According to the latest research, the Earth’s climate is undergoing rapid and alarming changes that can no longer be ignored. The global average temperature is rising, leading to a myriad of consequences—from an increase in the number of natural disasters to a sharp surge in urban rat populations.
Experts note that the situation is exacerbated not only by abnormal heat but also by other global processes. For instance, an increase in volcanic activity and the appearance of unusual atmospheric phenomena have been recorded. Another alarming factor is the shift in the Earth’s axis of rotation which destabilizes the planet’s movement, affecting climate processes worldwide.
A particularly concerning issue is the weakening ability of the world’s oceans to regulate the climate. Water, which previously absorbed excess heat, is now overheated, rendering this natural containment mechanism ineffective. This overheating could lead to severe natural disasters.
Heat, Floods, and Rats: Why the Earth is Getting Out of Control
Scientists warn that without urgent measures, these changes may become irreversible in the coming years. However, some researchers believe that Earth, as a self-regulating system, might eventually restore balance.
2024: Frightening Records
The year 2024 has officially become the hottest year in the history of meteorological observations, with the global average temperature exceeding pre-industrial levels by 1.54 °C. Though this may seem insignificant, such changes on a global scale trigger numerous catastrophic consequences.
The extreme heat in 2024 has led to a rise in natural disasters. Brazil experienced powerful floods that inundated entire cities, Japan suffered a devastating earthquake, and Typhoon Yagi swept through Southeast Asia. In the United States, hurricanes Helen and Milton caused significant damage, while severe floods affected Spain and several countries in the Middle East. Heatwaves in India, Saudi Arabia, and the United States broke records, claiming thousands of lives.
According to scientists, climate change resulted in an average of 41 additional days of extremely high temperatures in 2024. This has been a significant test for the people and infrastructure of many countries, with economic losses reaching colossal levels. The damage from natural disasters at the end of the year amounted to $320 billion, which is 19.4% more than in 2023.
What Will Happen Next?
Experts’ forecasts are disheartening. Without reducing greenhouse gas emissions and taking measures to slow global warming, the situation will only worsen. Scientists warn that by 2300, the level of the world’s oceans may rise by 1.2 meters due to the rapid melting of glaciers in Greenland and Antarctica. This will alter the world map, threatening megacities like London and Shanghai, flooding low-lying areas of Florida and Bangladesh, and potentially submerging countries like the Maldives.
Although the year 2300 seems distant, the processes that will lead to this scenario have already begun.
A New Future: Rats Invade Cities
Climate change impacts not only the weather but also urban life. Scientists attribute the warming climate to a sharp increase in the number of rats. Rodents breed faster in warm weather, and milder winters allow them to survive in greater numbers. Additionally, the heat and changing ecosystems force rats to seek new territories, increasingly moving into cities. Human factors, such as garbage, open landfills, and lack of effective rodent control measures, also contribute to this issue.
A study found that 11 of the world’s 16 major cities recorded an increase in rat populations. These rodents are not just a nuisance; they carry dangerous diseases, can damage infrastructure, and spread infections among pets.
In Europe, Amsterdam has become the most problematic city, ranking fifth in terms of rodent numbers. In North America, Washington, San Francisco, Toronto, and New York report the highest rat populations, with Washington experiencing 50% more rat complaints than New York. This is the future that awaits us unless significant changes are made.
