The year 2023 has witnessed unprecedented and devastating extreme weather events, breaking records and leaving a trail of destruction across the globe. Scientists, in preliminary findings, suggest that the past 12 months may be the hottest in 125,000 years. Here’s a detailed look at some of the major weather-related events that unfolded throughout the year:
January
In the United States, California faced floods, mudslides, and power outages, claiming at least 21 lives. Iowa experienced its first January tornadoes in over 50 years, affecting around 50 million people. Meanwhile, New Zealand saw flash floods and landslides, resulting in four fatalities.
February
Cyclone Freddy, one of the longest-lasting and deadly storms on record, caused widespread destruction. It re-intensified seven times, leaving a devastating impact on Malawi, Madagascar, Mozambique, and other regions, with an estimated death toll of at least 1,400.
March
Spain faced its driest March in 20 years, leading to long-term drought conditions. Turkey experienced flash flooding and landslides, causing 16 deaths. In Western Australia, Tropical Cyclone Ellie triggered “one-in-100-year” floods, forcing evacuations and causing extensive damage.
April
Europe endured a heatwave, with temperatures soaring up to 20C higher than average. Spain recorded its hottest-ever April temperature, reaching 38.8C. Tornadoes in the U.S. South and Midwest claimed at least 11 lives.
May
Cyclone Mocha made landfall in Myanmar and Bangladesh, causing widespread devastation and leaving hundreds dead or missing. Flash floods in the Democratic Republic of Congo resulted in over 400 deaths. Fires escalated in Canada, marking the worst wildfire season in its history.
June
Canada faced an unprecedented wildfire season, displacing thousands and claiming firefighters’ lives. Haiti experienced heavy rain, strong winds, floods, and landslides, leading to over 40 deaths.
July
Europe endured record-breaking temperatures, with the Copernicus Climate Change Service declaring it the hottest month ever recorded. Southern Europe grappled with high temperatures and wildfires, while floods and landslides affected parts of Asia.
August
Maui, Hawaii, witnessed deadly wildfires, with over 100 reported deaths and 850 people missing. Storm Hilary brought California’s first tropical storm in 84 years, causing warnings of life-threatening conditions.
September
Mediterranean Storm Daniel caused catastrophic flooding in Libya, resulting in thousands of deaths. Severe flooding and landslides affected parts of East Africa, displacing hundreds of thousands of people.
October
Storm Babet brought extreme conditions, including torrential rain, to northern and western Europe. Parts of the UK experienced flooding, and daily rainfall records were broken.
November
The UK faced Storm Ciaran, comparable in severity to the Great Storm of 1987. Australia experienced record-breaking heat, with temperatures reaching 43.5C at Sydney Airport.
December
Floods and landslides in northern Tanzania killed 47 people, causing extensive damage. Australia faced record-breaking heat, with Sydney Airport recording its highest temperature since 1929.
The year 2023 concludes as one of the most challenging in recent history, emphasizing the urgent need for global action on climate change. Extreme weather events continue to intensify, underscoring the importance of addressing environmental concerns on a worldwide scale.