Dynamic evolution of Day-To-Day Temperature fluctuations and population exposure on a global scale

Area of Science:

• Climate Science
• Environmental Health
• Geospatial Analysis

Background:

• Spatiotemporal variations in Day-to-Day Temperature Difference (DTD) are crucial for assessing climate change impacts on health and ecosystems.
• Understanding population exposure to DTD is essential for effective adaptation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive global analysis of DTD spatiotemporal patterns and population exposure from 2000 to 2022.
• To quantify the contributions of climatic factors and demographic shifts to exposure changes.
• To evaluate the interaction between DTD dynamics and population distribution.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the CPC Global Unified Gauge-Based Analysis of Daily (CPC GU-GDAD) dataset for DTD analysis.
• Employed LandScan global population data to assess population exposure.
• Quantified trends and contributions of climatic and demographic factors to exposure changes.

Main Results:

• Observed a global decline in DTD trends (-0.055°C/decade for max temps, -0.042°C/decade for min temps).
• Revealed a significant annual increase in population exposure to DTD (2064 People·°C for max, 1648 People·°C for min).
• Noted pronounced hemispheric asymmetry in DTD, with higher values in the Northern Hemisphere.

Conclusions:

• Despite declining DTD variability, population exposure has risen, indicating persistent or intensifying risks.
• Findings support the need for adaptation strategies in urban planning and public health.
• Highlights the importance of considering DTD in climate resilience efforts, especially in high-variability regions.