Recent years have seen major oil companies making big climate pledges. However, a new report from Oil Change International suggests these are nothing but empty promises.&nbsp;

The report examined climate plans from the eight largest US and European-based oil and gas producers and found that none of them were in line with limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.&nbsp;

<h2>Which companies did the report evaluate?</h2>

BP, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Eni, Equinor, ExxonMobil, Shell, and TotalEnergies are the companies.

For its report, Oil Change International assessed the companies' plans on 10 criteria. It found that all eight big oil companies ranked as "grossly insufficient" or "insufficient" on nearly all criteria, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-isnt-real-ron-desantis-erases-mentions-of-climate-change-from-florida-law-721915">'Climate change isn't real': Ron DeSantis erases mentions of climate change from Florida law</a>

US firms Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and ExxonMobil were the "worst of the worst" and ranked "grossly insufficient" on all 10 of the criteria.&nbsp;

In a statement, Allie Rosenbluth, US programme manager at Oil Change International, said, "American fossil-fuel corporations are the worst of the worst."

The report has been endorsed by over 100 climate groups internationally and marks the fourth annual "Big Oil Reality Check" from Oil Change International.

<h2>Increasing global warming</h2>

In a statement, David Tong, co-author of the analysis, and global industry campaign manager at Oil Change International, said: "There is no evidence that big oil and gas companies are acting seriously to be part of the energy transition."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-we-already-lost-the-battle-april-continues-damning-11-month-trend-emerges-as-hottest-since-1940-719261">Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940</a>

What more? The report also found that instead of limiting global warming, these companies' current oil and gas extraction plans could actually lead to more than 2.4°C of global temperature rise.

As per the report, the eight oil companies alone are on track to use 30 per cent&nbsp;of the world's remaining global carbon budget — to keep the global average temperature rise to 1.5C.

The report criticised the companies for their lack of ambition to curb fossil fuel exploration and production. None have plans to stop fossil fuel exploration or halt new extraction projects. In fact, six of the eight companies have explicit goals to increase oil and gas production.

Additionally, the report found that the companies' methods to curb greenhouse gas emissions lack integrity. None set comprehensive targets to rapidly and consistently curb emissions, and all plan to rely on methods like carbon capture and storage, which do not yet exist at scale, and carbon offsetting.

All eight firms also failed to "meet basic criteria for just transition plans for workers and communities where they operate," and none met "basic" human rights criteria.

(With inputs from agencies)

Recent years have seen major oil companies making big climate pledges. However, a new report from Oil Change International suggests these are nothing but empty promises.

Recent years have seen major oil companies making big climate pledges. However, a new report from Oil Change International suggests these are nothing but empty promises. The report examined climate plans from the eight largest US and European-based oil and gas producers and found that none of them were in line with limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Which companies did the report evaluate? BP, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Eni, Equinor, ExxonMobil, Shell, and TotalEnergies are the companies. For its report, Oil Change International assessed the companies' plans on 10 criteria. It found that all eight big oil companies ranked as "grossly insufficient" or "insufficient" on nearly all criteria, reports The Guardian. Also read | 'Climate change isn't real': Ron DeSantis erases mentions of climate change from Florida law US firms Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and ExxonMobil were the "worst of the worst" and ranked "grossly insufficient" on all 10 of the criteria. In a statement, Allie Rosenbluth, US programme manager at Oil Change International, said, "American fossil-fuel corporations are the worst of the worst." The report has been endorsed by over 100 climate groups internationally and marks the fourth annual "Big Oil Reality Check" from Oil Change International. Increasing global warming In a statement, David Tong, co-author of the analysis, and global industry campaign manager at Oil Change International, said: "There is no evidence that big oil and gas companies are acting seriously to be part of the energy transition." Also read | Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940 What more? The report also found that instead of limiting global warming, these companies' current oil and gas extraction plans could actually lead to more than 2.4°C of global temperature rise. As per the report, the eight oil companies alone are on track to use 30 per cent of the world's remaining global carbon budget — to keep the global average temperature rise to 1.5C. The report criticised the companies for their lack of ambition to curb fossil fuel exploration and production. None have plans to stop fossil fuel exploration or halt new extraction projects. In fact, six of the eight companies have explicit goals to increase oil and gas production. Additionally, the report found that the companies' methods to curb greenhouse gas emissions lack integrity. None set comprehensive targets to rapidly and consistently curb emissions, and all plan to rely on methods like carbon capture and storage, which do not yet exist at scale, and carbon offsetting. All eight firms also failed to "meet basic criteria for just transition plans for workers and communities where they operate," and none met "basic" human rights criteria. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Reality Check’: Damning report finds big oil firms’ climate plans could increase global warming by 2.4°C

Hundreds of people have been killed after a series of deadly floods in Brazil, Afghanistan and Indonesia. But it seems the disaster is not ending anytime soon. Here are the countries hit by flash floods.

Flash floods across the world

Extreme weather conditions are being witnessed across the World.While some parts are suffering from heatwaves, others are hit by storms and flash floods. Watch in for more details!

Floods hit parts of Afghanistan, China & Russia

Extreme weather conditions are being witnessed across the world.While some parts are suffering from heat waves, others are hit by storms and flash floods.

Floods hit parts of China, Russia & Afghanistan

The relentless march of climate change is leaving its mark on nations far and wide. From China to Afghanistan, Indonesia to Brazil, all of them reel from floods.

China Floods: Rescue underway amidst heavy flooding in Southern China

Floods hit parts of China, Germany & Afghanistan

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Floods overwhelm China city - Ukraine war: Shelling in Kharkiv kills 4 - 5th phase voting in India on Monday - Floods overwhelm China city - DRC army claims it foiled a coup

Floods overwhelm China city | Ukraine war: Shelling in Kharkiv kills 4

Although the heavy rainfall that ravaged Southern Brazil has abated, high flood waters remain in Porto Alegre, the capital of the Rio Grande Do Sul state. Over 600,000 people have been evacuated from the region amid ongoing and extensive rescue efforts.

Severe flooding in Southern Brazil; vast areas remain submerged

Florida no longer considers Climate Change a priority. Defying "Radical green zealots," Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Wednesday (May 15) signed a new legislation that will see Climate Change disappear from state statutes.

The legislation, which is set to take effect from July 1, will also see a ban on power-generating wind turbines offshore or near the state's lengthy coastline.

Critics of the legislation, as per the news agency AP, say that the measure ignores the reality of climate change threats in Florida. This includes projections of rising seas, extreme heat and flooding, and increasingly severe storms.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-we-already-lost-the-battle-april-continues-damning-11-month-trend-emerges-as-hottest-since-1940-719261">Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940</a>

<h2>'Radical green zealots'</h2>

On X, DeSantis said, "Florida rejects the designs of the left to weaken our energy grid, pursue a radical climate agenda, and promote foreign adversaries."

"We're restoring sanity in our approach to energy and rejecting the agenda of the radical green zealots," he added.

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<h2>The new Florida legislation</h2>

Starting July 1, the measure, as per a news release from the Florida governor's office, would also boost expansion of natural gas, reduce regulations on gas pipelines in the state and increase protections against bans on gas appliances such as stoves.

The legislation will erase several instances of the word "climate change" from state statutes. Additionally, it removes over 50 lines specifically related to addressing the matter of climate change from the state law, which were enacted in 2008 during the tenure of the-then Republican Governor Charlie Crist.&nbsp;

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The sections of the existing law that will be erased include a provision for addressing the "potential of global climate change" as a state energy policy, and a provision for the state to "play a leading role in developing and implementing energy management programs aimed at promoting energy conservation, energy security, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions."

It also removes provisions mandating that state agencies shall hold meetings and conferences only in hotels or conference facilities that have received the "Green Lodging" designation from the Department of Environmental Protection "for best practices in water, energy, and waste efficiency standards, unless the responsible state agency head makes a determination that no other viable alternative exists."

As per a legislative analysis of the bill as published on the Florida Gov website, the priority is to ensure "an adequate, reliable and cost-effective supply of energy for the state in a manner that promotes the health and welfare of the public and economic growth".

(With inputs from agencies)

Florida no longer considers Climate Change a priority. Defying "Radical green zealots," Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Wednesday (May 15) signed a new legislation that will see Climate Change disappear from state statutes.

Florida no longer considers Climate Change a priority. Defying "Radical green zealots," Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Wednesday (May 15) signed a new legislation that will see Climate Change disappear from state statutes. The legislation, which is set to take effect from July 1, will also see a ban on power-generating wind turbines offshore or near the state's lengthy coastline. Critics of the legislation, as per the news agency AP, say that the measure ignores the reality of climate change threats in Florida. This includes projections of rising seas, extreme heat and flooding, and increasingly severe storms. Also read | Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940 'Radical green zealots' On X, DeSantis said, "Florida rejects the designs of the left to weaken our energy grid, pursue a radical climate agenda, and promote foreign adversaries." "We're restoring sanity in our approach to energy and rejecting the agenda of the radical green zealots," he added. Florida rejects the designs of the left to weaken our energy grid, pursue a radical climate agenda, and promote foreign adversaries. pic.twitter.com/Drydhd7XcH — Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) May 15, 2024 × The new Florida legislation Starting July 1, the measure, as per a news release from the Florida governor's office, would also boost expansion of natural gas, reduce regulations on gas pipelines in the state and increase protections against bans on gas appliances such as stoves. The legislation will erase several instances of the word "climate change" from state statutes. Additionally, it removes over 50 lines specifically related to addressing the matter of climate change from the state law, which were enacted in 2008 during the tenure of the-then Republican Governor Charlie Crist. Also read | Years-long chill to end? Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump hold private talks in Miami The sections of the existing law that will be erased include a provision for addressing the "potential of global climate change" as a state energy policy, and a provision for the state to "play a leading role in developing and implementing energy management programs aimed at promoting energy conservation, energy security, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions." It also removes provisions mandating that state agencies shall hold meetings and conferences only in hotels or conference facilities that have received the "Green Lodging" designation from the Department of Environmental Protection "for best practices in water, energy, and waste efficiency standards, unless the responsible state agency head makes a determination that no other viable alternative exists." As per a legislative analysis of the bill as published on the Florida Gov website, the priority is to ensure "an adequate, reliable and cost-effective supply of energy for the state in a manner that promotes the health and welfare of the public and economic growth". (With inputs from agencies)

'Climate change isn't real': Ron DeSantis erases mentions of climate change from Florida law

Indonesian rescuers are in a race against time to locate dozens of people still missing following devastating flash floods and cold lava flow that wreaked havoc over the weekend, claiming the lives of 67 individuals. Watch in for more details!

Indonesia flash floods: Death toll reaches 67, rescue operation underway

Climate Change can threaten our homes but as per a new research, extreme weather can also harm our brain health, making disorders like anxiety and depression worse.

Researchers from University College London, as per a study published in Lancet Neurology, have found a concerning&nbsp;link between environmental changes and neurological health.

<h2>What is the correlation?</h2>

Researchers analysed the impact of extreme weather on 19 nervous system conditions, including stroke, Alzheimer’s, meningitis, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. They also looked at psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia.

They discovered that there was a "clear evidence for an impact of the climate on some brain conditions, especially stroke and infections of the nervous system".

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"The climatic variation that was shown to have an effect on brain diseases included extremes of temperature, both low and high, and greater temperature variation throughout the course of day, especially when these measures were seasonally unusual," said Professor Sanjay Sisodiya, director of genomics at University College London's epilepsy society.

He said that nighttime temperatures mean hotter nights, which can disrupt sleep. This is "particularly important" as hotter temperature and heatwaves mean billions of people globally are sleeping through higher than normal temperatures.

They also observed an increase in hospital admissions, disability, and stroke due to higher temperatures or heatwaves.

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<h2>Hottest 12&nbsp;months</h2>

The research comes as Asia faces dangerous heatwaves attributed to climate crisis.

Recently, the European Union's climate change monitoring service&nbsp;Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) in its monthly report said that April 2024 was once again the hottest April on record. Every month for the past 11 months, the world has set a new temperature record.

As per C3S, including April, Earth's average temperature was the highest on record for a 12-month period, with temperatures around&nbsp;1.61 degrees Celsius above the average in the 1850-1900 pre-industrial period.

Climate Change can threaten our homes but as per a new research, extreme weather can also harm our brain health, making disorders like anxiety and depression worse.

Climate Change can threaten our homes but as per a new research, extreme weather can also harm our brain health, making disorders like anxiety and depression worse. Researchers from University College London, as per a study published in Lancet Neurology, have found a concerning link between environmental changes and neurological health. What is the correlation? Researchers analysed the impact of extreme weather on 19 nervous system conditions, including stroke, Alzheimer’s, meningitis, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. They also looked at psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. They discovered that there was a "clear evidence for an impact of the climate on some brain conditions, especially stroke and infections of the nervous system". Also read | Scientists attempt to recreate 50,000-year-old ancient 'herpes' viruses "The climatic variation that was shown to have an effect on brain diseases included extremes of temperature, both low and high, and greater temperature variation throughout the course of day, especially when these measures were seasonally unusual," said Professor Sanjay Sisodiya, director of genomics at University College London's epilepsy society. He said that nighttime temperatures mean hotter nights, which can disrupt sleep. This is "particularly important" as hotter temperature and heatwaves mean billions of people globally are sleeping through higher than normal temperatures. They also observed an increase in hospital admissions, disability, and stroke due to higher temperatures or heatwaves. Also read | NASA will do THIS when 'God of Destruction' asteroid Apophis comes near Earth in 2029 Hottest 12 months The research comes as Asia faces dangerous heatwaves attributed to climate crisis. Recently, the European Union's climate change monitoring service Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) in its monthly report said that April 2024 was once again the hottest April on record. Every month for the past 11 months, the world has set a new temperature record. As per C3S, including April, Earth's average temperature was the highest on record for a 12-month period, with temperatures around 1.61 degrees Celsius above the average in the 1850-1900 pre-industrial period.

Study finds correlation between climate change and neurological issues

Indonesia's West Sumatra province continues to reel from the aftermath of flash floods that ravaged it over the weekend. Death toll in the area has risen to 67, as authorities scramble to carry out search and rescue operations.

Aftermath of Indonesia flash floods, death toll reaches 67

The BRICS group of nations have pledged a billion dollars for storm-ravaged southern Brazil. The aid pours in as the receding floodwaters begin to reveal the full extent of the devastation. Watch in for more climate updates!

Brazil Floods: Death toll from floods in Brazil hits 149

Rescuers are recovering more bodies after weekend flash floods and cold lava flow on Indonesia's Sumatra island killed at least 57 people. Another 22 are reported missing. Watch in for more details!

Indonesia flood death toll rises to 57; authorities search for 22 missing

Rivers in south brazil are rising as flood rescue efforts continue. At least 147 people have been killed and more than 800 injured in the deluge. While rescuers are searching for 127 people reported missing. Watch in for more climate updates!

Death toll from floods in southern Brazil hits 147

The death toll from flash floods and the cold lava flow from a volcano in Western Indonesia over the weekend, has risen to 50 with 27 more missing. The floods swept away people and submerged hundreds of houses and buildings, while forcing more than 3,100 to flee to temporary government shelters.

Indonesia Floods: 50 killed in West Sumatra, 27 missing

Rivers in south brazil are rising as flood rescue efforts continue. At least 147 people have been killed and more than 800 injured in the deluge. While rescuers are searching for 127 people reported missing...

Brazil floods death toll reaches at least 147

Floods are ravaging Afghanistan. Heavy rains are devastating Afghan villages. More than hundreds are dead and thousands are injured. Why is Afghanistan witnessing “major humanitarian emergency”? Watch this video to find out.

What's behind catastrophic flooding in Afghanistan?

Climate change fuels global floods

Storms and flash floods wreaked havoc on Baghlan province in northern Afghanistan, killing at least 311 people, according to local officials. The natural disaster affected the districts of Gozargah-e-Noor, Jelgah, Nahrin, Baghlan-e-Markazi, and Barka, as well as the provincial capital of Pul-e-Khumri, according to Hedayatullah Hamdard, Provincial Director for the disaster management authority, on Friday.

Afghanistan floods: 2,800 houses damaged in Baghlan

More than 300 people have been killed after flash floods triggered by seasonal rains ripped through Baghlan&nbsp;province, northern Afghanistan, according to the&nbsp;World Food Programme (WFP)&nbsp;on Saturday (May 11).

<h2>Significant damage&nbsp;</h2>

"On current information: in Baghlan province there are 311 fatalities, 2,011 houses destroyed and 2,800 houses damaged," said&nbsp;Rana Deraz, a communications officer for the UN agency in Afghanistan, told AFP.&nbsp;

Taliban's interior ministry, on Saturday (May 11) said that at least&nbsp;153 people across three provinces have been killed due to the&nbsp;devastating flash floods in northern Afghanistan.&nbsp;

At least 138 people have been injured in the flooding across the three&nbsp;northern provinces Baghlan, Takhar and Badakhshan, caused by heavy rains on Friday, ministry spokesman Abdul Mateen Qaniee told Reuters.

Taliban authorities reportedly sent helicopters to assist civilians overnight after receiving reports that over 100 people were stranded.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-videos-show-devastating-flash-floods-in-afghanistan-death-toll-rises-to-50-720225">Videos show devastating flash floods in Afghanistan; death toll rises to 50</a>

The Afghanistan capital, Kabul, was also not spared from the heavy rains and experienced its own flooding, according to Abdullah Janan Saiq, the Taliban’s spokesman for the State Ministry for Natural Disaster Management.

Saiq&nbsp;said that rescue operations were underway, with teams delivering food and other essentials to those impacted. He emphasised that the rescue efforts were their priority. He also said that he would be able to provide more accurate updates on casualties and damages later.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-at-least-six-killed-eight-injured-after-blast-in-faizabad-city-719337">Afghanistan: Three police personnel killed, five injured in blast targeting convoy</a>

<h2>Climate sensitive nation</h2>

A climate-sensitive nation, Afghanistan was battered by a similar calamity in April as heavy rains and flash floods resulted in the deaths of at least 70 people.&nbsp;

Last month’s floods also caused extensive damage to around 2,000 homes, three mosques, and four schools, and left thousands in need of humanitarian aid. Additionally, agricultural land suffered severe damage, and approximately 2,500 animals were lost to the floods, said Saiq.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 300 people have been killed after flash floods triggered by seasonal rains ripped through Baghlan province, northern Afghanistan, according to the World Food Programme (WFP) on Saturday (May 11).

More than 300 people have been killed after flash floods triggered by seasonal rains ripped through Baghlan province, northern Afghanistan, according to the World Food Programme (WFP) on Saturday (May 11). Significant damage "On current information: in Baghlan province there are 311 fatalities, 2,011 houses destroyed and 2,800 houses damaged," said Rana Deraz, a communications officer for the UN agency in Afghanistan, told AFP. Taliban's interior ministry, on Saturday (May 11) said that at least 153 people across three provinces have been killed due to the devastating flash floods in northern Afghanistan. At least 138 people have been injured in the flooding across the three northern provinces Baghlan, Takhar and Badakhshan, caused by heavy rains on Friday, ministry spokesman Abdul Mateen Qaniee told Reuters. Taliban authorities reportedly sent helicopters to assist civilians overnight after receiving reports that over 100 people were stranded. Also read | Videos show devastating flash floods in Afghanistan; death toll rises to 50 The Afghanistan capital, Kabul, was also not spared from the heavy rains and experienced its own flooding, according to Abdullah Janan Saiq, the Taliban’s spokesman for the State Ministry for Natural Disaster Management. Saiq said that rescue operations were underway, with teams delivering food and other essentials to those impacted. He emphasised that the rescue efforts were their priority. He also said that he would be able to provide more accurate updates on casualties and damages later. Also read | Afghanistan: Three police personnel killed, five injured in blast targeting convoy Climate sensitive nation A climate-sensitive nation, Afghanistan was battered by a similar calamity in April as heavy rains and flash floods resulted in the deaths of at least 70 people. Last month’s floods also caused extensive damage to around 2,000 homes, three mosques, and four schools, and left thousands in need of humanitarian aid. Additionally, agricultural land suffered severe damage, and approximately 2,500 animals were lost to the floods, said Saiq. (With inputs from agencies)

Death toll after catastrophic flash floods in Afghanistan rises to more than 300: UN agency

Storms and flash floods wreaked havoc on Baghlan province in northern Afghanistan, killing at least 200 people, according to local officials.The natural disaster affected the districts of Gozargah-e-Noor, Jelgah, Nahrin, Baghlan-e-Markazi, and Barka, as well as the provincial capital of Pul-e-Khumri, according to Hedayatullah Hamdard, Provincial Director for the disaster management authority, on Friday.

Afghanistan floods: Rain triggers flash floods killing at least 200

Record-breaking floods hit #Dubai after 75 years. Deadly floods batter Texas Flooding in the #Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul leaves hundreds of towns under water Flood fury sweeps across continents. Heavy rains bring life to a standstill for many around the world. Is this year with massive floods just an anomaly or is this the new climate normal? On #WionWideAngle, we explore.

Extreme Flooding: The new climate normal

Rescuers rushed to evacuate people stranded by devastating floods across the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul on Tuesday, with 90 reported dead and desperate survivors seeking food and basic supplies.

On the outskirts of Eldorado do Sul, 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) from the state capital of Porto Alegre, many people who left their homes were sleeping on the roadside and told Reuters they were going hungry. Entire families were leaving on foot, carrying belongings in backpacks and shopping carts.

"We've been without food for three days and we've only just got this blanket. I'm with people I don't even know, I don't know where my family is," said a young man who gave his name as Ricardo Junior.

The flooding has hampered rescue efforts, with dozens of people still waiting to be evacuated by boat or helicopter from stricken homes. Small boats crisscrossed the flooded town searching for survivors.

The state's Civil Defense agency said the death toll has risen to 90 with another four deaths being investigated, while 131 people are still unaccounted for and 155,000 are homeless.

Heavy rains that began last week have caused rivers to flood, inundating whole towns and destroying roads and bridges.

In Porto Alegre, a city of 1.3 million inhabitants on the Guaiba river, downtown streets were under water.

Porto Alegre residents faced empty supermarket shelves and closed gas stations, with shops rationing sales of mineral water. The city distributed water in trucks to hospitals and shelters.

The floods have also impacted water and electricity services, with more than 1.4 million affected overall, according to Brazil's Civil Defense.

Almost half a million people were without power in Porto Alegre and outlying towns as electricity companies cut off supplies for security reasons in flooded neighborhoods. National grid operator ONS said five hydroelectric dams and transmission lines were shut down due to the heavy rains.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on a government television program that the extent of the damage will not be known until the waters subside. He promised federal aid for the state in what is considered its worst ever climate disaster.

JP Morgan economists projected that the impact of the floods on Brazil's economy would be a modest dent in GDP growth and a marginal increase in inflation, mainly due to higher prices for rice that is largely produced in Rio Grande do Sul.

Besides destroying critical infrastructure, the heavy rains and flooding have left grains fields under water and killed livestock, interrupting the soy harvest and halting work at multiple meat plants.

The Rio Grande port is operating normally, the state's port authority said. A major port for grain exports, it has not been affected by a rise in the level of the Laguna dos Patos lagoon which the swollen Guaiba river runs into.

However, main access roads were impassable, disrupting grain deliveries to the port as trucks had to make a wide detour, exporters said.

Rescuers rushed to evacuate people stranded by devastating floods across the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul on Tuesday, with 90 reported dead and desperate survivors seeking food and basic supplies.

Rescuers rushed to evacuate people stranded by devastating floods across the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul on Tuesday, with 90 reported dead and desperate survivors seeking food and basic supplies. On the outskirts of Eldorado do Sul, 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) from the state capital of Porto Alegre, many people who left their homes were sleeping on the roadside and told Reuters they were going hungry. Entire families were leaving on foot, carrying belongings in backpacks and shopping carts. "We've been without food for three days and we've only just got this blanket. I'm with people I don't even know, I don't know where my family is," said a young man who gave his name as Ricardo Junior. The flooding has hampered rescue efforts, with dozens of people still waiting to be evacuated by boat or helicopter from stricken homes. Small boats crisscrossed the flooded town searching for survivors. The state's Civil Defense agency said the death toll has risen to 90 with another four deaths being investigated, while 131 people are still unaccounted for and 155,000 are homeless. Heavy rains that began last week have caused rivers to flood, inundating whole towns and destroying roads and bridges. In Porto Alegre, a city of 1.3 million inhabitants on the Guaiba river, downtown streets were under water. Porto Alegre residents faced empty supermarket shelves and closed gas stations, with shops rationing sales of mineral water. The city distributed water in trucks to hospitals and shelters. The floods have also impacted water and electricity services, with more than 1.4 million affected overall, according to Brazil's Civil Defense. Almost half a million people were without power in Porto Alegre and outlying towns as electricity companies cut off supplies for security reasons in flooded neighborhoods. National grid operator ONS said five hydroelectric dams and transmission lines were shut down due to the heavy rains. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on a government television program that the extent of the damage will not be known until the waters subside. He promised federal aid for the state in what is considered its worst ever climate disaster. JP Morgan economists projected that the impact of the floods on Brazil's economy would be a modest dent in GDP growth and a marginal increase in inflation, mainly due to higher prices for rice that is largely produced in Rio Grande do Sul. Besides destroying critical infrastructure, the heavy rains and flooding have left grains fields under water and killed livestock, interrupting the soy harvest and halting work at multiple meat plants. The Rio Grande port is operating normally, the state's port authority said. A major port for grain exports, it has not been affected by a rise in the level of the Laguna dos Patos lagoon which the swollen Guaiba river runs into. However, main access roads were impassable, disrupting grain deliveries to the port as trucks had to make a wide detour, exporters said.

Brazil floods death toll rises to 90, dozens still stranded

A submerged plane and runways under water in southern Brazil on Tuesday (May 7) after heavy rain lashed the city of Porto Alegre.

Brazil floods: Runways flooded, at least 90 killed as floods batter Brazil

In continuation of a damning 11-month trend, last month (April) was once again the hottest April on record. Every month for the past 11 months, the world has set a new temperature record.

On Wednesday (May 8), the European Union's climate change monitoring service in its monthly bulletin said that each month since June 2023 has ranked as the planet's hottest on record. This is in comparison to the months in previous years.

<h2>Highest on record</h2>

As per the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), including April, Earth's average temperature was the highest on record for a 12-month period.&nbsp;

By how much? 1.61 degrees Celsius above the average in the 1850-1900 pre-industrial period.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/has-china-sent-a-secret-rover-to-moon-internet-sleuths-spot-small-device-piggybacking-change-6-719162">Has China sent a secret rover to Moon? Internet sleuths spot small device piggybacking Chang'e-6</a>

The dataset maintained by C3S contains historical information dating back to as early as 1940. To validate their findings, scientists also compared this record&nbsp;with other available data and established that last month was the hottest April on record, surpassing any previous April temperatures during the pre-industrial period.

<h2>What is behind this rise in temperatures?</h2>

Greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels have been identified as the main culprit behind climate change.

Recent months also saw El Niño, a natural phenomenon which warms the surface waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, raising&nbsp;temperatures.

The extremes, including months of record-breaking sea surface temperatures, have led scientists to question whether human activities have now triggered a tipping point in the planet's climate system.

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/pornstar-republican-and-donald-trumps-sneaky-link-who-is-stormy-daniels-719227">Porn star, Republican and Donald Trump's sneaky link: Who is Stormy Daniels?</a>

"I think many scientists have asked the question whether there could be a shift in the climate system," said Julien Nicolas, C3S Senior Climate Scientist as quoted by AFP.

Already, scientists have confirmed that climate change was behind some specific weather extremes last month. This includes the heatwave in the Sahel that has&nbsp;potential links to thousands of deaths.&nbsp;

Experts warn that the Earth is perilously close to breaching the 1.5 degree Celsius target set by the 2015 Paris Agreement.

Hayley Fowler, a climate scientist at Newcastle University, told AFP that she thinks "we have already lost the battle".

"At what point do we declare we've lost the battle to keep temperatures below 1.5? My personal opinion is we've already lost that battle, and we really need to think very seriously about keeping below 2C and reducing our emissions as fast as we can," she said.

Technically, the world is yet to breach the 1.5C target as it refers to the average global temperature over decades. However, some scientists warn that meeting the target is no longer realistic.

(With inputs from agencies)

In continuation of a damning 11-month trend, last month (April) was once again the hottest April on record. Every month for the past 11 months, the world has set a new temperature record.

In continuation of a damning 11-month trend, last month (April) was once again the hottest April on record. Every month for the past 11 months, the world has set a new temperature record. On Wednesday (May 8), the European Union's climate change monitoring service in its monthly bulletin said that each month since June 2023 has ranked as the planet's hottest on record. This is in comparison to the months in previous years. Highest on record As per the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), including April, Earth's average temperature was the highest on record for a 12-month period. By how much? 1.61 degrees Celsius above the average in the 1850-1900 pre-industrial period. Also read | Has China sent a secret rover to Moon? Internet sleuths spot small device piggybacking Chang'e-6 The dataset maintained by C3S contains historical information dating back to as early as 1940. To validate their findings, scientists also compared this record with other available data and established that last month was the hottest April on record, surpassing any previous April temperatures during the pre-industrial period. What is behind this rise in temperatures? Greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels have been identified as the main culprit behind climate change. Recent months also saw El Niño, a natural phenomenon which warms the surface waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, raising temperatures. The extremes, including months of record-breaking sea surface temperatures, have led scientists to question whether human activities have now triggered a tipping point in the planet's climate system. Also read | Porn star, Republican and Donald Trump's sneaky link: Who is Stormy Daniels? "I think many scientists have asked the question whether there could be a shift in the climate system," said Julien Nicolas, C3S Senior Climate Scientist as quoted by AFP. Already, scientists have confirmed that climate change was behind some specific weather extremes last month. This includes the heatwave in the Sahel that has potential links to thousands of deaths. Experts warn that the Earth is perilously close to breaching the 1.5 degree Celsius target set by the 2015 Paris Agreement. Hayley Fowler, a climate scientist at Newcastle University, told AFP that she thinks "we have already lost the battle". "At what point do we declare we've lost the battle to keep temperatures below 1.5? My personal opinion is we've already lost that battle, and we really need to think very seriously about keeping below 2C and reducing our emissions as fast as we can," she said. Technically, the world is yet to breach the 1.5C target as it refers to the average global temperature over decades. However, some scientists warn that meeting the target is no longer realistic. (With inputs from agencies)

Have we 'already lost climate battle'?: April continues damning 11-month trend, emerges as hottest since 1940

Planes are submerged and runways are underwater in Brazil. Floods have destroyed roads and bridges in several cities triggering landslides and leaving a path of destruction.

Brazil flood leaves 150,000 homeless, engulfs cities across South Brazil

The death toll in East Africa has risen significantly due to torrential rains brought about by cyclone Hidaya which made landfall in the coast of Kenya and Tanzania. The region has never faced a cyclone before, so how did the governments in these nations deal with the emergency?

East Africa floods to continue in May

The UAE recently experienced heavy rainfall, -which has increased the risk of mosquitoes breeding in stagnant water and damp areas. The UAE will intensify efforts to eradicate mosquito hotspots and minimise its infestation in various locations across the country.

Dubai Rains: Authorities step up drive to control spread of mosquitoes post heavy rains

Local authorities and volunteers rescued residents stranded in the flooded town of Canoas, southern Brazil. The devastating floods killed at least 78.

Brazil Floods: At least 78 killed, more than 115,000 displaced

The death caused by flooding and other consequences of the heavy rain battering Kenya has risen to 288. The torrential rains that have caused widespread flooding and landslides across Kenya. Watch in for more details!

Kenya Floods: Death toll from floods rise to 288, deluge destroys homes, roads & bridges

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