The Briefing Room How prepared are we for climate change?
Aug 14, 2025
In this discussion, Mark Maslin, a climatology expert from University College London, Jess Neumann, a hydrology specialist at the University of Reading, and Richard Dawson, an engineering professor from Newcastle University, tackle the UK's escalating climate challenges. They explore the alarming rise in temperatures and extreme weather, revealing strains on infrastructure like railways. The trio emphasizes the need for better flood preparedness and housing adaptations to ensure safety. They also probe the effectiveness of early warning systems in enhancing community resilience.
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Winters Warmer But Cold Snaps Persist
- Winters are ~1°C warmer and ~15% wetter than last century, and snow days have declined.
- Severe cold snaps still occur but are about half as likely as in the 1960s.
Heavier Storms From Warmer Air
- A warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, causing heavier storm rainfall (~20% heavier than pre‑industrial).
- By 2070, extreme daily storm rainfall frequency could be ~85% higher than today.
Flood Types Depend On Local Factors
- UK rainfall patterns are regionally varied due to prevailing southwesterly winds and geology.
- Flood risk types (river, coastal, groundwater, flash) depend on local conditions, not simple east/west splits.