Kathmandu: In a week marked by dramatic contrasts and dire warnings, the U.S. experienced a stark reminder of the growing climate crisis. From record-setting cold and snowstorms to devastating wildfires in California, the events highlighted the urgency of addressing global warming.
Blizzard Sweeps Midwest and East Coast
Early in the week, a polar vortex disrupted by climate change plunged temperatures across the Midwest and East Coast. Blizzard conditions buried parts of Kansas under more snow than they usually see in a year, while ice storms in Kentucky downed power lines, leaving thousands in the dark.
States urged residents to stay off treacherous roads, and shelters filled with those seeking refuge from sub-zero temperatures. In Annapolis, Maryland, a rare sight emerged as locals took to skiing down Main Street.
“This isn’t an anomaly; it’s the new normal unless we act,” said Victor Gensini, a meteorology professor at Northern Illinois University.
Wildfires Ravage California
While the East battled freezing temperatures, California faced an inferno. The Palisades Fire, driven by fierce Santa Ana winds, became Los Angeles’ worst wildfire on record. Flames consumed neighborhoods, threatening landmarks like the Getty Museum and destroying homes, including those of several celebrities.
In Altadena, the Eaton Fire killed two people and forced thousands to evacuate. Meanwhile, the water system used to combat the blazes failed under stress, leaving hydrants dry and firefighters scrambling.
“Climate change has set the stage for these megafires,” said Natalie Mahowald, a climate scientist at Cornell University. “This is just the beginning if CO2 emissions aren’t radically cut.”
A Record-Breaking Year for Global Warming
On Friday, major weather agencies confirmed that 2024 was the hottest year on record, surpassing 2023. Even more alarming, it was the first year Earth’s average temperature exceeded the critical 1.5°C (2.7°F) threshold established by the Paris Climate Agreement.
Experts warn that this milestone signals more frequent and intense extreme weather events.
“This scale of destruction will only increase,” said Barbara Hofer, a psychology professor at Middlebury College, noting the psychological toll of climate denial and inaction.
What Lies Ahead
The week’s events have underscored the growing urgency for climate action. As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office with promises to roll back climate policies, scientists and advocates are calling for renewed focus on addressing the crisis.
Source: AP