The US has experienced a record number of climate disasters costing at least $1bn in 2023, with scientists warning that the country is heading towards a climate change catastrophe.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 18 extreme weather events hit the US in 2023, causing a combined $100bn in damage. The disasters included hurricanes, wildfires, flooding, and tornadoes.

The year saw the most expensive hurricane season on record, with Hurricane Ida alone causing $60bn in damage. Record-breaking wildfires devastated the west coast, while the midwest and southern states were hit by extreme flooding.

Scientists warn that the trend of increasing climate disasters is not likely to slow down unless significant action is taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.

The US government has faced criticism for not doing enough to address climate change, with many arguing that the country needs to take more aggressive action to reduce emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.