What are the effects of climate change on global weather?.

Climate change is profoundly impacting global weather patterns. Increased greenhouse gas emissions lead to rising temperatures, which in turn affect precipitation, storm intensity, and seasonal weather variations. For example:

Key Facts

• Average global temperatures have risen by about 1.2°C since the late 19th century (NASA, 2021).
• The frequency of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and droughts, has increased by 30% over the past 50 years (IPCC, 2021).
• Sea levels have risen approximately 8 inches (20 cm) since 1880, primarily due to thermal expansion and melting ice (NOAA, 2021).
• Changes in rainfall patterns have led to both flooding in some regions and droughts in others, affecting agriculture and water supply.

Examples or Use Cases

• Increased hurricane intensity in the Atlantic, resulting in greater damage and economic loss.
• Altered crop yields due to changing weather patterns, leading to food security concerns in various regions.

FAQs

• How does climate change lead to extreme weather? Climate change intensifies weather patterns by increasing heat energy in the atmosphere, leading to more severe storms and unusual weather.
• What regions are most affected? Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and increased storm surges, while arid regions may face prolonged droughts.