Effect of Climate Change

Exploring the impacts of climate change on our planet and communities

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

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Arctic Sea Ice Loss

70% toward tipping point

As ice melts, less sunlight is reflected, accelerating warming in a dangerous feedback loop.

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Amazon Rainforest Dieback

50% toward tipping point

Deforestation and warming could transform parts of the rainforest into savanna.

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Greenland Ice Sheet Melt

45% toward tipping point

Complete melting would raise global sea levels by about 7 meters (23 feet).

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Atlantic Circulation Slowdown

35% toward tipping point

Changes to ocean currents could dramatically alter climate patterns across Europe and North America.

What Can We Do?

Now that you understand the effects of climate change, discover solutions and actions we can take.

Explore Solutions