Climate Impacts: Global extreme weather events this week

Let's explore the extreme weather events that have unfolded worldwide during the week from March 20-26, driven by the rise in global warming.

Spain & Portugal: Storm Martinho

Storm Martinho brought strong winds and heavy rain to Spain and Portugal, just a day after Storm Laurence, which left three people dead. The historic Roman Bridge in Talavera de la Reina in Spain partially collapsed as the Tagus River overflowed. Martinho was the fourth storm in just two weeks, causing extreme rainfall and significant disruptions.

Ecuador: Heavy rainfall

Heavy rains continue across Ecuador, killing at least 30 people and affecting over 108,000 as of March 19. Nearly 30,000 homes have been damaged due to the extreme rainfall. Incessant downpour caused the Malacatos and Zamora rivers to overflow, leading to floods.

Japan: Forest Fires

Forest fires were reported in Japan, forcing 2,800 residents to evacuate. Western towns of Okayama, Imabari and Aso were worst affected. In Okayama, a fire started on Mount Kaigara and burned 250 hectares (600 acres) of the forest. According to experts, prolonged dry weather, rise in temperatures, and dried-up fallen leaves on the ground in the forest led to wildfires in Okayama and Imabari.

South Korea: Forest Fires

In South Korea, similar dry weather conditions led to massive forest fires that charred more than 45,000 hectares (111,000 acres) in the southeastern region. At least 24 people have been killed and more than 20 injured in multiple areas across South Korea’s southeastern region. In more than a dozen fires that broke out over the region forced around 27,000 people to urgently evacuate.

Iran: Water Scarcity

Iran is facing a severe water crisis, with officials warning of ‘water bankruptcy’ and urging residents to cut water usage by at least 20%. Water flow to dam reservoirs is down by 28%, including in regions where summer temperatures reach 50°C and residents rely heavily on cooling systems.