Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan have found the frequency of heavy rain downpours is increasing around the world.

Hydro climatologist at the University, Simon Papalexiou says a study of 100 thousand weather stations shows a steady increase in heavy downpours over the past 50 years.

He says serious consequences include costly losses from flooding, crop loss and water contamination.

He says it is important for public officials to plan for the future.

The U of S study found between 2004 and 2013, there were 7 percent more extreme bouts of heavy rain than expected globally.

He says global warming heats up the atmosphere which leads to more atmospheric water, which leads to rain.