This autumn, Europe is experiencing severe weather patterns, highlighted by catastrophic floods in Valencia, Spain. These floods, which occurred in October, caused significant disruptions in the region. Floodwaters damaged transportation systems, inundated homes, and scattered vehicles along the coast. Reports indicate that at least 95 people were directly affected. In contrast, the United States faces a different challenge, dealing with a “flash drought” due to exceptionally dry conditions this month. Climate researchers have identified two primary factors behind these extreme weather events: rising air temperatures, which increase moisture in the atmosphere, and irregularities in the jet stream, a crucial wind current that affects global weather.

Climate experts believe that a phenomenon called Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos (DANAs) played a significant role in the flooding in Valencia. This phenomenon traps moist air within a low-pressure system, leading to prolonged rainfall. Meteorologists like Jennifer Francis from the Woodwell Climate Research Center link these extreme weather changes to a warming Arctic. This shift alters temperature differences between high and mid-latitudes, disrupting the stability of the jet stream. Additionally, warmer seas, such as the Mediterranean this past summer, contributed to increased humidity, resulting in intense rainfall. Scientists agree that human-induced climate change worsens the severity of extreme weather.