January weather extremes across globe underscore climate risks, need for early warnings: WMO

Extreme weather events—from searing heat and wildfires to severe cold and devastating floods—affected countries across all regions in January, underscoring the escalating risks posed by climate change and the critical importance of robust early warning systems. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reported on Friday that national meteorological services were on the frontlines responding to these disasters, providing real-time forecasts to support humanitarian efforts.

Global Patterns of Extremes

In the Southern Hemisphere, Australia endured back-to-back heatwaves with temperatures nearing 50°C (122°F) in parts of South Australia, while Chile and southern Argentina battled widespread wildfires. At the same time, a weakened polar vortex contributed to severe cold spells and winter storms across North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, disrupting travel and energy supplies. Heavy rainfall also triggered extensive flooding in southern Africa, particularly in Mozambique, displacing hundreds of thousands and damaging critical infrastructure.

Climate Change and Early Warnings

WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo emphasized that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of such extremes, with weather-related disasters consistently ranking among the top global risks. “The number of people affected by weather and climate-related disasters continues to rise, year by year,” Saulo said, stressing that early warnings are vital to reducing casualties. The WMO noted that disaster-related deaths are six times lower in countries with effective early warning coverage, reinforcing the urgency of its Early Warnings for All initiative.