Observed variability and trends in extreme climate events: A brief review

Variations and trends in extreme climate events have only recently received much attention. Exponentially increasing economic losses, coupled with an increase in deaths due to these events, have focused attention on the possi bility that these events are increasing in frequency. One of the major prob lems in examining the climate record for changes in extremes is a lack of h igh-quality, long-term data. In some areas of the world increases in extrem e events are apparent, while in others there appears to be a decline. Based on this information increased ability to monitor and detect multidecadal v ariations and trends is critical to begin to detect any observed changes an d understand their origins.