The Consequences of Global Warming in Africa

As global warming becomes an increasing concern due to the consequences the rising temperatures can cause, the results of these warmer temperatures can cause drastic results throughout Africa. African nations are likely to suffer serious consequences should the Earth's temperature continue to rise. The environmental results of the high temperatures can lead to landslides, severe flooding, and even an increase in drought. These consequences will occur due to the increased intensity of storms, causing weather patterns to change throughout Africa. This causes increased unease for the inhabitants of the African regions.

Increased Droughts

Should global warming cause the Earth's temperature to rise, an increase in drought is very likely to occur. As droughts intensify, high winds will cause the parched Earth to blow soil through the air, causing serious obstacles for African nations. The inhabitants of these lands will have a more difficult time getting crops to thrive in the dry soil and high winds, causing food supplies to dwindle. Health consequences arise as well when the dirty air is inhaled. Droughts will cause the water supply for many of the inhabitants and ecosystems in the area to become increasingly scarce.

Increased Flooding

Increased flooding is a likely consequence of global warming as also. After the rains do return to drought areas, the areas can quickly flood as intense storms pass over Africa. The intense rains will cause flood waters to rise and harm the survival of those living in the flood areas. Many homes and crops can be washed away and destroyed, making it very difficult for communities to thrive. These flood waters will harm the wildlife in the area as well due to loss of natural habitats as the flood waters consume the land.

Increased Landslides

With increased flooding and intense storms, another threat arises; landslides. Landslides occur when the ground becomes overly saturated with water and the mountains and elevated regions can not longer support their natural weight, causing soil to break loose. Landslides have the potential to destroy communities, crops, and even take lives.

There are other serious consequences of global warming in Africa as well, such as increased cases of heat exhaustion due to higher temperatures. Starvation, dehydration, and an increase in diseases can also plague the inhabitants of Africa. The people of Africa and their very existence will be threatened should global warming cause an increase in temperatures. Scientists say the results of global warming can already be seen in Africa, and the results of global warming that have already become apparent will pale in comparison to what can happen if global warming continues.

References:
"Global Warming Causing African Floods" National Geographic

"Global Warming" Botany