A climate risk

Source: The Hindu

Relevance: The article highlights the impacts of Climate Change on the seasons of India.

Synopsis: Only adequate planning can protect against nature’s unavoidable extremes.

What changes have occurred in the climate trends over the Arabian Sea? State the reasons for the same.

In the previous two decades, the frequency and intensity of cyclones over the Arabian Sea have grown. 

• According to a new study published in Climate Dynamics, there has been a 52 percent increase in the frequency of cyclones over the Arabian Sea from 2001 to 2019. Whereas a drop of  8%  over the Bay of Bengal was observed, compared to 1982-2002. The Bay of Bengal has historically seen the most cyclones.
• The duration of these cyclones has also grown by 80%. More cyclones are carrying moisture from the Arabian Sea are contributing to heavy rainfall events along the western coast. For example, Cyclone Tauktae in May was one of the strongest cyclones to hit Mumbai, with winds of 185 km per hour. It was responsible for storm surges that overwhelm the coast.
• According to studies, a warming globe has boosted atmospheric moisture levels, resulting in short, powerful rainstorms. 
  • The interplay between warming, rainfall, and temperature is complicated, and variables including aerosol emissions, particulate matter pollution, agricultural, and forestry patterns must all be taken into account.

What should be done to deal with the changing climate trends?

Extreme events such as bursts of heavy localized rainfall, lengthy droughts, and heatwaves are likely to become more common. It emphasizes the importance of good forecasts that can predict such events at least three to five days ahead of time.

• Climate-proofing is required in the most vulnerable areas and take scientific risk assessments seriously. Evacuations in advance of a flood or a hurricane are not always effective, thus limited construction should be allowed in areas designated as vulnerable.
• Thirdly, it is difficult to predict a significant quake, effective planning can protect against nature’s unavoidable extremes.

Conclusion 

• International climate change accords to reduce greenhouse gas emissions would only help the world in the long run, but what is done now will determine whether we survive or thrive.