Carte interactive présentant l’exposition et la vulnérabilité aux changements climatiques et des solutions d’adaptation pour la population québécoise

Abstract

The growing intensity of extreme weather events poses major challenges to communities and ecosystems, causing significant damage. Mobilization at all levels, including that of citizens, is necessary to strengthen territorial resilience. However, access to information and the public’s understanding of risks remain significant barriers to adaptation. The tool developed as part of this project is intended for the Québec population and enables users to obtain a summary of the impacts of climate change and possible adaptation measures for a chosen location. The tool combines climate data and vulnerability analyses. The first version covers seven hazards : rising temperatures, heavy rainfall, extreme heat, extreme cold, destructive storms, droughts, and floods. This thesis guides the development of this first version, specifically the selection of hazards, indicators, and adaptation measures. It is based on an extensive review of maps and tools available in Canada and internationally, their limitations, and their relevant features. The literature review highlights the wide variability in approaches to defining risk, vulnerability, and exposure to climate hazards. Existing tools are often complex to use and are not clearly communicated, as they are generally not designed for the general public. Raw values from climate models are translated into a five-level score based on Environment and Climate Change Canada’s weather alert criteria, scientific literature, or deviation from historical averages. For vulnerability indicators, the results of the analysis conducted by the City of Montréal, already expressed on a five-level scale, are used. The customization of measures according to location has been explored but appears to be a complex feature to implement due to the large number of parameters involved. Future developments include the addition of indicators related to wildfires, air quality, invasive species, and coastal hazards. Suggestions are also made to improve the customization of measures according to local contexts and realities.

Date	21 Aug 2025
Original language	French
Awarding Institution	École de technologie supérieure
Supervisor	Annie Levasseur (Supervisor)