New levels of extreme weather are wreaking havoc on millions. In the U.S., heavy rain in Texas damaged hundreds of buildings and required over 600 rescues. Severe storms in the central U.S. resulted in widespread destruction, power outages, and dozens injured. Southern Brazil experienced its largest climate catastrophe yet, with at least 78 deaths and 115,000 forced from their homes. The storm destroyed roads and bridges, and the total damage is estimated to be $1 billion. In Kenya, intense rains left over 228 people dead, 23,000 households displaced, and the water supply contaminated by open sewers. In the aftermath, Kenya’s government ordered evacuations and demolitions of homes, leaving thousands without shelter.
As global temperatures rise, scientists warn we are likely to have more extreme climate events. And temperatures will worsen. Hundreds of top climate scientists expect global heating to rise to at least 2.5C (4.5F) above preindustrial levels.
Working-class and poor people bear the brunt of these calamities. We have to act now to end this system and avoid even worse environmental catastrophes.
