How does climate change affect water resources?

Climate change significantly influences water resources by increasing the risks of droughts and floods. As global temperatures rise, shifts in weather patterns occur, leading to more extreme weather events. Higher temperatures can exacerbate evaporation rates, decreasing water availability in certain regions, thereby increasing the likelihood of droughts. Conversely, changes in rainfall patterns may result in intense storms and heavy precipitation in other areas, raising the risk of flooding.

These changes disrupt the balance of natural water cycles, complicating water management and planning. This means that while some areas may experience a decrease in water supply due to prolonged dry spells, others may face excess water during severe storm events. Such fluctuations pose challenges for agriculture, drinking water supplies, and ecosystems, making effective water resource management crucial in adapting to these impacts.