climate variability2
-
Fears of a Double Dip…La Niña
You’d be forgiven for thinking its 2008 and not just because of the economic uncertainty. Is there a dreaded double dip La Niña in store, too?
-
Climate Cycles Are Driving Wars, Says Study
When El Niño Warmth Hits, Tropical Conflicts Double
-
The Role of Drought in the Horn of Africa Famine
Let’s get this out of the way. The current famine in the Horn of Africa isn’t caused by drought. Rather, a complex mix of societal and political factors created a dangerous situation. The worst drought in 60 years (pdf) is what pushed that situation over the edge into a humanitarian crisis. However, just as these…
-
Climate Forecasting: Oceans, Droughts, Climate Change and Other Tools of the Trade
At the International Research Institute for Climate and Society’s monthly climate briefing, talk often focuses on the role that El Niño or La Niña play in driving global climate. With the collapse of La Niña last month, though, IRI’s forecasters now have to rely on different tools to offer forecasts for the coming year. That’s…
-
R.I.P. La Niña
La Niña, we hardly knew ye. This year’s iteration of the climate phenomenon nearly set records for strength and riled up world weather for nine months. Now it’s dead. What’s next?
-
La Niña Still Hanging On
IRI’s latest climate briefing shows a weak La Niña still hanging around. The big question is what will happen next?
-
Before the Flood—Predicting the Deluge
The Columbia Global Flood Project is based on the conviction that while human beings may not have direct control of where and how much rain falls, there is a great deal more that can be done to manage the risk of extreme flooding around the world.
-
La Niña Subsiding, Atlantic Climate Phenomenon Forming
A return to near normal conditions in the Pacific doesn’t mean there aren’t other interesting climatic phenomenon afoot.
-
Did Climate Influence Angkor’s Collapse?
Evidence Suggests Changing Environment Can Bring Down a Civilization
COP31, the 2026 United Nations Climate Change Conference, aims to advance dialogue, strengthen consensus, and accelerate climate action on a global scale. From November 9–20, 2026 in Antalya, Türkiye, heads of state, ministers, scientists, business leaders, and civil society will gather to advance efforts in emission targets, climate finance, and adaptation and resilience. Once again, our experts, students, and global thought leaders from Columbia Climate School and across Columbia University are contributing to key events, sharing insights, and helping shape the dialogue toward ambitious, science-based solutions. Learn More
