Even in a world where we limit global warming as much as possible, extreme weather events will still become more frequent and intense. While Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) is working to address the causes of climate change, it is equally important to prepare for the challenges we know are coming, this is called climate adaptation.
Climate adaptation involves taking proactive steps to reduce risks and protect our community, such as emergency planning, saving water, protecting nature, and adapting buildings for future conditions.
Key Risks Identified
The MVDC Climate Change Adaptation Strategy addresses a range of serious weather events that are increasingly likely to occur, including:
- Flooding:
- Excessive rainfall can cause rivers to overflow.
- Rainwater on surfaces like concrete and tarmac can cause water to pool, leading to flooding in urban areas.
- Extreme Heat:
- High temperatures can pose serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups like babies, children, and the elderly.
- Extended dry spells and extreme heat can lead to wildfires, often caused by human activities such as BBQs and discarded cigarette butts.
- Drought:
A lack of rainfall and increased water consumption during hot weather can lead to water shortages. - Water Insecurity:
This occurs when there is insufficient clean water for drinking, sanitation, or farming. - Extreme Cold:
Severe winter conditions, such as icy roads and heavy snow, can create hazardous situations.
Areas for Improvement
The aim of the strategy is to reduce the risks that come with increasing climate change.
- Infrastructure: Improving roads and buildings to withstand extreme weather.
- Natural Environment: Protecting parks, wildlife, and natural spaces to mitigate climate impacts.
- Public Health: Ensuring community safety and resilience during extreme weather events.
Key Risks Identified
The MVDC Climate Change Adaptation Strategy addresses a range of serious weather events that are increasingly likely to occur, including:
- Flooding:
- Excessive rainfall can cause rivers to overflow.
- Rainwater on surfaces like concrete and tarmac can cause water to pool, leading to flooding in urban areas.
- Extreme Heat:
High temperatures can pose serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups like babies, children, and the elderly. - Drought:
A lack of rainfall and increased water consumption during hot weather can lead to water shortages. - Water Insecurity:
This occurs when there is insufficient clean water for drinking, sanitation, or farming. - Extreme Cold:
Severe winter conditions, such as icy roads and heavy snow, can create hazardous situations.
Areas for Improvement
The aim of the strategy is to reduce the risks that come with increasing climate change.
- Infrastructure: Improving roads and buildings to withstand extreme weather.
- Natural Environment: Protecting parks, wildlife, and natural spaces to mitigate climate impacts.
- Public Health: Ensuring community safety and resilience during extreme weather events.
Understanding Climate and Weather
Adaptation vs Mitigation
