In addition, there have been more hot days, especially inland. The report also predicts that in a “fairly likely” future emissions scenario, the temperature in the Helsinki region may rise by 2.5-3 degrees Celsius in the years 1981-2010 and 2040-2069. Due to the mild winter climate, there will probably be less snow, while in the summer, hotter heat waves can be expected, the effects of which will be intensified in the center of Helsinki due to the urban heat island phenomenon.
The report is a clear indication that global climate change is already affecting the climate in the capital region. The changes observed in the area are in line with what is happening in other parts of the world when the greenhouse effect caused by human activity intensifies. The trend is consistent with what the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has predicted in its Sixth Assessment Report. The increase in temperature and the resulting increase in average precipitation lead to special weather conditions associated with heat and rain. For example, there are more hot days than before, especially inland, and winter rains are increasing.
However, it is important to remember that despite the general increase in temperature, there is still variation in winter temperatures. Cold winters may still occur, although they are becoming less frequent with global warming. In addition, the increase in hot days is not uniform throughout the region. Inland areas have more hot days than coastal areas.
The authors of the report have also predicted that there will be more heat waves in Helsinki in the future. As the temperature rises, there are more warm days and fewer cold days. This increases the risk of heat waves, especially in urban areas, such as Helsinki, where the urban heat island phenomenon raises the temperature even higher than in the countryside. Hotter summers increase heat-related health problems and can affect vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.
In summary, it can be stated that the report commissioned by HSY offers a comprehensive analysis of the climate trends in the capital region, emphasizing the significant effects of global climate change. Rising temperatures, rains and heat waves should be taken seriously, as they can have serious consequences for the population’s health and the environment. It is crucial that policymakers take swift action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change.
HT