City specific climate projections are developed using multiple global climate models and emissions scenarios. Global climate models are high-powered super computers that are able to simulate the Earth's climate system. Each greenhouse gas emissions scenario is based on a differing set of assumptions about future economic growth, population growth, fossil fuel use, and other factors. Models are used to project how the climate system will respond over time to these differing scenarios. Results are presented across a range of outcomes to help account for potential future uncertainties.
Projections for CUSP cities indicate hotter temperatures and higher sea levels (for coastal cities) are very likely by the end of the century. Extremes events, such as hot days, intense precipitation events, and coastal flooding (for coastal cities) are likely to increase in frequency, intensity, and duration. These projected changes can have significant impacts on urban areas, since they face unique vulnerabilities to a changing climate due to the interconnectivity of urban systems, high population density, and roles as centers of industry.
Projections for CUSP cities indicate hotter temperatures and higher sea levels (for coastal cities) are very likely by the end of the century. Extremes events, such as hot days, intense precipitation events, and coastal flooding (for coastal cities) are likely to increase in frequency, intensity, and duration. These projected changes can have significant impacts on urban areas, since they face unique vulnerabilities to a changing climate due to the interconnectivity of urban systems, high population density, and roles as centers of industry.