the influx of freshwater from melting Greenland's ice cap and other sources is increasingly stifling these currents.</p>

<p>A potential Amoc collapse would have disastrous consequences globally, severely disrupting rainfall patterns in regions like India, South America, and West Africa, upon which billions of people depend for food.</p>

<p>It would lead to more storms and colder temperatures in Europe, cause rising sea levels on the eastern coast of North America, and further endanger the Amazon rainforest and Antarctic ice sheets.</p>

<p>Professor Peter Ditlevsen from the University of Copenhagen, who led the study and spoke to The Guardian, expressed significant concern about the potential impact, noting that Amoc has not experienced a shutdown in the last 12,000 years.</p>

<p>Amoc has historically collapsed and restarted during ice age cycles from 115,000 to 12,000 years ago. Today, it remains one of the most concerning climate tipping points as global temperatures continue to rise.</p>

<p>Recent research suggests that five dangerous tipping points may have already been crossed due to the 1.1 degree&nbsp;Celsius of global heating experienced so far.</p>

<p>The study, published in Nature Communications, utilised sea surface temperature data since 1870 as a proxy for Amoc strength changes over time. Researchers mapped this data onto the path of systems approaching a specific type of tipping point, known as a "saddle-node bifurcation." The analysis showed a close fit between the data and the tipping point path, allowing for an extrapolation to estimate the likely timing of the tipping point.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Italy: Global warming hurting crops</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Urgent need for reduction in carbon emissions&nbsp;to mitigate Amoc collapse</strong></h2>

<p>The scenario assumed a continuation of greenhouse gas emissions at their current rate. If emissions begin to decline as intended by climate policies, the world would have more time to prevent global temperatures from surpassing the Amoc tipping point.</p>

<p>While uncertainties persist among scientists regarding the tipping point's precise location and timing, the findings have prompted an urgent call for further research and immediate action to reduce carbon emissions. Multiple approaches have led to similar conclusions, emphasising the gravity of the risk that we must strive to avoid.</p>

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A recent study suggests that the Gulf Stream system, known as the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (Amoc), could collapse as early as 2025, posing catastrophic climate impacts.

A recent study suggests that the Gulf Stream system, known as the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (Amoc), could collapse as early as 2025, posing catastrophic climate impacts. Researchers had previously identified Amoc as being at its weakest point in 1,600 years due to global heating. In 2021, warning signs of a tipping point were observed. The new analysis estimates a potential collapse between 2025 and 2095, with the central estimate being 2050 if global carbon emissions continue unabated, reported the Guardian. Past collapses have resulted in temperature changes of up to 10 degree Celsius within a few decades, although those instances occurred during ice ages, reported the Guardian. While some scientists believe the assumptions and uncertainties surrounding the tipping point's timing are too significant for a precise estimate, all agree that the prospect of an Amoc collapse is deeply concerning and should drive immediate reductions in carbon emissions. Also read | Exquisitely preserved fossil forest from late Miocene epoch found in Japan Tipping point warning: Amoc's weakening and past collapses Amoc plays a crucial role by carrying warm ocean water northwards, cooling, and sinking it, which drives the Atlantic's currents. However, the influx of freshwater from melting Greenland's ice cap and other sources is increasingly stifling these currents. A potential Amoc collapse would have disastrous consequences globally, severely disrupting rainfall patterns in regions like India, South America, and West Africa, upon which billions of people depend for food. It would lead to more storms and colder temperatures in Europe, cause rising sea levels on the eastern coast of North America, and further endanger the Amazon rainforest and Antarctic ice sheets. Professor Peter Ditlevsen from the University of Copenhagen, who led the study and spoke to The Guardian, expressed significant concern about the potential impact, noting that Amoc has not experienced a shutdown in the last 12,000 years. Amoc has historically collapsed and restarted during ice age cycles from 115,000 to 12,000 years ago. Today, it remains one of the most concerning climate tipping points as global temperatures continue to rise. Recent research suggests that five dangerous tipping points may have already been crossed due to the 1.1 degree Celsius of global heating experienced so far. The study, published in Nature Communications, utilised sea surface temperature data since 1870 as a proxy for Amoc strength changes over time. Researchers mapped this data onto the path of systems approaching a specific type of tipping point, known as a "saddle-node bifurcation." The analysis showed a close fit between the data and the tipping point path, allowing for an extrapolation to estimate the likely timing of the tipping point. Also watch | Italy: Global warming hurting crops Urgent need for reduction in carbon emissions to mitigate Amoc collapse The scenario assumed a continuation of greenhouse gas emissions at their current rate. If emissions begin to decline as intended by climate policies, the world would have more time to prevent global temperatures from surpassing the Amoc tipping point. While uncertainties persist among scientists regarding the tipping point's precise location and timing, the findings have prompted an urgent call for further research and immediate action to reduce carbon emissions. Multiple approaches have led to similar conclusions, emphasising the gravity of the risk that we must strive to avoid. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Gulf stream in peril: Study suggests collapse possible as early as 2025

As soaring temperatures continue to bake swathes of North America and Europe this month, researchers, on July 25 confirm what many speculated, that this weather phenomenon would be “virtually impossible” without human-induced climate change. Watch this to know more.

Why is Europe so hot? Here's how long it will last

Arizona has reported a spike in patients burnt due to falling on Asphalt. Meanwhile, wildfires continue to rage in Greece. Priyanka Sharma brings you the details.

Gravitas: People in Arizona are burning after falling on ground

The effects of climate change are drastically affecting oceans around the world. According to a new study, the ocean circulation in the North Atlantic is likely to collapse sooner than expected, as a result of climate change. This can cause further disruptions in weather patterns around the globe. Scientists suggest the Gulf Stream system could collapse as early as 2025.

Gulf Stream Atlantic oceanic currents could collapse as early as 2025: Study

<p>Extreme weather continued to batter Italy, on Tuesday (July 25), as Palermo airport was forced to shut down for hours due to wildfires, while over a dozen cities across the country were placed on red alert because of the high temperatures. Meanwhile, in northern Italy, two people were killed after an overnight storm.</p>

<h2><strong>Watch: Wildfires force closure of Palermo airport</strong></h2>

<p>The Palermo airport was closed for hours due to wildfires, however, the airport operator, shortly after 0900 GMT took to X (formerly Twitter)&nbsp;and announced that only a limited number of outbound flights would be allowed “for the moment”. It was later announced that a plane from northern Italy’s Turnin was able to land, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The wildfires in Sicily continued to rage across the region&nbsp;on Tuesday amid high temperatures. The airport was closed after firefighters struggled to put out the major blaze in the nearby area which has since also disrupted local road and rail traffic.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wildfires have forced the closure of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Palermo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Palermo</a> airport in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sicily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sicily</a> as extreme weather continues to batter Italy, with severe storms causing major damage and resulting in at least two deaths in the north. The airport looks to remain closed until this evening. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sicilia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sicilia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Milano?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Milano</a> <a href="https://t.co/hULrjz8a1V">pic.twitter.com/hULrjz8a1V</a></p>
— Our World (@MeetOurWorld) <a href="https://twitter.com/MeetOurWorld/status/1683763413275537408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The regional authorities also reported the death of a woman after an ambulance could not reach her house due to wildfire-related disruptions. The closure of the airport also further exacerbated Sicily’s travel while the region is in the midst of a peak tourist season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, the island’s main airport of Catania, also the country’s fifth-biggest, was closed after a fire in a terminal building but later reopened for a few flights. Wildfires also raged across various parts of Calabria, the southernmost part of the Italian mainland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Palermo and Catania were&nbsp;also placed on red alert by Italian authorities due to soaring temperatures and witnessed power and water supply cuts. The temperature in parts of eastern Sicily rose to 47 degree&nbsp;Celsius, said Sicily’s civil protection agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as the region recorded the highest temperature in Europe, two years ago, at 48.8 degree&nbsp;Celsius.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Storm in northern Italy</strong></h2>

<p>In an overnight storm in Italy’s financial capital, Milan, roofs were torn off, and trees were uprooted causing road blockages and disrupted overground transportation, reported Reuters. Milan residents reported torrential rain and hail on Tuesday morning which have also flooded parts of the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I have been through 65 summers in my lifetime...and what I am seeing now is not normal, we can no longer deny it, climate change is changing our lives,” said Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two “tragic” deaths due to bad weather in northern Italy’s Lissone and near Brescia were confirmed by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among those killed was a 16-year-old girl who was on a camping trip near Brescia when a tree fell on her tent overnight due to high winds and torrential rain, on Tuesday. On Monday, a middle-aged woman died after also being hit by a falling tree in Lissone.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
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Extreme weather continued to batter Italy, on Tuesday (July 25), as Palermo airport was forced to shut down for hours due to wildfires, while over a dozen cities across the country were placed on red alert because of the high temperatures.

Extreme weather continued to batter Italy, on Tuesday (July 25), as Palermo airport was forced to shut down for hours due to wildfires, while over a dozen cities across the country were placed on red alert because of the high temperatures. Meanwhile, in northern Italy, two people were killed after an overnight storm. Watch: Wildfires force closure of Palermo airport The Palermo airport was closed for hours due to wildfires, however, the airport operator, shortly after 0900 GMT took to X (formerly Twitter) and announced that only a limited number of outbound flights would be allowed “for the moment”. It was later announced that a plane from northern Italy’s Turnin was able to land, reported Reuters. The wildfires in Sicily continued to rage across the region on Tuesday amid high temperatures. The airport was closed after firefighters struggled to put out the major blaze in the nearby area which has since also disrupted local road and rail traffic. Wildfires have forced the closure of #Palermo airport in #Sicily as extreme weather continues to batter Italy, with severe storms causing major damage and resulting in at least two deaths in the north. The airport looks to remain closed until this evening. #Sicilia #Milano pic.twitter.com/hULrjz8a1V — Our World (@MeetOurWorld) July 25, 2023 × The regional authorities also reported the death of a woman after an ambulance could not reach her house due to wildfire-related disruptions. The closure of the airport also further exacerbated Sicily’s travel while the region is in the midst of a peak tourist season. Furthermore, the island’s main airport of Catania, also the country’s fifth-biggest, was closed after a fire in a terminal building but later reopened for a few flights. Wildfires also raged across various parts of Calabria, the southernmost part of the Italian mainland. Palermo and Catania were also placed on red alert by Italian authorities due to soaring temperatures and witnessed power and water supply cuts. The temperature in parts of eastern Sicily rose to 47 degree Celsius, said Sicily’s civil protection agency. This comes as the region recorded the highest temperature in Europe, two years ago, at 48.8 degree Celsius. Storm in northern Italy In an overnight storm in Italy’s financial capital, Milan, roofs were torn off, and trees were uprooted causing road blockages and disrupted overground transportation, reported Reuters. Milan residents reported torrential rain and hail on Tuesday morning which have also flooded parts of the city. “I have been through 65 summers in my lifetime...and what I am seeing now is not normal, we can no longer deny it, climate change is changing our lives,” said Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala. The two “tragic” deaths due to bad weather in northern Italy’s Lissone and near Brescia were confirmed by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, on Tuesday. Among those killed was a 16-year-old girl who was on a camping trip near Brescia when a tree fell on her tent overnight due to high winds and torrential rain, on Tuesday. On Monday, a middle-aged woman died after also being hit by a falling tree in Lissone. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

VIDEO | Italy: Palermo airport partially reopens after closure due to wildfires

Signs of climate change are becoming more and more evident in the Indian state of Punjab, which is also referred to as the country's bread basket' off late the state is experiencing unusual weather patterns, ranging from sudden, heavy rain showers to unexpected snowfall the monsoon pattern has also worsened over the past two decades.

Changing monsoon weather patterns spell trouble for Punjab

<p>The ability to predict earthquakes has long eluded scientists, as the search for reliable precursors — early indicators of an impending earthquake — has remained fruitless.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, two researchers may have made a significant breakthrough in this field. According to their findings, earthquakes could potentially be detected through GPS measurements, and that too 'several hours' before the main event.</p>

<h2><strong>How will this work?</strong></h2>

<p>Quentin Bletery, a seismologist at the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement and the Université Côte d'Azur in France, believes that this discovery is a significant step forward.</p>

<p>"Conceptually, that tells you that it is possible to do it," he said, as quoted by Space.com.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/china-ambitious-space-programme-will-send-taikonauts-to-moon-with-new-gen-spacecraft-618268">China ambitious space programme will send taikonauts to Moon with new gen spacecraft</a></strong></p>

<p>By analysing a dataset maintained by the University of Nevada at Reno, Bletery and his colleague Jean-Mathieu Nocquet focused on GPS stations located near known earthquake zones with magnitudes of 7.0 or higher.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They examined the recorded positions of these stations in the 48 hours leading up to each earthquake, comparing the actual motion with the expected motion caused by the quake.</p>

<p>Their research revealed that in the final two hours before an earthquake, the ground's motion often began to align with the expected motion, intensifying as the time of the quake approached. This pattern was not typically observed during randomly selected two-hour windows when no&nbsp;earthquakes happened. These findings suggest that the motion observed in the final two hours may serve as precursors to earthquakes.</p>

<h2><strong>Is this the ultimate protection plan?</strong></h2>

<p>The research, published in the journal Science, provides valuable insights into earthquake behaviour and offers hope for future advancements in earthquake prediction.</p>

<p>Despite this breakthrough, seismologists, as per the report, still face significant challenges in transforming this knowledge into a reliable earthquake prediction method.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alarm-raised-as-study-finds-forever-chemicals-in-pregnant-womens-blood-617610">Alarm raised as study finds forever chemicals in pregnant women's blood</a></strong></p>

<p>Current instruments are not sensitive enough to detect this motion in advance. Bletery estimates that existing equipment would need to be approximately 50 times more sensitive to detect precursors to earthquakes.</p>

<p>"That's a huge technological gap," said Bletery,&nbsp;adding, "we just don't have the technology yet to do it."</p>

<p>While this technological gap presents a significant obstacle, Bletery believes that the discovery itself is a sign of progress. It challenges the notion that earthquakes are chaotic, instantaneous events caused by sudden fault movements, he remarked.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Instead, he said that the observed two-hour preview suggests that earthquakes may have precursor elements that could potentially be identified before they occur.</p>

<p>The researchers' findings also raised intriguing questions. When examining GPS data along Japan's coast, they discovered that the motions seemed to match far in advance of the magnitude 9.0 Tohoku-Oki earthquake that triggered a devastating tsunami in 2011. The motions appeared to follow a repeating cycle of approximately 3.6 hours. The cause of this cycle remains a mystery.<br />
<br />
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The ability to predict earthquakes has long eluded scientists, as the search for reliable precursors — early indicators of an impending earthquake — has remained fruitless.

The ability to predict earthquakes has long eluded scientists, as the search for reliable precursors — early indicators of an impending earthquake — has remained fruitless. However, two researchers may have made a significant breakthrough in this field. According to their findings, earthquakes could potentially be detected through GPS measurements, and that too 'several hours' before the main event. How will this work? Quentin Bletery, a seismologist at the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement and the Université Côte d'Azur in France, believes that this discovery is a significant step forward. "Conceptually, that tells you that it is possible to do it," he said, as quoted by Space.com. Also read | China ambitious space programme will send taikonauts to Moon with new gen spacecraft By analysing a dataset maintained by the University of Nevada at Reno, Bletery and his colleague Jean-Mathieu Nocquet focused on GPS stations located near known earthquake zones with magnitudes of 7.0 or higher. They examined the recorded positions of these stations in the 48 hours leading up to each earthquake, comparing the actual motion with the expected motion caused by the quake. Their research revealed that in the final two hours before an earthquake, the ground's motion often began to align with the expected motion, intensifying as the time of the quake approached. This pattern was not typically observed during randomly selected two-hour windows when no earthquakes happened. These findings suggest that the motion observed in the final two hours may serve as precursors to earthquakes. Is this the ultimate protection plan? The research, published in the journal Science, provides valuable insights into earthquake behaviour and offers hope for future advancements in earthquake prediction. Despite this breakthrough, seismologists, as per the report, still face significant challenges in transforming this knowledge into a reliable earthquake prediction method. Also read | Alarm raised as study finds forever chemicals in pregnant women's blood Current instruments are not sensitive enough to detect this motion in advance. Bletery estimates that existing equipment would need to be approximately 50 times more sensitive to detect precursors to earthquakes. "That's a huge technological gap," said Bletery, adding, "we just don't have the technology yet to do it." While this technological gap presents a significant obstacle, Bletery believes that the discovery itself is a sign of progress. It challenges the notion that earthquakes are chaotic, instantaneous events caused by sudden fault movements, he remarked. Instead, he said that the observed two-hour preview suggests that earthquakes may have precursor elements that could potentially be identified before they occur. The researchers' findings also raised intriguing questions. When examining GPS data along Japan's coast, they discovered that the motions seemed to match far in advance of the magnitude 9.0 Tohoku-Oki earthquake that triggered a devastating tsunami in 2011. The motions appeared to follow a repeating cycle of approximately 3.6 hours. The cause of this cycle remains a mystery. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Breakthrough in earthquake research: GPS measurements could predict tremors hours ago

<p>The Batagaika crater, the world’s biggest permafrost crater, situated in Russia’s Far East is thawing, reported Reuters on Friday (July 21), which has led scientists to raise an alarm as this “mega slump” already threatens cities and towns across northern and northeastern Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is a permafrost crater?</strong></h2>

<p>According to NASA, permafrost is any ground that remains completely frozen at zero degrees Celsius for at least two years straight. These permanently frozen grounds are made with a combination of soil, rocks and sand held together by ice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Permafrosts are most common in regions near the North and South poles and cover large parts of the Earth, according to the American space agency. Notably, almost a quarter of the land area in the Northern Hemisphere has permafrost underneath but while the ground is frozen the regions with permafrost are not always covered in snow.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Gateway to the underworld’</strong></h2>

<p>Locals near the Batagaika crater call the one-kilometre-long massive gash in the Siberian landscape the “gateway to the underworld.” The crater which first began to appear in the 1960s was a result of deforestation in the area which led to the loss of ground ice that in turn caused the Earth to erode and the land to sink.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We locals call it ‘the cave-in’,” local resident and crater explorer Erel Struchkov told Reuters. “It developed in the 1970s, first as a ravine. Then by thawing in the heat of sunny days, it started to expand,” he added.</p>

<p>The locals have also noted the crater’s rapid growth. “(Two years ago the edge) was about 20-30 metres away from this path. And now, apparently, it is much closer,” said Struchkov, according to Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Scientists raise alarm over ‘mega-slump’</strong></h2>

<p>What locals in Russia’s Sakha Republic call the “gateway to the underworld” scientists called “a mega-slump,” is growing. A report by Reuters citing Russian scientists said that the country is warming at least 2.5 times faster than the rest of the world. This is also melting the long-frozen tundra that covers about 65 per cent of the world’s largest country in terms of land area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nikita Tananayev, lead researcher at the Melnikov Permafrost Institute in Yakutsk, said the slump’s expansion is “a sign of danger.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, this expansion has threatened to affect cities and towns across&nbsp;northern and northeastern Russia&nbsp;by buckling roadways, splitting apart houses, and disrupting pipelines, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, the vast wildfires which have intensified recently have reportedly exacerbated the problem. “In future, with increasing temperatures and with higher anthropogenic pressure, we will see more and more of those mega-slumps forming, until all the permafrost is gone,” Tananayev told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Thawing permafrost to fuel climate change</strong></h2>

<p>While the exact expansion rate of the Batagaika crater remains unknown, the Russian scientist said the soil under the slump, which is about 100 metres deep in some places, contains an “enormous quantity” of organic carbon. This is releasing greenhouse gases stored in the thawed soil into the atmosphere further fuelling the planet’s warming.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“With an increasing air temperature we can expect (the crater) will be expanding at a higher rate,” Tananayev told Reuters, adding that it will lead to more climate warming in the upcoming years. &nbsp;<br />
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The Batagaika crater, the world’s biggest permafrost crater, situated in Russia’s Far East is thawing, reported Reuters on Friday (July 21), which has led scientists to raise an alarm as this “mega slump” already threatens cities and towns across northern and northeastern Russia.

The Batagaika crater, the world’s biggest permafrost crater, situated in Russia’s Far East is thawing, reported Reuters on Friday (July 21), which has led scientists to raise an alarm as this “mega slump” already threatens cities and towns across northern and northeastern Russia. What is a permafrost crater? According to NASA, permafrost is any ground that remains completely frozen at zero degrees Celsius for at least two years straight. These permanently frozen grounds are made with a combination of soil, rocks and sand held together by ice. Permafrosts are most common in regions near the North and South poles and cover large parts of the Earth, according to the American space agency. Notably, almost a quarter of the land area in the Northern Hemisphere has permafrost underneath but while the ground is frozen the regions with permafrost are not always covered in snow. ‘Gateway to the underworld’ Locals near the Batagaika crater call the one-kilometre-long massive gash in the Siberian landscape the “gateway to the underworld.” The crater which first began to appear in the 1960s was a result of deforestation in the area which led to the loss of ground ice that in turn caused the Earth to erode and the land to sink. “We locals call it ‘the cave-in’,” local resident and crater explorer Erel Struchkov told Reuters. “It developed in the 1970s, first as a ravine. Then by thawing in the heat of sunny days, it started to expand,” he added. The locals have also noted the crater’s rapid growth. “(Two years ago the edge) was about 20-30 metres away from this path. And now, apparently, it is much closer,” said Struchkov, according to Reuters. Scientists raise alarm over ‘mega-slump’ What locals in Russia’s Sakha Republic call the “gateway to the underworld” scientists called “a mega-slump,” is growing. A report by Reuters citing Russian scientists said that the country is warming at least 2.5 times faster than the rest of the world. This is also melting the long-frozen tundra that covers about 65 per cent of the world’s largest country in terms of land area. Nikita Tananayev, lead researcher at the Melnikov Permafrost Institute in Yakutsk, said the slump’s expansion is “a sign of danger.” Recently, this expansion has threatened to affect cities and towns across northern and northeastern Russia by buckling roadways, splitting apart houses, and disrupting pipelines, reported Reuters. Additionally, the vast wildfires which have intensified recently have reportedly exacerbated the problem. “In future, with increasing temperatures and with higher anthropogenic pressure, we will see more and more of those mega-slumps forming, until all the permafrost is gone,” Tananayev told Reuters. Thawing permafrost to fuel climate change While the exact expansion rate of the Batagaika crater remains unknown, the Russian scientist said the soil under the slump, which is about 100 metres deep in some places, contains an “enormous quantity” of organic carbon. This is releasing greenhouse gases stored in the thawed soil into the atmosphere further fuelling the planet’s warming. “With an increasing air temperature we can expect (the crater) will be expanding at a higher rate,” Tananayev told Reuters, adding that it will lead to more climate warming in the upcoming years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World’s biggest permafrost crater thaws due to climate change, threatens Russian cities

<p>Heatwaves are expected to persist in a large part of the world throughout August, an adviser on extreme heat said on Friday, following on from record temperatures in recent weeks.</p>

<p>The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said earlier this week it expected temperatures in North America, Asia, North Africa and the Mediterranean to be above 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) "for a prolonged number of days this week as the heatwave intensifies".</p>

<p>"We should expect or at least plan for these extreme heatwaves to continue through August," Senior Extreme Heat Adviser for the WMO John Nairn told Reuters.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-orders-lower-stairs-on-air-force-one-opt-for-loafers-to-avoid-tripping-618092">Biden orders 'lower stairs' on Air Force One, opts for loafers to avoid tripping</a></p>

<p>Southern Europe is grappling with a record-breaking heatwave during the peak summer tourist season, prompting the authorities to warn of an increased risk of health problems and even casualties.</p>

<p>Extreme weather has also disrupted the lives of millions of Americans, with dangerous heat stretching from Southern California to the Deep South. Sweltering heat has also hit the Middle East.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-to-spread-poland-to-move-soldiers-to-east-due-to-wagner-risks-618116">Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus</a></p>

<p>Nairn said climate change meant heatwaves would become more frequent and be spread across the seasons.</p>

<p>"We're on trend in seeing a rise in global temperatures that will contribute to heatwaves increasing in intensity and frequency," Nairn said.</p>

<p>"We've got quite clear indications that they're already growing out into spring."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK by-election results declared: Conservative party loses Selby and Ainsty</strong></p>

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<p>Some countries including the 27-member European Union are hoping all nations will agree at U.N. climate talks later this year to phase out the fossil fuel consumption that causes climate change.</p>

<p>Countries with oil and gas resources have opposed the idea.</p>

<p>"There is very strong evidence that if we were to eliminate fossil fuels, we would reduce a major contributor to what we are seeing," Nairn said.</p>

<p>"We can't turn it around in a hurry, but we certainly can take action."</p>

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Heatwaves are expected to persist in a large part of the world throughout August, an adviser on extreme heat said on Friday, following on from record temperatures in recent weeks.

Heatwaves are expected to persist in a large part of the world throughout August, an adviser on extreme heat said on Friday, following on from record temperatures in recent weeks. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said earlier this week it expected temperatures in North America, Asia, North Africa and the Mediterranean to be above 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) "for a prolonged number of days this week as the heatwave intensifies". "We should expect or at least plan for these extreme heatwaves to continue through August," Senior Extreme Heat Adviser for the WMO John Nairn told Reuters. Also Read | Biden orders 'lower stairs' on Air Force One, opts for loafers to avoid tripping Southern Europe is grappling with a record-breaking heatwave during the peak summer tourist season, prompting the authorities to warn of an increased risk of health problems and even casualties. Extreme weather has also disrupted the lives of millions of Americans, with dangerous heat stretching from Southern California to the Deep South. Sweltering heat has also hit the Middle East. Also Read | Will Ukraine war expand to other regions? Poland moving troops over Wagner risk from Belarus Nairn said climate change meant heatwaves would become more frequent and be spread across the seasons. "We're on trend in seeing a rise in global temperatures that will contribute to heatwaves increasing in intensity and frequency," Nairn said. "We've got quite clear indications that they're already growing out into spring." Watch | UK by-election results declared: Conservative party loses Selby and Ainsty × Some countries including the 27-member European Union are hoping all nations will agree at U.N. climate talks later this year to phase out the fossil fuel consumption that causes climate change. Countries with oil and gas resources have opposed the idea. "There is very strong evidence that if we were to eliminate fossil fuels, we would reduce a major contributor to what we are seeing," Nairn said. "We can't turn it around in a hurry, but we certainly can take action." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Extreme heatwaves to continue in many parts through August, says WMO adviser

Countries around the world are battling intense heatwaves. And now, with the onset of El Nino, temperatures are reaching record levels. Scientists say climate change and El Nino are major contributors to extreme heat.

How El Nino is helping drive heatwaves and extreme weather?

Climate change is real, and now are facing the brunt of it. The countries in the world are quite literally on fire. Now even the United Nations is worried as well. United Nations World Meteorological Organization is voicing serious concerns about the growing intensity of the heatwaves worldwide.

UN: Prepare for more intense heatwaves in the Northern Hemisphere

A global pattern of heat waves scorching parts of Asia, Europe, United States has intensified. The world meteorological organisation is also warning of increased risks of death due to rising temperatures. Scientists say governments need to reduce emissions to prevent climate catastrophe drastically.

Increased risk of deaths due to rising global temperature

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