Kliimanäitajad

Kliimanäitajad, also known as climate indicators, are measurable factors that help describe the state of the Earth's climate. They provide a simplified way to track changes in the climate system over time. These indicators are crucial for understanding climate trends, assessing the impacts of climate change, and informing policy decisions.

Key climate indicators include global average temperature, which has shown a significant warming trend over the past century. Another important indicator is sea level rise, caused by the thermal expansion of ocean water and the melting of glaciers and ice sheets. Ocean heat content, representing the amount of heat stored in the oceans, is also rising, contributing to sea level rise and influencing weather patterns.

Atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations, a primary greenhouse gas, are another critical indicator, showing a steady increase due to human activities like burning fossil fuels. Changes in precipitation patterns, including both increases and decreases in rainfall in different regions, are also monitored. Furthermore, the extent and duration of snow cover and sea ice, particularly in the Arctic, are sensitive indicators of warming. Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall, are also observed and analyzed as part of climate monitoring. These indicators, when tracked collectively, offer a comprehensive picture of the ongoing changes in our planet's climate.