The climate in Austria was, on average over the period 1991–2020, considerably warmer (+1.3 °C), somewhat wetter (+4 %) and sunnier (+8 %) than during the period 1961–1990. These changes in climate are clearly reflected in threshold-based climate indices. The increase in heat indices and the decrease in cold indices are pronounced in Austria. The choice of reference period can determine the direction of change for a given climate variable. For a sound assessment of climate changes predominantly caused by human activity, the period 1961–1990 remains relevant.

With the CCCA Fact Sheet "The abnormal climate normal period 1991–2020: classification and guidance", Johann Hiebl from ZAMG provides answers to questions from research and practice on the topic of climatic changes.