Human-Induced Climate Change Intensifies Flooding in Nepal: Study Reveals
A study by World Weather Attribution determined that human-induced climate change increased rainfall intensity by 10 percent during the late September floods in Nepal, which caused over 240 deaths. The analysis emphasizes the need for Nepal to limit development in flood-prone areas and improve disaster preparedness to prevent future catastrophic flooding events.
A rapid analysis conducted by World Weather Attribution (WWA) has concluded that human-induced climate change contributed significantly to the intensity of rainfall in Nepal, particularly during the late September floods that resulted in over 240 fatalities. According to the researchers, the rainfall during this period was approximately 10 percent more intense because of climate change factors. The study highlights the necessity for Nepal to curtail development in vulnerable, low-lying areas, especially along riverbanks, to safeguard communities against future flooding. WWA consists of an interdisciplinary team of scientists aimed at evaluating how climate change impacts extreme weather events. The devastating floods transpired after three days of heavy rainfall, which began on September 26, 2023. Remarkably, some weather stations in central and eastern Nepal recorded rainfall exceeding 320 mm on September 28. The aftereffects of these floods included at least 244 fatalities and extensive property damage amounting to billions of rupees. Notably, such severe flooding had never previously been witnessed in the Kathmandu Valley. The analysis further elucidated the role of rapid urban development in exacerbating flood impacts, particularly in Kathmandu, which is situated in a bowl-shaped valley along the Bagmati River. As suggested by the researchers, minimizing development in flood-prone urban areas can mitigate risks to human life during future flood occurrences. They underscored the importance of enhancing early warning systems and prompt responses to avert future disasters. Conducted by 20 researchers from various international institutions, the WWA study drew attention to the broader implications of climate change in Asia, a region increasingly susceptible to severe weather events. Researchers emphasized that the atmospheric burden of fossil fuel emissions intensifies the severity of such natural disasters.
The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events linked to climate change have emerged as critical concerns for countries worldwide. Nepal, particularly, has faced significant challenges due to the confluence of geographical vulnerabilities and climate impacts. The late September floods serve as a stark reminder of the pressing need for climate adaptation strategies and urban planning that considers the potential for extreme rainfall and flooding. Development activities along rivers and in flood-prone areas have heightened the risks of disaster, making it imperative for policymakers to implement measures that protect vulnerable populations and reduce the risks associated with climate change.
In conclusion, the findings presented by World Weather Attribution indicate that human-induced climate change is a significant factor in amplifying the intensity of rainfall in Nepal, which subsequently leads to devastating floods. The study calls for urgent action to limit development in at-risk areas and to enhance flood preparedness measures. As climate change continues to pose a dire threat to regional stability, particularly in vulnerable areas such as Asia, it is essential that effective strategies are employed to mitigate risks and safeguard communities.
Original Source: theprint.in
