Voices of Change: Rati from Tbilisi, Georgia
"While winters used to bring snow, this time December felt as hot as an oven"
What is your name and where are from?
I am Rati Gelashili from Tbilisi, Georgia. I am a forest specialist and a former student of the Porter School, where I pursued a master’s degree in Environmental Science.
Have you heard the term Climate change?
As mentioned I am a forest specialist and a former student of environmental studies, so climate change is not a new term for me. I have heard about it from many sources and in my course material as well.
What is the climate over there?
Typically, this time of year is neither very cold nor very hot. However, this year May has been unusually cool with temperatures hovering around 12 degrees Celsius. This deviation from the norm is a concern for Georgia, especially considering that just a month ago, in April, temperatures reached 30 degrees Celsius, similar to Israel.
Do you guys see any changes in the climate during past few years
The variation in temperature is significant. Rainfall occurs, and snow blankets the mountains from the North, acting as a barrier against cold air from that direction. Similarly, the mountains to the south prevent hot air from reaching Georgia. The presence of both the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea contributes to the region’s temperate climate. Interestingly, I left Georgia in 2019 and returned at the beginning of 2023. The difference in climate conditions was striking. While winters used to bring snow, this time December felt as hot as an oven. Then, in January and February, temperatures dropped dramatically within a week—a peculiar occurrence for our region. These fluctuations pose challenges for agriculture. Farmers who planted seeds during the warm period suddenly faced cold conditions that hindered seed growth. Georgia experiences snowfall in winter, and its humid weather is influenced by the mountains dividing the country. The western part receives more snow due to its humidity, while the east sees less but still experiences occasional snowfall. Spring brings rain, and fortunately, there are no significant natural calamities.
What does your family think about the climate change?
It is really a topic of concern, not just for me or my family but for the entire community, especially farmers. Last year we faced a drought during the summer. This lack of rain impacted agriculture, making it difficult for farmers to rely on consistent harvests. Predicting the weather has become more challenging due to the changes observed over the past five years. Now, living in the city, I witness floods and transportation issues. The situation is even worse in rural villages, where farming depends on irrigation and rainfall. Many people’s livelihoods are tied to successful harvests, and rural areas are particularly vulnerable.
What is your opinion on climate change, why does it occur, and what is the main cause?
In my opinion, stopping climate change entirely may be beyond our reach at this point. Instead, we must adapt. While mitigation efforts are essential, adaptation is equally crucial. We need to find ways to thrive in the changing climate while minimizing its impact on our lives.
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