An unprecedented year: heat and floods
In 2024 he entered history as the hottest recorded in Europe, according to the report ‘European State of Climate’ prepared by Copernicus. This unprecedented warming has been accompanied by a series of extreme weather events, with a particular focus in the Mediterranean basin.
The devastating consequences of a dana
One of the most devastating episodes occurred between October 28 and November 4, when a Dana caused torrential rains in the east of Spain. The Valencian Country was especially affected, with floods that left their mark in recent history. In just twelve hours, the rainfall reached 720.4 mm, surpassing the national records.
Human and economic impact
The Copernicus report reveals alarming data: at least 232 lives were lost in the province of Valencia, with other victims in Albacete, Cuenca and Málaga. In addition, economic losses are raised to more than 16.5 billion euros, affecting infrastructure, homes and the agricultural sector.
Climate disaster patterns in Europe
The episode in Valencia is not an isolated case, but is part of a wider pattern of climate disaster in Europe in 2024. In January, the Henk storm caused significant damage to the United Kingdom and France, while the persistent rains in February affected northern Spain.
Floods and Waves of Heat
In May, countries such as France, Germany and Belgium experienced flood episodes, and in September the Boris storm was one of the most destructive, leaving Bosnia and Herzegovina with the worst floods since 2014. These extreme conditions indicate an intensification of the incidence of meteorological phenomena in Europe.
Extreme temperatures and climate variability
Not only was a year of heat, but 85% of the European territory has registered temperatures well above the average. The Eastern Europe regions and parts of the southern Iberian Peninsula experienced temperature anomalies of up to 3 ° C.
High risk of fires
The fire season has been longer, with a significant risk in Portugal and Spain, but the number of fires has not been exceptional. In June and August, hot conditions in eastern Europe have contributed to an increase in forest fires.
Climate inequalities in Europe
The contrast in the precipitation between the east and west of Europe has been remarkable. While Western Europe has lived one of the rainiest years since 1950, the East has experienced a decrease in rains, demonstrating an unequal distribution of the effects of climate change.
Reflections on the future climate
In the face of this scenario, the European Union emphasizes the need to adapt infrastructure and review civil protection protocols. The reality of climate change demands an immediate response to prevent even more critical situations in the future.
