ABSTRACT
A large proportion of solar energy is used to drive the hydrological cycle. This energy is mainly used for evaporation and subsequent precipitation. Due to higher greenhouse gas concentrations, more energy is available at the Earth's surface, which intensifies the hydrological cycle (Kabat and van Schaik, 2003; IPCC, 2007). As discussed in the previous chapters, climate variability and change have a large impact upon precipitation patterns and changes in rainfall are expected for the future. Some regions will receive more rainfall, while subtropical regions, in particular, are likely to see less rain. This chapter reviews recent changes in water resources availability and extreme events; the most important impacts of climate change upon the water sector are then discussed.
