Extreme Weather and Climate Impacts in Latin America and the Caribbean
By CCN News | Published: Mar 28, 2025
Embedded Files
Image Source: Social
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has released its "State of the Climate for Latin America and the Caribbean 2024" report, which documents a year of significant climate-related challenges in the region. From record-breaking hurricanes to devastating floods and droughts, the socio-economic toll of extreme weather events has been severe, with lasting impacts on livelihoods and ecosystems.
Rising Temperatures and Accelerated Glacier Retreat
In 2024, Latin America and the Caribbean experienced one of the warmest years on record, with temperatures averaging 0.90°C above the 1991–2020 average. In South America, glaciers, which serve as crucial freshwater sources, have faced accelerated retreat due to rising temperatures. Notably, Venezuela became the second country in the world to lose all its glaciers with the disappearance of Humboldt Glacier. This rapid melting is exacerbating concerns over long-term water availability, particularly for communities dependent on glacier-fed rivers.
Humboldt glacier in May 2024 | NASA Observatory | Image Source: WMO
Devastating Weather Events and Environmental Disruptions
The region faced severe droughts and floods in 2024, with El Niño conditions influencing rainfall patterns in the first half of the year. Amazonia and the Pantanal saw rainfall levels up to 40% below normal, leading to extensive drought. This drought, combined with extreme heat, fueled deadly wildfires in regions like the Amazon and central Chile, where the fires claimed more than 130 lives. Meanwhile, in Brazil, floods caused by heavy rainfall in Rio Grande do Sul resulted in economic losses to agriculture amounting to 8.5 billion Brazilian reais and more than 180 fatalities. Such events underscore the vulnerability of the region’s agricultural and rural livelihoods to changing climate patterns.
Temperature trends for Caribbean,Mexico,Central and South America Subregions | Image Source: WMO
Renewable Energy Growth and Climate Resilience Initiatives
While the region grapples with climate impacts, there have been notable advancements in renewable energy. Renewable energy sources, including solar and wind, accounted for nearly 69% of the region's energy mix in 2024. Both solar and wind energy capacity saw a remarkable 30% increase compared to 2023. To further support this transition, the WMO is collaborating with national meteorological and hydrological services (NMHSs) to integrate climate services into energy planning, particularly in wind and solar energy. Additionally, AI-driven forecasting tools for wind power and climate service toolkits for energy resilience are being developed in countries like Costa Rica, Chile, and Colombia.
The WMO's 2024 report highlights the growing impact of climate-related extreme events across Latin America and the Caribbean. Rising temperatures, more frequent wildfires, and significant disruptions to agriculture and water systems reflect a broader trend of increasing climate vulnerability in the region. However, advancements in renewable energy and climate services offer a pathway toward greater resilience. Continued efforts to address these challenges through targeted mitigation, adaptation, and risk management strategies remain crucial for the region’s long-term sustainability.
Advertisement
Google Sites
Report abuse