High-resolution climate change dataset for Southern Italy

Dataset Description This dataset provides high-resolution climate change signals over the study domain, derived from regional climate simulations conducted within the framework of the CHANCES PRIN research project. Contents The dataset consists of two RAR archives, one for each climate variable: Precipitation: climate change signal expressed as the percentage difference (%) between the future and historical simulation periods. 2-metre Air Temperature: climate change signal expressed as the absolute difference (°C) between the future and historical simulation periods. Each archive contains 5 GeoTIFF raster files at a horizontal resolution of 1 km, making them suitable for fine-scale regional impact assessments. Reference Periods Period Timeframe Historical (baseline) 1995 – 2014 Future (projection) 2025 – 2044 Simulation Setup The simulations were performed using dynamical downscaling via the WRF (Weather Research and Forecasting) regional climate model. Boundary conditions (BCs) were provided by the MPI-ESM1-2-HR global climate model, developed within the CMIP6 (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6) initiative. The future projection follows the SSP5-8.5 scenario (Shared Socioeconomic Pathway), which represents a high-emission, fossil-fuel-intensive development pathway and is commonly used as an upper-bound estimate for climate change impact studies. Intended Use This dataset is intended for researchers, planners, and stakeholders working on regional climate change assessment, impact modelling, and adaptation studies, particularly at local and sub-regional scales.