The UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO) warned on Monday, 2024-07-29, that deadly floods across the globe, from the Himalayas to Texas, expose critical failures in early warning systems. The organization linked the increased frequency and intensity of these events to rapid urbanization, land-use changes, and a warming climate. WMO Director of Hydrology, Water, and Cryosphere, Stefan Uhlenbrook, stated that while flash floods are not new, their frequency and intensity are rising due to these factors. Each degree Celsius of warming increases the air's water vapor capacity by about 7%, increasing extreme rainfall risks. Glacier-related flood hazards are also intensifying due to enhanced ice melt.

These floods have caused widespread devastation and loss of life. In July 2024 alone, South Asia, East Asia, and the United States experienced numerous deadly flood events. India and Pakistan suffered heavy monsoon rains, while South Korea saw record-breaking downpours (2024-07-16 to 2024-07-20), resulting in casualties and evacuations. Southern China faced flash flood and landslide alerts following Typhoon Wipha. Texas experienced a devastating flash flood (2024-07-03/04), resulting in over 100 deaths and many missing. Nepal also saw a glacial lake outburst flood (2024-07-07) in Rasuwa district, causing significant damage and loss of life. The WMO noted that glacial-origin floods in the Hindu Kush-Himalaya region are occurring far more frequently than in the past.

The WMO is working to improve flood forecasting through a global initiative and real-time guidance platform used in over 70 countries. A 2022 World Bank study estimated that 1.81 billion people are directly exposed to 1-in-100-year flood events, with the majority residing in low- and middle-income countries. The UN's Early Warnings for All initiative aims to provide everyone with early warning systems by 2027.

Impact Statement: The increasing frequency and intensity of floods globally underscore the urgent need for improved early warning systems and climate change mitigation efforts.