Water and Global Climate Change: Potential Impacts on U.S. Water Resources

摘要

The report is the third in a series examining the potential impacts of climate211u001echange on the environment and society. It identifies impacts not only to the 211u001equantity, but also to the quality of the water supply. Changes in stream flows, 211u001eincreased storm surges, and higher water temperatures all could negatively affect 211u001ethe health of the nations water supply. An increase in the number of days of 211u001eintense precipitation also could increase the agricultural and urban pollutants 211u001ewashed into streams and lakes. The resulting rise in sea level would contribute 211u001eto saltwater intrusion into rivers, estuaries, and coastal aquifers.