Climate change is altering landscapes globally, but it is not easy for most people to find out how conditions are predicted to change in specific locations – like where they live, work, or travel. Now, thanks to a new data tool from the Alaska CASC and its partners, Alaskans can do just that.  

The “Northern Climate Reports” tool uses an application program interface (API) to fetch and present data as user-friendly reports with charts, graphs, and explanatory text. With a simple mouse click, users can select a location on a map of Alaska and the Yukon to view projections of temperature, precipitation, permafrost, wildfire risk, and more. Previously, researchers would have had to generate these reports manually each time they were requested, but the new tool streamlines the process and makes it easy for anyone to access climate projections. The tool is also being adapted for other uses. For instance, the Arctic Environmental and Engineering Data and Design Support System (Arctic-EDS), funded by the Department of Defense, uses the same system to generate climate reports for engineering applications like heating, cooling, and building design. Furthermore, it can be used for informed planning of infrastructure, management of natural resources and other general community needs. 

This Alaska CASC-supported “Climate and Weather Tool” provides open and accessible climate data so that Alaskans can better understand and plan for the expected changes and risks associated with climate change.  

This work is supported by the Alaska CASC Project, “Translating Scientific Information for Use by Decision Makers in Alaska.”