Story perspectives

Study Links Climate Change to Shijiahe Civilization's Decline

3/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Increased flooding from climate change contributed to the decline of the Shijiahe civilisation in central China (2500–2000 BC).
Researchers from Oxford University and the China University of Geosciences studied a stalagmite from Heshang Cave to compile a rainfall yearbook from 925 samples.
Their analysis revealed a major environmental shift around 3,950 years ago, aligning with the heaviest recorded rainfall.
The findings underscore how excessive rainfall can disrupt societies, alongside drought.

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Story summary

Increased flooding from climate change contributed to the decline of the Shijiahe civilisation in central China (2500–2000 BC).
Researchers from Oxford University and the China University of Geosciences studied a stalagmite from Heshang Cave to compile a rainfall yearbook from 925 samples.
Their analysis revealed a major environmental shift around 3,950 years ago, aligning with the heaviest recorded rainfall.
The findings underscore how excessive rainfall can disrupt societies, alongside drought.