Climatologist Predicts Nearly Twice as Many 100 Degree Days for T

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A prominent Texas A&M climatologist says the state will experience nearly twice the number of 100 degree days by the year 2036. According to The Houston Chronicle:

That’s according to a new report from Texas State Climatologist John Nielsen-Gammon, who used both historical trends and climate models to predict what residents here might expect.
“Nobody knows which specific weather and climate events will befall Texas over the next couple of decades,” Nielsen-Gammon wrote. “But a wide variety of information can be used to estimate the risks of certain types of weather and climate events over that period.”

The report was compiled by a group called Texas 2036. In addition to more 100-degree days, Nielsen-Gammon predicts rainfall will be more intense for the state of Texas in the next 15 years.

The average temperature will be 1.8 degrees warmer, compared to 1991 to 2020
The number of 100-degree days will nearly double, compared to 2001 to 2020
Extreme rainfall intensity will increase by about 2 to 3 percent, compared to 2001 to 2020
Urban flooding will increase by about 10 to 15 percent, compared to what was expected for 2000 to 2018

The story goes on to say that the burning of fossil fuels leading to human-generated greenhouse gas emissions is considered the biggest factor in driving climate change. And that climate change is altering Texas weather as average temperatures in the state have risen 0.61 degrees per decade since the mid-70s.

I had a couple of classes with Dr. Nielsen-Gammon or as students call him, Dr. N-G, when I was an undergrad meteorology student at Texas A&M back in the 90s. I was very astounded by his knowledge of atmospheric sciences back then and I know he forgets more about weather than I will ever know.

So, tell us what do you think of this report? Do you agree with the predictions or not? Tell us your thoughts and opinion on Facebook or on our station app.

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