10 worst climate-linked disasters of 2018 cost $85bn
It’s hot out there, and getting hotter, with the 20 warmest years on record occurring within the last 22
London — From floods to extreme heat, 10 of the worst climate-linked disasters in 2018 caused at least $84.8bn worth of damage, according to a study released by the charity Christian Aid on Thursday. Extreme weather driven by climate change hit every populated continent this year, the British relief organisation said, warning that urgent action is needed to combat global warming. “This report shows that, for many people, climate change is having devastating impacts on their lives and livelihoods right now,” said Kat Kramer, who heads Christian Aid’s work on climate issues, in a statement. Experts say a warming world will lead to sweltering heatwaves, more extreme rainfall, shrinking harvests and worsening water shortages, causing both monetary losses and human misery. Almost 200 nations are aiming to limit the rise in average world temperatures under the landmark 2015 Paris Agreement, though some warn progress to meet targets has been slow. The 20 warmest years on record have been w...
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