Weather extremes in a changing climate: hindsight on foresight
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has published a brochure titled "Weather Extremes in a Changing Climate: Hindsight on Foresight," which describes extreme events that have occurred between 2001 and 2010. In addition to describing the examples of recent weather extremes, the brochure provides a map of extreme events over the decade and explores whether observed facts are consistent with the scientific assessments of climate. The brochure also asks whether extreme events can be attributed to climate change and examines possible reactions to losses due to extreme events. It notes that temperatures have been progressively warmer than previous decades, that sea level is its highest in 3000 years and that ice is melting fast. On the link between climate change and extreme events, the report highlights the forthcoming special report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) on extreme events.