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Climate Change Projections
Ohio's traditionally cold, snowy winters favor a variety of winter sports, and the warm summers appeal to thousands of anglers and campers each year that provide a boost for Ohio's local economies. Precipitation and climate in Ohio has also contributed to the success of crops such as wheat, soybeans, and oats—which in turn contribute to the agricultural achievements of the state. Each of these unique features is threatened by projected changes in climate.

The latest, most reliable projections of future climate change combine 100 years of historical data for Ohio with the most up-to-date general circulation models of the Earth's climate system. In general, Ohio's climate will grow considerably warmer and probably drier during this century, especially in the summer. As a result of these changes, by 2030 summers in Ohio may feel more like current-day Illinois. By 2095, summer climate will resemble that of Arkansas with winters that feel like current winters in Virginia.

Below is more detail on these projections. For a graphical depiction, see the Migrating Climates feature.

Projected Climate Changes in Ohio
	A 5-7oF rise in winter and a 7-9oF rise in summer temperatures by the end of the century is projected.
	Although average annual precipitation may not change much, an overall drier climate is expected because rainfall cannot compensate for the increase in evaporation resulting from greater temperatures. Seasonally, winter precipitation is expected to increase by 15-20% and summer precipitation is expected to decrease by 10-15%. Thus Ohio may see drier soils and more droughts.
	Extreme heat will be more common, and the frequency of heavy rainstorms will increase.