Climate change attribution analysis assesses the likelihood that a particular extreme weather event has been made more or less likely as a result of anthropogenic climate change. Communication of extreme event attribution information in the immediate aftermath of an extreme event provides a window of opportunity to inform, educate, and affect a change in attitude or behaviour in order to mitigate or prepare for climate change. This report presents the results of a research study examining the most effective methods, phrases and tools for communicating climate change attribution information.

Timely access to this information can help decision makers ensure that appropriate adaptation and investment decisions are prioritised. Effective communication of climate change attribution information is critical to ensuring decision makers at all levels understand and are able to act upon such information. In early 2017, Practical Action Consulting, on behalf of the Raising Risk Awareness initiative examined the most effective methods, phrases and tools for communicating climate change attribution information, considering comprehension, ease of understanding, and willingness to take action across a range of different actors in two countries: Kenya and India.

This research project will help examine and provide guidance on how to best communicate attribution information to high-level decision makers, the media, and the general public subsequent to an extreme weather event, including the immediate aftermath.

• Download the executive summary here: Communicating extreme weather event attribution: Research from India and Kenya (executive summary)
• Download the full report: Communicating extreme weather event attribution: Research from India and Kenya