Study predicts Europe could have 42 more days of summer by 2100.

Europes summer season could last longer in the future, according to recent research. A study published in Nature Communications on November 19 indicates that climate change may add up to 42 extra days of summer to the European calendar.

The study attributes this shift to a weakening latitudinal temperature gradientthe variation in temperatures between the North Pole and the equatorwhich is linked to more frequent and intense heat waves.

Scientists examined sediment layers at the bottoms of European lakes, which serve as historical records of seasonal patterns over the past 10,000 years.

Although it has been clear that European summers are becoming longer and hotter, the reasons behind these changes have been uncertain, said Dr. Celia Martin-Puertas, lead author of the study. Our findings show that the temperature gradient has been a major driver of Europes seasonal shifts for millennia, offering valuable insight for predicting future climate behavior.

Dr. Martin-Puertas added, This research highlights how interconnected Europes weather is with global climate systems and demonstrates that studying historical patterns can guide us in addressing the challenges posed by a rapidly changing climate.

Author: Sophia Brooks