From the mountains to the coast – North Carolina’s climate is changing. One aspect of the climate system that is of concern is the frequency, intensity, and duration of extreme heat and rainfall events. In this talk, State Climatologist & Director of the State Climate Office of NC Jared H. Bowden, PhD, will discuss observed changes in extreme heat and rainfall, the climate science that supports these changes, and provide insight into the future using climate models.
Designed for adults, Carolina Science Cafe is a free program that explores science topics making national and international headlines, offering the chance to meet the experts behind the work. This special program is hosted at Haw River Tap & Table in Carrboro on the first Tuesday of every month. Light appetizers are available for all attendees.
Figure 1. A map showing 100-year storm rainfall depths for a 24hr duration using observations (top) and climate model projections at the end-of-century for a high greenhouse gas emission scenario (bottom). The image was created using a tool developed by the State Climate Office of NC to help engineers plan for extreme rainfall changes in a warmer climate. View the tool.

Jared H. Bowden was recently named the Director of the NC State Climate Office and serves as the state climatologist. He has over 20 years of experience in applied climatology research and atmospheric modeling. He enjoys working closely with scientists and practitioners in various disciplines and has emphasized infrastructure, especially transportation within NC, in recent years. Dr. Bowden has participated in large climate assessments, including as a co-author on the 4th and 5th National Climate Assessments, and is currently leading an initiative to update the NC Climate Science Report.
Carolina Science Cafe is produced by Morehead Planetarium and Science Center and sponsored by the UNC Chapter of Sigma Xi.