Extreme weather events are increasing as a result of climate change. Indeed, attribution studies conducted for each extreme event indicate that climate change is already one of the causes of over two-thirds of such events, and predictions suggest that, as global warming continues, extreme events will increase.  

As these events cause the greatest disasters, adaptation needs to be seen as a priority. The nature of climate change is such that the models of the past are no longer applicable and, in many ways, we have to proceed with uncertainty. In any case, adapting to extreme events is a so-called “win-win” activity because, even if worst case scenarios don’t occur, we will be prepared for what the future may bring. 

This session will focus on four of the major extreme events that cause significant human loss and damage to property and the environment: droughts, floods, heat waves and fires. The session will take a close look at how they are triggered, what are the future perspectives and what actions are being and could be taken for us to be ready when they do occur.