In 2023, catastrophic natural events––floods, earthquakes, droughts, and storm–– dominated the news. In February, a twin earthquake with magnitudes of 7.8 and 7.5 devastated Turkey near the Syrian border. In September, a magnitude 6.8 earthquake hit Morocco, followed by two 6.3 magnitude earthquakes in Afghanistan in October.
In July, typhoon Doksuri caused significant downpour and flooding in northeastern China. Two months later, Storm Daniel caused devastation across Libya. Flooding has become more frequent, with storms causing mass flooding in Mexico, China and Western Europe in the later months of the year. Flash floods caused large-scale displacement of persons in Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia. At the same time, the Horn of Africa experienced a significant drought, which left millions hungry.
Scientists warn that these severe weather events will become more frequent as the earth continues to increase in temperature.
By Maya Yorks