March 2024 has been marked by alarming disaster news, primarily spearheaded by a significant heatwave in West Africa, attributed to climate change. A recent study revealed that the extreme temperatures experienced in February increased by 4 degrees Celsius and were ten times more likely to occur due to human-induced global warming. Though millions suffered, the true toll in terms of fatalities and health issues remains uncertain due to inadequate data reporting.
From February 11 to 15, temperatures soared to 40 degrees Celsius, with an average of 36 degrees, compounded by oppressive humidity that hindered the body’s ability to cool down. The heat index, which blends temperature and humidity to reflect the realistic feel of heat, climbed to a staggering 50°C. This extreme weather has gravely impacted local agriculture, particularly in Ivory Coast, where farmers reported crop damage due to the soaring temperatures and drought.
As the heatwave persisted, significant disruptions were noted in cocoa processing across Ghana and other West African regions, with many large cocoa mills slowing or pausing operations. This ripple effect has led the price of cocoa beans to skyrocket, exceeding $8,000 a tonne, marking a more than threefold increase from March 2020. With climate change steadily intensifying such disasters, the implications for global markets and vulnerable populations are increasingly dire.
In March 2024, a study linked a severe heatwave in West Africa to climate change, reporting a temperature increase of 4 degrees Celsius. The heatwave deeply impacted agriculture, causing cocoa price spikes and crop damage, leaving millions vulnerable. Average temperatures reached 36°C with a heat index of 50°C, prompting serious concerns over future climate impacts.
March 2024 has spotlighted severe weather events driven by climate change, particularly in West Africa, where a fierce heatwave has had tragic repercussions for agriculture and local communities. With cocoa prices hitting record highs due to processing slowdowns, the broader implications for food security and economic stability are alarming. It is crucial to recognise the growing frequency and severity of such disasters in our face of climate change.
Original Source: www.infoplease.com
