Climate extremes in 2024 wreaking havoc on the global water cycle

Climate extremes in 2024 wreaking havoc on the global water cycle
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Jan 07, 2025

In 2024, record-breaking temperatures intensified the global water cycle, leading to severe floods and droughts, according to a report by The Australian National University (ANU). The 2024 Global Water Monitor Report, led by ANU Professor Albert van Dijk, indicates that rising sea surface temperatures have exacerbated tropical cyclones and droughts in regions like the Amazon Basin and southern Africa.

"Rising sea surface temperatures intensified tropical cyclones and droughts in the Amazon Basin and southern Africa. Global warming also contributed to heavier downpours and slower-moving storms, as evidenced by deadly flash floods in Europe, Asia and Brazil," Professor van Dijk said.

The report notes that approximately four billion people across 111 countries experienced their warmest year to date in 2024. Air temperatures over land were 1.2 degrees Celsius higher than at the start of the century and about 2.2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. "In 2024, Earth experienced its hottest year on record, for the fourth year in a row. Water systems across the globe bore the brunt," Professor van Dijk stated.

Water-related disasters in 2024, including floods, droughts, tropical cyclones, and landslides, resulted in over 8,700 deaths, displaced 40 million people, and caused economic losses exceeding US $550 billion. "From historic droughts to catastrophic floods, these extreme events impact lives, livelihoods, and entire ecosystems," Professor van Dijk commented.

The report highlights that both record-high and record-low rainfall events have become more frequent since the beginning of the century. For instance, southern China's Yangtze and Pearl Rivers flooded, displacing thousands and causing significant agricultural damage. In contrast, the Amazon Basin faced record low river levels, disrupting transportation and hydropower, and fueling wildfires that burned over 52,000 square kilometers in September alone.

Professor van Dijk emphasized the need for adaptation strategies, stating, "We need to prepare and adapt to inevitably more severe extreme events. That can mean stronger flood defences, developing more drought-resilient food production and water supplies, and better early warning systems."

The Global Water Monitor utilizes data from ground stations and satellites to provide near real-time insights into critical water variables. The 2024 report is available on the Global Water Monitor website here.