A recent report by the World Meteorological Organization details severe increases in hunger and disease throughout Latin America, fueled by unprecedented weather extremes.
Jonathan Watts reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- Record-setting heatwaves, devastating floods, and drought have inflicted substantial economic losses, totaling at least $21 billion, and escalated food insecurity.
- The year 2023 witnessed deadly climate impacts, including catastrophic events in Brazilian cities and a historic hurricane in Mexico.
- Disease outbreaks have soared, with record dengue fever cases and the spread of other mosquito-borne illnesses exacerbated by climatic changes.
Key quote:
"Sadly, this is probably only the beginning. Extreme events are becoming more frequent and the period of return is becoming shorter."
— Prof José Marengo, director of the Brazil National Center for Monitoring and Early Warning of Natural Disasters
Why this matters:
Latin America, long vulnerable to natural hazards, is now witnessing a cascade of environmental crises that are not only wreaking havoc on its biodiversity and ecosystems but are also amplifying public health challenges. Climate change is at the heart of these issues, driving more frequent and severe hurricanes, floods, and droughts across the continent.
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