Climate change significantly impacts extreme weather events by disrupting established natural weather patterns. As global temperatures rise, ocean temperatures increase, which affects the heat and moisture available in the atmosphere. This alteration can intensify storms, making them more powerful and capable of producing heavier rainfall and stronger winds. Additionally, changes in atmospheric circulation can lead to prolonged periods of drought in some regions while causing excessive flooding in others, as weather systems become less predictable and more erratic.
Moreover, the warming climate contributes to the melting of polar ice and rising sea levels, which further exacerbates the risk of coastal flooding during storms. The increased frequency and severity of these extreme weather events are linked to human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, which release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. As a result, understanding and addressing climate change is crucial for mitigating its effects on weather patterns and protecting communities from the devastating impacts of extreme weather.