5th National Climate Assessment: Impacts are widespread and worsening, but the worst can still be avoided
The latest National Climate Assessment for the United States affirms that climate has changed and continues to warm, rapidly. The report says “ The effects of human-caused climate change are already far-reaching and worsening across every region of the United States.”
The thorough report reads similar to a annual physical from a doctor. The impacts of climate change are documented and noticeable, but the worst impacts can be mitigated by taking action, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preparing for more extreme weather. The “diet and exercise” a doctor may tell you.
Ther National Assessment has regional chapters. The Midwest report is highly focused on changes to agriculture and the warming of the Great Lakes.
“Although average corn and soybean yields increased in recent decades in the Midwest, both excessive moisture (flooding) and extreme droughts significantly decreased corn yields in some locations and years by up to 37%. Excessive spring moisture has delayed corn planting by up to a month,24 while episodic droughts have reduced yields despite increasing annual rainfall.”
National Climate Assessment is the US Government’s preeminent report on climate change impacts, risks, and responses. It is a congressionally mandated interagency effort that provides the scientific foundation to support informed decision-making across the United States.
You can find more Local Climate Impacts here.