Global January Extremes: Climate Risks & Early Warnings

Extreme weather events impacted countries worldwide in January, highlighting the increasing risks associated with climate change and the importance of early warning systems. National meteorological services were at the forefront of responding to these disasters, providing critical real-time forecasts to aid humanitarian efforts.

Global Patterns of Extremes

Australia experienced consecutive heatwaves, with temperatures reaching nearly 50°C (122°F) in parts of South Australia. Simultaneously, wildfires raged across Chile and southern Argentina. A weakened polar vortex contributed to severe cold and winter storms in North America, Europe, and Asia, causing disruptions to travel and energy supplies.

Heavy rainfall led to widespread flooding in southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique, displacing hundreds of thousands of people and damaging essential infrastructure.

Climate Change and Early Warnings

World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Secretary-General Celeste Saulo emphasized that climate change is increasing both the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, consistently ranking them among the top global risks. “The number of people affected by weather and climate-related disasters continues to rise, year by year,” Saulo said.

The WMO noted that countries with effective early warning systems experience disaster-related deaths at a rate six times lower than those without, reinforcing the urgency of its Early Warnings for All initiative.