The Warming of Connecticut

The documentary The Warming of Connecticut , takes a local look at how global warming may impact Connecticut specifically.  We examine studies by the Union of Concerned Scientists and the Goddard Institute for Spaces Studies. We looked at a high emissions scenario where we continue relying on fossil fuel as our primary source of energy, and we looked at a lower emissions scenario where we invest in energy efficiency and renewable technology. 

The greenhouse gases that we have been emitting over the past 30 years are changing our climate even as we speak. However, according to scientists, the decisions we make today and over the next decade will determine the severity of warming. Studies show that Hartford typically experiences about 15 days over 90 degrees. Under the lower emission scenario we could expect the number to rise to about 42 days by the end of the century. Under the higher emissions scenario, Connecticut could have 78 days over 90 degrees.

Today, we experience about 2 days per year over 100 degrees. Under the lower emissions scenario, scientists predict 8 days by the end of the century. Under the higher emissions model, we could expect nearly a month of extreme heat.