Spring Frost: A Growing Threat to Global Food Security Despite Warming Temperatures

Corn, soybean, and winter wheat are crucial crops cultivated worldwide, providing a significant source of food for millions of people. However, these crops are vulnerable to damage from spring frosts, which can cause a decline in yield, leading to price fluctuations and jeopardizing food supply security. While global warming has resulted in a decline in the probability of spring frost events, recent studies have shown that in some regions, the risk of spring frost is still increasing, despite rising temperatures. This contradiction between global warming and the damage caused by spring frost to crops requires further investigation.

Previous studies have focused on the correlation between the frequency or trend of spring frost events and crop yield loss in specific regions. However, these conclusions cannot be easily applied to other areas due to differences in climate and geography, leading to varying results. Additionally, analyzing only the number of spring frost events occurring may not accurately reflect the actual cumulative damage caused by spring frost events. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the intensity of spring frost when assessing its impact on crop yield.