Climate change is resulting in more frequent,  intense, and longer-lasting extreme events such as tropical storms, floods, heat waves, and drought. CESD research explores these extremes from the Arctic to the Tropics. 

We tap into the advanced computational capacity available at Berkeley Lab to develop methods and modeling that improve the ability to identify and predict these extremes–faster and more efficiently than ever–at local, regional, and global scales. Our researchers explore new machine learning and artificial intelligence approaches to improve predictions of extreme weather and develop earlier warning of these destructive events. We also work to improve model representation of interactions between aspects of the biosphere, such as forest health, water cycles, and the Earth system in order to better evaluate the influence extreme weather and ecosystem changes have on one another. 

Additionally, CESD scientists are studying these threats in urban areas, and collaborate with community stakeholders and resource decision makers to ensure this critical science is actionable and integrated into urban planning and management.