Final answer:
Heavy precipitation events have increased in frequency since 1950 due to shifts in global temperature and rainfall patterns, with the intensity projected to rise especially in tropical and high-latitude areas.
Step-by-step explanation:
Since 1950, heavy precipitation events have increased in frequency across much of the world. This trend is associated with shifts in temperature and rainfall patterns due to global climate change. The intensity of these events is also projected to rise, particularly in regions like the tropics and high latitudes, which are expected to see an overall increase in precipitation. Additionally, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, have escalated in some regions and are projected to continue this upward trend. For major population centers, the challenges arising from increased precipitation could include flooding, infrastructure strain, and the cascading socio-economic impacts linked to these extreme weather events.