What effect does deforestation have on local weather patterns?

Deforestation significantly alters local weather patterns primarily through changes in humidity and an increase in the frequency of extreme weather events. When trees are removed, the landscape loses its ability to regulate temperature and moisture effectively. Trees play a crucial role in the water cycle by absorbing and transpiring water. With fewer trees, there is less transpiration, reducing the local humidity levels. This can lead to drier conditions.

Moreover, the loss of trees impacts local temperatures. Without the cooling effect provided by forested areas, temperatures can rise, which further disrupts regional climate patterns. As these patterns change, there is often an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall or droughts. This relationship between land cover change and weather extremes has been supported by various studies, indicating that deforestation can lead to a cascade of environmental changes affecting local climate stability.