What happened to change the whole world in 535 AD?
The extreme weather events of 535–536 were the most severe and protracted short-term episodes of cooling in the Northern Hemisphere in the last 2000 years. The event is thought to have been caused by an extensive atmospheric dust veil, possibly resulting from a large volcanic eruption in the tropics, or debris from space impacting the Earth. Its effects were widespread, causing unseasonal weather, crop failures and famines worldwide.
In this year of troubled weather, I thought you might like a reminder that there have been worse times in human history. At least today, we know why the weather is going crazy and what to do about it – if only we have the political will.
You can learn more about the weather events of 535-536 here.