Web-based access, aggregation, and visualization of future climate projections with emphasis on agricultural assessments

Abstract

Access to climate and spatial datasets by non-specialists is restricted by technical barriers involving hardware, software and data formats. We discuss an open-source online tool that facilitates downloading the climate data from the global circulation models used by the Inter-Sectoral Impacts Model Intercomparison Project. The tool also offers temporal and spatial aggregation capabilities for incorporating future climate scenarios in applications where spatial aggregation is important. We hope that streamlined access to these data facilitates analysis of climate related issues while considering the uncertainties derived from future climate projections and temporal aggregation choices. Keywords: Climate data, CMIP5, Climate models, HUBzero, Growing season temperature, Growing season precipitation, Climate change and agriculture