
Asia, home to around 60% of the world’s population, is experiencing climate change at an alarming rate. According to the latest report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) titled ‘State of the Climate in Asia 2024’, the continent is warming at nearly twice the global average, with temperatures rising by an average of 1.04°C above the 1991–2020 baseline.
Impact of Rapid Warming in Asia
This swift temperature increase is driving extreme weather events that have serious consequences for various sectors:
- Agriculture – Crop yields and food security are jeopardized by unpredictable weather patterns.
- Water Resources – Changes in precipitation affect water availability and quality.
- Public Health – Heatwaves and climate-related disasters threaten the health of millions across the continent.
Challenges for People and Governments
Experts warn that the accelerated climate warming poses significant risks to the livelihoods of millions, particularly in densely populated regions. Consequences include:
- Frequent heatwaves
- Severe floods
- Shifting and unpredictable weather patterns
These changes create urgent challenges for governments and communities, requiring immediate adaptation and mitigation efforts.
Call for Action
The WMO emphasizes the need for:
- Intensified climate adaptation strategies to help vulnerable populations cope with these changes.
- Mitigation efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions contributing to warming.
- International cooperation to effectively address the widespread effects of climate change in Asia and beyond.
Given Asia’s significant role in global climate dynamics due to its large emissions and diverse climates, addressing these changes is crucial for the planet’s future.
Stay tuned to Questiqa World News for the latest updates on climate developments.