Blocking and Heat Extremes in Current and Future Climates: Probabilities and Social Impact

Host: Veeshan Narinesingh

Atmospheric blocks are large persistent anticyclones that can have profound effects on weather. One extreme type of event that is commonly associated with blocking is heatwaves. In this project students will investigate the dynamics and connections between atmospheric blocking and heatwaves in observations and climate model simulations --both in current and future climate projections. The exact details will be discussed and finalized with input from both the student and mentor. In addition, there is also the option for an outreach and qualitative social science element of this work investigating the impacts of heat stress on marginalized communities.