Core Viewpoint - The northwest regions of China, traditionally known for drought, are increasingly facing severe rainfall and flooding events, indicating a shift in climate patterns due to global warming [1][2]. Group 1: Current Climate Changes - The northwest region is experiencing a significant increase in precipitation and runoff since the 1980s, with some dried-up lakes showing rising water levels and more frequent flooding events [2][3]. - Extreme precipitation events are becoming more frequent, intense, and prolonged, particularly in areas like northern Xinjiang, the Hexi Corridor, and central Gansu [2][3]. - The increase in extreme weather is closely linked to global warming, which enhances atmospheric moisture capacity and alters moisture transport pathways [2][3]. Group 2: Urban Vulnerability and Disaster Risks - Urban areas in the northwest, such as Lanzhou, exhibit high climate vulnerability due to natural conditions, weak socio-economic resilience, and inadequate disaster response capabilities [4][10]. - Traditional engineering measures for flood management may fail under the increasing intensity and frequency of extreme rainfall events, leading to heightened risks of urban flooding and landslides [10][11]. - The geographical features of the region, including mountainous terrain, exacerbate the risks associated with heavy rainfall, leading to rapid runoff and increased flooding potential [10][11]. Group 3: Forecasting and Adaptation Strategies - Advances in numerical forecasting and data integration have improved the accuracy of rainfall predictions, with short-term forecasts achieving over 80% accuracy [5][6]. - Future strategies for enhancing disaster preparedness include developing integrated monitoring networks, refining regional forecasting models, and leveraging artificial intelligence for data analysis [5][6]. - A systematic approach to translating climate prediction data into urban disaster prevention strategies involves risk assessment, adaptive measures, and dynamic updates to response plans [6][7]. Group 4: Collaboration and Policy Challenges - Effective collaboration between climate scientists and urban planners is essential for enhancing urban climate resilience, yet challenges such as data barriers and policy implementation difficulties persist [7][8]. - Identifying high-risk areas through scientific models can optimize resource allocation for climate adaptation efforts, ensuring that investments are directed where they are most needed [11][12].