3.11 Extreme Weather On The Rise In The UK

Question 1

By how much have the UK temperatures increased since 1980

Answer 1

1 degree

Question 2

What are the predictions for the future UK weather?

Answer 2

• precipitation is expected to become even more seasonal
• some rivers are expected to flood more frequently in winter
• air temperature is expected to increase, causing more drought

Question 3

Is climate change responsible for extreme weather changes?

Answer 3

• scientists suggest that the increasing frequency extreme weather events can be blamed on climate change
• The Atlantic Ocean is increasing in temperature, which explains the UK’s changing rainfall pattern
• rain bearing depressions will gain more energy and moisture, due to the warmer ocean
• increase in ocean temperature may simply be because of a long-term cycle or due to the position of the jet stream