Exploring the complex dynamic of summer extreme events in the European Alpine Region using the high-resolution CORDEX-FPS ensemble

Extreme summer precipitation events pose significant challenges, particularly in regions with complex topography such as the European Alps. Furthermore, the pronounced vulnerability of this region to climate change underscores the need to better understand its precipitation dynamics and processes at different spatial and temporal scales.

To in-depth investigate the spatial and temporal characteristics of these events, this study employs high-resolution regional climate simulations from the Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment Flagship Pilot Studies (CORDEX-FPS) on convection over the Alps and the Mediterranean region. Focusing specifically on elevation-dependent patterns and sub-daily variability, we analyze the spatial distribution of summer precipitation extremes and the underlying processes associated with these events.

The results identify key hotspots of precipitation intensity and frequency, providing valuable insights for risk assessment, management, and adaptation strategies in mountainous regions. They also demonstrate how topography and other static factors, together with dynamic processes, affect the distribution of extreme precipitation events.