Hydrometeorological disasters, such as floods, droughts, storms, and landslides, are phenomena that are closely related to water and weather elements. In recent years, the frequency and intensity of these disasters seem to be increasing in various parts of the world, including in Indonesia. This certainly raises the question: what causes this increase? This article will discuss the main factors that trigger the increasing trend of hydrometeorological disasters and their impacts on human life.
What is a Hydrometeorological Disaster?
Hydrometeorological disasters are types of natural disasters caused by atmospheric and hydrological phenomena, such as heavy rain, strong winds, or changes in climate patterns. Examples of these disasters include:
- Flood : Water that overflows and submerges residential areas or certain regions.
- Drought : A long-term shortage of water supply that can affect crops, livestock, and people.
- Storm : Strong winds often accompanied by heavy rain.
- Landslide : Movement of soil due to water saturation after heavy rain.
All these types of disasters have a major impact on people's lives, from economic losses to environmental damage.
Why Is The Frequency Of These Disasters Increasing?
There are several main factors that contribute to the increase in hydrometeorological disasters:
1. Climate Change
Climate change is one of the main causes of the increasing frequency of hydrometeorological disasters. Global warming caused by human activities, such as greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles and industry, has caused the earth's temperature to rise. As a result, weather patterns become unstable, which can trigger disasters such as floods and storms.
For example, higher temperatures cause greater evaporation of water, resulting in more intense rainfall. On the other hand, global warming can also cause droughts in some areas that previously did not experience such problems.
2. Deforestation and Environmental Degradation
Deforestation and other environmental degradation also play a significant role in increasing the risk of hydrometeorological disasters. Deforestation reduces the soil's ability to absorb rainwater, which can lead to flooding and landslides. In addition, the loss of vegetation makes areas more vulnerable to drought.
3. Urbanization and Land Use Change
Rapid urban growth often occurs without regard for environmental impacts. Land use changes, such as development in water catchment areas, can reduce the environment's ability to absorb rainwater. This increases the risk of urban flooding.
4. Extreme Weather Phenomena
Climate change also affects the frequency of extreme weather phenomena, such as El Niño and La Niña. These phenomena can cause weather anomalies, such as longer rainy seasons or drier dry seasons, which in turn increase the risk of disasters.
Impact of Hydrometeorological Disasters
Hydrometeorological disasters have wide-ranging impacts, both directly and indirectly. Some of the main impacts include:
- Economic Loss
Disasters such as floods can cause damage to infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and homes, which require large costs to repair. - Social Impact
These disasters often leave thousands of people without shelter, access to clean water, and food. - Environmental damage
Floods and droughts can damage natural ecosystems, such as forests, swamps, and rivers. - Public health
After a disaster, diseases such as dengue fever and diarrhea often emerge due to poor sanitation.
Solutions to Reduce Risk
To reduce the impact of hydrometeorological disasters, collective efforts are needed from the government, society, and the private sector. Some solutions that can be done are:
- Raising Public Awareness
Education about the importance of environmental conservation and disaster management must be increased in the community. - Environmentally Based Development
Ensuring that infrastructure development does not sacrifice natural ecosystems. - Early Warning Technology and Systems
Using technology to monitor the weather and provide early warnings to the public. - Reforestation
Replanting trees in areas that have been deforested to restore ecosystem function.
Conclusion
The increasing frequency of hydrometeorological disasters is a major challenge facing the world today. Climate change, environmental degradation, and unplanned urbanization are some of the main causes. Therefore, real actions are needed to preserve the environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In this way, we can reduce the risk of disasters and protect the earth for future generations.
