1. Temperatures, which appear to be increasing in a way consistent with global trends;
2. Precipitation, which appears to be decreasing, although in a less pronounced way;
3. Extreme weather events, such as storms, heat waves and droughts which have been evident in recent years along with increasing frequency and intensity.

Temperature affects both human health and economic development. Average temperatures and precipitation are critical to several Croatian industries. For example, current climate conditions have made agricultural practices possible – often without irrigation. The tourism season is also determined by climate. Increases in temperature and changes in precipitation will affect numerous sectors.

Precipitation effects economic development in several ways. Clean, abundant, and affordable drinking water is essential for human health. Water in general is an important input in certain industries that include agriculture, hydro power, tourism, fisheries, and more. Decreases in precipitation and changes in precipitation patterns may lead to reductions in surface water availability which affects many sectors of the economy. Drought can also lead to an increased incidence of wildfires, which may generate significant damages to human health, the environment and the economy.

Extreme weather events such as droughts, heat waves, storms and floods can also lead to property damages and threats to human health and well-being.

This chapter in the report examines the current climate conditions in different parts of Croatia during different seasons. It also looks at the existing information available from climate models for future climate conditions in various parts of Croatia during the various seasons. Finally, it examines some of the issues that would be necessary to fill the gaps for understanding likely future climate in Croatia.

Below are some additional resources related to this topic. To go back to the main page for the 2008 Croatia Human Development Report, click here.