Definition:

Extreme weather events are unusual and extreme meteorological phenomena that differ from normal weather conditions and can have a serious impact on the environment, society and the economy. These events encompass a variety of weather conditions that are either outside the usual climate variability or have a significant intensity.

Main characteristics of extreme weather events:

Variety of events: Extreme weather events can take many forms, including heat waves, heavy rain, floods, droughts, tornadoes, hurricanes, snowstorms and hailstorms.

Intensity: These events are often characterized by exceptional weather intensity, which can lead to significant damage.

Environmental impact: Extreme weather events can lead to natural disasters that disrupt ecosystems, cause soil erosion, water pollution and forest fires.

Social impacts: They can have a significant impact on human health, agriculture, infrastructure and water supply.

Causes of extreme weather events:

Climate change: the increase in extreme weather events is often linked to climate change. The rise in global temperatures can increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, storms and precipitation.

Natural disasters: Some extreme weather events, such as tornadoes and hurricanes, are the result of natural meteorological processes.

Human activities: Humans can also contribute to increasing extreme weather events, for example through land use changes that lead to flooding or the release of greenhouse gases that drive climate change.

Consequences of extreme weather events:

Human safety: extreme weather events can endanger human lives and pose significant health risks.

Economic damage: The cost of dealing with the damage and recovering from extreme weather events can run into the billions and place a heavy burden on the economy.

Environmental impact: These events can disrupt ecosystems and threaten biodiversity.

Social impacts: Extreme weather events can destabilize communities, lead to migration and exacerbate social inequities.

Adaptation and prevention:

Adaptation and prevention measures are needed to minimize the impact of extreme weather events. These include improved early warning systems, more robust infrastructure, the promotion of sustainable land use and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in order to mitigate climate change.

Extreme weather events are a growing challenge for society that requires increased attention to risk reduction, environmental protection and adaptation to changing climatic conditions.