The Role of Climate Change in Nepal's Flood Disaster
Scientists examined the impact of climate change on the disaster in Nepal's Rasuwa region, which resulted in the deaths of more than 1,400 people.
It has been announced that climate change may have played a role in the glacier collapse that triggered the devastating flood in Nepal's Rasuwa region on August 26, causing the loss of more than 1,400 lives.
Background of the Disaster
A major flood disaster occurred on August 26 in and around Nepal's Rasuwa region, near the Chinese border. As a result of this disaster, more than 1,400 people lost their lives.
Scientific Investigations and Findings
Scientists within the World Weather Attribution research network examined the disaster in Nepal. It was stated that rising temperatures and the thinning of glaciers paved the way for this situation.
Temperature and Glacier Changes
It was stated that temperatures in the region during July and August were approximately 1.5 degrees Celsius higher due to the impact of climate change. Additionally, it was determined that the glaciers are thinning by about half a meter per year.
The Impact of the Earthquake on the Event
It was noted that the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the region in 2015 may have weakened the rock mass. However, the exact impact of the earthquake on the glacier collapse has not yet been confirmed.
Experts' Assessments
Dr. Friederike Otto from Imperial College London stated that human-induced climate change played a role in creating these conditions. Dr. Walter Immerzeel from Utrecht University also noted that the slope had become sensitive.
Search and Rescue Operations
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority of Nepal announced that the death toll from the floods has risen to 1,403. Search and rescue operations continue for the 6,150 missing people.