Climate change will alter patterns of snowfall, rain and snowmelt, shifting how our region receives and stores water. These changes will have an impact on every aspect of life in the Northwest, from forests to farms, ski areas to cities.

As the climate warms, forests across the Northwest will experience increased disturbances from wildfire, drought and disease. Parts of the region that historically were habitat for certain tree species will no longer be suitable for these species as the temperatures warm.

Due to the burning of fossil fuels, sea levels are rising and the ocean is warming and acidifying. These changes threaten Pacific Northwest coastal property and infrastructure, fishing and recreation, communities and wildlife.

Climate change is causing warmer average temperatures and declining snow in the mountains. As a result, Pacific Northwest landscapes and habitats are changing and affecting the plants, animals and humans who rely on them.

Climate change stands to have profound effects on individuals and their communities. Warmer temperatures and changes in patterns of precipitation and snowmelt, among other climate impacts, will affect human health, the built environment, recreation and other facets of society.

This webpage on climate adaptation provides an overview of what it means to adapt, why it’s important and the Climate Impacts Group’s role in supporting adaptation.

This 90-minute webinar provides an accessible overview of climate change in Washington state. It dives into climate trends, projected future changes, climate-related natural hazards, and impacts to people, infrastructure and natural systems.

This project supports the Office of the Governor, Washington State agencies and some local jurisdictions in addressing climate resilience by providing an updated climate risk assessment designed to inform future updates to the statewide climate resilience strategy. Developed alongside the Washington State University IMPACT Center, the assessment compiles information on the biophysical and economic impacts of climate change.

The Northwest section of the Fifth National Climate Assessment, published in 2023, is the latest synthesis of climate impacts in our region.

State of Knowledge: Climate Change in Puget Sound is a comprehensive report summarizing research on the likely effects of climate change on the lands, water and people of the Puget Sound region. Presented in an easy-to-read format, it is designed to serve as a reference for individuals from a wide range of backgrounds who are interested in the state of the science on climate change and its effects within the Puget Sound region. The report also describes local climate change risk reduction activities and highlights data resources available to support local climate adaptation efforts.

Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation in Washington State: Technical Summaries for Decision Makers summarizes existing knowledge about the likely effects of climate change on Washington state and the Pacific Northwest with an emphasis on research since 2007. The report also provides examples of climate change adaptation activities underway across the state and data resources available to support local adaptation efforts.