Land Surface Controls on Heatwaves: Investigating the contribution of vegetation and soil moisture from local to global scales

Summary

Heatwaves have emerged as one of the most devastating manifestations of global warming, with cascading impacts on health, ecosystems, and economies. Soil moisture and vegetation affect how heatwaves develop under climate change. Using observational data and climate models, my research maps how heatwaves and population exposure to them will develop across regions, which are affected by soil moisture and vegetation under climate change.
My research reveals significant land surface’s role in heatwave risks and spots vulnerable regions for targeted protections like warnings or improved irrigation. Through highlighting differences between dry and moist heatwaves, my research also informs smarter climate adaptation strategies against them.