This brochure summarizes the science of climate change and its impacts on the United States, both currently and in the future. It focuses on how climate change affects various regions and aspects of society and the economy, including energy, water, agriculture, and health. The report is written in plain language to better inform public and private decision-making at all levels. The full report, along with highlights and other information, can be found at www.globalchange.gov/usimpacts. Climate change is already evident across the nation, with trends such as rising temperatures, increased heavy downpours, rising sea levels, longer growing seasons, reduced snow and ice, and changes in river flows. These trends are expected to continue, with larger changes resulting from higher emissions of heat-trapping gases. Climate change is already causing a wide range of impacts, which are expected to grow. Examples of impacts include threats to sea ice and permafrost in Alaska, changes in forest growth and species distribution, stress on coldwater fish, threats to coral reefs, and increased risks from extreme weather events. Climate change also affects water and energy systems, agriculture, and coastal communities. Responses to climate change include mitigation, which reduces emissions, and adaptation, which helps societies adjust to climate conditions. Both are necessary for a comprehensive response strategy.This brochure summarizes the science of climate change and its impacts on the United States, both currently and in the future. It focuses on how climate change affects various regions and aspects of society and the economy, including energy, water, agriculture, and health. The report is written in plain language to better inform public and private decision-making at all levels. The full report, along with highlights and other information, can be found at www.globalchange.gov/usimpacts. Climate change is already evident across the nation, with trends such as rising temperatures, increased heavy downpours, rising sea levels, longer growing seasons, reduced snow and ice, and changes in river flows. These trends are expected to continue, with larger changes resulting from higher emissions of heat-trapping gases. Climate change is already causing a wide range of impacts, which are expected to grow. Examples of impacts include threats to sea ice and permafrost in Alaska, changes in forest growth and species distribution, stress on coldwater fish, threats to coral reefs, and increased risks from extreme weather events. Climate change also affects water and energy systems, agriculture, and coastal communities. Responses to climate change include mitigation, which reduces emissions, and adaptation, which helps societies adjust to climate conditions. Both are necessary for a comprehensive response strategy.