The cost of cold: New economics research links frozen crops to domestic violence

Professor Leah Lakdawala and ECN Senior Major, Juan Londono are featured in new research exploring how extreme cold weather impacts families in agricultural communities. Using data from the Peruvian Andes, the study finds that severe cold shocks that destroy crops and livestock increase economic stress within households—conditions linked to a higher risk of domestic violence. The research highlights how climate-related shocks can have profound social consequences beyond income and agriculture. Full Article