Nima Farid Mojtahedi, a meteorologist, in an interview regarding the recent floods in the northern provinces of the country, has examined climate changes and their impact on precipitation patterns. He points out the lengthening of drought periods and the increase in the intensity of rainfall, stressing that the connection between the recent floods and the El Niño phenomenon has not yet been proven.
Human Casualties and Climate Change
Mojtahedi states: "Since the beginning of October, 4 people have lost their lives due to floods and 3 due to lightning in Golestan province." He considers this year to be one of the most severe El Niños recorded in history, but also notes that autumn rains are usually a natural occurrence in the northern provinces at this time of year.
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He continues: "The rainfall patterns in Iran have changed, and drought periods have become longer. Instead of uniformity, rainfall has become extreme, and its intensity has increased. These changes have been recorded in recent years and indicate the warming of Iran's climate."
The Role of Humans in Causing Damage
Mojtahedi believes that heavy rainfall alone is not the cause of floods, and encroachment on nature and poor management of water flow paths also contribute to the damages. He cites examples like Azimeh Karaj, saying: "The way paths and streets are constructed can affect the problems caused by floods. If a street is not aligned with the natural slope of the land and there is no proper outlet for water, we may face serious issues."
He also refers to the forecasts made about rainfall and states that the necessary warnings have been issued. However, human casualties in urban areas have become a concern that requires better management. Mojtahedi recommends that more attention be paid to the issued warnings and that people should take weather events seriously.
He concludes by saying: "The danger of lightning is not limited to high altitudes. In coastal areas and farms, many lives are also at risk. This issue should be taken into consideration, and people must heed the warnings."
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