Severe weather change: Rain brings relief after hot days!

Severe weather change: Rain brings relief after hot days!

After hot days in Vienna made for an uncomfortable climate, recent rains brought a welcome cooling effect. These weather fluctuations not only left the population feeling uncomfortable, but also caused significant damage to the city. Loud the standard, many people benefited from the cooling down to ventilate their homes and do work that had been left behind. But not everyone was happy about it; Many Viennese residents had to repair the damage caused by violent thunderstorms, heavy rain and hail.

However, the difficulties caused by the unpredictable weather are not isolated cases. Climate change is leading to extreme weather phenomena worldwide, which have increased sharply in recent years. According to the data of Federal Environment Agency 2023 was the hottest year on record, with an average global temperature nearly 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. This is the 47th consecutive year of above average temperatures. Such conditions encourage the development of more extreme weather events.

Global extent of climate warming

Global warming is having noticeable effects in all parts of the world. For example, Europe experienced its second warmest year in 2023, with record temperatures in September. In North America, the average temperature is 2.01 °C above the reference period from 1901 to 2000. Southern Europe and South America are also affected by extreme weather events, as shown by the heat wave in Chile, which resulted in large-scale forest fires.

Africa reported extreme rainfall in Libya, resulting in dam failures and more than 10,000 deaths. In Asia, temperatures were 2.09°C higher than the reference period, while Oceania and Antarctica also experienced notable climatic changes. Record rainfall was recorded in Auckland, while 1,700 km² of icebergs broke away from glaciers in Antarctica.

Consequences for the economy

The economic impact of these extreme weather events is significant. Heavy rain and periods of drought endanger economic growth, as the situation in Vienna makes clear. Damage caused by weather events requires significant financial resources to repair and prevent future damage. This could place further strain on the already weakened economy, which is under pressure from increasing climate challenges.

Overall, these developments highlight the urgency of addressing the causes of climate change and taking measures to reduce its impacts. The findings about global climate trends and their local consequences should be taken seriously in order to avoid future disasters and economic losses.