Ski resorts have shut their gates as unusually hot weather sweeps across Europe. Temperatures for January reached an all-time high in a number of nations on the continent.
From Switzerland to Poland, temperature records continue to be smashed as Europe endures its hottest winter season ever! In Warsaw, Poland, temperatures rose to 18.9C. In Bibao, Spaain, temperatures rose more than 10C about the average – 25.1C
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On a contrary note, North America is being battered by intense winds and severe storms. A recent cold snap claimed the lives of more than 60 people. The mild weather in Europe even saw temperatures climb to nearly 25C in France.
Usually, this time of year sees dozens flock to ski resorts. But the lack of snow on the continent has left typically-bustling resorts deserted.
The spike in temperatures has brought on calls from climate activists for faster action against global warming. They have also offered a short-term respite to governments struggling with high has prices.
The environmental impact
Scientists must still analyse the specific ways in which climate change influenced the recent rise in temperatures. However, the long-term increase of temperatures fits into a trend aligned with human-caused global warming.
These strange numbers follow a year of extreme weather on the continent. Experts have concluded that this was directly linked to global warming – it included deadly heatwaves in Europe, India and even flooding in Pakistan.
Besides the unbearable heat, temperature spikes cause plants to start growing earlier. It can also influence animals to leave hibernation prematurely. This makes them vulnerable to being killed off later by cold fronts.
However, it is important to note that it is not all hot in Europe. Colder temperatures and snow are forecast in parts of Scandinavia and Moscow. Temperatures are set to drop to -20C by this weekend.
zahraa@smile904.fm
SOURCES – AL JAZEERA NEWS AGENCY, BBC
