“Climate Change Doubled Likelihood of Historic Floods in Southern Brazil, Scientists Warn”

Climate change has been identified as a major factor in the historic floods that devastated southern Brazil, according to a study published by the World Weather Attribution (WWA) group. The study found that the likelihood of such extreme flooding occurring was doubled due to climate change, with the El Nino weather phenomenon also contributing to the intensity of the rains.

The floods, which occurred in late April and early May, saw three months’ worth of rain fall on the state of Rio Grande do Sul in just two weeks. This extreme weather event, described as occurring only once every 100-250 years, submerged cities, farms, and an international airport, affecting over 90 percent of the state’s territory.

The disaster resulted in the tragic loss of 172 lives and the displacement of around 600,000 people. The WWA stated that climate change made the event more than twice as likely and increased its intensity by six to nine percent. Additionally, the El Nino phenomenon amplified rainfall by three to 10 percent.

Experts have warned that the world needs to be prepared for increasingly extreme weather events, as climate change continues to impact the frequency and intensity of natural disasters. Regina Rodrigues, a researcher at the Federal University of Santa Catarina, emphasized that even during a weakening phase, El Nino can still pose significant risks.

The city of Porto Alegre, which experienced one of its worst floods in six decades, was particularly vulnerable due to its location near multiple river systems. Despite having a flood protection system in place, a lack of maintenance led to its failure during the recent floods.

The study also highlighted the role of deforestation and rapid urbanization in exacerbating the impacts of the floods. The loss of native vegetation, conversion of land for agriculture, and the displacement of vulnerable communities all contributed to the severity of the disaster.

Experts have called for policies that reduce vulnerability, increase protection against floods, and restore natural ecosystems to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events. It is crucial for governments to take proactive measures to prevent human casualties and limit the damage caused by future disasters.