Extreme weather events and their consequences
Journal Title: Papers on Global Change IGBP - Year 2016, Vol 23, Issue 23
Abstract
The damage (in real terms after adjusting for infl ation) caused by extreme weather events globally has increased dramatically over the past few decades. This is a result of an increase in the amplitude and frequency of weather extremes, as well as of human factors causing a widespread increase in levels of exposure and vulnerability. There are a number of reasons to consider that, in many regions of the globe, weather extremes (e.g. heat waves, droughts, forest fi res, intense rainfall, fl oods and landslides) are becoming both yet more extreme and more frequent. Projections for the future based on climate and impact models point to a further strengthening of this trend. There has already been an increase in rainfall intensity in conditions of a warmer climate, and a continuation of this trend is expected, with adverse consequences for fl ood risk. However, the development of fl ood-prone areas and increase in damage potential are often the dominant factors underpinning growing fl ood damage and fl ood risk. In warmer climates, an increased risk of river and fl ash fl ooding caused by heavy rainfall, as well as an increasing risk of coastal fl ooding associated with sea level rise can be expected over large areas. By the same token, a reduction in the risk of snowmelt fl ooding events is projected in the warmer climate. Projections also indicate an increased risk of drought in many areas. The projections for climate change in Poland point to several risks associated with an increase in the frequency, intensity and severity of weather extremes (heat waves, intensive rainfall, fl ooding and landslides, coastal surges, drought during the growing season and winter, strong winds and pathogens associated with warming). Heat waves will become more frequent, more intense and more troublesome for the ageing population of Poland.
Authors and Affiliations
Zbigniew Kundzewicz
Keywords
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- EP ID EP350819
- DOI 10.1515/igbp-2016-0005
- Views 150
- Downloads 0
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