A review of almost 1000 studies on the effects of climate change and extreme weather events on worldwide rivers has found an overall negative effect on water quality globally. Multidecadal climate change was shown to have increased water temperatures and algae levels in 56 per cent of studies, which is partly responsible for a general decrease in dissolved oxygen concentrations in river water. The review also found droughts and heatwaves led to increased salinity and higher concentrations of pollutants, such as pharmaceuticals.
Climate Crisis Blog
