How the Canadian wildfire smoke could shift Americans’ views on climate

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As climate change dropped its calling card on the East Coast last week in the form of thick, dangerous smoke, millions of Americans and Canadians shared the jarring experience — forced to retreat indoors, cancel plans, wear masks and breathe hazardous air. The smoke that Canadian wildfires sent swirling over swaths of North America blanketed cities including New York, Philadelphia and Toronto, shocked many Easterners, broke air quality records and threatened people’s health. It also created a window, climate experts say, for catching people’s attention. Meade Krosby is quoted. 

“When these events happen, they’re a really important opportunity for helping the public make the connection between these kinds of events and climate change, and helping them understand what they can do.” – Meade Krosby, senior scientist, UW Climate Impacts Group

 

WA House passes legislation addressing heat, utility service

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The Washington State House passed a new bill aiming to protect vulnerable Washingtonians from dangerous heat waves. Now the legislation awaits Senate approval. If cemented into state law, the bill, HB 1329, would prevent utility services from shutting off residents’ power and water due to nonpayments during National Weather Service heat warnings. Research from the UW Climate Impacts Group is referenced.

Study: North Cascades grizzlies could gain more habitat as the climate warms

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Grizzly bears in Washington’s North Cascades could gain habitat as the climate warms, according to a study that looked at how climate change could affect the reintroduction of grizzly bears. Dr. Meade Krosby is quoted. This story aired on KUOW and Oregon Public Broadcasting. 

Washington State Climate Scientists say Wildlife Crossings Crucial as Climate Changes

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Wildlife crossings could be a path to a future where the climate has significantly changed the planet. Wildlife and climate experts are urging policymakers to plan for what they call “climate-informed” crossings. Dr. Meade Krosby is quoted in this article from Big Country News.

A New Climate Planning Tool for Local Governments

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The Climate Impacts Group has created a publicly available web application to help local jurisdictions navigate the large volume of climate information available for Washington and apply it in their climate resilience planning. Research Scientist Matt Rogers explains what the tool is and how it can be used in this blog post published by the Municipal Research and Services Center.

Now Hiring: Research Scientist – Hydrology

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The UW Climate Impacts Group is hiring a new, full-time Research Scientist with a focus on hydrologic change in the northwestern U.S. The Research Scientist will work with CIG’s lead scientists to co-produce applied research, synthesize literature and engage with partners on climate impacts and adaptation related to hydrologic change in the region. To see the full job description, visit the UW Hires website.

This position will conduct research and modeling related to hydrologic change in CIG projects and provide analytical, logistical and management support for projects requiring hydrology expertise. They will co-produce actionable science with project partners and stakeholders; synthesize scientific literature related to hydrologic change, impacts and adaptation; and develop science communication products for diverse audiences.

We are seeking a candidate with a background in hydrology and experience with physically-based hydrologic models, GIS software and data analysis. We are also seeking a candidate who has experience with use-inspired research and communicating with diverse audiences.

The expected salary range for this position is $6,500-$7,290 per month depending on experience. Position is located in Seattle, remote is possible with approval.

We will start reviewing applications for this position on December 6, 2022. To learn more and apply, please visit the UW Hires website.

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Questions and answers about this position:

We will post answers to questions we receive about this position on this webpage to ensure transparency and equity in our hiring process. Please check back occasionally for more information.

Is GIS expertise sufficient if I do not have expertise in hydrology?
No. The principal focus of this position requires expertise in hydrology. While often helpful to support hydrology research, expertise in GIS is secondary in importance for this position.

What is the anticipated timeline for this position?
We will start reviewing applications for this position on December 6, 2022. We will begin reviewing applications that week, with the hope to be scheduling interviews in early January and to make an offer before the end of the month.

More Floods and Worse Floods’ in the Chehalis Basin: Officials Discuss Potential Effects of Climate Change

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The Office of the Chehalis Basin isn’t just preparing for this year’s possible flooding events, but is looking ahead using University of Washington climate change models to see what flooding might look like in the state’s second largest river basin by the end of the century. Climate Impacts Group science is referenced.