Extreme Weather and Climate Change: What's the Connection?

"September 2020 stood out for a number of reasons. The month was the hottest September on record and the year was on track to be the hottest since records were first kept in 1880. The sweltering temperatures were blamed for extreme weather in the United States, Europe, Asia, and elsewhere. Extreme heat was not the only news in September. At the other end of the weather spectrum temperatures in the Northern Plains plunged 55ÀF (30ÀC) in one day, bringing a rapid end to the growing season a month sooner than average. Scientists say the upsurge in volatile weather is caused by a rapidly heating climate that is a direct result of fossil fuel consumption"--

Gr 6–9—The occurrence of extreme weather events around the world has rapidly accelerated in the 21st century. This title draws on global scientific research and expertise to examine the causal link between climate change and these weather patterns. Each chapter addresses a specific weather phenomenon, such as wildfires, extreme cold, or hurricanes, supporting each topic with recent case studies, such as the Midwestern floods of 2019 and the 2020 California wildfire season. The book makes a clear argument that climate change is linked to extreme weather; Kallen explains, for example, that warmer weather leads to higher ocean temperatures and rising sea levels that can create the ideal conditions for more destructive hurricanes and cyclones to develop. Although many examples are specific to North America, global events are also discussed, along with the different ways in which developing and industrialized nations are affected by climate change. Photographs and pull quotes enliven the text layout, while "Topic" boxes examine specific issues in greater detail, such as the economic costs of high heat and the consequences of melting permafrost. A list of books and digital resources is provided to assist further research, and the index is thorough and well designed. VERDICT This title offers a clear and straightforward scientific approach to understanding the relationship between extreme weather and climate change, supported by a range of expert views, current statistics and case studies, and a comprehensive index. Highly recommended.—Kelsy Peterson, Brighton Grammar Sch., Melbourne, Australia