What's Happening?
Hurricane Melissa, one of the strongest storms to form in the Atlantic, has been significantly intensified by climate change, according to a new analysis by World Weather Attribution. The storm reached
wind speeds of 185 mph before making landfall in Jamaica, with climate change making these extreme speeds five times more likely and 7% more intense. The analysis also found that climate change increased Melissa's rainfall intensity by 30% in Jamaica and made it twice as likely. The storm caused extensive damage across Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti, with losses estimated at $7 billion.
Why It's Important?
The findings highlight the growing impact of climate change on extreme weather events, emphasizing the need for urgent climate action. The intensified storm has caused significant economic and human losses, challenging recovery efforts in affected regions. The analysis underscores the importance of addressing climate change to mitigate future disasters and protect vulnerable communities. The damage from Hurricane Melissa serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of global warming, prompting calls for stronger climate policies and international cooperation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
