Droughts and heat waves are expected to become more frequent in Switzerland due to climate change. Droughts have major impacts on water resources, public health, ecosystems and consequently the economy. However, relevant information as a basis for adequate coping strategies is still lacking.
Background
According to climate change scenarios, drought risk will significantly increase in Switzerland in the coming decades. The drought and heat wave of 2003 demonstrated the severe consequences of such events and the lack of preparation of Switzerland. Consequences for nature and society include impacts on water resources, water supply, agriculture, energy production, building infrastructure and ecosystems. As droughts can enhance the severity of heat waves, they also impact human health.
Aim
The project aims at a better understanding and evaluation of drought risks in Switzerland. The project integrates natural and social science components: On the one hand, we will characterize drought effects on ecosystems, soils and river systems by means of observations as well as hydrological and climate models. On the other hand, we will evaluate costs and impacts associated with droughts and the potential benefits associated with their prediction. This analysis will enable us to investigate appropriate approaches for the prediction and early warning of droughts. Together with different stakeholders, we will develop a first prototype of a virtual information platform for droughts.
Significance
Droughts did not constitute a major risk in the past, and consequently Switzerland is ill-prepared for this hazard. Prediction of drought is highly challenging due to the complexity of the affected systems. The project evaluates drought risks in Switzerland in a comprehensive way for the first time. This will provide a basis to adapt to the impact of climate change.
Original title: Evaluation of drought risk in Switzerland (DROUGHT-CH)
Grant: CHF 992’880.-
Duration: 36 months
Project leaders
- Prof. Dr. Sonia Seneviratne, Institut für Atmosphäre und Klima
- Prof. Dr. Jan Seibert, Geographisches Institut, Universität Zürich
- PD Dr. Irmi Seidl, Wirtschafts- und Sozialwissenschaften, Eidgenössische Forschungsanstalt für Wald, Schnee und Landschaft (WSL)
- Dr. Manfred Stähli, Gebirgshydrologie und Wildbäche, Eidgenössische Forschungsanstalt für Wald, Schnee und Landschaft (WSL)
- Dr. Kerstin Stahl, Institut für Hydrologie, Universität Freiburg i.Br.
- Prof. Dr. Markus Weiler, Institut für Hydrologie, Universität Freiburg i.Br.
- Dr. Massimiliano Zappa, Gebirgshydrologie und Wildbäche, Eidgenössische Forschungsanstalt für Wald, Schnee und Landschaft (WSL)