A severe heatwave is affecting Europe, pushing temperatures beyond 40°C and contributing to wildfires. Scientists warn that such extreme heat is emblematic of climate change's impact on weather patterns. As greenhouse gas emissions rise, heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense. Studies indicate that if emissions aren't curtailed, Europe could be over 3°C warmer than pre-industrial times, with cities subjected to increased days of extreme heat, possibly making severe heatwaves a regular occurrence. Immediate action on emissions is crucial to mitigate these dire forecasts.
"Rising greenhouse gas levels due to human activities are making it more difficult for Earth to lose excess heat to space, and the warmer, thirstier atmosphere is more effective at drying soils, meaning heatwaves are intensifying."
"If greenhouse gas emissions are not reduced, studies suggest that Europe will be 3.1°C (5.6°F) warmer than before the Industrial Revolution, leading to month-long heatwaves that exceed 40°C."
Collection
[
|
...
]