Hi-tech weapon Oct 1, 2009
Environmental scientists say only a far-reaching deal to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions will prevent major environmental degradation, in the form of melting polar ice caps, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events such as droughts and floods. But in many parts of the world, the effects of global warming are already very apparent, and they are forcing local communities to adapt, often at great expense. (BBC News -- Technology)
Call for banks to beef up dispute resources Sep 30, 2009
Releasing his annual review of disputes across the financial services sector today, Chief ombudsman Colin Neave said complaints increased by 33 per cent this year, mainly due to harsher economic conditions and extreme weather events. "People talk about economic rebounds and they are expecting things to be better but that doesn't take away the disputes we have presently," Mr Neave said. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Business)
Financial crisis 'causes more disputes' Sep 30, 2009
Extreme weather events such as storms and bushfires had also generated more insurance disputes. 2009 Brought to you by. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Business)
Food insecurity to top UN agenda Sep 26, 2009
In Africa, for example, smallholder farmers produce 80 percent of the food consumed, and yet they lack access to new technologies and are increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events. Nabarro said the UN high-level inter-agency task force has been working over the past year on a new approach to food security. (Xinhuanet, China)
THE DAY SKY TURNED RED; OZ COVERED IN DUST Sep 24, 2009
Scientists are reluctant to directly link climate change with extreme weather events such as storms and drought, saying these fluctuate according to atmospheric conditions, but green groups link the two in their calls for action. But crop analysts said the storm is unlikely to have an immediate impact on wheat crops, in the country's second-largest grain producing state. (The Drudge Report)
DISPLACEMENT Sep 23, 2009
Still, "an increase in the number of people temporarily displaced will be an inevitable consequence of more frequent and intense extreme weather events affecting more people globally," the report said. Last year, more than five million people were displaced by flooding in India, attributed in part to changes in that country's monsoon cycle. (AlertNet)
Dust storm blankets Sydney as drought bites Sep 23, 2009
Scientists are reluctant to directly link climate change with extreme weather events such as storms and drought, saying these fluctuate according to atmospheric conditions, but green groups link the two in their calls for action. International flights were diverted from Sydney, ferries on Sydney Harbour were suspended and motorists warned to take care on roads because of poor visibility. (The Star Online, Malaysia -- News)
UPDATE 2-Dust storm blankets Sydney as drought bites Sep 23, 2009
Scientists are reluctant to directly link climate change with extreme weather events such as storms and drought, saying these fluctuate according to atmospheric conditions, but green groups link the two in their calls for action. International flights were diverted from Sydney, ferries on Sydney Harbour were suspended and commuter motorists warned to take care on roads as visibility was dramatically reduced. (Scientific American)
* If you cant predict doomsday, at least have a worst-case scenario Sep 20, 2009
To be able to forecast what the next global shock will be, we need to be able to make predictions about geopolitics, war, terrorism, extreme weather events, earthquakes and pandemics. In their book this year on fat tail risks, Ian Bremmer and Preston Keat of political risk consultancy Eurasia Group noted that they pose fundamental problems for accurate prediction. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World Business)
FACTBOX-Key "fat tail" risks facing Asian investors Sep 17, 2009
The increasing risk of extreme weather events caused by change and the impact of humans on the environment is a growing concern for markets. Of the 38 top risks identified by the World Economic Forum in 2009, eight relate to environmental issues. (Scientific American)
Premiums likely to rise as claims increase Sep 15, 2009
"We can expect to see higher premiums as insurers seek to manage increased claims costs and lower investment returns,'' KPMG insurance sector leader Brian Greig said. Australia's total general insurance profit fell slightly to $3.197 billion in 2008/09, from $3.210 billion the year before, as return on assets and return on equity both declined, KPMG has calculated. The impact of extreme weather events, including the Victorian bushfires and Queensland floods, together with the economic downturn... (Sydney Morning Herald -- Business)
No comments posted. Sep 4, 2009
A good idea up in flames. by Eugene Robinson/Syndicated Columnist. (Fort Madison Daily Democrat, IO)
A good idea, up in flames Sep 2, 2009
And I haven t even mentioned climate change, sea-level rise and the predicted increase in extreme weather events. Like big hurricanes. (Orangeburg Times and Democrat, SC)
VIDEO: Flooding Hits Bangladesh Sep 1, 2009
" According to the IPCC, or the intergovernmental panel on climate change, Bangladesh is on the front line of global climate change. Tens of millions of people face rising sea levels, falling crop yields, frequent devastating cyclones and a rising intensity of its annual floods. According to leading experts on climate change, between 10 and 25 million people are migrating to big cities in Bangladesh every year as a result of extreme weather events linked to global climate change. Even a... (National Geographic)
Changing climate: Part II Sep 1, 2009
Adapting to climate change in our local food production system requires planning for less rainfall, salt water intrusion into aquifers, and extreme weather events. It also means a reduction in fossil-fuel use, which translates to fewer imports, including many agricultural inputs that we are highly dependent upon. (Lihue Garden Island, HA)
Got Goat's Milk? The Quest to Save Dairy from Climate Change Aug 21, 2009
Extreme weather events and higher average temperatures are predicted to increase with , and that's bad news for livestock producers in the U.S. and abroad. Warming will reduce grass, brush and other forage available in many areas, and it will also directly influence cows' physiology. (Scientific American)
Changes in Climate and Water Availability Adding Stress and Costs to Global Electricity Sector Aug 20, 2009
Damage to operational performance: Extreme weather events and incremental change impact the bottom line of electric utilities by degrading site conditions, damaging assets, decreasing efficiencies of operations, reducing availability and quality of raw materials and natural resources ... However it is also important that the industry focuses on adapting to climate change and issues including changes in water availability and extreme weather events. (PR Newswire)
Increased climate volatility expected to worsen poverty vulnerability in developing countries Aug 20, 2009
The researchers acknowledge various limitations in their methodology, including ongoing uncertainty around the physics of climate models and the inability to account for sudden extreme weather events, but the breakdown of the effects on different socio-economic strata will provide a new kind of guide to policy-makers and future researchers. As the researchers explain, "As the frequency and intensity of climate extremes increase, crop production damages from such events will change. Sharp... (EurekAlert!)
Surviving in extreme conditions Aug 15, 2009
"China is working conscientiously to improve emergency plans and strengthen its disaster relief ability," added Xiao at the NCC. "We are doing studies on the patterns of extreme weather events and making assessments on their potential risks to help improve response plans, as well as prevent or reduce losses.". Chen Hongjun, director of the resources and environment research center at the Guangzhou Institute of Geography, said the Chinese government had invested a huge amount in flood prevention... (Xinhuanet, China)
China signals long-term plans to curb greenhouse gases Aug 13, 2009
The meeting said that global warming was undoubtedly causing increasingly frequent "extreme weather events," as well as melting glaciers and threatening water supplies. The report did not specify any specific targets for restricting the country's emissions. (Scientific American)
The Fives: A long history of foul weather, from Spencer to the Dust Bowl Aug 12, 2009
Here's the short list of some of the state's most extreme of extreme weather events. When discussing the great blizzards in South Dakota history, there's certainly a variety from which to pick. (Rapid City Journal, SD)
A sustainable vision? Aug 3, 2009
The frequency, duration and intensity of other extreme weather events, such as floods, droughts, heat waves and tornadoes, have also increased. In addition, other effects of global warming are change in agricultural yields, further glacial retreat, reduced summer stream flows and species extension. (Bismarck Tribune, ND)
Africa: Experts to Draw up Climate Change Manual Jul 23, 2009
Johannesburg In a significant move, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), an international body of climate change experts, is set to produce a "how to" manual for policy-makers and disaster officials on managing the risks of extreme weather events and bolstering resilience, to promote adaptation to global warming ... Besides integrating adaptation and disaster risk reduction (DRR), which both "aim to reduce the impacts of shocks by anticipating risks and addressing... (allAfrica.com)
Greensense: Ready to change your game? Jul 20, 2009
Health impacts of climate change are related to heat stress, waterbourne diseases, poor air quality, extreme weather events, and diseases transmitted by insects and rodents. Robust public health infrastructure can reduce the potential for negative impacts. (Reading Advocate, MA)
Clouds, seas to be targeted by U.N. climate report Jul 18, 2009
OSLO (Reuters) - Cloud formation, sea level rises and extreme weather events are among areas set to get more attention in the next U.N. report on due in 2014, the head of the Nobel Peace Prize winning panel said on Friday. Rajendra Pachauri also said the panel did not plan to issue more frequent reports as suggested by some governments, reckoning that several years were needed to come up with robust findings. (Scientific American)
Bill Gates envisions fighting hurricanes by manipulating the sea... Jul 16, 2009
If Gates really wants to weaken hurricanes, How 'bout restoring the wetlands and ending investments to oil companies which contribute to extreme weather events ... If Gates really wants to weaken hurricanes, How 'bout restoring the wetlands and ending investments to oil companies which contribute to extreme weather events. (The Drudge Report)
Fruit, veg 'at risk' from climate change Jul 14, 2009
She said fruit and vegetable growers were looking at a range of strategies - including new plant varieties, shifting growing seasons, moving to new regions and employing new technologies - as they seek to deal with higher temperatures, water shortages and extreme weather events. Growers facing predictions of wetter weather as a result of climate change "aren't particularly thrilled by the prospect" of more water because it meant floods, she said. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Australia)
Oxfam: Obama visit should begin new partnership on transparency Jul 12, 2009
President Obama must commit to help bring about a comprehensive global climate strategy that will help poor communities cope with the impacts of global warming, from failed crops to dwindling reserves of clean water and displacement caused by extreme weather events. "Global hunger and poverty is a human tragedy exacerbated by faltering investments in agricultural production and the growing impacts of climate change," said Offenheiser. (Ghana Web, Ghana)
Hurricanes: Increased Technology Offers Better Ways For Officials And Public To See The Storm Ahead Jun 26, 2009
"However, during a hurricane or other extreme weather events, we have the capacity to increase the frequency of these link-ups. We won't have the luxury of waiting an hour during the approach of a hurricane it's critical that we can see what's going on out there in 15 to 30 minute intervals in order to accurately assess the situation.". The WAVCIS group, a component of LSU's world famous Coastal Studies Institute, has sensors all throughout the Gulf of Mexico. (Science Daily)
Limiting CO2 worth the cost Jun 24, 2009
Cost has eclipsed consideration of the larger consequences of failure to limit CO2 emissions for those who are most vulnerable, including those living in densely populated and impoverished regions of the world, low-lying island nations and coastal communities, and even regions of the U.S. and other wealthy countries that are predicted to experience prolonged drought and/or extreme weather events. The impacts of climate change are also projected to exacerbate scarcity of water and/or food, giving... (Bismarck Tribune, ND)
Predict the Weather a Year in AdvancePiers Corbyn's long-range predictions are shockingly accurate. Jun 24, 2009
Over the past 13 months, Piers Corbyn has predicted nine extreme weather events in the United. Over the past 13 months, Piers Corbyn has predicted nine extreme weather events in the United States, including ice storms Jan. 6-8 in the Northeast and the Midwestern blizzards of Feb. 3-6 ... Over the past 13 months, Corbyn has predicted nine extreme weather events in the United States, including ice storms Jan. 6-8 in the Northeast and the Midwestern blizzards of Feb. 3-6. (ABC News)
Climate Change Impacting U.S And Worsening Jun 17, 2009
Insurance is one of the industries particularly vulnerable to increasing extreme weather events such as severe storms, but it also is beginning to help society manage the risks, says Mills ... Mills contributed analysis to the report of the strongly rising role of extreme weather events in causing electric power disruptions, while non-weather-related events show no upward trend ... 5, 2008) Extreme weather events have a greater effect on flora than previously presumed. (Science Daily)
'Game-changer': Report on climate change urges action Jun 17, 2009
Public health effects include increased heat stress, waterborne diseases, poor air quality, extreme weather events, and diseases transmitted by insects and rodents. "I think the report's findings underline the urgency of dealing with global warming now. The impacts are already being felt, and will only get worse," says David Doniger of the Natural Resources Defense Council in Washington, D.C.. (USA Today -- Tech)
Letter: ODOT, rethink plan to build more roads, replace Van Buren Bridge (May 29) May 29, 2009
It is already causing more extreme weather events, fires and floods (Katrina hurricane, Santa Barbara fires). How soon do you suppose it will start cutting food production. (Corvallis Gazette Times, OR)
Climate health costs: bug-borne ills, killer heat May 28, 2009
"You'll get more extreme weather events that will occur more frequently ... and so it just piles on in terms of the human health effects," Portier said. "And the cost will be tremendous, there's little doubt of that.". (Scientific American)
* Social sciences are vital in dealing with climate change May 22, 2009
Multidisciplinary work helps engineers and scientists, as well as the professional carers, tackle extreme weather events in the future and keep services running, Curtis said. They also need to understand from the people receiving those services whats important to them and thats where the social science perspective comes in X really being able to interpret events and problems from different social perspectives. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World Business)
Climate-Treaty Draft Proposes Rich Countries Eliminate Most Gas Emissions May 21, 2009
An insurance system and venture-capital funds to help countries adapt to extreme weather events and risks to crop production and food security were also proposed. Wealthy countries contributing to adaptation funds will be able to monitor use of the money. (Bloomberg -- Germany)
Africa: Coastal Populations at Risk as Climate Changes May 21, 2009
Mauritania is experiencing the impact of a changing climate exemplified by a steadily creeping desert and other extreme weather events. It is one of the countries likely to be worst affected by intensified storm surges. (allAfrica.com)
* Carbon dioxide cuts will harm the worlds poorest May 20, 2009
The report also claims that millions will die as a result of extreme weather events such as hurricanes. But such deaths have actually decreased by 95 percent since the 1920s, according to calculations by Indur Goklany, who has represented the US on the IPCC, largely due to better early warning systems, building standards and weather forecasts. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World)
Pacific Island countries face urgent issues of climate change, migration May 20, 2009
Extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, cyclones and accompanying waves and tidal surges are already impacting communities globally. For Pacific island countries these natural hazards and rising sea level pose serious challenges that cannot be wished away, said Naidu in Suva, the capital of Fiji. (Xinhuanet, China)
Disaster risk increasing, says UN May 17, 2009
We already know that climate change means more extreme weather events - but the UN's Assistant Secretary General Margareta Wahlstrom says most countries have failed to look at how that will affect their own towns and cities. The local effects of disasters like the 2004 tsunami need research. (BBC News)
Global Warming Biggest Health Threat of 21st Century, Experts Say May 15, 2009
More people living in cities will lead to a shortage of housing, which will lead to slums, which will lead to inadequate sanitation systems and increased vulnerability to extreme weather events. The authors propose adopting policies to reduce carbon emissions and increase carbon biosequestration and to equalize the world's health systems, among other recommendations. (MEDLINEplus)
Scientists urge global action to preserve water supplies for billions worldwide May 13, 2009
More than two dozen international water experts participating in the "Ice, Snow, and Water: Impacts of Climate Change on California and Himalayan Asia" workshop held at UC San Diego issued a conference declaration May 6 that noted heavy rains in Indian deserts, a recent drought in what is typically one of the wettest place on earth along the foot of the Himalayas, and other extreme weather events in recent decades. Major rivers in both regions, like China's Yellow River and the Colorado River in... (EurekAlert! -- Business News)
Will global warming affect fresh groundwater? May 11, 2009
More extreme weather events are likely side effects of a climate in transition, but most scientists maintain that any year-to-year variation in weather cannot be linked directly to either a warming or cooling climate. The intrusion of saltwater from the sea into rivers and groundwater is a serious issue, but the threat is not from a reversal of flow, and our far inland lakes and rivers are not expected to be directly affected by the salty water of our oceans. (Westerly Sun, RI)
Letter: Weather cleanses environment May 9, 2009
Extreme weather events have an unerring way of shaking down the walls of our worldview and hence our perceived security. They fill us with awe - the kind of fear-inspired awe that can hurl us out of our comfort zone, away from the confines of our familiar preoccupations. (Appeal Democrat, CA)
What Can Climate Models Tell Cherry Growers? May 7, 2009
It's also unclear if extreme weather events will become more frequent and severe or less so, though the former appears more likely. Spring frosts are the biggest threat to cherries, and the simulations suggest "the impact of frost is going to be a little worse, but not humongously so," said Black. (Scientific American)
The AfDB 2009 Annual Meetings - A Climate Friendly Conference May 6, 2009
First, in order to ensure that investments for development are as effective as possible, measures are being taken to protect them from the deleterious effects of climate change and variability and extreme weather events. Second, the Bank's member countries will be encouraged to pursue climate-friendly development strategies to forestall the damages provoked by climate change. (allAfrica.com)
Storm leaves 20 dead, displaces thousands - IRIN May 5, 2009
" Climate change warning The Manila-based Asian Development Bank (ADB) in its report, The Economics of Climate Change in Southeast Asia, released on 27 April, stated that the region was among the "most vulnerable" to climate change, because of its long coastlines and heavy reliance on agriculture, natural resources and forestry. It noted that there had been an increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including heat waves, droughts, floods and tropical cyclones in recent... (AlertNet)
Bank Groups Rolls out Climate Risk Management and Adaptation Strategy May 2, 2009
"Climate Proofing" Investments--actions taken to ensure that development efforts are protected from negative impacts of climate change, climate variability, and extreme weather events and that climate-friendly development strategies are pursued to delay and reduce damages caused by climate change. Policy, Legal and Regulatory Reforms: The Bank Group will support the development of policies related risks as well as strengthen legal and regulatory reforms to create an enabling environment for the... (allAfrica.com)
Indigenous peoples at world summit to share climate change observations, coping techniques Apr 20, 2009
Says UN Under-Secretary-General Konrad Osterwalder, Rector of UN University: "The fires in Australia last summer that killed 240 people graphically demonstrated the devastating potential of extreme weather events, which are expected with increasing frequency as climate change progresses. "Indigenous people worldwide are recognizing dramatic shifts in local environmental patterns. Like the canary in the mine whose condition warned of danger, many Indigenous Peoples are starting to confront dire... (EurekAlert!)
Time for a well-earned weekend, let me tell you Apr 18, 2009
Increasing global temperature will cause increases in the intensity of extreme weather events. Is it customary for there to be snowstorms in Vegas in April. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Opinion)
Gambia: Adaptation to Climate Change, Coastal Project Launched Apr 17, 2009
com: Gambia: Adaptation to Climate Change, Coastal Project Launched (Page 1 of 1). Gambia: Adaptation to Climate Change, Coastal Project Launched. (allAfrica.com)
Climate Change Effects In California Apr 13, 2009
Understanding that adaptation and mitigation must complement each other in the fight against climate change, Gov. Schwarzenegger signed a directive in November 2008 tasking the Natural Resources Agency with developing a CAS. When complete, this comprehensive effort will improve coordination within state government and more effectively plan for climate impacts from sea level rise, increased temperatures, shifting precipitation and extreme weather events. Delay in preparing for climate change is... (Science Daily)
Report: Iowa corn growers lose $259 million on global warming Apr 12, 2009
The report doesn't take into account extreme weather events, such as tornadoes or flooding, or the expanded range of pests, weeds and crop disease ... g m s wrote on Apr 10, 2009 12:58 PM:" "The report doesn't take into account extreme weather events, such as tornadoes or flooding, or the expanded range of pests, weeds and crop disease ... My favorite line "The report doesn't take into account extreme weather events, such as tornadoes or flooding, or the expanded range of pests, weeds and crop... (Waterloo Courier, IO)
Fanning the fires Apr 2, 2009
They point to "cloud burst phenomena" - huge rainfall within a short span of time during monsoons, and frequent, sudden downpours in the Himalayan foothills - as more examples of extreme weather events. "Seeing all these changes happening in recent years, we can contend that this dryness that led to so much fire is one of the effects of climate change," said Mr Rajbhandari. (BBC News -- South Asia)
China starts nationwide checks on grain stocks Apr 1, 2009
The country's grain boss, Nie Zhenbang, earlier said that the target was "totally feasible", unless more extreme weather events took place. He also said national wheat supply would not be affected by the drought, which parched more than 40 percent of the total wheat-producing land until rounds of rain and snow fell in February. (Xinhuanet, China)
COMMENT: End Of The End Of History Mar 26, 2009
Consider the issue of insurance against extreme weather events, such as hurricanes in the Caribbean. Such episodes will become both more frequent and more intense, sin 00004000 ce climate change up to some level will almost certainly occur. (India Times, India)
WATER IN WAR ZONES Mar 22, 2009
Extreme weather events hit people in war zones especially hard. Somalia is a prime example. (AlertNet)
Drought, recession scorch Texas cattle ranchers Mar 9, 2009
Increasing frequency of extreme weather events is regarded by some scientists as a sign of human-induced climate change caused by fossil fuel emissions. But Murphy at the National Weather Service said it was "too short a time period to draw such assumptions.". (Scientific American)
Breathing Problems Spike on Hot Days Mar 5, 2009
The findings are important, the researchers write, because climate change is expected to increase "extreme weather events" and boost air pollution -- which could exacerbate respiratory ills like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) ... "Under climate change scenarios," the researchers write, "the increase in extreme weather events and certain air pollutants, especially ozone, are likely to further aggravate chronic respiratory diseases.". (MEDLINEplus)
Tex Hawkins: Pass the Clean Car Bill Mar 3, 2009
Climate change is increasingly speaking to humanity through extreme weather events. These take the form of more frequent and intense heat waves, more severe droughts, or more extreme rainstorms and snowstorms all of which can threaten the delicate balance that makes life here so special. (Winona Daily News, MN)
Lower Increases In Global Temps More Serious? Mar 1, 2009
Risk of extreme weather events, which tracks increases in extreme events with substantial consequences for societies and natural systems. Examples include increase in the frequency, intensity, or consequences of heat waves, floods, droughts, wildfires or tropical cyclones. (Science Daily)
Risks of Global Warming Rising: Is It Too Late to Reverse Course? Feb 28, 2009
Threats ranging from the destruction of to more extreme weather events like hurricanes, droughts and floods are becoming more likely at the temperature change already underway: as little as 1 ... According to the new graph, risks to "unique and threatened systems" such as and risks of extreme weather events become likely when temperatures rise by as little as 1. (Scientific American)
NYC must prep for climate change Feb 27, 2009
Friday February 27, 2009. Heavy rains caused major flooding throughout Queens in the summer of 2007. (Queens Chronicle, NY)
Obama calls for carbon cap legislation Feb 26, 2009
Those included risks to threatened systems such as coral reefs or endangered species; and extreme weather events like cyclones, heat waves or droughts. Read business stories in. (India Times)
