Climate Change: Implication on Urban Drought

Abstract

There is clear evidence that the earth is becoming warmer. With the continued emission of greenhouse gases, the increase in global average temperature by 2100 is expected to range between 1.1 and 6.6 °C higher than the 1990 levels. The evidences include rise in mean sea level during the last century, a significant increase in global temperature, shrinking ice sheets, glacial retreat and an increased frequency of extreme events. Many regions have experienced changes in the pattern and intensity of rainfall, resulting in more frequent and intense floods and droughts, as well as severe heat waves. The recent El Nino activities were responsible for widespread droughts in Asia, and many cities have suffered instances of water crisis and massive flooding since 2000. Urban areas, characterized by increased concentration of population, economic activities and infrastructural facilities are likely to bear the most severe impacts of climate change. Matters are expected to be worse for the urban areas in the less developed countries of Asia, experiencing the fastest rate of urbanization and the growth of megacities. According to recent estimates, two-thirds of the megacities of the world are located in regions most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change that would affect water systems and urban water utilities. Cities are also responsible for the creation of micro-climates with effects on temperature and wind conditions. The projected shifts in climate variables for the twenty-first century along with the observed impacts of extreme weather events are likely to make adaptations to climate change extremely difficult and a major challenge for urban areas over the coming decades. International Conventions are thus emphasizing on the adaptation of climate change responses. This chapter aims to look into the recent trend of climate change and its implications on urban areas particularly in the less developed countries of Asia. The chapter would explore the linkage between urban areas and climate change and assess the role of various international conventions and local adaptations in finding solutions.