The IPCC Fourth Assessment Report and other climate assessments document an increasing trend in temperature and precipitation extremes, including hot days and nights, heavy precipitation events, and area affected by droughts. Recognition of extreme weather and climate events, including storms, floods, droughts, hurricanes, tornadoes, and extreme heat and cold events in a timely manner depends on our ability to monitor and forecast diverse physical indicators, as well as relevant economic, social and environmental impacts. Extreme weather and climate events such as these often result in significant socioeconomic and environmental costs within affected areas.

NOAA has numerous efforts underway to address the issues of extreme events. Some of these are familiar to the general public, such as NOAA Weather Radio and NOAA weather forecasts and warnings.

Research Programs for Extreme Events:

US Climate Change Science Program Synthesis and Assessment Product 3.3: Weather and Climate Extremes in a Changing Climate
Regions of Focus: North America, Hawaii, Caribbean, and U.S. Pacific islands

NOAA Storm Watch: This is a roundup of NOAA weather Web sites. You'll find links to the latest weather forecasts around the USA and even around the world. Track storms through NOAA weather satellites, get the latest weather maps and learn how to protect yourself and your community from severe weather. Hurricane, drought and tornado information can be found at the listed NOAA Web sites.

Tropical Cyclones and Climate Change: An Overview of GFDL Research on Global Warming and Hurricanes