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Subject: Climate Change

1. Global Warming and Issues
2. All about Pollution

  • Duarte Agostinho Case: A Youth-led Climate Lawsuit

    Duarte Agostinho Case

    Central Idea

    • On September 27, a historic legal battle in the climate action movement commenced at the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, France.
    • This courtroom showdown featured 32 European governments, including the UK, Russia, and Turkey, facing off against six young individuals from Portugal, aged 11 to 24.

    Why discuss this?

    • Youth-led climate lawsuits are reshaping climate litigation.
    • These lawsuits assert that uncontrolled carbon emissions infringe on fundamental rights, threaten the well-being of young generations.
    • This highlight the centrality of climate science in combating misinformation and denialism.

    Understanding the Duarte Agostinho Case

    [A] Origins of the Lawsuit:

    • The Duarte Agostinho and Others v. Portugal and Others case was initiated in September 2020.
    • It was in response to the devastating wildfires in Portugal’s Leiria region in 2017, resulting in 66 casualties and the loss of 20,000 hectares of forests.
    • This legal action highlights the urgency of adhering to the Paris Agreement’s target of limiting global warming to below 1.5°C.

    [B] Concerns raised

    • The Portuguese youths assert that European nations have failed to meet climate emissions goals, exceeding global carbon budgets compatible with the Paris Agreement’s objectives.
    • Scientific evidence will be presented, demonstrating that if current emission trends persist, global temperatures will rise by 3°C during the plaintiffs’ lifetimes.
    • Such actions are alleged to breach fundamental rights protected under the European Convention on Human Rights, including the right to life, freedom from inhuman or degrading treatment, privacy, family life, and freedom from discrimination.

    Lawsuit’s Demands

    • Rapid Emission Reduction: As these 32 countries contributed to climate catastrophes and threatened young people’s futures, the lawsuit contends that these nations must urgently intensify emissions reductions. The recommended measures include curbing fossil fuel production and addressing global supply chain sustainability.
    • Emissions Reduction Targets: The European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change (ESABCC) suggested that countries should aim for emissions reductions of 75% below 1990 levels, a more ambitious target than the EU’s current 55%. The lawsuit argues that European countries have overstated their carbon budgets, emphasizing the need for greater reductions.

    Climate Crisis Impact on Human Rights

    • UNICEF characterizes the climate crisis as a “child rights crisis” due to unhindered carbon emissions and extreme weather jeopardizing access to education, health, nutrition, and the future.
    • Research links air pollution to adverse birth outcomes and increased risks of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
    • Heatwaves exacerbate mental health issues, ultimately affecting academic performance and school attendance.

    Government Responses and Challenges

    • Cause and Effect Denial: Many countries have dismissed any direct relationship between climate change and its impact on human health. Greece, for instance, argued that climate change effects do not directly affect human life or health, despite experiencing massive wildfires.
    • Portrayal as Future Fears: Governments like Portugal and Ireland have downplayed climate change concerns as “future fears,” asserting that there is no immediate risk to lives.
    • Policy Reversals: Some nations, like the U.K., have showcased proactive climate policies, such as a 2030 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars. However, these policies have been reversed, raising concerns about policy consistency and legality.

    Conclusion

    • The Duarte Agostinho case represents a pivotal moment in the climate action movement, with young activists challenging their governments to protect their future against the looming climate crisis.
    • This legal battle underscores the critical intersection of climate change and human rights, shaping a path toward increased accountability and transformative climate governance.

  • China, US and India absent at Climate Ambition Summit

     

    Central Idea

    • The Climate Ambition Summit (CAS) held in New York during the United Nations General Assembly concluded.
    • China, the United States, and India, together responsible for about 42% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions and ranking as the top three emitters, were missing.

    Climate Ambition Summit (CAS)

    Purpose Strengthen global climate action and increase climate ambition.
    Anniversary of Paris Agreement Typically held on December 12th, coinciding with the Paris Agreement’s anniversary.
    Linked to Paris Agreement Connected to the international treaty aiming to limit global warming to well below 2°C or 1.5°C.
    Hosts and Participants Hosted by countries/regions; attended by heads of state, officials, organizations, and stakeholders.
    Commitments and Pledges Platform for announcing climate commitments, NDCs, funding, and policy measures.
    Climate Finance Discussions on financing mitigation and adaptation in developing countries.
    Global Cooperation Emphasizes collective efforts and solidarity in addressing climate change.
    Outcome Results in declarations and announcements reflecting increased ambition.
    Subsequent COPs Contributions influence discussions at future UN Climate Change Conferences.
    Climate Emergency Acknowledges climate emergency and the need for urgent, transformative action.
    Non-State Actors Provides a platform for businesses, cities, and civil society to showcase actions.
    Long-Term Goals May include goals like achieving net-zero emissions by mid-century.

    India’s Involvement

    • India last updated its climate commitments in 2022, aiming to reduce emissions intensity (the volume of emissions per unit of GDP) by 45% from 2005 levels by 2030, a 10% increase from its 2015 commitment.
    • India also pledged to fulfill 50% of its electricity needs with renewable, non-fossil fuel energy sources and create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2-equivalent by 2030.
    • In 2021, PM Modi pledged that India would achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
    • However, experts suggest these commitments may not be enough to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.

  • Places in news: Lampedusa Island

    Lampedusa Island

    Central Idea

    • Italy’s Lampedusa Island witnessed an influx of migrants after around 7,000 people arrived from North Africa in two days.
    • Nearly 1,26,000 migrants have arrived in Italy so far this year.

    About Lampedusa Island

    • Lampedusa is the largest of the Italian Pelagie Islands in the Mediterranean Sea.
    • It is located approximately 205 km southwest of Sicily, 113 km east of Tunisia, and about 176 kmnorth of Libya.
    • It is part of the Sicilian region of Italy and is situated in the southern Mediterranean Sea.
    • It covers an area of approximately 20.2 square km (7.8 square miles).
    • It has a rich history, with influences from various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Normans.
    • During World War II, the island was of strategic importance and saw military activity.
    • It has been part of Italy since 1860.

    Migration and Humanitarian Issues

    • Lampedusa has been a focal point for migration from Africa to Europe, with many migrants and refugees attempting to reach the island by boat.
    • This has led to humanitarian challenges and efforts to manage immigration.
    • The island has received international attention for its role in rescue operations and the reception of migrants and asylum seekers.

  • Global Stocktake Report

    Central Idea

    • Amid the gathering of world leaders in New Delhi for the G-20 summit, the UN climate secretariat unveiled a ‘synthesis report’ summarizing progress made by nations towards the goals of the 2015 Paris Agreement.
    • Known as the ‘global stocktake,’ this report is a vital component of global climate action, assessing efforts to combat climate change every five years.

    Understanding the ‘Global Stocktake’

    (1) Origins and Purpose:

    • The ‘global stocktake’ is integral to the Paris Agreement, which commits countries to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius and strive for a 1.5-degree target.
    • Its primary aim is to periodically review and evaluate individual nations’ efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

    (2) Influence on Climate Talks:

    • The inaugural report, released this year, carries significant weight, shaping discussions at the upcoming 28th UN Climate Conference of Parties (COP) in Dubai in November.
    • While countries have submitted their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for climate action, the stocktake encourages them to enhance their ambitions before the next NDCs in 2025.

    Key Insights from the Report

    (1) Overall Assessment:

    • The 45-page synthesis report delivers 17 key findings that collectively convey that the world is falling short of its Paris Agreement targets. However, it highlights a narrowing window of opportunity for countries to align their efforts.

    (2) Echoing Previous Concerns:

    • The report echoes concerns raised in the 2022 UN synthesis report, which analyzed the NDCs of 166 countries and found them inadequate to meet Paris Agreement goals.
    • It reiterates the findings of the United Nations Emissions Gap Report, emphasizing the vast shortfall in reducing CO2 emissions compared to the Paris targets.

    Crucial ‘Key Findings’

    (1) Galvanized Global Response:

    • The Paris Agreement has spurred countries to set climate goals and acknowledge the urgency of addressing the climate crisis.
    • Governments must support the transition away from fossil fuels, ensuring it is equitable and inclusive.

    (2) Ambitious Goals:

    • Much greater ambition is needed to achieve global greenhouse gas emission reductions of 43% by 2030 and 60% by 2035, leading to net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

    (3) Renewable Energy Transition:

    • Scaling up renewable energy is imperative, while unabated fossil fuels must be phased out rapidly.

    (4) Environmental Conservation:

    • Efforts to halt deforestation, reverse land degradation, and promote emission-reducing agricultural practices must be encouraged.

    (5) Adaptation and Loss Management:

    • Comprehensive risk management and support for impacted communities are essential for averting, minimizing, and addressing loss and damage due to climate change.

    (6) Financial Commitment:

    • Transparent adaptation reporting and the rapid scaling up of financial support are needed to align global financial flows with climate-resilient development.

    Influence on Global Climate Discussion

    • The global stocktake report serves as a foundational document for the upcoming UN Climate Conference of Parties (COP).
    • It notably influenced the G20 Leaders Declaration, which officially acknowledged the substantial financial requirements for transitioning to a renewable energy economy.
    • This acknowledgement sets the stage for intensified efforts, emphasizing the need for trillions of dollars to support climate action, renewable technologies, and the path to net-zero emissions by 2050.

  • Six of 9 Planetary Boundaries breached by Humans

    boundaries

     

    Central Idea

    • A recent study has delivered a stark message: humanity has breached six of the nine planetary boundaries that are crucial for maintaining Earth’s stability and resilience.

    What are the 9 Planetary Boundaries?

    • These boundaries encompass climate change, biosphere integrity, land system change, freshwater change, biogeochemical flows, and novel entities.
    • These findings underscore the urgent need for a thorough reassessment of our environmental impact and the imperative of global collaboration to address these critical challenges.

    Understanding Planetary Boundaries

    (1) Setting Safe Limits:

    • Planetary boundaries can be likened to the vital parameters in human health, such as blood pressure.
    • Just as high blood pressure elevates the risk of heart disease, exceeding planetary boundaries heightens the risk of triggering irreversible environmental changes.

    (2) An Evolving Framework:

    • The planetary boundaries framework was introduced in 2009 to define the safe environmental limits within which humanity should operate.
    • To remain relevant, the framework must adapt as our understanding of Earth’s complex systems and human impacts evolves.

    The Third Iteration: Assessing Environmental Risks

    (1) Identifying Critical Processes:

    • Researchers examined processes within Earth’s ecosystem that have been vital for sustaining favourable conditions for humans over the past 12,000 years.
    • This era is noted for its stable and temperate planetary conditions.

    (2) Evaluating Human Impact:

    • The study assessed the extent to which human activities are modifying these crucial processes.
    • Computer simulations were employed to determine the point at which human activities could trigger irreversible changes in Earth’s systems.

    (3) Alarming Revelations:

    • The study found that human activities had breached safe boundaries for climate change and land system change as early as 1988.
    • The current trajectory poses a substantial risk of systemic disruption.

    Boundaries Crossed and Their Consequences

    (1) Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide Concentration:

    • The safe limit was set at 350 ppm; it currently stands at 417 ppm.
    • This has led to significant climate change.

    (2) Land System Change:

    • The safe limit aimed to maintain 75% of the original forest cover; the current estimate is at 60%.
    • Such alterations have profound consequences for land systems.

    (3) Biosphere Integrity:

    • The safe limit was fewer than 10 extinctions per million species-years; the actual rate has exceeded 100.
    • This poses a severe threat to millions of plant and animal species.

    (4) Freshwater Change:

    • Boundaries have been exceeded for both blue (surface and groundwater) and green (water available for plants) water resources.
    • This has negative consequences for ecosystems.

    (5) Biogeochemical Flows:

    • Safe boundaries have been surpassed for phosphorus and nitrogen flows.
    • This has alarming implications for biodiversity and water quality.

    (6) Novel Entities:

    • The planetary boundary for novel entities was set at zero, and this boundary has been transgressed.
    • Risks include stratospheric ozone depletion, aerosol loading, and ocean acidification.

    Way Forward: Urgent Global Collaboration

    (1) Lessons from the Ozone Layer:

    • Successful global negotiations, like the Montreal Protocol, managed to restore the ozone layer to safe levels after transgression.
    • Emphasizes the importance of adhering to limits on environmental waste.

    (2) Embracing a Circular Economy:

    • A circular economy, mirroring nature’s own system, is essential.
    • Transitioning towards a circular economy represents a crucial step in tackling these planetary challenges.

    Conclusion

    • The study’s findings serve as a stark reminder of humanity’s responsibility to safeguard Earth’s delicate equilibrium.
    • Breaching planetary boundaries not only poses immediate risks but also imperils the long-term sustainability of our planet.
    • Urgent global cooperation and a commitment to respecting environmental limits are essential to avert a potentially catastrophic future.

  • Why El Nino is now India’s no. 1 Economic and Political Risk?

    el nino risk

    Central Idea

    • The emergence of El Nino as a significant climatic phenomenon in India carries dual implications – economic and political – as the country gears up for national elections in April-May 2024.
    • With its known ability to suppress rainfall and disrupt agricultural cycles, El Nino’s effects are already being felt.

    Understanding El Nino and La Nina

    • El Nino and La Nina are two opposite phases of the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle.
    • ENSO is a naturally occurring phenomenon that involves the interaction between the ocean and atmosphere in the equatorial Pacific.

    Here is a detailed comparison of El Nino and La Nina

    El Nino La Nina
    Definition Warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures Cooler-than-normal sea surface temperatures
    Frequency Every two to seven years Every two to seven years
    Duration Several months to a year or more Several months to a year or more
    Impact on winds Weakens trade winds, leading to changes in patterns Strengthens trade winds, leading to changes in patterns
    Impact on rains Reduces rainfall and can cause droughts Increases rainfall and can cause flooding
    Impact on temp. Warmer-than-average temperatures Colder-than-average temperatures
    Global effects Droughts in Asia and Africa, floods in Americas Floods in Asia and Africa, droughts in South America

    Impact on India

    El Nino La Nina
    Associated with weak monsoons and drought-like conditions in India Associated with above-normal rainfall and floods in India
    Sea surface temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean rises above normal levels Sea surface temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean drops below normal levels
    Changes in the atmospheric circulation patterns Changes in the atmospheric circulation patterns
    Shift in the location of the jet stream, affecting the strength and direction of the monsoon winds Increase in the strength of the monsoon winds, bringing more moisture and rainfall to India
    Results in reduced rainfall, dry spells, and heatwaves, leading to crop failures and water scarcity Excessive rainfall can also lead to floods and landslides, causing damage to crops and infrastructure

    Broader Implications:

    [A] Agriculture

    • Rainfall Deficit: August’s nationwide rainfall stands at 30.7% below normal, erasing the initial 4.2% surplus from the southwest monsoon.
    • Strengthening El Nino: July saw the Oceanic Nino Index (ONI) surpass the El Nino threshold, hitting 1 degree Celsius, suggesting an intensification of El Nino.
    • Projected Persistence: Forecasts predict El Nino’s continuation and possible strengthening during the 2023-24 winter season, potentially impacting the northeast monsoon and winter seasons.

    [B] Food Supply Challenges

    • Crucial Monsoon: Beyond crop yield, the southwest monsoon replenishes reservoirs and recharges groundwater, essential for agricultural success.
    • Rabi Season Dependence: The success of rabi season crops like wheat, mustard, and chickpea hinges on water reserves, primarily sourced from aquifers and reservoirs.
    • Supply-Demand Nexus: With rice and wheat stocks at a six-year low and food inflation at 11.5%, El Nino-induced shortfalls may exacerbate food inflation concerns.

    [C] Political Implications

    • Food Inflation: Examining consumer food price inflation leading up to previous Lok Sabha elections reveals its considerable impact on political outcomes.
    • Electoral Influence: The BJP’s 2019 electoral victory and the UPA’s 2014 defeat were partially attributed to the level of food inflation during those periods.
    • Government Actions: The Modi administration has already taken steps to ensure food availability, curb hoarding, and address potential food inflation concerns.

    Conclusion

    • El Nino’s emergence as a formidable environmental and political factor underscores the intricate interplay between climate patterns, agriculture, and political dynamics.
    • India’s ability to manage the far-reaching consequences of El Nino on food production and inflation will determine its capacity to address immediate challenges while considering the longer-term goals.

  • GEF Assembly ratifies Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF)

    Central Idea

    • The Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) has been officially ratified and inaugurated during the Seventh Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) held in Vancouver, Canada.

    Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF)

    Key Points
    Establishment Ratified and inaugurated during the Seventh Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
    Purpose Channels financial resources to achieve goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework established by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), by the year 2030.
    Financial Contributions Canada: 200 million Canadian dollars, United Kingdom: 10 million pounds.
    Alignment with Framework Accelerates progress towards halting biodiversity decline by 2030.
    Inclusivity and Indigenous Initiatives Allocates up to 20% for projects led by Indigenous communities.
    Focus on Vulnerable Nations Over a third of resources dedicated to support Small Island Developing States.
    Fulfilling Targets Contributes to commitment of $200 billion annually by 2030.
    Funding Requirements Approximately $40 million needed for operationalization by end of 2023.
    Future Contributions Dependent on domestic fiscal processes of key donors.
    Council Meetings First meeting in January 2024, aims to approve inaugural work program in June.
    Impact and Action Timely disbursement crucial for launching projects under the fund.

     About Global Environment Facility (GEF)

    • Establishment: The GEF was established on the eve of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, also known as the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED).
    • Purpose: The GEF serves as an international financial institution that funds projects to address global environmental challenges, including biodiversity loss, climate change, land degradation, and pollution.
    • Funding Mechanism: It operates as a financial mechanism for several international environmental conventions, including:
    1. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD),
    2. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and
    3. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
    • Structure: It has a governing body known as the GEF Council. The GEF is structured as a partnership between three main institutions:
    1. the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP),
    2. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and
    3. World Bank.
    • Funding Sources: The GEF is funded by contributions from its member countries, known as “donors.” Donors include both developed and developing nations, as well as international organizations.

  • Places in news: Yasuni National Park

    yasuni national park

    Central Idea

    • Ecuadorians made a historic decision by rejecting oil drilling by a referendum in Yasuni National Park, a biodiverse Amazonian region.

    About Yasuni National Park

    • Yasuni National Park, declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 1989, spans 1 million hectares and harbors exceptional biodiversity.
    • It is part of the Amazon rainforest, which itself is a global hotspot for species diversity.
    • It is situated in the northeastern part of Ecuador, within the Napo and Pastaza provinces.
    • It covers an area of approximately 9,820 square km (3,791 square miles).
    • The park is considered one of the most biologically diverse areas on Earth.

    Unique features

    • Biodiversity: It is estimated that Yasuni contains around 670 species of birds, over 150 species of amphibians, and numerous large mammals like jaguars, pumas, and tapirs.
    • Indigenous Communities: Yasuni is home to several indigenous communities, including the Waorani and Kichwa peoples, who have lived in the area for generations and have a deep connection to the land.

  • Drilling in the North Sea: History and environmental concerns

    north sea

    Central Idea

    • Recent endorsement by U.K. Prime Minister of plans for fresh fossil fuel drilling off Britain’s coast has sparked a debate among environmental experts.
    • Amidst global concerns about climate change, the decision raises questions about the country’s commitment to sustainability and its impact on climate goals.

    Evolution of North Sea Drilling

    • Origins and Legislation: The North Sea drilling history dates back to the 1958 Geneva Convention on the Continental Shelf, which set the stage for exploration in the region.
    • Continental Shelf Act: The U.K. Parliament’s enactment of the Continental Shelf Act in 1964 established the country’s jurisdiction over oil and gas resources beneath its seabed.

    Milestones and Concerns in Drilling

    • Early Exploration and Challenges: British Petroleum (BP) was granted the first exploration license in 1964, leading to natural gas discovery the following year.
    • Forties Field Discovery: BP’s breakthrough commercial oil discovery in the Forties Field in 1970 marked a significant milestone.
    • Expanding Operations and Safety Revamp: The following years witnessed increased exploration activities and installation of oil platforms. The Piper Alpha disaster in 1988 prompted crucial safety reforms.

    Rationale and Concerns

    • Government’s Position: In an official statement, the government justified the move as a strategy to enhance Britain’s energy independence.
    • Environmental Alarm: However, environmental experts express apprehension, especially given the global push towards averting irreversible climate change.

    North Sea Transition Authority and Offshore Licensing

    • NTSA’s Role: The North Sea Transition Authority (NTSA) is responsible for regulating the oil, gas, and carbon storage sectors.
    • Offshore Licensing Round: The NTSA is currently conducting the 33rd offshore oil and gas licensing round, aiming to award more than 100 licenses.
    • Timing and Awards: The first licenses are expected to be granted in the autumn, furthering the expansion of drilling operations.

    Shaping Geopolitical Energy Dependence

    • Energy Security Concerns: The Prime Minister emphasized the necessity of domestic oil and gas sources, even as the country aims to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
    • Strategic Implications: The decision is portrayed as an effort to reduce reliance on oil and gas imports, which could originate from potentially unfavourable sources.

    Ecological Concerns and Climate Impact

    • Adverse Environmental Effects: Offshore drilling poses risks to workers, marine ecosystems, and climate health. It contributes to ocean warming, rising sea levels, and threatens marine biodiversity.
    • Carbon Pollution Impact: Carbon pollution settling into oceans contributes to acidification, endangering coral reefs and shellfish.

    Evaluating UK’s Climate Commitments

    • Climate Change Committee Report: The Climate Change Committee (CCC) pointed out deficiencies in the U.K.’s preparations for climate change under the National Adaptation Programme.
    • Adaptation Implementation: The CCC’s assessment highlighted a lack of substantial implementation of adaptation measures to address climate risks.
    • Inconsistent with Paris Agreement: The Climate Action Tracker assesses the U.K.’s climate action as not fully aligned with the Paris Agreement.
    • Long-Term Targets: The U.K.’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and long-term targets do not reflect a fair share of global efforts to mitigate climate change.
    • Incompatibility with Limits: Licensing new oil and gas extraction plans contradicts the 1.5°C temperature rise limit set by the Paris Agreement.

    Conclusion

    • The UK’s endorsement of offshore drilling reflects a complex balancing act between energy security, economic considerations, and environmental stewardship.
    • As the world grapples with the imperative of combating climate change, the decisions made today hold the potential to shape the course of a sustainable future.

  • Hurricane Hilary’s rare journey towards West Coast

    hilary

    Central Idea

    • Hurricane Hilary’s unexpected trajectory towards Southern California and Mexico has caught meteorologists and residents off guard.
    • The only recorded instance of a tropical storm with hurricane-force winds hitting Southern California dates back to 1858, impacting San Diego.

    What is a Hurricane?

    • A hurricane, also known as a tropical cyclone or typhoon in different regions, is a powerful and intense tropical storm characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and low atmospheric pressure.
    • Here are the key features and characteristics of a hurricane:
    1. Formation: Hurricanes typically form over warm ocean waters, where the sea surface temperature is at least 26.5 degrees Celsius (about 80 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher. Warm ocean water provides the energy needed to fuel the storm’s growth.
    2. Energy Source: Hurricanes derive their energy from the heat released when moist air rises and condenses into clouds and rain. This process, known as latent heat release, powers the storm and leads to the development of strong winds.
    3. Eye: At the center of a hurricane is a relatively calm and clear area known as the “eye.” The eye is surrounded by a circular band of intense thunderstorms called the “eyewall,” where the strongest winds and heaviest rainfall occur.
    4. Wind Speeds: Hurricanes are characterized by extremely strong winds that can reach speeds of over 74 miles per hour (119 kilometres per hour) for a storm to be classified as a hurricane. Major hurricanes can have wind speeds exceeding 111 miles per hour (179 kilometers per hour).
    5. Categories: Hurricanes are categorized based on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which ranges from Category 1 (weakest) to Category 5 (strongest). Category 1 hurricanes have sustained winds of 74-95 mph, while Category 5 hurricanes have winds greater than 157 mph.

    About Hurricane Hilary

    • Unlike hurricane-prone states on the Gulf of Mexico, California and Mexico’s west coast lack experience in dealing with such events.
    • Hurricane Hilary’s expected landfall in the Baja peninsula of Mexico poses risks of landslides, flooding, and extensive damage due to the region’s geographical features and population density.

    Factors behind its intensification

    • Ocean Temperature Factor: Hurricanes require ocean waters above 26 degrees Celsius to form. The west coast’s colder waters are less conducive to hurricane formation.
    • Vertical Wind Shear: Strong upper-level winds can disrupt hurricanes’ structure and prevent their formation. West coast’s stronger wind shear reduces the likelihood of hurricanes.
    • Trade Wind Influence: Trade winds, which steer hurricanes, play a pivotal role in directing them toward the east coast while diverting them away from the west coast.
    • Westward Trajectory: Hurricanes originating in the eastern Pacific tend to move west-northwest, taking them away from the west coast and out to sea.

    Climate Change induced factors

    • Climate Change Impact: Climate change leads to more frequent and intense hurricanes. Rising ocean temperatures due to greenhouse gas emissions contribute to increased hurricane intensity.
    • Ocean Heat Absorption: Oceans have absorbed 90% of excess heat from greenhouse gas emissions, leading to higher sea surface temperatures and stronger hurricanes.
    • Marine Heat Waves: Elevated sea surface temperatures result in marine heat waves, intensifying storm systems and amplifying their impact on land.
    • El Nino’s Role: El Niño, an abnormal warming of equatorial Pacific Ocean waters, can weaken wind shear in the eastern Pacific, creating conditions conducive to hurricane formation.