What Happened?
- The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) released its annual report titled “State of the Climate in Asia 2024”.
- The report reveals that Asia is warming at nearly twice the global average, making 2024 one of the most climate-stressed years for the continent.
- Temperature anomalies, extreme weather events, and glacier loss in Asia are accelerating faster than anticipated.
Key Findings of the WMO Report
| Climate Indicator | Asia (2024) Summary |
|---|---|
| Temperature Rise | Average temperature increased by 1.8°C above pre-industrial levels – nearly 2× global average (~1.1°C) |
| Glacier Melting | Tibetan Plateau and Himalayas experienced record glacier mass loss |
| Extreme Weather | Significant rise in heatwaves, floods, droughts, and cyclones, especially in India, China, Pakistan, and Southeast Asia |
| Sea Level Rise | Coastal Asia experienced above-average sea level rise, affecting low-lying nations like Bangladesh, Maldives, and Indonesia |
| Displacement | Over 9 million people were displaced due to floods and climate-related disasters in 2024 |
Causes of Accelerated Warming in Asia
- Urban heat islands and rapid urbanization
- Deforestation and declining carbon sinks
- High concentration of short-lived climate pollutants like black carbon
- Monsoon variability and El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) effects
- Increased fossil fuel consumption by emerging economies
India-Specific Implications
- Agriculture: Heatwaves and erratic rainfall have already disrupted sowing patterns of wheat, rice, and pulses.
- Water Security: Glacial retreat in the Himalayas threatens perennial rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus.
- Disaster Frequency: More urban flooding (e.g., Delhi, Mumbai), landslides (Uttarakhand), and cyclones (Bay of Bengal).
- Livelihoods: Coastal and hill communities are under severe risk due to climate displacement and changing ecosystems.
Global & Regional Efforts
- Paris Agreement: Urges nations to cap global temperature rise below 2°C (preferably 1.5°C).
- Global Framework on Climate Services for Asia: Proposed by WMO for regional collaboration.
- India is part of the International Solar Alliance, Mission LiFE, and National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC).
UPSC Relevance
Prelims:
- WMO and its reports
- El Niño and La Niña impacts
- Himalayan glacial systems and their role in Indian monsoon
Mains GS Paper III:
- Climate Change and its regional impact
- Disaster management and adaptation strategies
- India’s climate policy and INDC targets