Are humans responsible for recent changes in the behaviour of tropical cyclones? Decoupling natural variability from human influence using isotopes [ 2007-01-01 - 2014-06-30 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Dr Scott Smithers (Chief Investigator) ,  Prof Jonathan Nott (Chief Investigator) ,  Michael Bird (Partner Investigator)

Brief description Are humans responsible for recent changes in the behaviour of tropical cyclones? Decoupling natural variability from human influence using isotopes. An increase in the frequency of intense landfalling tropical cyclones will have a major impact upon Australia's economy and the safety of its citizens and visitors. There is little doubt that global climate change will cause this increase. Understanding when this might occur and the extent of this change over and above that which could also occur naturally will help reduce economic loss and save peoples' lives. Using isotope records of tropical cyclones and global climate models we will differentiate natural from human induced changes and ascertain the likely future impact of this hazard on Australia and its near neighbours.

Funding Amount $315,118

Funding Scheme Discovery Projects

View this grant in the ARC Data Portal