Drought or Deluge: The Ocean and Earth's Changing Water Cycle

Water is essential for civilization and to life on Earth. New oceanic data show that the planetary water cycle is changing faster than anticipated and in surprising ways. In the near future, some parts of Earth are likely to experience intensified drought while other regions can expect more frequent flooding. This colloquium will discuss the latest science related to the changing global water cycle, extreme weather, and what water managers need from scientists.

Welcome and Introduction

Dr. Susan Avery, Director
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Speakers

Mega-Droughts of the Past
Dr. Kevin Anchukaitis
Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, Columbia University

Water and the Developing World
Dr. Anthony Patt
International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis

The Oceans and the Changing Global Water Cycle
Dr. Raymond Schmitt
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Climate Change and Extreme Weather
Dr. Kevin Trenberth
National Center For Atmospheric Research

Panel Discussion

Moderated by Mindy Todd, host of “The Point” on the WCAI Cape & Islands NPR station.