Here’s how we can understand how each area is coping with the detrimental effects of freak snowstorms around the world.

Today, climate change is one of the most pressing issues that the world is facing. It’s also an extensive issue that branches out in countless ways. The wildfires in Australia and the Amazon Forest, the extreme floods in Eastern Africa, and the decreasing population of polar bears are all results of climate change.

Recent reports of freak snowstorms around the world are yet another sign. Places that usually don’t experience snow—or certainly not snowstorms—are struggling. Schools, jobs, and everyday life have been disrupted at alarming levels.

Texas, United States of America

Texas, ranked as the fourth hottest state annually, climbed to second during summer. So when snowstorms hit, confusion spread across the state and beyond. (NY Times)

Thousands of homes experienced burst pipes and flooding as frozen pipes cracked. Plumbers were in high demand. Power outages plagued the state due to unprepared infrastructure. Although the Electric Reliability Council of Texas restored power to 1.6 million homes, nearly two million still suffered outages.

Countries in the Middle East

While snow is rare in many Middle Eastern areas, it’s not unheard of. However, snow in cities like Marjayoun (Lebanon) and Bayda (Libya) is unprecedented. The 2013 cold snap was the last major event—until now.

This year, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Israel saw snow, causing school closures, business shutdowns, and widespread power outages—especially in Lebanon. Even camels in Saudi Arabia were bewildered by the snowy conditions. (Newsweek)

Athens, Greece

Greece is no stranger to snow, but the current storm is the worst in over a decade. Iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon were blanketed in snow, an image not seen for generations. (EuroNews)

In Athens, the snowstorm even disrupted the country’s COVID-19 vaccination rollout. Citizens were told to stay home and wait out the storm, despite eagerly awaiting their appointments.

Understanding the Bigger Picture

These snowstorms are more than just unusual weather—they are clear symptoms of a changing climate. Recognizing and understanding these events is the first step toward meaningful change. We must take the evidence seriously and work together to find sustainable solutions for the future.