Weather of Arabia - Millions of Yemenis face serious challenges represented by the risk of internal displacement, food insecurity and loss of life as a result of the effects of climate change, such as drought waves, extreme heat, floods, hurricanes and heavy rains.
These effects have led to thousands of people being affected over the past months, with continued warnings about the need to take protection measures in fragile communities.
It is noteworthy that about 180,000 people in Yemen were directly affected by rapid climate changes, which included heavy rains, floods and storms. This impact affected more than 24,000 families in hard-to-reach areas or hosting displaced people. In light of the current drought crisis, these conditions are affecting food production and the provision of clean water and sanitation services to more than 18 million Yemenis, according to World Bank estimates.
Yemeni environment and climate expert, Dr. Nabila Al-Qadiri, confirmed that climate change plays a major role in affecting Yemeni society, especially on the eastern coasts such as Al-Mahra. She pointed out that there has been a displacement of residents from areas affected by floods, hurricanes, and severe heat waves, which confirms the impact of climate change on the stability of the region and the increased pressure on natural resources.
Many regions in Yemen are suffering from the repercussions of climate change, such as high temperatures, prolonged drought, and fluctuations in rainfall, which leads to changes in planting and harvesting dates associated with rainy seasons, storms, hurricanes, and torrential floods. These conditions also lead to the degradation of agricultural soil and the depletion and contamination of water sources, forcing residents to migrate internally and displace themselves in search of clean water and basic services.
Reports show that the topography of Yemen plays an important role in the impact of climate and water reserves, as the highlands contain a large underground reserve characterized by a steep slope that leads to torrents flowing in different directions. However, the report points to unsustainable water depletion due to inefficient domestic use and unregulated irrigation, causing a shortage of water reserves. The current situation, including war, is hampering seawater desalination projects that were planned to provide water in some areas.
A United Nations Development Program report expects the situation in Yemen to worsen over the next three decades due to continued strong climate changes. The report warns of further human and material losses and worsening humanitarian and food crises. He stresses the importance of preparing for the challenges of ongoing climate change, while noting that the difficult conditions in Yemen may cause increased pressure on infrastructure and basic services.
Source: aletihad
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