Climate Change

The impact of climate change and the likelihood of more frequent and more severe weather presents an evergreater challenge for every part of society.

This summer, the UK experienced record temperatures of 40.3C and six separate heatwave periods. The hottest ever day was recorded in North Wales in July 2022. The impacts of a changing climate will be felt first and most dramatically through our rivers and water resources There is the potential for disaster at both ends of the scale: predictions suggest than the frequency and severity of both flooding and droughts will increase as our climate continues to heat up and weather patterns change.

Climate change has been at the forefront of environmental news with global temperature expected to increase by 1.5°C since pre industrial levels (IPCC). With an increase in temperature, sea levels have already increased by 104mm since 1994 according to Nasa Climate change also brings an increase in extreme weather such as flooding and drought both have been in the UK news in the last few years With the climate changing, North Wales’s infrastructure is under more pressure than ever to mitigate the changes.

In September 2022, Natural Resources Wales officers considered the effects of the rainfall on our waters and the local environment and stated there were significant concerns for the ecosystems and habitats, water supplies, land management and agriculture around the Anglesey, Dee and Clwyd catchments. Declaring a drought in these areas.

Predicted Flood Risk Maps

How does this impact the Menai Strait?

Climate change is expected to have a significant impact on the Menai Strait, particularly in terms of rainfall and drought. As global temperatures continue to rise, the Menai Strait is likely to experience more intense rainfall events, leading to an increased risk of flooding and erosion along the coast At the same time, climate change is also expected to increase the frequency and severity of droughts, which could have serious implications for water availability and biodiversity in the area

The Menai Strait is an important habitat for a range of species, including fish, seabirds, and marine mammals, and changes to water availability and temperature could have significant impacts on these populations. In addition, the Menai Strait is a popular location for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and water sports, and changes to the local environment could have economic impacts for the local community