Scientists warn of new global climate risks and say 'we can't afford to ignore'

A study published in Earth's Future outlines several worst‑case climate scenarios that could affect the U.K., and researchers say decision‑makers lack the tools to test those outcomes.

Researchers described new analyses of several worst‑case climate scenarios and said the U.K. is not adequately prepared. The study was published in Earth's Future and was commissioned by the Met Office as part of the government's climate resilience work. Authors compared their method to stress‑testing used in finance to show how planners could assess extreme outcomes. Scientists said their results give decision‑makers tools to examine outcomes they hope never happen but cannot afford to ignore. Key points: - The study outlines multiple worst‑case scenarios, including large regional temperature changes and substantial sea‑level rise. - A weakening or partial collapse of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) is cited as a scenario that could alter U.K. temperatures and disrupt water, agriculture, and energy demand. - The research was published in Earth's Future and was commissioned by the Met Office; authors say current planning lacks tools to test these high‑impact scenarios. - The report also notes scenarios that would intensify extreme heat, drought or heavy rainfall across the region. Summary: The study highlights planning gaps that could leave the U.K. exposed to a range of severe climate outcomes. Its publication provides a set of scenarios intended for use by officials and agencies when assessing resilience. Undetermined at this time.