The planet’s warming climate is intensifying the global water cycle, triggering deadly storms, flooding and droughts that displaced millions and caused over $550 billion in damages in 2024.
Damian Carrington reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- In 2024, extreme water-related disasters killed at least 8,700 people and displaced 40 million amid record-high global temperatures.
- Warmer air and oceans intensified hurricanes, droughts and flash floods, disrupting farming, energy and ecosystems worldwide.
- Scientists warn that 2025 could bring worse conditions, with droughts expected in South America, Africa and Asia and heightened flood risks in Europe and the Sahel.
Key quote:
"Wildfires driven by the hot and dry weather burned through more than 52,000 sq km in September alone, releasing vast amounts of greenhouse gases. From historic droughts to catastrophic floods, these extreme events impact lives, livelihoods and entire ecosystems."
— Prof. Albert van Dijk, report leader
Why this matters:
Extreme shifts in the water cycle put millions at risk of food and water insecurity, while economic losses and infrastructure damage hinder disaster resilience. With climate forecasts predicting worsening extremes, stronger mitigation and adaptation efforts are urgently needed.
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