The recent devastating floods in Oman and the UAE have been attributed to global warming caused by fossil fuel emissions, according to a study released by a group of 21 international scientists. The intense rains that lashed the region earlier this month resulted in the deaths of 21 people in Oman and four in the UAE, marking the heaviest rainfall in the UAE in 75 years.
The World Weather Attribution (WWA) group found that extreme rainfall in El Nino years has become 10%-40% heavier in the affected region. The study, which analyzed historic weather data and climate models, pointed to climate change as the probable reason for the increased precipitation, although it could not be pinpointed with absolute certainty.
Sonia Seneviratne, a WWA member and professor at Zurich’s ETH university, emphasized the impact of global warming on dry regions like Oman and the UAE. She stated, “Oman and the UAE floods have shown that even dry regions can be strongly affected by precipitation events, a threat that is increasing with increasing global warming due to fossil fuel burning.”
Mariam Zachariah, a WWA member and researcher at London’s Imperial College, highlighted the significant increase in the intensity of extreme rainfall events in Oman and the UAE. She explained, “Extreme rainfall events have become at least 10% heavier in Oman and the UAE, which agrees with the basic physics that a warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture.”
The study also addressed reports of cloud seeding, a controversial practice of artificially increasing rainfall by spraying clouds with chemicals. UAE officials denied engaging in cloud seeding operations during the recent floods, and the WWA did not investigate the possible influence of this practice. However, the group noted that the massive storm system would have resulted in significant rainfall regardless of cloud seeding efforts.
The findings of the study underscore the urgent need to address the root causes of climate change and reduce fossil fuel emissions to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events. As the planet continues to heat up, regions like Oman and the UAE are at increased risk of experiencing more frequent and intense rainfall, posing a threat to lives and infrastructure.
The WWA study serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked global warming and the importance of taking immediate action to combat climate change. With the scientific community sounding the alarm on the link between fossil fuel emissions and extreme weather events, it is crucial for governments and individuals to prioritize sustainability and environmental conservation to safeguard the planet for future generations.