New Hampshire is experiencing significant changes in its climate. According to climate scientists at the University of New Hampshire, the state has become noticeably warmer and wetter since the 1970s.
The Granite State faces the prospect of higher temperatures and more extreme weather events unless substantial efforts are made to reduce emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources.
In 2021, the New Hampshire Climate Assessment highlighted that average temperatures in the state have increased by about three degrees Fahrenheit since 1901. This warming trend is particularly evident in southern New Hampshire.
Reports from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change emphasize the urgency of addressing these changes to avoid severe consequences.
Leadership and experts from institutions like the University of New Hampshire, including the state climatologist, are actively studying these impacts. They aim to inform and guide policy decisions that can help mitigate the effects of climate change in New Hampshire.
Researchers recommend swift action in the next few decades to protect the state’s environment and communities from impending climate risks.
How Has Climate Change Impacted New Hampshire
New Hampshire has experienced rising temperatures. Many areas have warmed by more than 3 degrees Fahrenheit over the past century.
These changes affect weather patterns and ecosystems.
Winter temperatures are getting milder, leading to shorter periods of snow cover. This affects winter activities and water resources.
Precipitation patterns have changed significantly. There is more extreme rainfall, increasing the risks of river flooding.
This has been noted by studies on regional climate impacts. Conversely, certain seasons are becoming drier, posing challenges for agriculture and water supply.
Spring is arriving earlier in the Northeast. This shift affects planting schedules and ecosystems.
Additionally, warmer conditions favor invasive species and pests, further stressing local environments.
Sea levels along the seacoast are rising, contributing to coastal flooding. This threatens wetlands, infrastructure, and properties near the Atlantic Ocean.
The warming climate has led to ice-out dates occurring earlier.
This affects aquatic life and local traditions centered around lakes and ponds.
Forests in New Hampshire are also impacted. Higher temperatures and changing precipitation patterns stress native tree species like oak, making forests more vulnerable to pests and diseases.
Annual precipitation has increased, but it’s more concentrated in heavy storms. Summers are hotter and drier, increasing the risk of droughts.
How Is New Hampshire Going To Be Impacted By Future Climate Change
New Hampshire is likely to see warming winters and an increase in hot days.
By the end of the century, the state could experience up to 60 days of temperatures above 90°F annually.
Extreme precipitation events are expected to become more frequent, often leading to issues like storm surge and coastal flooding.
Rising sea levels will exacerbate these problems for coastal communities.
Infrastructure in New Hampshire will need to adapt to handle the increased frequency of extreme heat and flooding.
These changes will also impact businesses and tourism.
Coastal communities will face regular inundation due to storm surges driven by rising sea levels.
This will challenge ecosystems and test sustainability measures.
Human health will also be affected by the increased number of hot days and warm nights.
The number of extreme heat events is projected to rise, leading to potential health risks, especially for vulnerable populations.
Winter recreation, such as the ski industry, will suffer due to warming winters.
Less snowfall and shorter winters will negatively impact tourism linked to winter sports.
Ecosystems and wildlife will be forced to adapt or expand their ranges due to the changing climate and habitat loss, further impacting biodiversity.