Temperature extremes: Dynamics, Prediction, and Impacts

Heatwaves are among the deadliest extreme weather events. As the climate changes, they are increasingly affecting regions that have not historically experienced such extremes with the same frequency or intensity. Such recurrent and prolonged periods of extreme heat can affect a wide range of sectors, particularly human health. However, some of the societal impacts of heatwaves can be mitigated through region-specific planning across timescales ranging from hours to months. Strikingly, heatwaves are among the most predictable extreme weather events, offering the potential for lead times of several weeks and, consequently, early warnings. This talk explores the interplay between the atmospheric drivers of heatwaves, their predictability, and the implications for their societal impacts.