Climate change has become a tangible reality, manifesting itself in increasingly frequent and intense extreme weather events. Among these events, floods stand out for their ability to cause massive destruction and disrupt lives. Lagos in Nigeria and many other regions around the world are currently experiencing devastating floods. These phenomena, fuelled by record rainfall, rising sea levels and other consequences of global warming, underline the urgent need for action to mitigate the impacts of climate change. The impact of these floods on infrastructure, local economies and daily life is immense, requiring rapid and effective responses to protect vulnerable populations and strengthen the resilience of affected communities. Here are the reasons why we are facing this challenge worldwide:
INCREASE IN EXTREME PRECIPITATION
The warming of the atmosphere allows it to retain more moisture. This leads to an increase in extreme precipitation, where large amounts of rain fall in a short time, overloading drainage systems and causing flash floods.
MELTING ICE AND GLACIERS
Global warming is causing glaciers and ice caps to melt, increasing the volume of water in the oceans. This contribution to sea-level rise can submerge coastal areas like Lagos, and increase the risk of coastal flooding, especially during high tides and storms.
SEA-LEVEL RISE
Rising sea levels due to melting ice and thermal expansion of seawater contribute to an increased risk of flooding in coastal areas. Coastal infrastructures and communities are increasingly vulnerable to marine flooding.
CHANGES IN RAINFALL PATTERNS
Climate change is altering precipitation patterns around the world. Some regions may experience periods of drought followed by heavy rainfall, resulting in soils that are less able to absorb water, thus increasing the risk of flooding.
DISRUPTION OF OCEAN CURRENTS AND WEATHER SYSTEMS
Climate change can disrupt ocean currents and weather systems, such as monsoons and cyclones. These disruptions can increase the frequency and intensity of storms and hurricanes, which are often accompanied by heavy rainfall and marine storms, leading to flooding.
LOSS OF WETLANDS AND VEGETATION
Climate change and human activities are leading to the loss of wetlands and vegetation, which play a crucial role in absorbing rainwater and reducing the risk of flooding. Without these natural buffers, rainwater can run off more quickly and more directly into populated areas, increasing the risk of flooding.
In summary, climate change is increasing the risk of flooding through increased extremes of precipitation, melting ice, rising sea levels, changes in precipitation patterns, disruption of weather systems and the loss of wetlands. These factors combine to create conditions more conducive to flooding, affecting communities around the world.
The devastating floods currently affecting Lagos in Nigeria and other parts of the world are only a prelude to the growing challenges we will face if we do not act decisively and urgently to combat climate change. Climate forecasts indicate a continued increase in extreme weather events, exacerbating the risk of floods, droughts and other natural disasters. Without immediate and concerted action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build resilient infrastructures, the situation will only worsen, with devastating consequences for the environment, economies and human communities. We must take ambitious action now to reverse the trend, mitigate the effects of climate change and protect future generations.