Shifts in climate are strongly linked to increases in violence around the world, a study suggests.
US scientists found that even small changes in temperature or rainfall correlated with a rise in assaults, rapes and murders, as well as group conflicts and war.
The team says with the current projected levels of climate change, the world is likely to become a more violent place.
The researchers looked at 60 studies from around the world, with data spanning hundreds of years.
The scientists say that with the current projected levels of climate change the world is likely to become a more violent place.
They estimate that a 2C (3.6F) rise in global temperature could see personal crimes increase by about 15%, and group conflicts rise by more than 50% in some regions.
Commenting on the research, Dr Stephan Harrison from the University of Exeter said it was a "timely study".
"What they have found is entirely plausible... For example, we already know that hotter and drier weather causes an increase in urban violence. Likewise, during cooler and wetter weather people tend to stay indoors, and the threat diminishes."
However, other researchers have questioned whether climate breeds conflict.
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I find it highly unlikely you can blame the rise in violence on climate change only.
What do you think?