Climate

15 pages, 939 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Pilot Study with Low-Cost Sensors: Seasonal Variation of Particulate Matter Ratios and Their Relationship with Meteorological Conditions in Rio Grande, Brazil

by Gustavo de Oliveira Silveira, Gabriella Mello Gomes Vieira de Azevedo, Ronan Adler Tavella, Paula Florencio Ramires, Rodrigo de Lima Brum, Alicia da Silva Bonifácio, Ricardo Arend Machado, Letícia Willrich Brum, Romina Buffarini, Diana Francisca Adamatti and Flavio Manoel Rodrigues da Silva Júnior

Climate 2025, 13(4), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13040071 - 30 Mar 2025

Abstract

(1) Background: This study investigated seasonal variations in particulate matter (PM) ratios (PM₁/PM_2.5, PM_2.5/PM₁₀, and PM₁/PM₁₀) and their relationship with the meteorological conditions in Rio Grande, Brazil. (2) Methods: PM₁ [...] Read more.

(1) Background: This study investigated seasonal variations in particulate matter (PM) ratios (PM₁/PM_2.5, PM_2.5/PM₁₀, and PM₁/PM₁₀) and their relationship with the meteorological conditions in Rio Grande, Brazil. (2) Methods: PM₁, PM_2.5, and PM₁₀ levels were collected using low-cost Gaia Air Quality Monitors, which measured PM concentrations at high temporal resolution. Meteorological variables, including atmospheric pressure, temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and precipitation, were obtained from the National Institute of Meteorology (INMET). The data were analyzed through multiple linear regression to assess the influence of meteorological factors on PM ratios. (3) Results: The results show that the highest PM ratios occurred in winter, indicating a predominance of fine and ultrafine particles, while the lowest ratios were observed in spring and summer. Multiple linear regression analysis identified atmospheric pressure, wind speed, and maximum temperature as the key drivers of PM distribution. (4) Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of continuous monitoring of PM ratios, particularly PM₁, which remains underexplored in Brazil. The findings underscore the need for targeted air quality policies emphasizing seasonal mitigation strategies and improved pollution control to minimize the health risks associated with fine and ultrafine PM exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Air Pollution, Climate, and Public Health)

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23 pages, 11235 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Three-Century Climatology of Cold and Warm Spells and Snowfall Events in Padua, Italy (1725–2024)

by Claudio Stefanini, Francesca Becherini, Antonio della Valle and Dario Camuffo

Climate 2025, 13(4), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13040070 - 30 Mar 2025

Abstract

Regular meteorological observations in Padua started in 1725 and have continued unbroken up to the present, making the series one of the longest in the world. Daily mean temperatures and precipitation amounts have recently been homogenized for the entire 1725–2024 period, making it [...] Read more.

Regular meteorological observations in Padua started in 1725 and have continued unbroken up to the present, making the series one of the longest in the world. Daily mean temperatures and precipitation amounts have recently been homogenized for the entire 1725–2024 period, making it possible to add new measurements without further work. Starting from the temperature series, the trends of cold and warm spells are investigated in this paper. The ongoing warming that started in the 1970s is extensively analyzed on the basis of the variability of the mean values and a magnitude index that captures both the duration and intensity of a spell and by investigating the frequency of extreme events by means of Intensity–Duration–Frequency curves. The periods with the greatest deviation from the climatological average are analyzed in detail: February 1740 and April 1755, the months with the largest negative and positive temperature anomalies, respectively, in the 300-year-long series. Moreover, the analysis of snow occurrences extracted from the original logs, together with the pressure observations from the long series of London and Uppsala, made it possible to evaluate the most typical synoptic situations leading to snow events in Padua for the whole period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Importance of Long Climate Records (Second Edition))

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17 pages, 912 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Speaking of Climate Change: Reframing Effective Communication for Greater Impact

by Kirsty A. O’Callaghan, Patrick D. Nunn, Sarah Casey, Gail Crimmins and Harry Dugmore

Climate 2025, 13(4), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13040069 - 27 Mar 2025

Abstract

Effective climate change communication is central to public engagement, self-efficacy, and support for mitigation and adaptation policies. Yet, communicators face numerous challenges, such as misinformation, climate despair, and the complexity of climate science. This study examines the views of 29 climate change communicators [...] Read more.

Effective climate change communication is central to public engagement, self-efficacy, and support for mitigation and adaptation policies. Yet, communicators face numerous challenges, such as misinformation, climate despair, and the complexity of climate science. This study examines the views of 29 climate change communicators from Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand to evaluate the alignment between practitioner insights and research-backed strategies. Findings confirm the significance of audience segmentation, localized, and solution-focused messaging and collaborative approaches. A four-pillar framework, consisting of simplicity and local relevance, audience segmentation, storytelling, and actionable steps, emerges as a strategic model for enhancing the communication impact. This study offers a structured guide for improving climate communication effectiveness within diverse sociopolitical contexts by integrating theoretical insights with practitioner perspectives. Full article

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22 pages, 17122 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Analysis of Land Use Change and Urban Heat Island Effects in Akure and Osogbo, Nigeria Between 2014 and 2023

by Moruff Adetunji Oyeniyi, Oluwafemi Michael Odunsi, Andreas Rienow and Dennis Edler

Climate 2025, 13(4), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13040068 - 26 Mar 2025

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and climate impacts have raised concerns about the emergence and aggravation of urban heat island effects. In Africa, studies have focused more on big cities due to their growing populations and high climate impact, while mid-sized cities remain under-studied, with limited [...] Read more.

Rapid urbanization and climate impacts have raised concerns about the emergence and aggravation of urban heat island effects. In Africa, studies have focused more on big cities due to their growing populations and high climate impact, while mid-sized cities remain under-studied, with limited comparative insights into their distinct characteristics. This study therefore provided a spatiotemporal analysis of land use land cover change (LULCC) and surface urban heat islands (SUHI) effects in the Nigerian mid-sized cities of Akure and Osogbo from 2014 to 2023. This study used Landsat 8 and 9 imagery (2014 and 2023) and analyzed data via Google Earth Engine and ArcGIS Pro 3.4. Results showed that Akure’s built areas increased significantly from 164.026 km² to 224.191 km² while Osogbo witnessed a smaller expansion from 41.808 km² to 58.315 km² in built areas. This study identified Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and emissivity patterns associated with vegetation and thermal emissions and a positive association between LST and urbanization. The findings across Akure and Osogbo cities established that LULCC has different impacts on SUHI effects. As a result, evidence from a mid-sized city might not be extended to other cities of similar size and socioeconomic characteristics without caution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Climate and Environment)

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15 pages, 1231 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Climatic Conditions and Atmospheric Pollution on Admission to Emergency Room During Warm Season: The Case Study of Bari

by Mariagrazia D’Emilio, Enza Iudice, Patrizia Riccio and Maria Ragosta

Climate 2025, 13(4), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13040067 (registering DOI) - 26 Mar 2025

Abstract

The study of the effects of climate change and air pollution on human health is an interesting topic for wellbeing projects in urban areas. We present a method for highlighting how adverse weather and environmental conditions affect human health and influence emergency room [...] Read more.

The study of the effects of climate change and air pollution on human health is an interesting topic for wellbeing projects in urban areas. We present a method for highlighting how adverse weather and environmental conditions affect human health and influence emergency room admissions during the summer in an urban area. Daily apparent temperature, a biometeorological index, was used to characterize thermal discomfort while atmospheric concentrations of PM10 and NOX were used as indicators of unfavorable environmental conditions. We analyzed how the above parameters influence the emergency room access, considering all the different pathologies. Over the four years analyzed, we identified the periods during which environmental conditions (both thermal discomfort and pollutant concentrations) were unfavorable, the persistence of these conditions, and verified that during these days, the average daily number of emergency room visits increased. Visits for ENT and dermatological disorders also showed significant increases. Our analysis showed that emergency room access is useful in evaluating the impact of unfavorable climatic and environmental conditions on human health during the summer period; vice versa, our results could be used to optimize resource management in emergency rooms during this specific period of the year. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change, Health and Multidisciplinary Approaches)

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16 pages, 2285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Population-Weighted Degree-Days over Southeast Europe—Near Past Climate Evaluation and Future Projections with NEX-GDDP CMIP6 Ensemble

by Hristo Chervenkov and Kiril Slavov

Climate 2025, 13(4), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13040066 - 26 Mar 2025

Abstract

The ongoing and projected future climate change impacts the heating, cooling, and air-conditioning sectors both directly and indirectly. The consideration of heating, cooling, and energy degree-days is a consistent, robust, and widely used approach for quantitatively estimating the energy demand of closed environments [...] Read more.

The ongoing and projected future climate change impacts the heating, cooling, and air-conditioning sectors both directly and indirectly. The consideration of heating, cooling, and energy degree-days is a consistent, robust, and widely used approach for quantitatively estimating the energy demand of closed environments based on outdoor thermal conditions. Hence, the spatial distribution and the long-term changes in this demand depend on on the quantity of final users for such services; it is essential to consider demographic data in the assessment. The paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the population-weighted degree-days for the near past and the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) scenario-driven future over Southeast Europe for all four ‘Tier 1’ Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) based on the methodology of the United Kingdom Meteorological Office and performed using large NEX-GDDP CMIP6 ensemble of global circulation models (GCMs) and up to date population dynamics data from the NASA’s SEDAC. As an expression of regional warming tendencies, the study reveals an overall reduction in heating and an increase in cooling degree-days, confirming the leading role of the climate. We also provide evidences for the influence of the population factor, which significantly alters the region’s degree-day climatology in both space and time. The resulting overall picture on country-wide and regional level is complex; in some cases, the population dynamics is projected to outbalance the thermal-induced changes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Climate and Environment)

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20 pages, 3038 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effects of Drought on Livestock Production, Market Dynamics, and Pastoralists’ Adaptation Strategies in Semi-Arid Ethiopia

by Dejene W. Sintayehu, Sintayehu Alemayehu, Tadesse Terefe, Getachew Tegegne, Mastawesha Misganaw Engdaw, Liyuneh Gebre, Lidya Tesfaye, Jaldesa Doyo, Uttama Reddy R. and Evan Girvetz

Climate 2025, 13(4), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13040065 - 24 Mar 2025

Abstract

Extreme climate events are increasing in severity and frequency and affecting the livelihood of pastoralists. Understanding these impacts is crucial for developing effective management strategies. Thus, this study examines the effects of drought on livestock production and market dynamics in semi-arid Ethiopia and [...] Read more.

Extreme climate events are increasing in severity and frequency and affecting the livelihood of pastoralists. Understanding these impacts is crucial for developing effective management strategies. Thus, this study examines the effects of drought on livestock production and market dynamics in semi-arid Ethiopia and explores the adaptation strategies employed by Borana pastoralists. Both the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) were used to calculate indicators of drought severity between 1993 and 2022. Surveys were also conducted in 244 selected households. In addition, focus group discussions and field observations were conducted to investigate the adaptation practices of Borana pastoralists to drought. A line graph was used to illustrate the relationship between the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and livestock market prices. The study found extreme drought in 1985, 2000, and 2011, with the most severe to moderate dryness occurring in the Arero, Elwaya, Dubuluk, Guchi, and Yabelo areas. The study found that severe droughts are increasing, affecting pastoralists’ livelihoods. The recurring drought led to a shortage of feed and water, which resulted in the starvation and death of livestock and jeopardized the livelihoods of pastoralists. In addition, the decline in milk production and falling market prices are said to have had a negative impact. Diversification of livelihood sources, mobility of livestock to seek out forage and water resources, and diversification of herd composition to take advantage of varying drought tolerance have been the usual long-term adaptation strategies of Borana pastoralists. Given the multiple negative impacts of climate change, development interventions in pastoral and agro-pastoral areas of Ethiopia should focus on proactive measures to reduce the impacts of climate change on livestock production. Full article

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18 pages, 2227 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Costs of Overcoming Social and Institutional Barriers to Implementing Co-Benefit Solutions in Thailand’s Transport and Residential Energy Sectors: Methods and Applications

by Kaoru Akahoshi, Eric Zusman, Tatsuya Hanaoka, Supat Wangwongwatana, Nutthajit Onmek, Ittipol Paw-Armart, Tomoki Hirayama, Yurie Goto, Kazumasa Kawashima and Markus Amann

Climate 2025, 13(3), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13030064 - 20 Mar 2025

Abstract

Interest in co-benefits—the multiple benefits from mitigating climate change while addressing other sustainability challenges—has grown as policymakers seek to lower the costs of decarbonization. Much of this interest stems from data-driven models that quantify how much improved air quality, better health, and other [...] Read more.

Interest in co-benefits—the multiple benefits from mitigating climate change while addressing other sustainability challenges—has grown as policymakers seek to lower the costs of decarbonization. Much of this interest stems from data-driven models that quantify how much improved air quality, better health, and other co-benefits can offset those costs. However, co-benefits research often features transport, residential energy, and other solutions that face greater social and institutional barriers than economic barriers to achieving estimated gains. Few studies have assessed the costs of overcoming these barriers. The main objective of this study was to develop and apply methods for estimating these costs. Toward that end, this study developed a mixed method approach that used original survey and budgetary data to estimate the costs of clearing social and institutional barriers to implementing transport and residential energy solutions in Thailand. The results revealed that the costs of overcoming key social and institutional barriers were approximately USD 170–270 million per year from 2022 to 2032 for the transport sector in Thailand. The costs of overcoming social and institutional barriers for residential energy solutions are approximately USD 0.07–0.1 million per year over a comparable period. The results suggested that the costs of overcoming barriers were likely lower than the benefits for all solutions and greater for transportation (driven by the implementation of inspection and maintenance programs) than residential energy in Thailand. More generally, the results underlined a need for greater integration between work on co-benefits and transaction costs to assist policymakers in understanding how much investing in institutional capacity building, coordination, awareness raising, and other enabling reforms can help align a healthier climate with other development priorities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Policy, Governance, and Social Equity)

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26 pages, 5642 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Climate Change as a Double-Edged Sword: Exploring the Potential of Environmental Recovery to Foster Stability in Darfur, Sudan

by Abdalrahman Ahmed, Brian Rotich and Kornel Czimber

Climate 2025, 13(3), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13030063 - 18 Mar 2025

Abstract

The Darfur conflict, which emerged in the early 21st century, represents a multifaceted crisis driven by socio-political and environmental factors, with resource scarcity, exacerbated by climate change, playing a pivotal role in intensifying tensions between agricultural and pastoral communities. While climate change is [...] Read more.

The Darfur conflict, which emerged in the early 21st century, represents a multifaceted crisis driven by socio-political and environmental factors, with resource scarcity, exacerbated by climate change, playing a pivotal role in intensifying tensions between agricultural and pastoral communities. While climate change is typically associated with adverse environmental outcomes, an analysis of data spanning four decades (1980–2023) reveals a contrasting trend of increased precipitation, enhanced vegetation, and decreased drought frequency in recent years. This research explores the potential of these positive environmental changes to mitigate resource-based conflicts and foster political stability in Darfur as improved environmental conditions are posited to create a foundation for conflict resolution and sustainable peacebuilding. The present study integrates trends in the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) and the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) to examine these shifts. EVI data, derived from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) at a 250 m resolution, was used to assess large-scale vegetation patterns in arid and semi-arid landscapes. The Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model was employed to forecast future precipitation scenarios up to the year 2034, enhancing the understanding of long-term climatic trends. Data processing and analysis utilized advanced tools, including Google Earth Engine (GEE), ArcGIS Pro (version 3.4), and R software (version 4.3.2). The findings reveal a significant (33.19%) improvement in natural vegetation cover between 2000 and 2023, with degraded and unchanged areas accounting for 1.95% and 64.86%, respectively. This finding aligns with a marked increase in annual precipitation and a reduction in drought intensity over the study period. Historical SPEI analysis showed persistent drought events between 1980 and 2012, followed by a notable decline in drought frequency and severity from 2013 to 2024. Precipitation projections suggest a stable trend, potentially supporting further vegetation recovery in the region. These environmental improvements are preliminarily linked to climate-change-induced increases in precipitation and reductions in drought severity. This study’s findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of the interplay between environmental dynamics and socio-political stability in Darfur, offering actionable insights for policy interventions aimed at fostering sustainable peace and resilience in the region. Full article

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25 pages, 1922 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multiple GCM-Based Climate Change Projections Across Northwest Region of Bangladesh Using Statistical Downscaling Model

by Md Masud Rana, Sajal Kumar Adhikary, Takayuki Suzuki and Martin Mäll

Climate 2025, 13(3), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13030062 - 17 Mar 2025

Abstract

Bangladesh, one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, has been experiencing significant climate change-induced risks. Particularly, the northwest region of the country has been severely affected by climate extremes, including droughts and heat waves. Therefore, proper understanding and assessment of future [...] Read more.

Bangladesh, one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, has been experiencing significant climate change-induced risks. Particularly, the northwest region of the country has been severely affected by climate extremes, including droughts and heat waves. Therefore, proper understanding and assessment of future climate change scenarios is crucial for the adaptive management of water resources. The current study used the statistical downscaling model (SDSM) to downscale and analyze climate change-induced future changes in temperature and precipitation based on multiple global climate models (GCMs), including HadCM3, CanESM2, and CanESM5. A quantitative approach was adopted for both calibration and validation, showing that the SDSM is well-suited for downscaling mean temperature and precipitation. Furthermore, bias correction was applied to enhance the accuracy of the downscaled climate variables. The downscaled projections revealed an upward trend in mean annual temperatures, while precipitation exhibited a declining trend up to the end of the century for all scenarios. The observed data periods for the CanESM5, CanESM2, and HadCM3 GCMs used in SDSM were 1985–2014, 1975–2005, and 1975–2001, respectively. Based on the aforementioned periods, the projections for the next century indicate that under the CanESM5 (SSP5-8.5 scenario), temperature is projected to increase by 0.98 °C, with a 12.4% decrease in precipitation. For CanESM2 (RCP8.5 scenario), temperature is expected to rise by 0.94 °C, and precipitation is projected to decrease by 10.3%. Similarly, under HadCM3 (A2 scenario), temperature is projected to increase by 0.67 °C, with a 7.0% decrease in precipitation. These downscaled pathways provide a strong basis for assessing the potential impacts of future climate change across the northwestern region of Bangladesh. Full article

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22 pages, 2012 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Medium-Term Psychosocial Impact of the 2021 Floods in Belgium: A Survey-Based Study

by Nele De Maeyer, Nidhi Nagabhatla, Olivia Marie Toles, Dilek Güneş Reubens and Charlotte Scheerens

Climate 2025, 13(3), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13030061 - 17 Mar 2025

Abstract

Background: This study investigates the medium-term psychosocial impacts of the 2021 floods in Belgium, which caused fatalities and considerable infrastructural damage. Given similar events’ significant impacts on psychosocial well-being, this study seeks to answer three questions: whether there are medium-term (two years and [...] Read more.

Background: This study investigates the medium-term psychosocial impacts of the 2021 floods in Belgium, which caused fatalities and considerable infrastructural damage. Given similar events’ significant impacts on psychosocial well-being, this study seeks to answer three questions: whether there are medium-term (two years and further) effects on residents’ psychosocial well-being, whether demographic variables influence these effects, and how flood exposure impacts psychosocial well-being. Methods: We collected data in affected municipalities through an online survey, assessing demographic variables (e.g., age, gender, education, SES), flood exposure (e.g., being physically hurt, being faced with financial difficulties), and psychosocial well-being, employing two validated instruments for quantitative evaluation: the RAND-36 and the Traumatic Exposure Severity Scale (TESS). Results: The sample included 114 participants, with 54% reporting a deterioration in their psychosocial well-being after the floods. Additionally, over 50% mentioned the psychosocial impact of the floods. SES was the only significant demographic variable impacting psychosocial well-being, with lower SES linked to higher deterioration. Financial difficulties generated by the floods were the only considerable exposure factor. Furthermore, 22% discussed being unhappy with the organized response measures. Due to the sample size, confounding effects could not be checked. Conclusions: This study found a medium-term effect of the 2021 floods on psychosocial well-being, highlighting the need for policy adaptations focused on post-disaster psychosocial support. With lower SES and financial difficulties as risk factors, one needs to design policies tailored to these vulnerable groups. With climate change expected to increase flood events, context-specific policies are essential to boost resilience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change Responses and Mitigation at Technical, Economic, and Social Interfaces)

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17 pages, 1253 KiB

Open AccessReview

Adaptation to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the Hindukush-Himalaya: A Review

by Sobia Shah and Asif Ishtiaque

Climate 2025, 13(3), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13030060 - 17 Mar 2025

Abstract

This study examines adaptation strategies to mitigate the risks posed by Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region, encompassing Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Afghanistan. GLOFs occur when water is suddenly released from glacial lakes and they present [...] Read more.

This study examines adaptation strategies to mitigate the risks posed by Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region, encompassing Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Afghanistan. GLOFs occur when water is suddenly released from glacial lakes and they present significant threats to communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems in high-altitude regions, particularly as climate change intensifies their frequencies and severity. While there are many studies on the changes in glacial lakes, studies on adaptation to GLOF risks are scant. Also, these studies tend to focus on case-specific scenarios, leaving a gap in comprehensive, region-wide analyses. This review article aims to fill that gap by synthesizing the adaptation strategies adopted across the HKH region. We conducted a literature review following several inclusion and exclusion criteria and reviewed 23 scholarly sources on GLOF adaptation. We qualitatively synthesized the data and categorized the adaptation strategies into two main types: structural and non-structural. Structural measures include engineering solutions such as lake-level control, channel modifications, and flood defense infrastructure, designed to reduce the physical damage caused by GLOFs. Non-structural measures include community-based practices, economic diversification, awareness programs, and improvements in institutional governance, addressing social and economic vulnerabilities. We found that Afghanistan remains underrepresented in GLOF-related studies, with only one article that specifically focuses on GLOFs, while Nepal and Pakistan receive greater attention in research. The findings underscore the need for a holistic, context-specific approach that integrates both structural and non-structural measures to enhance resilience across the HKH region. Policy-makers should prioritize the development of sustainable mechanisms to support long-term adaptation efforts, foster cross-border collaborations for data sharing and coordinated risk management, and ensure that adaptation strategies are inclusive of vulnerable communities. Practitioners should focus on strengthening early warning systems, expanding community-based adaptation initiatives, and integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches to enhance local resilience. By adopting a collaborative and regionally coordinated approach, stakeholders can improve GLOF risk preparedness, mitigate socioeconomic impacts, and build long-term resilience in South Asia’s high-altitude regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydro-Meteorological Hazards: Causes, Impacts, and Mitigation Strategies)

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13 pages, 2426 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Impacts of Climate Change Scenarios on Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index in North African Arid Montane Rangeland: Case of Toujane Region

by Jamila Msadek, Abderrazak Tlili, Farah Chouikhi, Athanasios Ragkos and Mohamed Tarhouni

Climate 2025, 13(3), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13030059 - 15 Mar 2025

Abstract

Radiometric vegetation indices are considered good indicators of vegetation health and can contribute to explaining its current and future evolutions. This study is carried out in the arid mountain rangeland of Toujane (southeast of Tunisia). The aim is to predict how climate change [...] Read more.

Radiometric vegetation indices are considered good indicators of vegetation health and can contribute to explaining its current and future evolutions. This study is carried out in the arid mountain rangeland of Toujane (southeast of Tunisia). The aim is to predict how climate change will affect the Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) values under dryland conditions. Current and future SAVI indices are analyzed using the maximum entropy algorithm (MaxEnt). The Canadian Earth System Model version 5 (CanESM5) represents the data source of two future climatic scenarios. These last, called Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP245, SSP585), concern four time periods (2021–2040, 2041–2060, 2061–2080, and 2081–2100). Three topographic, twelve soil, and nineteen climatic variables are undertaken during each period. The main results of the jackknife test show that temperature, precipitation, and some soil variables are the main factors influencing SAVI indices. Specifically, they affect plant growth and vegetation cover, which in turn modify the SAVI index. Based on the area under the receiving curve, the model shows high predictive accuracy for a high SAVI (AUC = 0.88 − 0.92). These findings show that land management strategies may be incumbent upon to reduce the vulnerability linked to climate change in Toujane rangelands. Full article

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24 pages, 9298 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Variation in the Extreme Temperatures and Related Climate Indices for the Marche Region, Italy

by Luciano Soldini and Giovanna Darvini

Climate 2025, 13(3), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13030058 - 10 Mar 2025

Abstract

This paper presents a study on the evolution of extreme temperatures in the Marche region, Central Italy. To this end, a complete dataset compiled using data collected from available thermometric stations over the years 1957–2019 based on minimum and maximum daily temperatures was [...] Read more.

This paper presents a study on the evolution of extreme temperatures in the Marche region, Central Italy. To this end, a complete dataset compiled using data collected from available thermometric stations over the years 1957–2019 based on minimum and maximum daily temperatures was selected. The yearly mean values of extreme temperature and relative climate indices defined by the Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices were calculated, and a trend analysis was performed. The spatial distribution of the trends was assessed, and the variations in extreme temperatures in the medium–long term were considered by calculating mean values with respect to different climatological standard normals and decades. The analyzed parameters show that extreme heat events characterized by increasing intensity and frequency have occurred over the years, while cold weather events have decreased. A high percentage of stations recorded an increase in all indices related to daily maximum temperatures, and a simultaneous decline of those related to daily minimum values, under both nighttime and daytime conditions. This phenomenon characterizes the entire Marche region. A detailed analysis of the heat wave indices confirms an increasing trend, with a notable increase beginning in the early 1980s. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Variability in the Mediterranean Region)

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27 pages, 6566 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Climate Change and Its Impact on Natural Resources and Rural Livelihoods: Gendered Perspectives from Naryn, Kyrgyzstan

by Azamat Azarov, Maksim Kulikov, Roy C. Sidle and Vitalii Zaginaev

Climate 2025, 13(3), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13030057 - 10 Mar 2025

Abstract

Climate change poses significant threats to rural communities in Kyrgyzstan, particularly for agriculture, which relies heavily on natural resources. In Naryn Province, rising temperatures and increasing natural hazards amplify vulnerabilities, especially in high mountain areas. Addressing these challenges requires understanding both environmental factors [...] Read more.

Climate change poses significant threats to rural communities in Kyrgyzstan, particularly for agriculture, which relies heavily on natural resources. In Naryn Province, rising temperatures and increasing natural hazards amplify vulnerabilities, especially in high mountain areas. Addressing these challenges requires understanding both environmental factors and the perceptions of affected communities, as these shape adaptive responses. This study enhances understanding of climate change impacts on communities in Naryn Province by combining environmental and social assessments through a gendered lens, with a particular focus on women. Environmental data, including air temperature, precipitation, river discharge, and satellite-derived vegetation indices, were analyzed to evaluate changes in vegetation and water resources. Social data were collected through interviews with 298 respondents (148 women and 150 men) across villages along the Naryn River, with chi-square analysis used to examine gender-specific perceptions and impacts on livelihoods. The results indicated a noticeable rise in temperatures and a slight decline in precipitation over recent decades, affecting vegetation and grazing areas near settlements. While respondents of both genders reported similar observations, differences emerged in how changes affect their roles and activities, with localized variations linked to household and agricultural responsibilities. The findings highlight the need for inclusive adaptation strategies that address diverse experiences and priorities, providing a foundation for equitable and effective climate resilience measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Climate Adaptation and Mitigation)

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18 pages, 382 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Addressing the Impact of Complex English Use in Communicating Climate Change in Nigerian Communities Through Contextual Understanding

by Chinwe P. Oramah, Tochukwu A. Ngwu and Chinwe Ngozi Odimegwu

Climate 2025, 13(3), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13030056 - 9 Mar 2025

Abstract

The effective implementation of preparedness and response strategies toward climate change resilience has evolved into a technical, sociopolitical, and communication issue. We argue that, for climate communication to effectively contribute to community resilience, it demands meaningful dialogue and engagement to facilitate understanding. Using [...] Read more.

The effective implementation of preparedness and response strategies toward climate change resilience has evolved into a technical, sociopolitical, and communication issue. We argue that, for climate communication to effectively contribute to community resilience, it demands meaningful dialogue and engagement to facilitate understanding. Using the risk communication theory, we assessed the impact of complex English language on climate change understanding in Nigerian communities where local languages are predominant. Through surveys and semi-structured interviews, we found that current communication strategies are ineffective and misaligned with the local context, traditional knowledge systems, and specific community concerns, therefore marginalizing local actors from meaningful participation. The translation of climate communication into climate change action is challenging for local actors due to prevailing exclusion from discussion and a lack of engagement, which contributes to misunderstanding and poor climate change action. The study indicates that enhancing climate change communication in Nigeria necessitates the development of integrative strategies tailored to the language, cultural, and educational context that will encourage the local actors to participate effectively in this discussion. The paper recommends translating information into local languages and integrating local proverbs and mythological interpretations that can be positively employed to combat climate change within these communities more organically. Full article

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19 pages, 722 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Social Acceptance of Renewable Energy Communities: The Role of Socio-Political Control and Impure Altruism

by Marialuisa Menegatto, Andrea Bobbio, Gloria Freschi and Adriano Zamperini

Climate 2025, 13(3), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13030055 - 6 Mar 2025

Abstract

The ever-worsening climate crisis necessitates a shift toward sustainable energy systems that prioritise citizen participation. Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) present a unique opportunity to enhance local resilience, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and foster climate mitigation and adaptation through participatory governance. This exploratory study [...] Read more.

The ever-worsening climate crisis necessitates a shift toward sustainable energy systems that prioritise citizen participation. Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) present a unique opportunity to enhance local resilience, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and foster climate mitigation and adaptation through participatory governance. This exploratory study investigates the psychosocial predictors of social acceptance for RECs, with a focus on Socio-political Control and Warm-glow Motivation as key determinants. To this end, we collected 107 questionnaires completed by residents of the metropolitan city of Padua, which is engaged in the EU’s 100 Climate-Neutral Cities by 2030 mission. The results indicate a generally favourable attitude toward RECs and reveal that Socio-political Control, defined as the perceived ability to influence societal and political systems, positively predicts community energy acceptance. Furthermore, Impure Altruism (Warm-glow Motivation) mediates this relationship, underscoring the importance of intrinsic emotional rewards in fostering support for sustainable energy projects. These findings highlight the interplay between individual agency and emotional satisfaction in promoting energy transitions. This study underscores the need for participatory governance and tailored communication strategies to enhance public engagement with RECs. Limitations and avenues for future research are discussed, emphasising the need for broader cross-cultural investigations and experimental designs. Full article

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14 pages, 5208 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term and Seasonal Analysis of Storm-Wave Events in the Gulf of California

by Cuauhtémoc Franco-Ochoa, Yedid Guadalupe Zambrano-Medina, Sergio Alberto Monjardin-Armenta and Sergio Arturo Rentería-Guevara

Climate 2025, 13(3), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13030054 - 4 Mar 2025

Abstract

Coastal zones are threatened by extreme meteorological phenomena such as storm–wave events. Understanding storm-wave events is essential for sustainable coastal management. This study analyzed the temporal variability (both long-term and seasonal) of the frequency and energy content of storm-wave events in the Gulf [...] Read more.

Coastal zones are threatened by extreme meteorological phenomena such as storm–wave events. Understanding storm-wave events is essential for sustainable coastal management. This study analyzed the temporal variability (both long-term and seasonal) of the frequency and energy content of storm-wave events in the Gulf of California for the period 1980–2020 using storm-wave data from the fifth-generation climate reanalysis dataset (ERA5). The results indicate that storm events in the Gulf of California are becoming more frequent and energetic. Storm-wave events coming from the north are more frequent but less energetic than those coming from the south. Throughout the year, storm-wave events from both the north and south show seasonal behavior. This paper aims to enhance the understanding of storm-wave events in the Gulf of California and serve as a foundation for future studies, such as coastal impact assessments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal Hazards under Climate Change)

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17 pages, 10152 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Relationship Between Microclimate and Building Energy Loads Based on Apartment Complex Layout Types

by Sumin Lee, Sukjin Jung and Seonghwan Yoon

Climate 2025, 13(3), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13030053 - 3 Mar 2025

Abstract

This study provides fundamental data for optimal planning by analyzing key factors influencing microclimate and building energy loads. * to provide fundamental data for optimal planning. A total of 11 apartment layout types, including tower-type, flat-type, and mixed-type configurations, were analyzed using ENVI-met [...] Read more.

This study provides fundamental data for optimal planning by analyzing key factors influencing microclimate and building energy loads. * to provide fundamental data for optimal planning. A total of 11 apartment layout types, including tower-type, flat-type, and mixed-type configurations, were analyzed using ENVI-met simulations. The results indicate that layout types significantly influence microclimate and energy consumption. Tower-type layouts enhanced wind flow, reducing surface temperatures and cooling loads. In contrast, dense flat-type layouts restricted airflow, leading to heat accumulation and increased cooling energy demand. Mixed layouts exhibited varied effects depending on the proportion of open spaces and high-density clusters. Additionally, south-facing layouts optimized solar radiation, reducing heating loads, whereas east–west-facing layouts experienced imbalanced solar exposure, increasing cooling demand by 15–20% in the summer. Horizontal parallel and staggered layouts improved ventilation efficiency and mitigated heat accumulation, making them effective strategies for enhancing microclimate and reducing energy consumption. This study confirms that apartment layout planning plays a crucial role in microclimate regulation and energy efficiency. The findings can guide architectural strategies to improve thermal comfort and reduce building energy consumption. Full article

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