Climate Whiplash Threatens Global Cities With Extreme Weather Swings

A new study reveals dramatic shifts between wet and dry extremes in major urban areas, exacerbated by climate change and inadequate infrastructure.

A study of 112 cities found that 95% are experiencing significant trends toward wetter or drier conditions, with 17 cities suffering extreme 'climate whiplash' between wet and dry extremes.
Cities like Hangzhou, Jakarta, and Dallas are among the most affected, facing rapid weather shifts that damage infrastructure, disrupt livelihoods, and threaten food and water security.
Regions such as South and Southeast Asia are seeing intensified rainfall, while Europe, the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of the U.S. are experiencing prolonged drying trends.
Vulnerable cities with poor infrastructure, like Karachi and Khartoum, face heightened risks, including water scarcity, flooding, and disease outbreaks, as populations grow and infrastructure struggles to adapt.
Experts emphasize that addressing climate whiplash requires urgent global action to reduce emissions, invest in resilient infrastructure, and support vulnerable communities.