Global Climate Change: Implications for Air Temperature and Water Supply in Canada

Abstract

Measurements of atmospheric concentrations of climatically important gases over the past 30 years indicate a rapid rise in values, largely attributable to human activities. Results of climate model experiments project a major global climate warming of 1.5–4.5°C during the next century, should the concentrations of these gases continue to increase as predicted. In addition to the direct effects of warming on regional air temperatures and the frequency and severity of extreme heat events, hemispheric wind patterns and hence rainfall distribution will be affected. As a result, soil moisture, runoff, and water supplies to catch basins will change. Such changes have important implications for the nature of future aquatic environments.