Global warming and changes in risk of concurrent climate extremes: Insights from the 2014 California drought

Abstract Global warming and the associated rise in extreme temperatures substantially increase the chance of concurrent droughts and heat waves. The 2014 California drought is an archetype of an event characterized by not only low precipitation but also extreme high temperatures. From the raging wildfires, to record low storage levels and snowpack conditions, the impacts of this event can be felt throughout California. Wintertime water shortages worry decision‐makers the most because it is the season to build up water supplies for the rest of the year. Here we show that the traditional univariate risk assessment methods based on precipitation condition may substantially underestimate the risk of extreme events…

• NA
  National Aeronautics and Space Administration

  Award: NNX15AC27G
• NO
  National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

  Award: NA14OAR4310222