Climate Change in Tyrone - the growing threat and local impact

CLIMATE change is reshaping the environment across County Tyrone and beyond, bringing rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and increased risks of extreme weather events.

Over the years Tyrone has experienced major flooding problems and more recently the effects of Storm Éowyn, a powerful and record-breaking extratropical cyclone which hit a number of areas in the county. It was characterised by record-breaking wind speeds, reaching up to 114 mph (183 kph) in Ireland, marking the strongest winds since World War II.

In Northern Ireland, the storm led to significant disruptions. Over 240,000 homes and businesses experienced power outages, with some customers remaining without electricity for up to ten days post-storm. The extensive damage necessitated a substantial deployment of personnel to restore services and highlighted the region's vulnerability to such extreme weather events.

Many areas in Tyrone suffered road closures due to fallen trees, underscoring the storm's impact on local infrastructure.

The increasing frequency and intensity of storms like Éowyn are consistent with patterns associated with climate change. Rising global temperatures contribute to more extreme weather events, including powerful storms that can cause extensive damage to infrastructure and communities. Experts emphasise the urgent need for investment in resilient infrastructure to mitigate the effects of such events. This includes strengthening power grids and transportation networks to withstand future storms.

For regions like County Tyrone, this means proactively enhancing infrastructure and community preparedness to better handle the potential impacts of future climate-related events. Experts warn that urgent action is needed to prepare for the consequences that could impact agriculture, infrastructure, and public health in the region.

One such expert is Peter Girard of Climate Central, an independent climate research organisation, has analysed Tyrone’s climate risks using advanced data models. His research suggests that while coastal flooding is not a major concern for Tyrone, areas along the Foyle and Swilly rivers could see increased flood risks by 2050 due to stronger storms and rising sea levels.

Climate Central uses science, big data, and technology to generate thousands of local storylines and compelling visuals that make climate change personal and show what can be done about it. They address climate science, sea level rise, extreme weather, energy, and related topics and collaborate widely with TV meteorologists, journalists, and other respected voices to reach audiences across diverse geographies and beliefs.

Girard also examined Tyrone’s recent temperature trends using the Climate Shift Index, a tool that tracks how much climate change influences local weather. While some recent days have been unusually cool, earlier in February, temperatures were three times more likely to be warm due to climate change - a pattern expected to become more frequent in the coming years.

With Northern Ireland experiencing warmer and wetter conditions, the combination of heavier rainfall and stronger storms is expected to increase flooding. Local drainage systems and road networks could struggle to cope, leading to disruptions and costly damage. According to NIDIRECT, the government’s public service information site, these changes will demand improved flood defences and resilient infrastructure.

Under threat

For Tyrone’s farming communities, climate change poses a direct challenge. Increased rainfall and warmer conditions could stress crops, impact water quality, and disrupt seasonal planting and harvesting cycles. The Environmental Protection Agency warns that native plant and animal species may also be affected, with new pests and diseases becoming more common in the changing climate.

Rising temperatures and pollution could also have serious health implications, particularly for vulnerable populations, as heat stress and respiratory issues become more common. The UK Climate Impacts Programme has also raised concerns about biodiversity, warning that invasive species could threaten Northern Ireland’s delicate ecosystems.

One of the most visible local impacts of climate change has been the harmful algal blooms in Lough Neagh, Northern Ireland’s largest freshwater lake. These blooms, which pollute drinking water and harm wildlife, have been intensified by rising temperatures, serving as a stark reminder of the immediate effects of climate change in the region.

What Can Be Done?

Tyrone must take action to adapt to and mitigate climate change. Experts recommend:

l Strengthening flood defenses to protect homes and roads

l Supporting farmers with climate-resilient crops and water management strategies

l Investing in renewable energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels

l Enhancing conservation efforts to protect biodiversity

The challenges posed by climate change are no longer distant threats - they are happening now. Tyrone, like the rest of Northern Ireland, must act swiftly to protect its communities, landscapes, and economy from the growing risks of a changing climate.