An exceptionally rare meteorological phenomenon that occurs in the Sahara
Greening of the Sahara
Climate change in the Sahara
Climate change is having a noticeable impact on the Sahara Desert. Although the Sahara is naturally dry, the effects of global warming are exacerbating its conditions, affecting both its ecosystem and the human populations that depend on it. Let's see what the consequences of climate change are in the Sahara Desert:
- Desert Expansion: The Sahara has grown in size in recent decades due to rising global temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns. This phenomenon of desert expansion, known as desertification, is affecting previously less arid areas, degrading cropland and grazing land in countries such as Chad, Mauritania, and Niger. To better understand how variations in precipitation influence the region, we recommend consulting the influence of vegetation on precipitation.
- Changes in rainfall patterns: Rainfall in the Sahara is extremely scarce, but the little rainfall that occurs is becoming more irregular and, in some cases, more intense. This change causes more frequent episodes of flash flooding, which negatively affects communities and ecosystems, eroding the soil and hindering subsistence agriculture and livestock farming. To better understand how these changes affect the region, you can consult our article on the desert climate and its changes.
Atypical rains in the Sahara
Increased frequency of sandstorms:
Rising temperatures and decreasing vegetation cover contribute to the formation of more frequent and severe sandstorms.
Alteration of ecosystems:
Despite the apparent aridity of the Sahara, it is home to a surprising diversity of life, including species adapted to extreme conditions. Climate change is putting many of these species at risk, as changes in temperature and water availability alter their habitats.