Weather extremes in a changing climate: hindsight on foresight
The facts in this brochure are drawn from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) annual Statements on the Status of the Global Climate. These summarize global and regional temperature trends and extreme weather events with high socio-economic impact. The statements review temperature, precipitation, severe storms, tropical cyclones and the evolution of snow cover and polar ice.
This brochure also includes reflections on climate predictions, drawn from assessment reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a body established by WMO and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It advocates for the reduction of vulnerability to meteorological extremes to be an essential part of the complex adaptation to climate change and for nations to strengthen research, observing and monitoring capabilities.