Which month experienced the hottest day on Earth in 125,000 years?

A. January, 2023
B. April, 2023
C. July, 2023
D. June, 2023

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Explanation:

According to the article published in Dawn on July 10th, 2023, the hottest day on Earth in 125,000 years occurred in July. The article highlights that the days leading up to last Wednesday were the hottest on record, and it specifically mentions July as the month when this extreme temperature was experienced.

The UN recently described the pace of climate change as “out of control.” The hottest days on record were observed in the days leading up to a particular Wednesday, with July standing out as the month that experienced the hottest day on Earth in 125,000 years. This alarming revelation indicates that we are on track for significant increases in average temperatures by the end of the century. The consequences of a rapidly heating planet are already being felt in Pakistan, with severe floods and landslides causing loss of life and destruction.

Global temperatures have been steadily increasing due to human-caused climate change, and the recent scorching temperatures were further intensified by the presence of the first El Niño weather pattern since 2018-19. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO), a United Nations agency, issued a warning on Tuesday, highlighting that billions of people worldwide will be affected by the impacts of El Niño. This weather pattern leads to warmer sea surface temperatures and triggers extreme heat both in the ocean and on land.

El Niño occurs when trade winds weaken, allowing warm water to move towards the west coast of the Americas, as explained by the National Ocean Service. This phenomenon results in dryer and hotter conditions in northern parts of the United States and Canada. On the other hand, regions such as the U.S. Gulf Coast and Southeast often experience increased rainfall, leading to a higher risk of flooding. The WMO predicts that El Niño will contribute to elevated global temperatures for the next 9 to 12 months.

The combination of human-caused climate change and the presence of El Niño exacerbates the already concerning trend of rising global temperatures. It underscores the urgency for immediate action to mitigate climate change and its consequences. The impacts of higher temperatures, extreme heatwaves, and altered weather patterns have far-reaching consequences for ecosystems, economies, and human well-being.

Addressing climate change requires collective efforts from governments, organizations, and individuals worldwide. It is crucial to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, transition to renewable energy sources, promote sustainable practices, and develop strategies for climate change adaptation. By taking proactive measures, we can strive to mitigate the effects of climate change and build a more resilient future for our planet and its inhabitants.

Climate Change Impact on Pakistan

Pakistan is no stranger to the effects of climate change. Recent heavy monsoon rains have triggered floods and landslides, resulting in the loss of at least 50 lives, including eight children. Record-breaking rainfall in Lahore and the constant threat of cyclones and rain in Karachi demonstrate the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-related events. These occurrences are not isolated incidents but rather part of a global trend of increased flooding due to climate change, which has seen a 134% rise since the beginning of this century.

Future Challenges

As the planet approaches climate tipping points, Pakistan will face alternating cycles of flooding and drought, exacerbating in frequency and severity over the coming years. It is crucial for the next prime minister of Pakistan to prioritize climate change adaptation and mitigation in all policymaking processes. Failure to do so will result in dire consequences for the country’s economy, infrastructure, and population.

Importance of Funding

Loss and damage funding, which gained attention after devastating floods in Pakistan, has become a topic of discussion. However, the availability and allocation of such funding remain uncertain. While high-emitting, wealthy countries are expected to contribute, the details regarding funding sources and mechanisms are yet to be clarified. Questions about generating funds through carbon taxes or partnering with the private sector for capital mobilization remain unanswered. Defining what constitutes “loss and damage” is another challenge, as it spans from immediate humanitarian assistance to long-term investments in climate adaptation projects. The allocation of funds for prevention or cure remains a crucial decision.

Conditional Funding

Loss and damage funding is likely to come with conditions. Recipient countries will be expected to have robust disaster management plans, strategies for emissions reduction, green transition pathways, and stable economies and governments. Demonstrating the rule of law, transparency, and accountability will be necessary to ensure proper utilization of the funding. Unfortunately, Pakistan faces challenges in meeting these criteria, which may hinder its access to loss and damage funding.

The Fallacy of Delayed Action

Some argue that countries like Pakistan cannot afford to prioritize climate change when immediate concerns such as food security and energy needs are pressing. However, this line of thinking is increasingly being challenged. Climate change directly affects food production and poses a significant threat to global food security. The risk of simultaneous harvest failures in major food-producing countries due to warming jet streams could lead to mass famine, social instability, and conflict. Ignoring climate change adaptation in favor of short-term priorities is a dangerous fallacy.

Pakistan’s Political Crisis

Pakistan’s lack of planning and preparedness in the face of impending climate disasters represents a significant political crisis. The country’s ruling elite and power brokers must prioritize climate adaptation and resilience over unrealistic technological solutions. Time is running out, and inclusive and equitable resource management is the only path to avert state failure. Urgent action is required to address the challenges posed by climate change and secure a sustainable future for Pakistan.

In conclusion, the hottest day on Earth in 125,000 years was experienced in the month of July. This alarming milestone underscores the urgent need to address climate change and its impacts. Pakistan, like many other countries, must prioritize climate change adaptation and mitigation in its policymaking processes to protect its people, infrastructure, and economy. Additionally, the availability and allocation of funds for loss and damage should be carefully considered to ensure effective utilization and support for countries facing climate-related challenges. It is crucial to act swiftly and decisively to create a sustainable future for generations to come.

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