Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

The proposed research program aims to significantly advance our understanding of risks associated with weather-related extremes in a changing climate. It focuses on comprehensively addressing the concurrent and compounding nature of these extreme events and their impacts on interconnected infrastructure systems. The research program is structured around four key objectives, including the development of a comprehensive framework to characterize the potential for compound extreme events and their mechanisms, analysis of their future behaviour under climate change, quantifying the influences of natural climate variability and human-induced climate change on extreme events, and assessing the risks of compound events to interconnected infrastructure systems. The urgency of this research is underscored by the significant increase in major weather-related natural hazards, including heatwaves, floods, and droughts. Indigenous communities, children, the elderly, and marginalized groups face disproportionately higher risks from these events. The study of compound events represents a pioneering frontier in hydroclimate research, demanding innovative approaches to address this knowledge gap. This program places a special emphasis on understanding the vulnerabilities and risks posed to interconnected infrastructure systems, recognizing their critical role in community resilience. The proposed research program employs a holistic approach, departing from conventional isolated hazard analysis on individual assets. It systematically investigates various coastal and inland flood drivers, as well as transitions between opposing extremes like drought-to-flood and heatwave-to-flood events. This comprehensive analysis is based on novel statistical and machine learning methodologies, integrated with cutting-edge physically-based models. The anticipated impact of this research program is substantial. It addresses a critical concern posed by rising hydroclimate risks and climate change. The outcomes will lead to the development of new datasets and computer models, enabling communities to better understand and prepare for hazards like floods. The research will provide invaluable insights into the multi-hazard vulnerability of infrastructure, influencing both short-term mitigation and long-term adaptation efforts. Furthermore, the research's impact will extend beyond academia into policy and practice. Collaboration with organizations like the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Codes and Standards Committee will inform the development of industry practices and infrastructure designs to account for climate change. Guidelines and tools for resilient and adaptive infrastructure will be developed, benefiting not only Canada but also global communities. This research aims to contribute to the sustainable development of communities and enhance infrastructure resilience.