Heavy rains in the Midwest have caused widespread flooding, resulting in at least two deaths, evacuations, and significant damage. Further storms are expected, adding to the challenges faced by communities already dealing with floodwaters and extreme heat.
Powerful storms tore through the US South, leaving behind a grim toll of lives lost, widespread injuries, and extensive property damage. The severe weather system impacted Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, obliterating homes, tearing apart a truck stop, and leaving communities reeling from the devastation. Authorities have confirmed at least 15 fatalities, with over 100 injuries and hundreds more affected by the storms.
The upcoming Memorial Day weekend is anticipated to witness a hefty surge in travel, with AAA forecasting 44 million Americans venturing away from home, representing a 4% increase compared to last year. However, travelers should brace themselves for varying weather conditions across the country, with some areas experiencing sweltering heat and dry conditions, while others face the possibility of storms and dampness.
Amidst a powerful storm, Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports face travel chaos with numerous flights delayed and canceled due to heavy rains and storms early Thursday. Over 20 flights were canceled and 25 delayed at Dubai International Airport, and three flights were delayed at Zayed International Airport. Weather disruptions are expected to continue until May 3rd, with flooded streets, thunder, and lightning reported in parts of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Utahns can enjoy a beautiful Tuesday with above-average temperatures and a mix of sun and clouds. Temperatures will range from the 60s and 70s in northern Utah to the 70s and 80s in southern Utah. The Wasatch Front will see mostly mid-70s temperatures, with some areas reaching the upper 70s. Isolated showers are possible in northern Utah this afternoon and evening, but most of the state will remain dry. Midweek will bring similar conditions, with temperatures 10 to 15 degrees above average and mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies. The Wasatch Front may reach 80 degrees again on Wednesday. A more active weather pattern is expected to move in on Thursday, with scattered showers in northern Utah and a stronger storm system arriving on Friday and Saturday. The cold front associated with this system will drop temperatures and bring a chance of showers statewide. Despite the rain, allergy sufferers can expect some relief as wet weather can help reduce pollen levels. Showers are still possible on Saturday, but the weather will begin to dry out and warm up early next week. By Monday, temperatures could be five degrees above average, with highs near 70 along the Wasatch Front and low 80s in St. George.
In 2023, Asia bore the brunt of climate change impacts, as floods and storms accounted for most climate-related disasters, according to a report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). These events killed over 2,000 people, affected millions more, and caused significant economic losses. Southern China, in particular, faced severe flooding, with over 100,000 evacuations in the Pearl River Delta region. Additionally, extreme heat and accelerated glacier melting were recorded across the continent, highlighting the urgent need for climate adaptation and mitigation measures.
According to the United Nations, climate-related disasters, primarily floods and storms, devastated Asia in 2023, causing numerous fatalities and severe economic losses. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) warns that heatwaves in the region are intensifying, threatening water security. Asia experienced a significant temperature increase of approximately two degrees Celsius last year compared to global average warming. The WMO emphasizes the urgency of addressing these climate challenges, especially through emission reductions and adaptation measures.
