Temperature extremes in a changing climate

Abstract This chapter describes the observed change in temperatures since preindustrial times, the impacts of extreme temperatures on the environment and society, and the indices and metrics commonly used for evaluating temperature change. The methods for observational analysis, climate modeling, and regional climate downscaling are presented to help readers understand the state-of-the-art techniques for climate simulation and projection. This chapter reviews mitigation and adaptation strategies employed by major US cities and introduces the methods for strategy evaluation and optimization that can be employed by governments or stakeholders to plan and initiate appropriate climate adaptations and resiliency measures.