Northern Ireland faces increased flooding, more frequent extreme weather, rising temperatures, and higher sea levels, according to the latest climate data presented at Stormont.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir hosted the event with Met Office scientists in Parliament Buildings to outline the projected local impacts on infrastructure, public health, and the natural environment.

The agriculture sector is expected to be hit by changing weather patterns, prolonged wet periods, and rising temperatures, posing significant challenges for the agri-food industry.

Minister Muir said the evidence reinforces the need to progress actions under the Third Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme, publish the first Climate Action Plan, and advance wider climate policies.

The Met Office’s Professor Jason Lowe emphasised that reducing greenhouse gas emissions is essential to limit the worst effects, but adapting to unavoidable changes is equally critical and must be guided by evidence.

The session included a question-and-answer panel allowing attendees to explore the science in greater depth. It forms part of DAERA’s ongoing work to raise awareness and promote evidence-based action across all sectors.