Challenges of Attributing Natural Disasters to Climate Change

In this episode, Graihagh Jackson explores the new field of climate attribution science with leading climatologist Dr Friederike Otto. Dr Otto's team of experts can now rapidly assess to what extent extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts or floods have - or have not - been caused by man-made climate change.

Graihagh finds out how this information is becoming crucial for disaster planning and response. She is also joined by BBC World Service disinformation reporter Jacqui Wakefield to discuss how Dr Otto's data can help fight a growing tendency by politicians and journalists to overstate the role of climate change.

Presenters: Graihagh Jackson and Jacqui Wakefield Producer: Osman Iqbal Production Coordinator: Brenda Brown Sound design: Tom Brignell Editor: Simon Watts