ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the projections of possible climatic changes associated with global warming, impacts of climate change and some discussions on how we as a state can begin adapting to them in beneficial ways. A coordinated adaptation strategy based on reliable climate change information is needed to support and coordinate decentralized efforts. The chapter outlines current understanding of climate change and impacts, and information for helping the formulation of adaptation strategies for Kerala. Across the state, impacts of climate change are already in evidence. Extreme rainfall events and warm extremes have become more frequent and intense, intense dry spells during monsoon are common and patterns of rainfall are likely changing. The fidelity of a model in representing the present-day climatological features and recent climate trends is crucial for building confidence in its future projections.
