Third National Climate Assessment Released!

The third National Climate Assessment (NCA), released today by the White House and the U.S. Global Change Research Program, informs U.S. citizens, communities, and businesses on the science of climate change, observed and projected changes, and impacts across the country. Written by more than 240 authors, including seven from the University of Arizona, the report is the most comprehensive national effort to assess the science and effects of climate change in the U.S. 

Assessment of Climate Change in the Southwest United States informed several chapters of the NCA, including a chapter devoted entirely to climate change in the Southwest. According to the report, the Southwest region is particularly vulnerable to future climate changes, with warming occurring faster than any other region in the country. Water supply is projected to become less reliable in parts of the region and more wildfires will increase risks to even more communities across extensive areas.

Unlike previous assessments, this NCA has been released as an interactive website, accessible through nca2014.globalchange.gov, to make it more accessible and useful to both citizens and scientists.