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Module: Climate Change and Extreme Weather - UCAR COMET

UCAR COMET Program
Initial Publication Date: April 29, 2016

Summary

Length 20 minutes; Skill level - non scientist; Publish Date: 2012-08-14

This module discusses how a changing climate can also lead to changes in extreme weather events on the local scale. The role of natural variability is also explained. The module describes how climate change can have both positive and negative effects, depending on the situation, location, and the vulnerability of the population. While research on climate change and extreme events is still relatively new, the module discusses what changes scientists think are likely if greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise.


Learning Goals

  • In terms of temperature, discuss three ways the present climate could change in the future and what effect each might have on both high and low temperature extremes
  • Describe how an increasing global average temperature can lead to changes in other elements of the climate system
  • Provide an example of natural variability and how it might be manifested in extreme events
  • Define "attribution science" and discuss its uses
  • List several ways in which climate changes is projected to affect extreme events in the coming decades

Context for Use

See Teaching Notes.

Description and Teaching Materials

Teaching Notes and Tips

  • Languages: English
  • Publish Date: 2012-08-14
  • Skill Level: Non Scientists
  • Completion Time: 0 - .25 h
  • Includes Audio: yes
  • Required Plugins: Flash

Module covers these topic areas:


Assessment

Climate Change and Extreme Weather Quiz included

Disclaimer

Note: At the request of COMET sponsors, this quiz is designed to demonstrate your successful completion of the module. Because the quiz is being administered online, upon completion you will be given only feedback on which questions you answered correctly and incorrectly. No additional instructional feedback is provided. However, should you need to, you can use this information to revisit the module to determine how to answer correctly and then attempt the quiz again.

References and Resources

Contributors


Citation

(2012). Module: Climate Change and Extreme Weather - UCAR COMET.