British Columbia has had an upsurge of drastic changes in its weather throughout this past year. This includes wildfires, heatwaves, and recent flooding. (Photo from Global BC)
By | Amaya Hayes
With all of these extreme weather events taking place, researchers have tried to connect the recent BC flooding to climate change.
Though it was difficult to determine, officials in the region have some proof that the recent floods can be associated with climate change. The ocean absorbs almost all of the excess heat from greenhouse gas emissions, and this results in increased sea surface temperatures.
Increased sea surface temperatures heat up the air above and make more energy available to drive hurricanes and typhoons which result in acute rainfall.
The flooding in BC has been reported by major news outlets across the world – further indicating that such events are a global concern.
University of British Columbia atmospheric scientist Rachel White told the BBC that the massive devastation caused by this storm is likely attributed to human-caused factors.
These extreme conditions have impacted the economy and the flood, in particular, has separated families and ceased travellers from coming into B.C. As the NYT reported, the Coquihalla (Highway 5), a major road, was damaged by mudslides near Coldwater River Provincial Park in British Columbia.
Among the damaged roads, mass flooding in Abbotsford has stopped people from commuting to work and other important events.
If we don’t act soon and change our habits we can expect to see more of these unforeseen changes in weather as global warming increases the risk of extreme weather events occurring.
I can’t believe Global Warming is starting to hit so close to Vancouver. I hope the people of Abbotsford have been able to go home now.