Climatic and societal impacts in Scandinavia following the 536 and 540 CE volcanic double event

• DOI: 10.5194/cp-19-357-2023
• Publication Date: 2023-02-03T14:29:33Z
• Authors: Evelien van Dijk; Ingar Mørkestøl G...; Anna de Bode; Helge Høeg; Kjetil Loftsgarden; Frode Iversen; Claudia Timmreck; Johann Jungclaus; Kirstin Krüger
• Keywords: Growing degree-day; Chronology

Abstract. In the Northern Hemisphere, mid-6th century was one of coldest periods last 2000 years, which initiated by volcanic eruptions in 536 and 540 CE. Here, we study effect this double event on climate society Scandinavia with a special focus southern Norway. Using an ensemble Max Planck Institute Earth system model transient simulations for 521–680 CE, temperature, precipitation, atmospheric circulation patterns are analyzed. The simulated cooling magnitude is used as input growing degree day (GDD) setup three different areas Norway, representative typical meteorological landscape conditions. Pollen from bogs inside these analyzed at high resolution (1–3 cm sample intervals) to give insights into validity GDD regard impact regional scale link data sets archeological records. We find that after CE event, maximum surface air up 3.5 ∘C during mean season regionally With scenario 3 ∘C, indicates crop failures were likely our northernmost western areas, while crops more mature southeastern area. These results agreement pollen records respective areas. Archeological excavations show, however, complex pattern abandonment farms severe social impacts but also continuation occupation or mix those. Finally, discuss climatic societal synthesizing new available whole Scandinavia.