At least 8,700 deaths, 40 million displaced people, and damages amounting to 550 billion dollars – these are the staggering floods, prolonged droughts, and increasingly intense hurricanes. Among the most catastrophic events was the flood that struck Valencia and neighboring regions last October, claiming at least 230 lives and causing an estimated 3.6 billion dollars in damage.
This event might even seem minor compared to the flood that struck Brazil between April and May 2024: the rising waters in Rio Grande do Sul claimed 85 lives, displaced 150,000 people, and caused damages estimated at 17 billion dollars. These are among the most devastating events highlighted in the Global Water Monitor 2024, a report by the Australian National University that offers an overview of the state of the water cycle and the disruptions caused by climate change. The document reveals alarming trends across all major indicators, showing that extreme water-related events – and even the absence of water – are becoming more intense and frequent.
Monthly rainfall records are now 27% more frequent than in the year 2000, while daily records have increased by 25%. At the same time, monthly drought records have become 38% more frequent. Overall, total land precipitation has remained close to the 1995-2005 average. However, extremely dry months have become increasingly common in recent decades – 38% more frequent in 2024 compared to the reference period. Climate change is also intensifying daily precipitation extremes, which are now 52% more frequent than during the 1995-2005 period. “2024 has been a year of extreme events, but it’s not an isolated incident. It’s part of a worsening trend of more intense floods, prolonged droughts, and record-breaking extremes,” explains Albert van Dijk, lead author of the report.
“We need to prepare for and adapt to inevitably more severe extreme events. This could mean stronger flood defenses, developing more drought-resistant food production and water reserves, and implementing better early warning systems,” the scientist continues. “Water is our most critical resource, and its extremes–whether floods or droughts–are among the greatest threats we face.”
