What You Will Do
Earth’s current period of climate change is caused by increasing average global temperature. Consequences of global warming go far beyond just warmer temperatures. Every part of the climate system is affected, which is why scientists refer to “climate change” when talking about the effects of global warming.
Watch this video, which describes what Earth’s climate and weather may be like in the future. As you watch, pay attention to the maps that model how average temperatures around the world could change between now and 2100. After you watch, answer the questions in the Take Notes section below.
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NARRATOR: This map shows how temperatures could change. The models predict the average temperature could be 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit hotter. That means in New York City, days with temperatures over 90 degrees would more than triple. And in the Arctic—which will heat up even faster—it could rise on average more than 15 degrees.
HEIDI CULLEN, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute: One of the things we understand really well about our climate system is that if you crank up the average temperature of the planet, it is going to fundamentally change your weather.
JOHN HOLDREN, Harvard University: Their results suggest we will see more Category 4 and 5 hurricanes, and the prevalence of devastating heat waves will be much more extreme.
NARRATOR: The models also show that by the end of the century, it is likely the ocean will rise one-and-a-half to four feet. Without major changes, this would put parts of cities like Miami underwater.
After watching the video, answer the following questions in the space below. You may watch the video again, or click on Video Transcript to read a written record.