British Isles

Like most of the rest of the world, the British Isles has been warming up during the last 100 years. 1990, 1995, 1997 and 1999 were all very warm years. Scientists also predict that the British Isles will continue to warm during the 21^st century. By 2050, it is predicted that the average surface temperature could be 1.5°C higher than it is now. Winters will become milder with less snowfall and fewer frosts. Summers will become hotter, particularly in the southeast, where drought will be more common. In the northwest rainfall may increase.

A change in the British climate will have many impacts on the British environment and on society. Higher temperatures may lead to a shortfall of water resources, even if rainfall does increase slightly. Soils and their supporting vegetation, like trees and food crops, will be affected. There will probably be more extreme weather, with more storms and flooding, especially near the coasts where sea level will be rising.

A change in climate will also effect the way we consume energy. We may need less heating in the winter but more air conditioning in the summer. Transport too, will be affected, with disruption caused by gales and flooding. Tourism may increase due to the warmer temperatures, but any increased cloudiness may offset this.

Global Warming

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