Carbon Brief’s updated interactive map demonstrates that human-induced climate change exacerbates 74% of extreme weather events studied, underscoring its significant influence on global weather patterns. The map now includes over 600 studies, highlighting significant regional disparities in research focus and prompting calls for more inclusive climate research efforts.
In 2004, pioneering research marked a milestone by linking climate change to specific extreme weather events, beginning with the deadly European heatwave of summer 2003. This study demonstrated that human-induced climate change significantly increased the likelihood of such occurrences. It catalyzed the field of extreme event attribution—assessing how climate change influences the frequency and severity of various weather phenomena globally. Carbon Brief has recently updated its interactive map, now cataloging over 600 studies and nearly 750 extreme weather events and trends, revealing that 74% were exacerbated by climate change. The map illustrates the impact of climate change across various regions and event types, noting that 9% of events were less likely or severe, predominantly affecting cold extremes. Moreover, substantial disparities exist in research focus, with most studies concentrated in the global north, underscoring the challenges in assessing extreme events in developing countries. This updated mapping showcases the growing recognition of climate change’s role in intensifying weather extremes and calls for continued research and attention to underrepresented areas.
The study of extreme weather events and their attribution to climate change has evolved significantly since the first major analysis in 2004. Extreme event attribution involves analyzing scientific evidence to determine whether climate change contributed to specific weather events. The research field has gained momentum as methodologies have developed and expanded. The growing database maintained by Carbon Brief reflects an increasing focus on quantifying the influence of climate change on extreme weather, enabling researchers to offer insights into trends and impacts resulting from human activities.
The updated Carbon Brief map encapsulates a significant advancement in understanding the relationship between climate change and extreme weather events. With 74% of studied cases indicating an acceleration in severity or likelihood due to human influence, the urgency for further research is evident. It is imperative to bridge the gap in climate attribution studies across the globe, particularly in underrepresented regions, to fully understand the societal implications of climate change on extreme weather.
Original Source: www.carbonbrief.org
