Dry, hot summers could become the norm in Scotland, researchers warn
Scotland could begin to see 30 degree summers on a regular basis as the effects of climate change continue to take hold, according to a new report.
Researchers from the Met Office, alongside Edinburgh and Oxford universities, warned that unless greenhouse gas emissions are substantially reduced, the dry, hot temperatures experienced in 2018 could become the norm.
The report recommends Scotland should start planning to deal with more frequent higher temperatures brought about as a result of climate change.
Data from the Met Office put 2018 as the joint hottest summer on record, with economic impacts coming alongside an increase in pests such as wasps, jellyfish and mosquitoes, as well as lower yields of peas, broccoli, potatoes and cauliflower due to water shortages.
The report highlighted a 30 per cent increase in water demand, putting pressure on utility companies.
Lead researcher Professor Simon Tett, of the University of Edinburgh's School of GeoSciences, said: "Despite its cool climate, Scotland must start to prepare now for the impact of high-temperature extremes.
"The bottom line is that heatwaves have become more likely because of human-induced climate change."
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