Up to 5 billion people to be hit by rainfall changes this century if CO₂ emissions are not curbed, research shows

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🗞️ Driving the news: New research indicates that by 2100, three to five billion people could be affected by changes in global rainfall due to climate change
• This study, involving a comprehensive analysis of climate models, reveals regions projected to experience significant shifts in rainfall patterns, impacting large portions of the global population, including millions in Australia

🔭 The context: The study addresses the previously uncertain effects of climate change on global rainfall
• By analyzing time-series data from 1980 to 2100 across 146 climate models, the researchers identified regions where models concur on future rainfall impacts, highlighting areas facing increased or decreased precipitation

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The projected changes in rainfall have profound implications for water resources, agriculture, and ecosystems globally
• Regions facing reduced rainfall risk droughts and water scarcity, while those with increased rainfall may experience flooding and altered ecosystems

⏭️ What's next: The findings underscore the urgency of reducing carbon emissions to mitigate these changes
• Governments and communities must adapt to these anticipated shifts in rainfall patterns, potentially redesigning water management, agriculture, and disaster preparedness strategies

💬 One quote: "As climate change accelerates, it’s essential to understand the potential changes in global rainfall and the consequences on human populations" (Ralph Trancoso, Professor in Climate Change, The University of Queensland)

📈 One stat: 66% of the world’s population, or five billion people, could be affected by changes in rainfall under a scenario of very high emissions

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