Global Warming: Water Conservation Tips

Global warming is a hot topic of debate. However, almost every scientist on Earth (97%) agrees that it's not a myth—human activities are contributing to the long-term heating of the Earth's surface.

Photo credit: Peter Markham / CLIMATE VISUALS

While Earth’s climate has changed throughout history, the current warming trend is at a rate not seen in the past 10,000 years.

Average Temperatures Are on The Rise

The Earth's average surface temperature has risen about 2 degrees Fahrenheit since the late 19th century. According to scientific analysis from NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), 2023 was the warmest year ever recorded on Earth. Ocean temperatures are rising, too, and according to data from NASA, all ocean basins have been experiencing significant warming since 1998. In fact, 2022 was the warmest ever measured for the global ocean.

Heavy Precipitation 

While it's true that California has been experiencing heavy precipitation the past couple of years, the amount of rainfall has been extreme. Much of this heavy precipitation has come in the form of intense single-day events. The intense deluge of rains has led to increased flooding, soil erosion, and sinkholes shutting down major highways.

Here's why much of California is experiencing intense rains: Warmer oceans increase the amount of water that evaporates into the air. When this moisture-laden air moves over land or intersects with a storm system, it can produce heavier rains and snowstorms. The ocean absorbs 90% of excess heat, which can lead to heat waves near the coast. But we may experience a La Niña event, bringing cooler temperatures to the Pacific Ocean.

Extreme Weather: Every Drop Counts

Weather patterns are unpredictable. Will intense rainfall be the norm? Are we going to experience even hotter summers from here on out than last year? What about drought? In California, we need to be wary of the rain now and prepare for extreme weather conditions.

So, what can you do? Californians need to know how to water. 

Tips to Conserve Water:

• Convert watering to a drip system
• Use rain barrels to capture and collect rainwater
• Plant drought-tolerant/resistant plants
• Avoid watering your landscape when it rains
• Replace your turf/grass with water-wise plants
• Water your landscape earlier in the day
• Use mulch

While the future is uncertain, Californians can take a proactive approach to better prepare for what may lie ahead. Conserving water is always a good idea in California, whether experiencing an El Niño or La Niña climate pattern.

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