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The climate crisis is leading to a worrying increase in the risk of landslides and heavy rains in many regions of the world, exacerbating a problem that is already dangerous for the environment and human communities.
The phenomenon, closely linked to the intensification of extreme meteorological events, is increasingly frequent, complicating land management and increasing the social and economic costs.
The intensification of landslides and intense rains
Recently, the Pacific Northwest of the United States was hit by an “atmospheric river,” a weather phenomenon characterized by a long, narrow current of moisture that sweeps over mountains, releasing huge amounts of rain.
In the Northern California area, for example, a “bomb cyclone” hit: up to 40 centimeters of rain fell in a few days, causing floods and a series of landslides that disrupted infrastructure and endangered human lives. This type of event, while not directly attributable to climate change, is exacerbated by rising global temperatures. A warmer atmospherein fact, it retains greater humidity, generating very intense rainfall and, consequently, an increasing risk of landslides.
Landslides are sudden and fast ground movementsoften loaded with debris such as mud, rocks and trees. They can be triggered by various factors, including the aforementioned intense rainfall, earthquakes, rapid melting of snow or retreating glaciers, but also by human activities such as deforestation and uncontrolled urbanization. However, extreme precipitation is still the main catalyst.
The forest firesincreasingly frequent due to global warming, further amplify the risk: the burned ground loses stability, becoming vulnerable to landslides in the event of heavy rainfall.
Landslide record in 2024
The consequences of these phenomena are devastating. In 2024, the number of landslides has reached record levelswith 679 events resulting in over 4,400 fatalities worldwide. In the United States, 44% of the land is considered at risk, with regions such as the Rocky Mountains, Appalachia, the Pacific Coast, and parts of Alaska and Hawaii particularly exposed. In some areas, such as southeast Alaska, landslides have claimed dozens of lives in recent years.
Climate change further complicates landslide prediction and management. While science has consolidated ties between global warming and extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and fires, the relationship with landslides is less studied.
However, experts such as Dave Petley, who monitors global landslide data, confirm that rising temperatures and extreme rainfall are contributing to a significant increase in such phenomena.
Landslides not only threaten human lives, but also cause serious damage to infrastructurewith roads, bridges and homes often becoming unusable. In regions like eastern Kentucky and Puerto Rico, they have devastated entire communities, leaving behind huge costs and the need to rebuild. Complicating the picture is the problem of insurance: many standard policies do not cover damage from landslides, and the available choices, such as specific coverages, are expensive and difficult to obtain.
The importance of prevention
In response to this growing emergency, the United States government has undertaken some initiatives, such as the National Landslide Preparedness Act of 2021, which funded risk mapping programs and improved forecasts. However, there is a long way to go. The focus should be not only on emergency management, but also on preventionthrough more rigorous territorial planning policies and a greater commitment to fighting climate change.
Individual prevention remains crucial for at-risk communities. Monitoring for signs such as sudden changes in waterways, unusual sounds or new cracks in the ground can make a difference. Preparing with emergency kits and evacuation plans is crucial, as some landslides occur so quickly that they leave very little time to react.
In a world increasingly affected by the effects of rising temperatures, landslides represent a further challenge that requires a coordinated response between governments, scientists and citizens. The cost of inaction, both in terms of human lives and economic losses, is simply too high.
**According to Dr. Ramirez, how does climate change contribute to the increased risk of landslides, mentioning two specific factors?**
## World Today News Special: Rising Tide of Risk
**Host:** Welcome to World Today News, where we delve into the crucial issues facing our planet. Today, we’re focusing on a growing threat amplified by climate change: landslides and their devastating impact. Joining us are two experts: Dr. Amelia Ramirez, a leading geologist and landslide specialist, and Mr. Ethan Carter, a policy analyst focusing on disaster preparedness and climate resilience. Welcome to both of you.
**Dr. Ramirez:** Thank you for having me.
**Mr. Carter:** Pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Dr. Ramirez, let’s start with the basics. How exactly does climate change exacerbate landslides?
**Dr. Ramirez:**
Climate change is essentially turning up the volume on the Earth’s natural systems. We’re seeing more intense rainfall events, nicknamed “atmospheric rivers” in some cases, which saturate the ground and make it more susceptible to slippage. Add to that the increased frequency of wildfires, which denude landscapes and leave behind unstable, erosion-prone soil, and you have a recipe for disaster.
**Host:** Mr. Carter, from a policy perspective, what are some of the challenges we face in addressing this growing risk of landslides?
**Mr. Carter:**
One of the biggest hurdles is forecasting. While we’ve made progress linking climate change to extreme weather events like hurricanes, landslides are more complex to predict. They often happen quickly, leaving little time for evacuation. This makes public awareness and early warning systems absolutely crucial.
**Host:** [Section 2: Impact and Devastation]
**Host:**
The article mentions record numbers of landslides in 2024, with devastating consequences. Dr. Ramirez, can you elaborate on the nature of these impacts?
**Dr. Ramirez:**
The human cost is undeniably the most tragic. Landslides can wipe out entire communities, destroying homes and infrastructure. We’re talking about loss of life, injuries, and the displacement of thousands. Beyond the immediate devastation, there are long-term economic consequences. Rebuilding infrastructure is expensive and time-consuming, and the psychological scars on affected communities can be deep and lasting.
**Host:**
Mr. Carter, how can we better prepare for the increasing likelihood of these events?
**Mr. Carter:**
We need a multi-pronged approach. Firstly, investing in research to improve our understanding of landslide triggers and prediction models is crucial.
Simultaneously, we need smarter land-use planning policies that avoid building in high-risk areas and implement robust infrastructure designs to withstand potential landslides.
empowering communities through education and training on landslide risks and preparedness measures is essential.
**Host:** [Section 3: The Role of Prevention]
**Host:**
Dr. Ramirez, what role can individual citizens play in mitigating their own risk?
**Dr. Ramirez:**
Being aware of your surroundings is key. Learn to recognize the warning signs – changes in water flow, unusual sounds, cracks appearing in the ground. Have an emergency plan in place, including evacuation routes and an emergency kit. Every minute can count in a landslide situation.
**Host:** Mr. Carter, looking ahead, what do you see as the key areas for focused action to address this growing crisis?
**Mr. Carter:** International cooperation is vital. Sharing data, research findings, and best practices across borders can accelerate our progress. We also need to prioritize investment in early warning systems and community preparedness programs.
Ultimately, addressing climate change at its root is paramount.
**Host:**
Thank you both for your insightful contributions. This has been a sobering look at a growing threat, but also an inspiring reminder of the power of knowledge, preparedness, and collective action in facing this challenge. To our viewers, remember to stay informed, be prepared, and advocate for policies that protect our planet and its people.
