GCSE Geography: Weather Hazards and Climate Change Guide

Global atmospheric circulation

Global atmospheric circulation, driven by the sun heating the Earth unevenly, creates patterns of high and low pressure that determine where deserts and rainforests, and different climate zones, are located.

Tropical storms

Tropical storms form over warm ocean water (above 26-27°C) near the equator. They bring strong winds, heavy rainfall and storm surges, and their impacts can be reduced through prediction, protection and planning.

UK weather hazards

The UK experiences weather hazards including flooding, drought and extreme heat. These are becoming more frequent and intense as the climate changes.

Causes and evidence of climate change

Natural causes include volcanic activity and changes in solar output, but the current rate of change is strongly linked to human causes, particularly burning fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere.

Common mistakes

• Confusing weather (short-term) with climate (long-term average) when discussing hazards.
• Describing the impacts of a hazard without linking them to specific causes.
• Assuming climate change is only caused by natural factors, or only by human factors — both play a role, but human factors dominate current change.