• UGI USER
  • Apr 24, 2024
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ASIA ENDURED 79 EXTREME WEATHER EVENTS, RESULTING IN OVER 2,000 DEATHS IN 2023.

Why in the news?

Asia’s extreme weather events in 2023, highlighted by floods and storms, prompt concerns over climate change impact and disaster management.

About the Asia’s Disaster Situation in 2023:

  • Most Disaster-Hit Region: Asia witnessed 79 extreme weather events, affecting over 9 million people directly and claiming 2,000 lives.
  • Nature of Disasters: Over 80% were hydrometeorological hazards, with floods and storms being predominant.
  • Impact: Floods and storms accounted for most deaths and economic damages.
  • April-June: Severe heat waves caused 110 heatstroke deaths.
  • August: Floods in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand led to 25 deaths and infrastructure damage.
  • October: Glacial lake outburst flood in Sikkim resulted in 40 fatalities.
  • December: Cyclone Michuang made landfall in Andhra Pradesh, causing 22 deaths.
source:IE
About World Meteorological Organisation (WMO):

  • Establishment: Founded in 1950, evolved from the International Meteorological Organization (IMO) established in 1873.
  • Membership: 187 countries are members of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO).
  • Headquarters: Located in Geneva, Switzerland.
  • Governance Structure:
  • World Meteorological Congress: Supreme body, convenes every four years.
  • Executive Council: Consists of 36 members, meets annually to implement policy.
  • Secretariat: Administrative centre headed by a secretary-general appointed by the congress.
  • Regional Associations: Six regional associations address region-specific issues.
  • Major Programmes:
  • World Weather Watch: Utilises satellites and telecommunication networks for weather monitoring.
  • World Climate Programme: Monitors climate change, including global warming.
  • Atmospheric Research and Environment Programme: Promotes research on issues like ozone depletion.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/wmo-report-climate-crisis-asia-9286724/#:~:text=In%202023%2C%20there%20were%2079,World%20Meteorological%20Organisation%20(WMO).