Impacts Of Extreme Weather Flashcards
Extreme weather
Weather that is different from what is normally expected in that area.
Drought
A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall; a shortage of water resulting from this.
Water shortage
When the amount of freshwater available is less than the amount needed to support the river basin.
Crop loss
When too much rain or heat causes the agricultural system to fail.
Summer heat
Increased solar radiation during heatwaves increases risk of sunstroke, heatstroke and skin cancers.
Melting infrastructure
Summer heat buckles rail lines and melts tarmac causing delays or damage to road vehicles.
Staycations
People are more likely to holiday at home during sunny weather boosting local tourism.
Sales
Sales will be boosted for retailers who sell goods that promote outdoor living and cooling devices and foods.
Floods
Water overflows its natural or artificial banks into normally dry land.
Flood damage
Properties built beside rivers or on flood plains are susceptible to more regular water and sediment impacts on their homes.
Image: Flood Damage
Increased ice risk
Slippier surfaces lead to more accidents for elderly adding cost to NHS budgets.
Icy roads
Increase risk of car accidents in winter.
Pot holes
Freeze-thaw weathering creates crevices in roads leading to damage to vehicles.
Insurance
Premiums will increase for those at increased risk of flood or who have had accidents, making protection unaffordable.
