Climate Change Disrupts U.S. Water Cycle: Floods, Droughts, and Scarce Supplies
February 25, 2024Climate change is causing severe disruptions to the water cycle throughout the U.S., leading to extreme weather events and water supply issues.
In 2023, heightened extreme precipitation due to climate change resulted in flash flooding in Vermont and New York City, with hurricanes contributing to further flooding and damage.
Drought conditions, intensified by rising temperatures, have led to historic low water levels in the Mississippi River and increased the risk of wildfires in Hawaii and the Midwest.
The timing and pattern of river runoff have changed, resulting in extreme fluctuation of river levels and exacerbating water supply challenges in the Pacific Northwest.
Western states, the Great Plains, and parts of the Midwest are experiencing dwindling water supplies due to overconsumption and elevated temperatures.
Millions of Americans are affected by these water cycle disruptions, underscoring the critical need to address climate change's impact on water availability.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources
NBC News • Feb 25, 2024
Climate change is throwing the water cycle into chaos across the U.S.Yahoo News • Feb 25, 2024
Climate change is throwing the water cycle into chaos across the U.S.