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weather1d ago
‘Flash droughts’ driven by heatwaves are on the rise, study finds
- A new Science Advances study shows heat-first droughts are rising globally as climate warms.
- From 1980s land coverage of heat-first extremes rose from 2.5% to 16.7% by 2023, with a 10-year average of 7.9%.
- Experts warn that flash droughts can develop rapidly, leaving communities unprepared.
- The study identifies a possible tipping point around 2000 linked to Arctic warming.
- Regions with biggest rises include South America, western Canada, Alaska, and the western U.S.
- Researchers connect the trend to compound extremes driving greater climate risks.
- Heatwaves that lead to drought can trigger higher wildfire risks in a warming world.
- The 2000 change point coincides with Arctic warming and snow cover declines.
- The authors warn that climate change amplifies risks when heat, drought, and wildfire risk align.
- The research team cites several historic events to illustrate compound extremes and risks.
- Overall, the study emphasizes that climate change fuels more extreme and interconnected weather events.
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