Scientists predict some European countries will soon turn into a desert. About how the climate is changing in Europe and what it is fraught with, read the material “DIP”.
The media are reporting that Spain and Portugal are experiencing their driest days in 1,200 years, with serious implications for both food production and tourism. May 2022 was the hottest month ever recorded in Spain. The Tagus River, the longest river in the region, could dry up completely. As a result of climate change since 1950, precipitation has decreased by 5-10 mm per year, and a decrease of 10-20% is expected by the end of the century. At the same time, in the south of Spain, a 30% decrease in olive production is predicted by 2100.
Italy has declared a state of emergency in five northern regions of the country due to the worst drought in 70 years. On July 4, authorities announced emergency funds amid a worsening drought that has hit the Po Valley in recent weeks. Drought threatens half of the farms in the valley of this river, where more than 30% of local agricultural products are produced.
Lakes Maggiore and Garda became very shallow, and the water level dropped in the Tiber River, which flows through Rome. In recent days, 170 Italian municipalities have announced restrictions. Picturesque Verona, a city of a quarter of a million people, has placed restrictions on the use of drinking water, and Milan has announced the closure of its decorative fountains.
A difficult situation is also observed in Germany. The Rhine, one of the longest rivers in Europe, with a length of 1233 km, is drying up. The water level in the Rhine, which is a very important waterway for the German economy, is dropping rapidly due to rising temperatures. Judging by the measurements, the water level is decreasing every day.
Now the water level in the river is even lower than during the driest season in 2018. In the German city of Kaub, the water depth dropped below one meter, and in some places dry islands formed, preventing the passage of boats. At the same time, about 80% of all goods transported annually by ships in Germany are transported along the Rhine. Experts believe this water transport network will take a serious hit.
Under the influence of climate change, the rise in temperature and the process of drought is intensifying in Europe and experts are already predicting the risk of desertification. Now this danger threatens not only Africa but also countries in the heart of Europe.