Climate Change Indicators

Sea level rise

Sea level rise is  “increase in the level of the world’s oceans due to the effects of global warming” (NatGeo). Sea level rise is seen all over the world, and is being seen in Connecticut. Sea level rise causes many problems, like erosion, loss of beaches, loss of habitat, among other things. 

 

Precipitation

Precipitation is continuing to change due to climate change. The variability of precipitation is getting worse and worse. This is is causing there to be long periods of no rain, then periods of constant rain. 

 

Water quality

Water quality of the “condition of the water, including chemical, physical, and biological characteristics, usually with respect to its suitability for a particular purpose such as drinking or swimming.” (Florida keys national marine sanctuary.) In Connecticut, this is most commonly appearing as closed beaches because of dangerous water, or undrinkable water.    

Rainfall 

 

Temperature

Heat waves can happen more and more ofter as climate change increases. Heat waves are prolonged period of abnormally hot weather. Heat waves can cause heat related illnesses. You can also notice temperatures that are lower than normal. 

 

Snow fall

Snow fall can change due to climate change. This can mean less frequent snow, and more intense snow storms. This can also look like random snow events early or late in seasons. 

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Pests 

While this might not be an obvious climate change indicator, pests can worsen due to climate change. An example of this would be noticing ticks during the winter months, or all year. 

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Growing patterns 

Growing patterns can change due to climate change. This means that growing seasons can start earlier or later, or shorten or get longer. 

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Animal sightings 

Animal sightings means you are noticing animals that you don't usually see during that season. Maybe animals are coming out of hibernation early, or you see birds migrating late. 

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Plant sightings 

Plant sightings are similar but also have differences to growing patterns. You can notice if plants are blooming early or late. Or maybe you notice some plants growing in certain areas