Deadly Floods and Storms Impact More Than 400,000 Across Europe

Deadly Floods and Storms Impact More Than 400,000 Across Europe

Europe endured devastating storms and floods in 2024 that affected more than 413,000 people, according to the latest European State of the Climate report. The disasters coincided with the continent’s hottest year on record, driven by escalating fossil fuel pollution.

Dramatic footage from across Europe showed vehicles submerged in floodwaters, streets turned into rivers, and bridges swept away by powerful torrents. The report found that 30% of Europe’s river network experienced “high” flooding, while 12% reached “severe” flood levels.

Scientists warn that such extreme weather events will become more frequent and intense unless greenhouse gas emissions are drastically cut.

Europe suffered a year of climate extremes in 2024, with deadly floods, record-breaking heatwaves, and devastating wildfires affecting hundreds of thousands, according to a new report published by the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

The report revealed that 413,000 people were impacted by severe storms and flooding, with 30% of Europe’s river network experiencing “high” floods and 12% reaching “severe” flood thresholds.

Celeste Saulo, director general of the WMO, emphasized the urgency of both cutting emissions and adapting to a hotter world. “Every additional fraction of a degree matters,” she said. “We are making progress but need to go further, faster, and together.”

The continent also recorded the second-highest number of days with “strong,” “very strong,” and “extreme heat stress” ever observed. Southeastern Europe endured its longest heatwave in July, with temperatures soaring for 13 consecutive days, impacting over half the region.

Wildfires added to the crisis, affecting 42,000 people across the continent. In Portugal alone, a September blaze scorched 110,000 hectares in one week—contributing to nearly a quarter of Europe’s total burnt area in 2024.

Climate experts warn that without rapid and unified global action, such extreme weather events will become the new normal.