Climate

14 pages, 2934 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Early Humidity Measurements by Louis Morin in Paris between 1701 and 1711—Data and Metadata

by Thomas Pliemon, Ulrich Foelsche, Christian Rohr and Christian Pfister

Climate 2023, 11(7), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070156 - 23 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1290

This paper discusses what is, to our knowledge, the oldest subdaily measurement series of humidity taken over several years. Louis Morin performed the measurements in Paris, three times a day, between May 1701 and June 1711. A correlation analysis of Morin’s humidity measurements [...] Read more.

This paper discusses what is, to our knowledge, the oldest subdaily measurement series of humidity taken over several years. Louis Morin performed the measurements in Paris, three times a day, between May 1701 and June 1711. A correlation analysis of Morin’s humidity measurements with various meteorological variables yields results comparable to those of a parallel analysis of the relative humidity measurements of the E-OBS data: the Spearman correlation coefficient between the humidity and the daily minimum temperature is −0.43 (p < 0.01); with the mean temperature, it is −0.54 (p < 0.01); with the maximum temperature, it is −0.59 (p < 0.01); with the diurnal temperature range, it is −0.65 (p < 0.01); and with the total cloud cover, 0.33 (p < 0.01). However, with a Spearman correlation coefficient of 0.11 (p < 0.01), no correlation is found with the precipitation data. Further evidence for the plausibility of the measurements is shown by a day-by-day analysis of the first half-year of 1709. Here, abrupt changes in the humidity measurements of Morin can be explained by the other measurements/observations of Morin. According to the correlation analysis, indirect notes in his journal, and others, we argue that Morin used the hygrometer developed by Vincenzo Viviani. However, the conversion of the data to common units is not performed and is subject to further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Importance of Long Climate Records)

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16 pages, 1972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Regional Climate Change Adaptation Based on the PSR Model—Multi-Case Comparative Analysis on a Global Scale

by Mengzhi Xu, Jixia Li and Shixin Luan

Climate 2023, 11(7), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070155 - 23 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1907

Abstract

Regional climate change is affected by global warming, large-scale inter-regional circulation, and land use/cover. As a result of different ecological, economic, and social conditions, climate adaptation actions vary from region to region, including community-based adaptation in small island developing states, enhancing flood resilience [...] Read more.

Regional climate change is affected by global warming, large-scale inter-regional circulation, and land use/cover. As a result of different ecological, economic, and social conditions, climate adaptation actions vary from region to region, including community-based adaptation in small island developing states, enhancing flood resilience in Europe, weather index insurance promotion in Africa, climate change adaptation based on traditional knowledge in the Polar Regions, and global joint decision-making in terms of regional issues of the Ocean. This paper takes the above five typical cases as the research objects, and the multi-case comparative research method is adopted to discuss regional climate change adaptation based on the pressure–state–response framework. It found that: (1) regional climate change adaptation faces significant pressure from cross-regional flows of finance, population, and species under climate change; (2) climate change hotspot maps based on climate change projections show regional climate vulnerability; (3) responses for regional climate change adaptation require active promotion of multi-level governance with horizontal and vertical cooperation. In the future, regional climate change adaptation should focus on inter-regional climate justice and equality, regional climate change adaptation pathways optimization, and how to effectively learn from typical regional climate adaptation cases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Adaptation and Mitigation Practices and Frameworks)

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14 pages, 3754 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Scale Dependence of Errors in Snow Water Equivalent Simulations Using ERA5 Reanalysis over Alpine Basins

by Susen Shrestha, Mattia Zaramella, Mattia Callegari, Felix Greifeneder and Marco Borga

Climate 2023, 11(7), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070154 - 21 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1475

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the potential of ERA5 precipitation and temperature reanalysis for snow water equivalent (SWE) simulation by considering the role of catchment spatial scale in controlling the errors obtained by comparison with corresponding SWE simulations from ground stations. This is [...] Read more.

This study aims to evaluate the potential of ERA5 precipitation and temperature reanalysis for snow water equivalent (SWE) simulation by considering the role of catchment spatial scale in controlling the errors obtained by comparison with corresponding SWE simulations from ground stations. This is obtained by exploiting a semi-distributed snowpack model (TOPMELT) implemented over the upper Adige River basin in the Eastern Italian Alps, where 16 sub-catchments of varying sizes are considered. The comparison is carried out from 1992 to 2019. The findings show that ERA5 precipitation overestimated low-intensity rainfall (drizzle problem) and underestimated high-intensity rainfall, while ERA5 temperature underestimated observations. The overestimation of low-intensity rainfall created fictitious low-intensity snowfall events, which, when combined with colder ERA5 temperature, resulted in delayed snowmelt and increased fictitious snow-cover days over the study area. The quantile mapping (QM) technique was used to remove errors in ERA5 variables. It was shown that ERA5 could struggle to resolve the orographic enhancement in precipitation, which may be particularly important during high-SWE years. This reduces the positive precipitation bias during those years, thus reducing comparatively the ability of the quantile mapping technique to correct for bias homogeneously during all years. This study highlighted the importance of temperature correction over precipitation correction in SWE simulation, particularly for smaller basins. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seasonal Forecasting Climate Services for the Energy Industry)

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21 pages, 8488 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of the 3DVAR Operational Implementation of the Colombian Air Force for Aircraft Operations: A Case Study

by Jhon Edinson Hinestroza-Ramirez, Juan Ernesto Soto Barbosa, Andrés Yarce Botero, Danilo Andrés Suárez Higuita, Santiago Lopez-Restrepo, Lisseth Milena Cruz Ruiz, Valeria Sólorzano Araque, Andres Céspedes, Sara Lorduy Hernandez, Richard Caceres, Giovanni Jiménez-Sánchez and Olga Lucia Quintero

Climate 2023, 11(7), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070153 - 20 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1280

Abstract

This manuscript introduces an exploratory case study of the SIMFAC’s (Sistema de Información Meteorológica de la Fuerza Aérea Colombiana) operational implementation of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model with a 3DVAR (three-dimensional variational) data assimilation scheme that provides meteorological information for military, [...] Read more.

This manuscript introduces an exploratory case study of the SIMFAC’s (Sistema de Información Meteorológica de la Fuerza Aérea Colombiana) operational implementation of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model with a 3DVAR (three-dimensional variational) data assimilation scheme that provides meteorological information for military, public, and private aviation. In particular, it investigates whether the assimilation scheme in SIMFAC’s implementation improves the prediction of the variables of interest compared to the implementation without data assimilation (CTRL). Consequently, this study compares SIMFAC’S 3DVAR-WRF operational implementation in Colombia with a CTRL with the same parameterization (without 3DVAR assimilation) against the ground and satellite observations in two operational forecast windows. The simulations are as long as an operational run, and the evaluation is performed using the root mean square error, the mean fractional bias, the percent bias, the correlation factor, and metrics based on contingency tables. It also evaluates the model’s results according to the regions of Colombia, accounting for the country’s topographical differences. The findings reveal that, in general, the operational forecast (3DVAR) is similar to the CTRL without data assimilation, indicating the need for further improvement of the 3DVAR-WRF implementation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extreme Weather Detection, Attribution and Adaptation Design)

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21 pages, 4828 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Artificial Neural Network (ANN)-Based Long-Term Streamflow Forecasting Models Using Climate Indices for Three Tributaries of Goulburn River, Australia

by Shamotra Oad, Monzur Alam Imteaz and Fatemeh Mekanik

Climate 2023, 11(7), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070152 - 19 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1306

Abstract

Water resources systems planning, and control are significantly influenced by streamflow forecasting. The streamflow in northern and north-central regions of Victoria (Australia) is influenced by different climate indices, such as El Niño Southern Oscillation, Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation, Pacific Decadal Oscillation, and Indian Ocean [...] Read more.

Water resources systems planning, and control are significantly influenced by streamflow forecasting. The streamflow in northern and north-central regions of Victoria (Australia) is influenced by different climate indices, such as El Niño Southern Oscillation, Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation, Pacific Decadal Oscillation, and Indian Ocean Dipole. This paper presents the development of the ANN model using machine learning with the multi-layer perceptron and Levenberg algorithm for long-term streamflow forecasting for three tributaries of Goulburn River located within Victoria through establishing relationships between climate indices and streamflow. The climate indices were used as input predictors and the models’ performances were analyzed through best fit correlation. The higher correlation values of the developed models evident from Pearson regression (R) values ranging from 0.61 to 0.95 reveal the models’ acceptability. The accuracies of ANN models were evaluated using statistical measures such as Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE). It is found that considering R, RMSE, MAE and MAPE values, the ENSO has more influence (61% to 95%) on the streamflow of Goulburn River tributaries than other climate drivers. Moreover, it is concluded that Acheron ANN models are the best models that can be confidently used to forecast the streamflow even six-months ahead. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Numerical Models and Weather Extreme Events)

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14 pages, 1776 KiB

Open AccessReview

Upwelling in Marginal Seas and Its Association with Climate Change Scenario—A Comparative Review

by Muhammad Naim Satar, Mohd Fadzil Akhir, Zuraini Zainol and Jing Xiang Chung

Climate 2023, 11(7), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070151 - 18 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1985

Abstract

After Bakun proposed his hypothesis in 1990 regarding upwelling under climate change, researchers conducted intensive studies to obtain the trends, current status, and future predictions of upwelling. Numerous studies have mainly focused on four major upwelling areas, which are part of the Eastern [...] Read more.

After Bakun proposed his hypothesis in 1990 regarding upwelling under climate change, researchers conducted intensive studies to obtain the trends, current status, and future predictions of upwelling. Numerous studies have mainly focused on four major upwelling areas, which are part of the Eastern Boundary Upwelling System (EBUS). However, despite its importance, little attention has been given to the marginal seas upwelling areas such as the South China Sea (SCS), Arabian Sea, Baltic Sea, and other small-scale upwelling locations. Here, we combined several published studies to develop a new synthesis describing climate change impacts on these areas. There had been uncertainty regarding the intensification of upwelling, depending on the locations, data type, and method used. For the SCS, Vietnam and the northern SCS showed intensifying upwelling trends, while the Taiwan Strait showed a decreasing trend. Separate studies in eastern Hainan and the Arabian Sea (Somali and Oman) showed contrasting results, where both increasing and decreasing trends of upwelling had been recorded. Like the SCS, the Baltic Sea showed different results for different areas as they found negative trends along the Polish, Latvian and Estonian, and positive trends along the Swedish coast of the Baltic Sea and the Finnish coast of the Gulf of Finland. While small scales upwelling in La Guajira and southern Java showed increasing and decreasing trends, respectively. All of these limited studies suggest that researchers need to conduct a lot more studies, including the future projection of upwelling, by using climate models to develop a new understanding of how the upwelling in the SCS responds to climate change. Full article

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20 pages, 3600 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potentiality of Charcoal as a Dendrochronological and Paleoclimatic Archive: Case Study of Archaeological Charcoal from Southeastern Altai, Russia

by Anna Agatova, Roman Nepop, Vladimir Myglan, Valentin Barinov, Anna Tainik and Maja Filatova

Climate 2023, 11(7), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070150 - 16 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1364

Abstract

Archaeological charcoal from ancient nomad iron-smelting furnaces collected in the highland southeastern Russian Altai has great potential as a material for tree ring analysis. Dendrochronological dating was applied to 355 viable samples (>80% of the 448 collected ones), prepared using a new protocol. [...] Read more.

Archaeological charcoal from ancient nomad iron-smelting furnaces collected in the highland southeastern Russian Altai has great potential as a material for tree ring analysis. Dendrochronological dating was applied to 355 viable samples (>80% of the 448 collected ones), prepared using a new protocol. Individual tree ring series of 155 (~43%) samples were used to construct nine floating chronologies from 76 to 290 rings long. The archaeological and radiocarbon data on charcoal that fueled the hearths of the Kosh-Agach type bracket the floating tree ring chronologies between the second and tenth centuries AD. The results demonstrate that long tree ring “steppe” chronologies can be obtained for intermontane basins in the arid zone of Southern Siberia, using the analysis of charcoal samples. A strong climate signal imprinted in the annual growth of trees allowed for crossdating samples with relatively few rings. The revealed common climate signal for larches from different locations indicates similar paleoclimate conditions of their growth despite the strong modern southeastward aridization trend in the region, which was not so pronounced ca. 1.5 ka ago. The further matching of these chronologies to the calendar timeline will provide reference for the precise comparison of climatic conditions in the floors of intermontane basins and in the flanking mountains. Full article

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12 pages, 1866 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Emission and Reduction of Air Pollutants from Charcoal-Making Process in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta

by Pham Van Toan, Lavane Kim, Nguyen Truong Thanh, Huynh Long Toan, Le Anh Tuan, Huynh Vuong Thu Minh and Pankaj Kumar

Climate 2023, 11(7), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070149 - 14 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2256

Abstract

Charcoal is a fuelwood commonly used for domestic purposes on the household scale in Africa and Southeast Asia. Earnings from charcoal production contribute to the income of local inhabitants in rural areas. Unfortunately, airborne emissions from the traditional charcoal-making process affect both human [...] Read more.

Charcoal is a fuelwood commonly used for domestic purposes on the household scale in Africa and Southeast Asia. Earnings from charcoal production contribute to the income of local inhabitants in rural areas. Unfortunately, airborne emissions from the traditional charcoal-making process affect both human health and the ambient environment. A series of studies were performed at a charcoal-making village in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD) to assess: (i) air pollutant emissions from the traditional charcoal-making process; (ii) the impacts on human well-being and the environment of traditional charcoal production; (iii) the loading of carbon dioxide from a charcoal-making kiln; and (iv) the efficiency in reducing contaminants of an air pollution-controlling method developed at a charcoal-making kiln. Study results revealed that the traditional charcoal-making method causes a substantial loss of carbon from fuelwood materials and emits the products of incomplete combustion. These contaminants negatively impact human well-being and the environment. Carbon dioxide and incomplete combustion substances emitted from the charcoal-making kiln are potential causes of the global warming phenomenon. The installation of an air pollution-controlling system at the charcoal-making kiln is recommended as an urgent solution before alternatives would be found to control the impacts of charcoal production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impacts of Climate Change and Human Disturbances on Carbon Cycling and Greenhouse Gas Emission in Ecosystems)

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24 pages, 5202 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extreme Recreational Conditions in the Black Sea Resorts Associated with the North Atlantic Climate

by Anna A. Stefanovich, Elena N. Voskresenskaya and Veronika N. Maslova

Climate 2023, 11(7), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070148 - 14 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1164

Abstract

The tourist and recreational conditions of the Mediterranean-Black Sea resorts are closely related to hydrometeorological anomalies, which in turn are largely associated with the North Atlantic climate. The aim of this paper was to study the change and variability of the bioclimatic indices [...] Read more.

The tourist and recreational conditions of the Mediterranean-Black Sea resorts are closely related to hydrometeorological anomalies, which in turn are largely associated with the North Atlantic climate. The aim of this paper was to study the change and variability of the bioclimatic indices and their extremes at the Black Sea resorts (on the example of Yalta, Southern coast of Crimea, and Sochi, Caucasian coast) associated with the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and East Atlantic Oscillation (EAO). Using daily NCEP/NCAR (2.5° × 2.5°) and E-OBS (0.25° × 0.25°) reanalysis datasets, bioclimatic indices (wind cooling index, weight oxygen content, and equivalent-effective temperature) were calculated for January and July in 1950–2013/2018. The extreme index values were obtained using the 5th and 95th percentile relative thresholds. The results suggest that bioclimatic indices in Yalta are more sensitive to the global warming effect than those in Sochi, likely due to the geographical features. As a result, Yalta is becoming a year-round resort. It was shown for both resorts that negative EAO phase is significantly manifested in the increase of windy days in July versus the increase of windless days in the positive phase, and in the more frequent fresh and cold days in July (versus the opposite conditions in the positive phase only in Yalta). The NAO manifestations are mostly less pronounced than those of the EAO and are more significant in Sochi (mostly in January and in the negative NAO phase). Thus, it was shown that extreme values of bioclimatic indices occur at both resorts on the interannual scale depending on the NAO and EAO phases, but the conditions remain in the comfort range for now, even with the significant linear trends. The study can be expanded to other Mediterranean–Black Sea resorts for their sustainable development in a changing climate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate and Weather Extremes: Volume II)

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23 pages, 1394 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Drought Regime in Southern Africa: A Systematic Review

by Fernando Maliti Chivangulula, Malik Amraoui and Mário Gonzalez Pereira

Climate 2023, 11(7), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070147 - 13 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3436

Abstract

Drought is one natural disaster with the greatest impact worldwide. Southern Africa (SA) is susceptible and vulnerable to drought due to its type of climate. In the last four decades, droughts have occurred more frequently, with increasing intensity and impacts on ecosystems, agriculture, [...] Read more.

Drought is one natural disaster with the greatest impact worldwide. Southern Africa (SA) is susceptible and vulnerable to drought due to its type of climate. In the last four decades, droughts have occurred more frequently, with increasing intensity and impacts on ecosystems, agriculture, and health. The work consists of a systematic literature review on the drought regime’s characteristics in the SA under current and future climatic conditions, conducted on the Web of Science and Scopus platforms, using the PRISMA2020 methodology, with usual and appropriate inclusion and exclusion criteria to minimize/eliminate the risk of bias, which lead to 53 documents published after the year 1987. The number of publications on the drought regime in SA is still very small. The country with the most drought situations studied is South Africa, and the countries with fewer studies are Angola and Namibia. The analysis revealed that the main driver of drought in SA is the ocean–atmosphere interactions, including the El Niño Southern Oscillation. The documents used drought indices, evaluating drought descriptors for some regions, but it was not possible to identify one publication that reports the complete study of the drought regime, including the spatial and temporal distribution of all drought descriptors in SA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate and Weather Extremes: Volume II)

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35 pages, 2508 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Changing Climate Is Changing Safe Drinking Water, Impacting Health: A Case in the Southwestern Coastal Region of Bangladesh (SWCRB)

by M. Ashrafuzzaman, Carla Gomes and João Guerra

Climate 2023, 11(7), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070146 - 12 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3436

Abstract

This study focuses on investigating the impact of climate change on the availability of safe drinking water and human health in the Southwest Coastal Region of Bangladesh (SWCRB). Additionally, it explores local adaptation approaches aimed at addressing these challenges. The research employed a [...] Read more.

This study focuses on investigating the impact of climate change on the availability of safe drinking water and human health in the Southwest Coastal Region of Bangladesh (SWCRB). Additionally, it explores local adaptation approaches aimed at addressing these challenges. The research employed a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods to gather data. Qualitative data were collected through various means such as case studies, workshops, focus group discussions (FGDs), interviews, and key informant interviews (KIIs). The study specifically collected qualitative data from 12 unions in the Shyamnagar Upazila. On the other hand, through the quantitative method, we collected respondents’ answers through a closed-ended questionnaire survey from 320 respondents from nine unions in the first phase of this study. In the next phase, we also collected data from the three most vulnerable unions of Shyamnagar Upazila, namely Poddo Pukur, Gabura, and Burigoalini, where 1579 respondents answered questions regarding safe drinking water and health conditions due to climate change. The findings of the study indicate that local communities in the region acknowledge the significant impact of sea-level rise (SLR) on freshwater sources and overall well-being, primarily due to increased salinity. Over 70% of the respondents identified gastrointestinal issues, hypertension, diarrhea, malnutrition, and skin diseases as major waterborne health risks arising from salinity and lack of access to safe water. Among the vulnerable groups, women and children were found to be particularly susceptible to waterborne diseases related to salinity. While the study highlights the presence of certain adaptation measures against health-related problems, such as community clinics and health centers at the upazila level, as well as seeking healthcare from local and paramedical doctors, it notes that these measures are insufficient. In terms of safe drinking water, communities have adopted various adaptation strategies, including pond excavation to remove saline water (partially making it potable), implementing pond sand filters, rainwater harvesting, and obtaining potable water from alternative sources. However, these efforts alone do not fully address the challenges associated with ensuring safe drinking water. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anthropogenic Climate Change: Social Science Perspectives - Volume II)

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19 pages, 1423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Overcoming Bureaucratic Resistance: An Analysis of Barriers to Climate Change Adaptation in South Africa

by Nomfundo Patricia Sibiya, Dillip Kumar Das, Coleen Vogel, Sonwabo Perez Mazinyo, Leocadia Zhou, Mukalazi Ahmed Kalumba, Mikateko Sithole, Richard Kwame Adom and Mulala Danny Simatele

Climate 2023, 11(7), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070145 - 11 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3221

Abstract

Climate change is already a reality, and it is affecting the lives and livelihoods of many people globally. Many scientists argue that adaptation is, therefore, necessary to address the impact of climate change on life-supporting systems. Climate change adaptation, however, is a complex [...] Read more.

Climate change is already a reality, and it is affecting the lives and livelihoods of many people globally. Many scientists argue that adaptation is, therefore, necessary to address the impact of climate change on life-supporting systems. Climate change adaptation, however, is a complex process that involves transformations implemented through governance at multiple levels. In this paper, the barriers to climate change adaptation in South Africa are presented and analysed. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted telephonically and online via Microsoft Teams with 13 government officials working at the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment; the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs; and the uMkhanyakude District Municipality. The findings suggest that the barriers to climate change adaptation in South Africa include inadequate financial resources, a lack of human capacity at the provincial and local levels, limited political will at the local level, limited understanding of climate change adaptation issues by communities, inadequate coordination across government levels and sectors, no legal mandate at the local level, no climate change unit at the district and local levels, a lack of knowledge by some staff members tasked with environmental duties at the local level, not enough climate change plans in place at the local level, and outdated information on climate change used in the IDPs. This paper, therefore, recommends that climate change be a standing item in the Integrated Development Plan for local governments, which will ensure that climate change is budgeted for appropriately. In addition, this paper suggests that a mandate for climate change adaptation be developed for all three government levels. There is also a need for the government to invest in capacity development and improve horizontal and vertical coordination to strengthen the weak climate governance capacity that exists. Full article

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30 pages, 390 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Climate Finance Support Institutional Adaptive Capacity in Caribbean Small Island and Developing States? An Analysis of the Green Climate Fund Readiness Grants

by Liana Ricci and Maryline Mangenot

Climate 2023, 11(7), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070144 - 10 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1475

Abstract

Adaptation is crucial for addressing current and future climate change challenges in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and climate finance instruments, such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF) can play a key role in increasing their adaptive capacity and supporting the integration of [...] Read more.

Adaptation is crucial for addressing current and future climate change challenges in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and climate finance instruments, such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF) can play a key role in increasing their adaptive capacity and supporting the integration of adaptation into policy and programmes. Few studies have analysed the linkages between climate finance, adaptation mainstreaming, and institutional adaptive capacity; however, assessments of the impacts of climate finance on adaptation and adaptive capacity, particularly at the institutional level, are still limited. This research assesses how climate finance may promote institutional change through the mainstreaming of adaptation policies at the national level, and may contribute to more institutional adaptive capacity. Through reviewing the documentation of approved Green Climate Fund Readiness Preparatory Support Grants, and through semi-structured interviews focusing on three Caribbean SIDS (Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, and Haiti), this paper shows that the grants had a positive impact on several processes, though sometimes limited by the strength and role of the institutions in place. These results demonstrate that access to climate finance can create a window of opportunity for countries to accelerate institutional change and adaptation integration. However, further studies are needed to examine the complementary influence of the different climate finance flows (multilateral or bilateral), and their interplay with national institutional mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Climate Adaptation and Mitigation)

16 pages, 3776 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sea Coast of the Western Part of the Russian Arctic under Climate Change: Dynamics, Technogenic Influence and Potential Economic Damage

by Stanislav Ogorodov, Svetlana Badina and Daria Bogatova

Climate 2023, 11(7), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070143 - 10 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1169

Abstract

The Arctic coast dynamics has been an urgent problem over the last years, from both a practical and a fundamental point of view. In this research, for the first time for the Russian Arctic coast, we assessed the damage from the loss of [...] Read more.

The Arctic coast dynamics has been an urgent problem over the last years, from both a practical and a fundamental point of view. In this research, for the first time for the Russian Arctic coast, we assessed the damage from the loss of territories in the western part of the Russian Arctic, where the active production and transportation of hydrocarbon material are carried out. Most of the studied coastline is composed of frozen unlithified soils with inclusions of underground ice. In this regard, the coastal zone is highly sensitive to climate change and its economic consequences. According to our investigation and literature data, the erosion rates could rich up to 2–3 m/year in some part of the coastline. Having estimated the cadastral cost of land and the area of the possible loss of territory, as well as the cost of transport infrastructure in the risk zone, we tried to predict the damage from changes in the total structure of the area under consideration. In particular, the economic damages from coastal permafrost processes were estimated. The assessment was conducted for the middle of the 21st century, taking into account the current climatic trend, erosion rate and probable maximum warming in this region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Climate and Economics)

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23 pages, 8680 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of the Surface Urban Heat Island (SUHI) Effect Based on the Local Climate Zone (LCZ) Classification Scheme for Two Japanese Cities, Hiroshima, and Sapporo

by Neshat Rahmani and Ayyoob Sharifi

Climate 2023, 11(7), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070142 - 10 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2936

Abstract

The Local Climate Zone (LCZ) classification system is used in this study to analyze the impacts of urban morphology on a surface urban heat island (SUHI). Our study involved a comparative analysis of SUHI effects in two Japanese cities, Sapporo and Hiroshima, between [...] Read more.

The Local Climate Zone (LCZ) classification system is used in this study to analyze the impacts of urban morphology on a surface urban heat island (SUHI). Our study involved a comparative analysis of SUHI effects in two Japanese cities, Sapporo and Hiroshima, between 2000 to 2022. We used geographical-information-system (GIS) mapping techniques to measure temporal LST changes using Landsat 7 and 8 images during the summer’s hottest month (August) and classified the study area into LCZ classes using The World Urban Database and Access Portal Tools (WUDAPT) method with Google Earth Pro. The urban thermal field variance index (UTFVI) is used to examine each LCZ’s thermal comfort level, and the SUHI heat spots (HS) in each LCZ classes are identified. The research findings indicate that the mean LST in Sapporo only experienced a 0.5 °C increase over the time, while the mean LST increased by 1.8 °C in Hiroshima City between 2000 and 2022. In 2000, open low-rise (LCZ 6) areas in Sapporo were the hottest, but by 2022, heavy industry (LCZ 10) became the hottest. In Hiroshima, compact mid-rise (LCZ 2) areas were the hottest in 2000, but by 2022, heavy-industry areas took the lead. The study found that LCZ 10, LCZ 8, LCZ E, and LCZ 3 areas in both Dfa and Cfa climate classifications had unfavorable UTFVI conditions. This was attributed to factors such as a high concentration of heat-absorbing materials, impervious surfaces, and limited green spaces. The majority of the SUHI HS and areas with the highest surface temperatures were situated near industrial zones and large low-rise urban forms in both cities. The study offers valuable insights into the potential long-term effects of various urban forms on the SUHI phenomenon. Full article

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13 pages, 5150 KiB

Open AccessArticle

From Past to Present: Decoding Precipitation Patterns in a Complex Mediterranean River Basin

by Nazzareno Diodato and Gianni Bellocchi

Climate 2023, 11(7), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070141 - 04 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1046

Abstract

Enhancing spatial data attributes is crucial for effective basin-scale environmental modelling and improving our understanding and management of precipitation patterns. In this study, we focused on reconstructing homogeneous areal precipitation data in the complex terrain of the Calore River Basin (CRB) in Southern [...] Read more.

Enhancing spatial data attributes is crucial for effective basin-scale environmental modelling and improving our understanding and management of precipitation patterns. In this study, we focused on reconstructing homogeneous areal precipitation data in the complex terrain of the Calore River Basin (CRB) in Southern Italy. Until 1869, weather observations in the region were inconsistent, unstandardised, and lacked coordination, but the establishment of meteorological observatories brought a more unified approach to weather monitoring. We relied on the rainfall data obtained from two of these historical observatories: Benevento (1869–present) and Montevergine (1884–present). We utilised a statistical regression framework that considered rainfall measurements and temporal properties from specific locations to reconstruct and visually analyse the evolution patterns of annual mean areal precipitation (MAP) in the CRB from 1869 to 2020. The analysis revealed that mean MAP decreased from 1153 mm yr⁻¹ (1869–1951) to 998 mm yr⁻¹ (1952–2020). This decrease was accompanied by a reduction in interannual variability (from 168 mm yr⁻¹ to 147 mm yr⁻¹ standard deviation), and the difference between the means was significant (p < 0.0001), suggesting a sudden shift in the time-series. These findings provide a basis for CRB water resource management and insights for modelling other complex Mediterranean basins. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Importance of Long Climate Records)

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18 pages, 4106 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Climate Change Impact Assessment on Ski Tourism in Greece: Case Study of the Parnassos Ski Resort

by Dimitra Tsilogianni, Constantinos Cartalis and Kostas Philippopoulos

Climate 2023, 11(7), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070140 - 30 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2268

Abstract

The sustainability of ski tourism is directly related to the prevailing climatic conditions. This study investigates the impact of climate change on the sector of ski tourism in Greece. For this purpose, the current situation is assessed and the changes in underlying climatic [...] Read more.

The sustainability of ski tourism is directly related to the prevailing climatic conditions. This study investigates the impact of climate change on the sector of ski tourism in Greece. For this purpose, the current situation is assessed and the changes in underlying climatic parameters (temperature, snow cover, snow depth) are examined on the basis of a selected climatic scenario (RCP 4.5) for ski tourism in Greece in general, but also for the specific case of the Parnassos ski resort (PSR). The results refer to the period 2051–2060 compared to 1971–1980 and show a clear increase in temperature and a considerable decrease in snow cover and snowfall throughout the Greek territory, as well as in the special case of PSR. The results for specific snow indicators (duration of the snow season, number of days with an amount of at least 100 and 120 kg m⁻² of natural, groomed, or managed snow, and potential snowmaking hours for wet bulb temperature lower than −2 and −5 °C) from climate projections for the 1971–2099 period further highlight the risk for mountain tourism in Greece. Decreasing trends for all examined parameters are found for the RCP 4.5 and the RCP 8.5 scenarios. In light of these findings, necessary adaptation measures against climate change are proposed in order to maintain the viability of the ski tourism sector in Greece. Full article

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14 pages, 1104 KiB

Open AccessReview

Towards Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions Agriculture in North Africa through Climate-Smart Agriculture: A Systematic Review

by Youssef Brouziyne, Ali El Bilali, Terence Epule Epule, Victor Ongoma, Ahmed Elbeltagi, Jamal Hallam, Fouad Moudden, Maha Al-Zubi, Vincent Vadez and Rachael McDonnell

Climate 2023, 11(7), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070139 - 30 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2298

Abstract

North Africa (NA) is supposed to lower emissions in its agriculture to honor climate action commitments and to impulse sustainable development across Africa. Agriculture in North Africa has many assets and challenges that make it fit to use the tools of Climate-Smart Agriculture [...] Read more.

North Africa (NA) is supposed to lower emissions in its agriculture to honor climate action commitments and to impulse sustainable development across Africa. Agriculture in North Africa has many assets and challenges that make it fit to use the tools of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) for mitigation purposes. This study represents a first attempt to understand if CSA practices are sufficiently established in NA to contribute to reducing agriculture emissions. A PRISMA-inspired systematic review was carried out on an initial 147 studies retrieved from Scopus, Google Scholar, and the Web of Science databases, as well as from gray literature. 11 studies were included in the final analysis since they report the mitigation and co-benefits of CSA-based practices within NA. A bias risk was identified around the optimal inclusion of studies produced in French, and a specific plan was set for its minimization. Synthesis results revealed that most studies focused either on improving soil quality (nine studies) or managing enteric fermentation (two studies). The review revealed a poor establishment of the CSA framework in the region, especially in sequestering GHG emissions. A set of recommendations has been formulated to address the identified gaps from research orientations and organizational perspectives and empower the CSA as an ally for mitigation in north African agriculture. Full article

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16 pages, 4488 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hydrological and Precipitation Extremes and Trends over the Paraiba do Sul River Basin, Brazil

by Débora Martins de Oliveira, Vanessa Silveira Barreto Carvalho, Benedito Cláudio da Silva, Michelle Simões Reboita and Bruno de Campos

Climate 2023, 11(7), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070138 - 27 Jun 2023

Viewed by 1514

Abstract

The Paraiba do Sul River Basin (PSRB) is a vital source of water resources in Brazil, providing water for human consumption, industry, agriculture, and hydroelectric energy generation. As part of one of the most developed areas of the country, in the Southeast of [...] Read more.

The Paraiba do Sul River Basin (PSRB) is a vital source of water resources in Brazil, providing water for human consumption, industry, agriculture, and hydroelectric energy generation. As part of one of the most developed areas of the country, in the Southeast of Brazil, the region is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, with evidence of extreme events such as droughts and floods affecting the availability and quality of water. Hence, this study analyzes precipitation and streamflow rates data from the PSRB between 1939–2020 to investigate the spatial variability of average patterns and extreme events, trends, and their relationship with urban growth and socioeconomic development. The analysis reveals significant spatial variations in precipitation and runoff rates, with higher altitude areas, such as the Serra da Mantiqueira, exhibiting higher average values. Moreover, the Mann–Kendall trend results showed in most of the sites no significant trend regarding precipitation data; however, about 50% of the sites in the PSRB presented a decreasing trend of runoff rates. Since the precipitation does not explain identified changes in the hydrological patterns, the evaluation of the area’s urban growth and socioeconomic development throughout the decades suggested that human activities, such as those associated with urbanization, have played a significant role in altering the runoff patterns in the basin. These findings highlight the importance of sustainable land-use planning and water resource-management practices in the PSRB to mitigate the negative impacts of urbanization on the hydrological cycle and to enhance the resilience of the region’s water resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Global Warming and Extreme Drought)

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23 pages, 3408 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Hydrometeorological Characteristics and Water Demand in Semi-Arid Mediterranean Catchments under Water Deficit Conditions

by Efthymia Stathi, Aristeidis Kastridis and Dimitrios Myronidis

Climate 2023, 11(7), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070137 - 27 Jun 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1438

Abstract

Drought is one of the most complex and poorly understood catastrophes on the planet. Between the Greek mainland and Turkey, there is an area of Greece known as the South Aegean Islands, that experiences water supply issues. As a result, there are issues [...] Read more.

Drought is one of the most complex and poorly understood catastrophes on the planet. Between the Greek mainland and Turkey, there is an area of Greece known as the South Aegean Islands, that experiences water supply issues. As a result, there are issues related to the socioeconomic growth of some of these islands, and the need for water transportation by water vessels. Water transportation by ships to the Cyclades and Dodecanese areas from the mainland or other adjacent islands to satisfy urgent demands, on the other hand, is exceptionally expensive. The situation deteriorates during the summer, when drinking water needs can reach five times the norm, due to the heavy tourist season. Given these conditions, the aim of this research is to estimate hydrometeorological conditions, calculate the water balance, and determine water needs in three southern Aegean islands (Mykonos, Naxos, and Kos), where there is a water shortage, particularly during the summer months when tourism activity is at its peak. The modified Thornthwaite–Mather monthly hydrological balance model was applied to determine the water balance. Various water use datasets (drinking water, irrigation, water transportation) were employed to quantify the water demands in the three islands. According to the results, the available water (runoff + infiltration) seems to be more than sufficient to meet the needs of the islands of Naxos and Kos, since it far exceeds the increased needs of the islands. Yet, it appears that in Mykonos, where the water resources have been nearly entirely utilized, the available water, is just enough to meet the water needs. It is evident that all three islands present significant sources of available water, which could meet the growing needs of the residents. However, the absence of the necessary water exploitation projects, mainly concerning the surface runoff, has contributed to the intense water supply problems of the islands. The importance of the water harvesting projects becomes even more urgent under the conditions of climate change, with the decrease in annual rainfall likely to be a highly possible scenario, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coping with Flooding and Drought)

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17 pages, 5053 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Insight into Asymmetry in the Impact of Different Types of ENSO on the NAO

by Peng Zhang and Zhiwei Wu

Climate 2023, 11(7), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070136 - 27 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1358

Abstract

Understanding the influence of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) is of critical significance for seasonal prediction. The present study found that both Niño3.4 sea surface temperature anomaly (SSTA) intensity and east-west gradient in the mid-low latitude Pacific [...] Read more.

Understanding the influence of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) is of critical significance for seasonal prediction. The present study found that both Niño3.4 sea surface temperature anomaly (SSTA) intensity and east-west gradient in the mid-low latitude Pacific determine the linkage between ENSO and the NAO. Based on Niño3.4 SSTA intensity and the east-west gradient, ENSO events are classified into three types: strong intensity, weak intensity-strong gradient (WSG), and equatorial ENSOs. Note that the former two types are usually concurrent with a strong zonal SSTA gradient. In contrast, equatorial ENSO is often associated with weak intensity-weak gradient SSTAs confined in the equatorial Pacific. The anomalous circulation patterns in response to the three types of ENSO exhibit asymmetric features over the North Atlantic. The WSG-El Niño associated circulation anomaly resembles a negative NAO-like pattern, yet the strong and equatorial El Niño associated circulation anomalies show a neutral-NAO pattern. For La Niña events, their impact on the NAO mainly depends on the cold SSTA position rather than their intensity. The strong and WSG-La Niña associated negative SSTAs are centered in the equatorial-central Pacific and favor a steady positive NAO-like anomaly. The cold SSTA center of equatorial La Niña shifts to the equatorial-eastern Pacific and cannot profoundly influence the North Atlantic climate. The physical mechanisms are also investigated with a general circulation model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic A Themed Issue in Memory of Academician Duzheng Ye (1916–2013))

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27 pages, 44109 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Variability and Changes in Temperature, Precipitation and Snow in the Desaguadero-Salado-Chadileuvú-Curacó Basin, Argentina

by Gabriela V. Müller and Miguel A. Lovino

Climate 2023, 11(7), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070135 - 26 Jun 2023

Viewed by 1110

Abstract

We analyze the variability and changes in mean temperature, annual precipitation, and snow water equivalent (SWE) in the Desaguadero-Salado-Chadileuvú-Curacó (DSCC) basin, observed in a recent period, and their projected future values. The current climate and observed changes are studied based on the scarce [...] Read more.

We analyze the variability and changes in mean temperature, annual precipitation, and snow water equivalent (SWE) in the Desaguadero-Salado-Chadileuvú-Curacó (DSCC) basin, observed in a recent period, and their projected future values. The current climate and observed changes are studied based on the scarce observation records available in the region. Simulations from the High-Resolution Model Intercomparison Project (HighResMIP v1.0) are used for the analysis of future climate projections. The mean annual temperature presents a major rise between 1 and 2 °C throughout the region in the 1961–2020 period. The annual precipitation has nonlinear positive trends of varied importance. The SWE has decreased noticeably since 2010. Interannual variability also plays a key role, with dominant cycles between 2.8 and 4 years and between 7.5 and 10 years. The projected changes, computed as the difference between the 1985–2014 and 2021–2050 averages, reveal a rise in mean annual temperature in the entire basin, with an eastward magnitude increase from 1 to more than 2 °C. The annual precipitation is projected to increase up to 10% over most of the basin, except in the Andes, where it will decrease. The maximum annual SWE will also continue to decrease, in agreement with the trend observed in recent years. Full article

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19 pages, 914 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between Madden–Julian Oscillation Moist Convective Circulations and Tropical Cyclone Genesis

by Patrick Haertel

Climate 2023, 11(7), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070134 - 25 Jun 2023

Viewed by 1310

Abstract

The Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) is a planetary-scale weather system that creates a 30–60 day oscillation in zonal winds and precipitation in the tropics. Its envelope of enhanced rainfall forms over the Indian Ocean and moves slowly eastward before dissipating near the Date Line. [...] Read more.

The Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) is a planetary-scale weather system that creates a 30–60 day oscillation in zonal winds and precipitation in the tropics. Its envelope of enhanced rainfall forms over the Indian Ocean and moves slowly eastward before dissipating near the Date Line. The MJO modulates tropical cyclone (TC) genesis, intensity, and landfall in the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic Oceans. This study examines the mechanisms by which the MJO alters TC genesis. In particular, MJO circulations are partitioned into Kelvin and Rossby waves for each of the developing, mature, and dissipating stages of the convective envelope, and locations of TC genesis are related to these circulations. Throughout the MJO’s convective life cycle, TC genesis is inhibited to the east of the convective envelope, and enhanced just west of the convective envelope. The inhibition of TC genesis to the east of the MJO is largely due to vertical motion associated with the Kelvin wave circulation, as is the enhancement of TC genesis just west of the MJO during the developing stage. During the mature and dissipating stages, the MJO’s Rossby gyres intensify, creating regions of low-level vorticity, favoring TC genesis to its west. Over the 36-year period considered here, the MJO modulation of TC genesis increases due to the intensification of the MJO’s Kelvin wave circulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tropical Cyclones Dynamics and Forecast System)

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19 pages, 3942 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Temporal Variability of Particulate Matter and Black Carbon Concentrations over Greater Cairo and Its Atmospheric Drivers

by W. Dawoud, Ahmed M. El Kenawy, M. M. Abdel Wahab and A. H. Oraby

Climate 2023, 11(7), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli11070133 - 24 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1526

Abstract

This study examines the seasonal and annual variability of black carbon (BC) and particular matter (PM1, 2.5, and 10) over Greater Cairo (Egypt) from 2003 to 2020. Data on PM and BC concentrations were gathered from the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts [...] Read more.

This study examines the seasonal and annual variability of black carbon (BC) and particular matter (PM1, 2.5, and 10) over Greater Cairo (Egypt) from 2003 to 2020. Data on PM and BC concentrations were gathered from the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECWMF) reanalysis dataset. The Observed data from Abbasiya Station were employed to verify the accuracy of the reanalysis data, and a good agreement on both seasonal and annual scales was suggested. The results demonstrate that the highest concentrations of PM and BC were generally witnessed during wintertime, while the lowest was observed in summer. Trend analysis showed that, apart from fall, a significant increase (p < 0.05) in PM levels was evident in all seasons from 2003 to 2020. Contrarily, BC concentrations exhibited a statistically significant decline from 2003 to 2020. Moreover, BC concentrations correlated negatively with PM (1, 2.5 and 10) in all seasons and annually. However, weak and statistically non-significant (p > 0.05) correlations were found between PM and BC concentrations during wintertime. Additionally, this study looked at the atmospheric configurations corresponding to the most anomalous positive and negative phases of air pollution concentrations over Greater Cairo. The results indicate that the increase in PM concentrations is related to the positive anomalies observed at 250 hPa, which suggest a prevalence of stable atmospheric conditions, particularly during winter. Overall, our findings can serve as a foundation for improved urban planning and more effective strategies to lessen the negative effects of air quality in the largest megacity in Africa and the Middle East. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) in a Changing Climate)

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Climate, Volume 11, Issue 7 (July 2023) – 24 articles

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