Oklahoma Water

Resources Center

Title: 

Climate Modeling, Projections and the Impact Beyond Climate Science

 

When:

Friday, November 7 

3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

 

Where:

Engineering North Room 210

 

Abstract:

Climate models, and their projections, were originally used as tools to research the climate system. However, the data and projections from climate models are increasingly used to assess the potential impacts of a changing climate and to guide decision-making at multiple scales. In addition, downscaling is also used to translate information from global climate models to local scales more relevant to impacts and decision-making. Therefore, it is critical to understand climate modeling, downscaling, and the resulting projections for both continued research on the climate system and to ensure the appropriate use of climate projections in impacts assessment and decision-making. This talk will walk through the basics of climate modeling and downscaling, the sources of uncertainty in climate projections, and go beyond to show how climate projections are used in many applications outside climate science. This talk will conclude with recommendations for the appropriate use of climate projections.

 

Speaker:

Dr. Adrienne M. Wootten is a Research Scientist at the South Central Climate Adaptation Science Center (CASC). Her work focused on evaluating the accuracy and uncertainty of downscaling, climate modeling, and climate projections, with emphasis on the implications outside of climate science (such as in hydrology or water resources management). Additionally, she helps CASC stakeholders with technological assistance and the appropriate use of climate projections for decision making processes and serves as Associate Editor of Weather, Climate, and Society.