Learn About Climate Change
Observed Climate Changes in New York State
Climate scientists have observed an overall warming trend and more frequent extreme weather events in New York State. Changes in weather patterns and ups and downs in temperature are being seen more often. These changes impact our health, both directly and indirectly.
Changes that have already occurred in New York State's climate:
- Annual average temperatures have increased by over 2°F since 1970 (learn why a seemingly small temperature increase matters)
- Annual average winter temperatures are over 4°F warmer since 1970
- Coastal sea level has risen by about one foot since 1900
- Heavy rain downpours have increased in recent decades
Climate and Health Courses
The New York Learns Public Health Learning Management System (LMS) provides access to numerous courses to help you learn about Climate and Health. The LMS is a web-based tool designed to facilitate the registration and tracking of learners in competency-based courses for staff in state, local public health and allied health agencies throughout New York. Please click on the link below (Course Enroll Quick Guide) to learn how you can search the online Course Catalog, enroll in climate and health courses, complete online quizzes, and track your continuing education.
More Information about a Changing New York Climate
There are plans to protect New Yorkers, our environment, infrastructure, and coastlines while understanding our vulnerabilities and ways to improve resiliency.
- New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
- New York State ClimAid Report
- Cornell University
- Climate and Health In New York State (PDF)
Climate Change and Extreme Heat: What You Can Do to Prepare is a handbook designed to explain the rising frequency, duration, and severity of heat waves to a wide audience in an understandable (and visual) way, and to provide actionable information to help people avoid heat-related health impacts. The PDF is available on the EPA and CDC websites.
Preparing for Extreme Heat in New York State: This webcast explains the health risks of exposure to extreme heat as an impact of the changing climate in New York State.
Guidance and Training: Click here to find technical resources and strategies to address climate change.
More Information about a Changing Global Climate
- National Climate Assessment, US Global Change Research Program
- Climate Change Indicators, Environmental Protection Agency
- Climate Change 2013: The Physical Science Basis, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
- Climate and Health Program, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
