Tree-Ring Data Indicate Unusual Summer Droughts

Freie researchers contribute to new study in "Nature" detailing evidence of unusual drought conditions in Europe in recent years. Using data taken from tree-ring isotopes, researchers have proven that the summer droughts that have swept parts of Europe in recent years were actually very unusual in comparison to droughts experienced during the past centuries. In their study, the group of researchers - several of whom have ties to Freie Universität Berlin - applied a novel method of analysis using isotope data. The results of their investigation have been published in the renowned scientific journal Nature. Communications Earth and Environment under the title "European Tree-Ring Isotopes Indicate Unusual Recent Hydroclimate." The article is available online at: https://doi.org/10.1038/s43247'022 -00648-7 . Recent decades have seen an increase in the number of floods and droughts experienced across Europe. However, little was known about the long-term, hydroclimatic changes taking place across the continent until now.