A global temperature rise to 2C above pre-industrial levels could see many regions facing an increased threat of drought and wildfires, study suggestsMore than a quarter of the planet’s surface could become significantly drier if global temperatures rise 2C above pre-industrial levels, scientists predict. The study, which is one of the most detailed assessments to date of future aridity, suggests that many regions could face an increased threat of drought and wildfires. Hurricanes and heatwaves: stark signs of climate change 'new normal' Read moreLimiting global warming to under 1.5C would avoid extreme changes for two-thirds of these areas, the study suggested. The scientists studied projections from 27 different global climate models to pinpoint regions where the land is expected to become significantly drier, as global warming reaches 1.5C and 2C above pre-industrial levels. The study suggested that equatorial regions and countries at high latitudes could get wetter.

Source: The Guardian January 02, 2018 15:45 UTC