A Snapshot of Changes Global Warming Could Cause
 


October 31, 2006 — By Associated Press

 

Here's a look at some of the changes a British government report on global warming warned could occur:

INDIAN SUBCONTINENT, PARTS OF CHINA, SOUTH AMERICA: Melting glaciers will increase flood risks and reduce fresh water supplies, threatening one-sixth of the world's population.

SOUTHEAST ASIA, CARIBBEAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDS: Some areas will need more coastal protection from rising sea levels. According to one estimate, 200 million people may be permanently displaced by heavier floods and more intense droughts.

EUROPE: Heat waves like one in 2003 that killed 35,000 people and cost US$15 million (euro11.7 million) in agricultural losses, will become commonplace by 2050.

UNITED STATES: Annual hurricane damage costs are predicted to double with a 5 percent to 10 percent increase in wind speed, which is linked to rising sea temperatures.

CANADA, RUSSIA, SCANDINAVIA: Could see higher agricultural yields, lower winter mortality and lower heating requirements. Higher latitude regions will also experience the most rapid temperature rises.

AMAZON: High temperatures could significantly and irrevocably damage the rainforest.

Source: Associated Press