Climate Change Intensified Kerala Landslides
- 14 Aug 2024
Heavy rain, exacerbated by human-caused climate change, was a key factor in the landslides that claimed over 200 lives in Kerala’s Wayanad region in July, 2024, according to an international scientific study.
Key Points
- Climate Change Impact: The study by the World Weather Attribution group found that monsoon downpours in Wayanad have become 10% heavier due to climate change.
- Disaster Context: The landslides on 30th July were the worst disaster in Kerala since 2018, when floods resulted in over 400 deaths.
- Rainfall Increase: Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reported that the region received 572 mm of rain in 48 hours, more than double the forecasted 204 mm. The study predicts a further 4% increase in one-day rainfall if global warming reaches 2º C.
- Future Risks: Increased rainfall due to climate change is likely to trigger more landslides in the future, according to the study.
- Recommended Measures: The report suggests minimizing deforestation and quarrying, reinforcing slopes, and constructing retaining structures to mitigate future risks.
- Additional Factors: Experts noted that pre-landslide heavy rainfall, soil saturation, over-development, and unchecked tourism may also have contributed to the disaster.
- Adaptation and Mitigation: The study highlights the need for improved landslide assessment, early warning systems, and evacuation plans, alongside broader adaptation and mitigation strategies.
- Broader Climate Impact: This incident adds to a series of climate change-related weather events in India, including extreme temperatures, heatwaves, torrential rains, and cyclones.
- Previous Findings: Earlier this year, the World Weather Attribution group linked extreme temperatures in Asia to human-driven climate change.
