New Zealand's Deadly Hazard: Climate Change Escalates Landslides

New Zealand is grappling with an increasing number of landslides, its deadliest natural hazard, with experts warning that global warming is intensifying storms. Landslides have historically caused over 1,800 deaths in the country, exceeding those from earthquakes and volcanoes combined. Recent torrential rains in the North Island triggered fatal landslides, including one that buried six people in Mount Maunganui.

Experts link the rise in extreme weather events to climate change, stating that more frequent and intense storms directly correlate with an increase in landslides and their devastating impacts. The nation's location on a tectonic boundary and its maritime climate contribute to landslide susceptibility. Human activities like deforestation and altering landscapes for development also play a role.

There is a growing call for urgent national and international discussions on risk management. Scientists stress that curbing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial to prevent events from worsening and overwhelming adaptation capabilities. Political debate continues regarding climate policies and resilience funding in the wake of recent disasters.