Abrupt Climate Change

Abrupt climate change refers to sudden, significant shifts in climate patterns that occur over a short period, often decades or less, rather than gradually. These changes can drastically alter temperature, weather, and ecosystems, and are usually driven by feedback mechanisms—like melting ice reducing reflectivity and causing more warming. While the climate has historically experienced these rapid shifts, recent concerns focus on the potential for human activities, such as greenhouse gas emissions, to trigger unpredictable and rapid changes that could impact societies and natural systems worldwide.