October 9, 2006

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) released a new report “Climate Change in the U.S. Northeast” October 4 outlining the impact of climate change for the northeastern cities.

According to their projections, global warming may dramatically alter the climate in the Northeast, driving changes in temperature, precipitation, and the region’s iconic seasons—and posing significant threats including extreme heat and drought as well as rising sea levels.

Some of their findings include:

• Extreme heat in cities, amplified by the urban heat island effect, is projected to increase until, by the century’s end. Some cities could experience nearly an entire summer of above 90° F daytime heat.

• A large increase in the currently small number of ring days over 100° F is projected.

• The number and severity of extreme precipitation events are projected to continue increasing.

• Sea level will continue to rise, putting low-lying coastal land at great risk.

These findings will have a major impact on local governments including how to deal with vulnerable populations during heat waves, air quality problems, and infrastructure issues.

“Climate Change in the U.S. Northeast” represents the research of more than a dozen independent scientists, in collaboration with the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS). Using both higher and lower scenario of heat-trapping gas emissions, the report shows that the choices we make today will determine the quality of the life our children and grandchildren inherit. The Northeast is a global leader in technology, finance, and innovation, and could spur global progress with committed plans to reduce global warming emissions. The region’s great cities are an essential part of the solution.

Three documents were released to date: the scientific report, a brief summery, and an emissions-reduction fact sheet. More information is available at the interactive web site www.climatechoices.org. Additional analyses are underway to assess what these climate projections mean for human health, coastal areas, agriculture, fisheries and forests. These findings will be released in late winter 2007.

The report authors, who hail from states across the region, are available for in-person or phone-based briefings for mayors and their key staff, such as policy advisors, emergency personnel, water managers, energy advisors, and environmental aides. Contact Nancy Cole at UCS to arrange a briefing 617-301-8034 or ncole@ucsusa.org.