Map shows how UK might look in 60 years after climate shift

July 08, 2024
England’s climate will begin to feel like the south of France’s
  • Almost 6% of the Earth had shifted towards warmer

Brits should enjoy the rainy weather while they can, as a new scorching climate zone is on the horizon. An interactive map from the University of Maryland offers a glimpse of the weather in 60 years.

Europe has already faced extreme wildfires this summer, with Cyprus experiencing 40°C heat. London summers are expected to be about 4.6°C warmer and 10% drier, similar to the climate of southern France.

Matthew Fitzpatrick, lead researcher, said: ‘Everything is moving towards the equator in terms of the climate that’s coming for you.’

Other areas of the UK can also expect to see warmer weather, with Liverpool also seeing a 4.5C increase and 13% drier weather.

The biggest leap is expected in Cardiff, where temperatures will rise by over 5C and become 21.8% drier.

Edinburgh's temperature is predicted to rise by 4.1C and become 8.5% drier. Because warm air retains more moisture, the city's winters will also become 13% wetter.

The interactive map was created by researchers at the University of Maryland

As a result, it will have a climate akin to Spain's Basque Country.

Predicted data from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is used in the map.

Dr Fitzpatrick says: ‘In 50 years, the northern hemisphere cities to the north are going to become much more like cities to the South.’

The map also includes a, ‘What if we reduce emissions?’ section to see how the climate of a town could change if cities met the limits set out in the Paris Climate Accord.

Climate change has so far been most pronounced in Europe, North America and Oceania.

Estimates made in 2015 said almost 6% of the Earth had shifted towards warmer, drier climates.

Those living on the equator will suffer the most significant impacts.

Dr Fitzpatrick says: ‘The closer you get to the equator there are fewer and fewer good matches for climates in places like Central America, south Florida, and northern Africa.

‘There is no place on Earth representative of what those places will be like in the future.

‘I hope that it continues to inform the conversation about climate change.

‘I hope it helps people better understand the magnitude of the impacts and why scientists are so concerned.’

What should we do if climate shifts?

If a climate shift occurs, it's important to take proactive measures to adapt and mitigate its impact. Here are some steps to consider:

  • Adapt Infrastructure: Upgrade buildings, roads, and utilities to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as heatwaves, floods, and storms.
  • Water Management: Implement efficient water management systems to conserve and recycle water, and improve flood defenses.
  • Sustainable Agriculture: Transition to climate-resilient crops, adopt sustainable farming practices, and invest in irrigation systems.
  • Renewable Energy: Increase reliance on renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Urban Planning: Design cities to be more sustainable, with green spaces, efficient public transportation, and energy-efficient buildings.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Develop and regularly update emergency response plans for extreme weather events, ensuring communities are prepared and informed.
  • Conservation Efforts: Protect and restore natural ecosystems, such as forests and wetlands, which can help absorb carbon dioxide and provide natural barriers against climate impacts.
  • Public Awareness and Education: Educate the public about climate change and promote sustainable practices to reduce individual carbon footprints.
  • Policy and Legislation: Advocate for and support policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability at local, national, and global levels.
  • Research and Innovation: Invest in research and technological innovation to find new solutions for climate adaptation and mitigation.