Rising temperatures mean that heatwaves will become hotter, more frequent, last longer and will cover much wider areas. Scientists in the US have added a new dimension to the growing hazard of extreme heat. As global average temperatures rise, so do the frequency, duration and intensity of heatwaves. And that’s not the only factor to worry about. By mid-century, the area straddled by those bands of extreme heat could increase by 50% – if nations attempt seriously to contain climate change. But if humans carry on burning fossil fuels in ever-greater quantities and felling more and more reaches of tropical forests, the most dangerous and extreme heatwaves in future could cover areas 80% bigger than at present.
ECEEE 14th Oct 2019 read more »
The threat of Ebola outbreaks across Africa will increase as levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere rise, according to new research. With warming temperatures, bats and other animals that are thought to transmit the virus to humans are expected to move into new areas, bringing the disease with them.
Carbon Brief 15th Oct 2019 read more »