Scientists specializing in climate change posted an informative brief on Facebook, explaining the link between severe storms and global warming. While climate change isn’t directly causing the storms, it magnifies their effects in various ways.
The sea level, partly driven by human activities like oil drilling, has risen more than half a foot due to climate change in recent decades. As a result, storm surges have become half a foot higher, leading to increased flooding and damage.
Warmer sea surface temperatures in the region have gone up by around half a degree Celsius, resulting in a 3% increase in atmospheric moisture content. This higher level of moisture leads to more significant rainfall, thus increased flooding.
The rain from Harvey established a new record for the continental US, showering parts of Houston with more than 50 inches of rain. This led to devastating floods, with city river gauges indicating severe flood levels and a nearby levee breaking due to immense pressure.
Effects of Climate Change on Storm Intensity
| Change | Effect |
|---|---|
| Rise in sea level | Increased storm surge and flooding |
| Rise in sea surface temperature | Increase in atmospheric moisture, leading to heavier rainfall |
Impact of Human Activities on Climate Change
- Oil drilling leading to coastal subsidence and sea level rise
- Industrial emissions contributing to global warming
Consequences of Climate Change-Enhanced Storms
- Record-breaking rainfall leading to catastrophic flooding
- Increased pressure on infrastructures such as levees