How Climate Change is Fueling Extreme Weather: Unraveling the Links Between Floods and Droughts

Global warming is changing our weather in surprising ways. We’re seeing both longer droughts and intense rainy seasons. For example, California faced severe droughts for years, only to be hit with record rainfall in 2023, resulting in heavy vegetation that fueled wildfires.

So, how can climate change lead to both extremes? It’s simple: it all comes down to the water cycle. As temperatures rise, the atmosphere can hold more water vapor. With each degree Celsius increase, it can hold about 7% more moisture. This means that while some areas become drier, when it does rain, it often pours in destructive ways.

Jonathan Overpeck, a climate scientist at the University of Michigan, explains, “Global warming is turning the atmosphere into a bigger sponge. When conditions are right for rain, it’s like squeezing that sponge – more moisture comes out faster.” This can lead to sudden downpours and flooding, as seen in Libya after storm Daniel caused catastrophic damage.

The oceans play a big role in this too. They absorb heat from climate change, causing sea levels to rise and heating the water. This warmer water powers stronger storms. As a result, storms can unleash water much faster than before, leading to flooding and destruction in affected areas.

Snowpack, or the snow stored in the mountains, is also shrinking due to warmer winters. Melting snow is essential for filling reservoirs and waterways used for drinking and agriculture. Unfortunately, less snow is falling, and much of what does falls is quickly absorbed by dry ground. Plus, a longer growing season means that more water is lost through evaporation as plants draw it up.

As climate scientist Overpeck points out, all these changes are closely linked to human activity. The good news? We have the tools and solutions to mitigate this problem. Addressing climate change is in our hands.

For a deeper understanding of how climate change impacts weather patterns, you can read more at [NASA’s climate resources](https://climate.nasa.gov). It’s time to pay attention to these changes and think about how we can make a difference.

Check out this related article: Why Bishop of Norwich Believes Taking Action on Climate Change is the Right Choice for Our Future

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Climate Change,drought,extreme weather,Floods,global warming,melting glaciers,natural catastrophes