Published on Jul 23, 2013

The average temperature across the continental U.S. could be 8 degrees Fahrenheit warmer by

Published on Jul 23, 2013

The average temperature across the continental U.S. could be 8 degrees Fahrenheit warmer by the end of the 21st century under a climate scenario in which concentrations of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide rise to 800 parts per million. Current concentrations stand at 400 parts per million, and are rising faster than at any time in Earth's history.

"These visualizations communicate a picture of the impacts of climate change in a way that words do not," says Allison Leidner, Ph.D., a scientist who coordinates NASA's involvement in the National Climate Assessment "When I look at the scenarios for future temperature and precipitation, I really see how dramatically our nation's climate could change."

These visualizations -- which highlight computer model projections from the draft National Climate Assessment -- show how average temperatures could change across the U.S. in the coming decades under two different carbon dioxide emissions scenarios.

Portland's former mayor Sam Adams, former Director of International Affairs Noah Siegel and Greater Portland Inc. president and CEO Sean Robbins

Portland's former mayor Sam Adams, former Director of International Affairs Noah Siegel and Greater Portland Inc. president and CEO Sean Robbins on the region's competitive advantage in building green cities. Download the iPad app. Published on Sep 16, 2013

From the The Metropolitan Revolution: How Cities and Metros Are Fixing Our Broken Politics and Fragile Economy, By Brookings Institution