Understanding Climate Change Impacts

What makes the Southern Great Plains particularly vulnerable to climate change?

• Its proximity to the ocean

• Its extreme climate variations

• Its high altitude

• Its dense forest cover

How does climate change affect water availability in the Southern Great Plains?

• Reduces competition for water

• Increases evaporation from reservoirs

• Decreases water demand

• Increases water supply

What is a potential economic impact of climate change in the Southern Great Plains?

• Increased tourism

• Higher agricultural yields

• GDP losses due to decreased agricultural yields

• Lower energy costs

How are hurricanes changing due to climate change?

• They are intensifying faster and carrying more rainfall

• They are becoming weaker

• They are becoming less frequent

• They are moving towards the poles

What is the primary concern for the Southwest in relation to climate change?

• Water scarcity

• Decreased temperatures

• Increased snowfall

• Rising sea levels

What phenomenon exacerbated the California drought from 2011 to 2014?

• The Gulf Stream

• The polar vortex

• The ridiculously resilient ridge

• The El Niño effect

How are atmospheric rivers expected to change with climate change?

• They will only affect the eastern U.S.

• They will decrease in frequency

• They will become more frequent and severe

• They will carry less water vapor

What is a significant risk associated with reduced snowpack in the Southwest?

• More frequent hurricanes

• Higher snowfall in winter

• Decreased agricultural water supply

• Increased flooding

What is a key strategy to address future climate risks?

• Increasing fossil fuel usage

• Relying on historical climate data

• Building more highways

• Developing resilience and reducing emissions

Why is it important to look ahead when planning for climate change?

• To avoid unexpected climate events

• To maintain current infrastructure

• To reduce technological advancements

• To increase fossil fuel consumption