How Climate Change Is Changing Sports

Winter Sports

Winter sports are increasingly affected by climate change, leading to dangerous conditions and tragic accidents. Madeleine Orr recounts a season with late snowfall causing avalanches, resulting in the loss of lives, including children and teenagers 1. These events serve as a wake-up call for the community, highlighting the urgent need for action. She explains, "Once you see it, you can't unsee it," emphasizing the ongoing and worsening impact on winter sports 2.

   

Summer Sports

Summer sports are not spared from the effects of climate change, facing challenges like heat waves, droughts, and poor air quality. Madeleine Orr notes that athletes are experiencing more heat waves and wildfire smoke, which disrupts games and increases injury risks 1. She also mentions that droughts make playing fields hard and unsafe, likening them to asphalt 3. These conditions are becoming more common, affecting both professional and casual athletes.