Global Climate Impacts
Hover over different regions to see climate change effects
Arctic
Warming at twice the global rate. Sea ice is rapidly declining, affecting wildlife and indigenous communities.
North America
Increased wildfires, droughts in the west, flooding in the east, and more intense hurricanes.
Europe
More frequent heat waves, flooding, and droughts. Mediterranean regions facing water scarcity.
Asia
Increased flooding, heat waves, and water stress affecting billions. Sea level rise threatening coastal cities.
Africa
Severe droughts, food insecurity, and water scarcity. Many regions highly vulnerable with limited adaptation capacity.
South America
Amazon rainforest at risk, changing precipitation patterns, and glacier retreat in the Andes.
Australia & Oceania
Increased bushfires, coral reef bleaching, and sea level rise threatening Pacific islands.
Antarctica
Ice sheet melting, contributing to sea level rise globally. Changes affecting marine ecosystems.
Major Climate Change Effects
Rising Global Temperatures
The Earth's average temperature has increased by about 1.1°C since pre-industrial times. This may seem small, but even small changes in global temperature can have significant impacts.
- More frequent and intense heat waves
- Longer and more severe droughts
- Changes in growing seasons affecting agriculture
- Expansion of disease-carrying insects into new regions
Rising Sea Levels
Global sea levels have risen about 8-9 inches (21-24 cm) since 1880, with the rate accelerating in recent decades due to melting ice sheets and glaciers, plus thermal expansion of seawater as it warms.
- Coastal flooding and erosion
- Displacement of coastal communities
- Saltwater intrusion into freshwater supplies
- Loss of coastal wetlands and habitats
Extreme Weather Events
Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events worldwide, causing significant damage and disruption to communities.
- More powerful hurricanes and typhoons
- Increased flooding from heavy rainfall
- More destructive wildfires
- Longer and more intense droughts
Biodiversity Loss
Climate change is altering habitats faster than many species can adapt, leading to population declines and increased extinction risks.
- Coral reef bleaching and death
- Shifts in species ranges and migration patterns
- Disruption of food webs and ecosystems
- Loss of habitat for polar and alpine species
Human Health & Society
Climate change affects human health, food security, water availability, and can contribute to migration and conflict.
- Increased heat-related illnesses and deaths
- Expanded range of vector-borne diseases
- Food and water insecurity
- Climate-related displacement and migration
- Disproportionate impacts on vulnerable communities
Climate Tipping Points
Critical thresholds that, when crossed, lead to large and often irreversible changes in the climate system
Arctic Sea Ice Loss
As ice melts, less sunlight is reflected, accelerating warming in a dangerous feedback loop.
Amazon Rainforest Dieback
Deforestation and warming could transform parts of the rainforest into savanna.
Greenland Ice Sheet Melt
Complete melting would raise global sea levels by about 7 meters (23 feet).
Atlantic Circulation Slowdown
Changes to ocean currents could dramatically alter climate patterns across Europe and North America.
