Data analysis for the period 1970–2100 reveals an overall decreasing precipitation trend for Crete which, combined with a temperature rise, leads to substantial reduction of water availability. Today’s extreme events will intensify, i.e., precipitation on average is likely to be less frequent but more intense and droughts are likely to become more frequent and severe. Shorter rainy periods could seriously affect the water resources by significant reduction of water availability with wide ranging consequences for local societies and ecosystems. The quantitative impact of these changes on water availability can be substantial at watershed level, especially in a Mediterranean island like Crete.

Source: Tsanis et al., 2011. Climatic Change 106: 667–677.

Photo: Thomas Kohler (www.flickr.com)