Atmospheric rivers are fascinating weather phenomena. They are long, narrow bands in the sky that carry moisture. When they reach land, they can drop heavy rains or snow.
So, where do these atmospheric rivers come from? Most form in tropical regions. Warm temperatures cause water vapor to rise. Then, winds transport that moisture to different parts of the world. In the United States, especially on the West Coast, they contribute to 30% to 50% of annual rainfall, making them crucial for water supplies. However, they can also lead to floods and mudslides.
Atmospheric rivers can stretch from 250 to 375 miles wide. Some are weak, but powerful ones can carry massive amounts of water—up to 15 times more than what the Mississippi River releases in a day, says the U.S. Geological Survey.
Climate change is intensifying this issue. A recent study shows these rivers are becoming wetter and stronger. This increased intensity is concerning, as it can lead to more extreme weather events.
When atmospheric rivers move inland, they encounter mountain ranges like California’s Sierra Nevada. As the moist air rises, it cools and precipitates, often as rain or snow. While traditional storms bring cold weather, atmospheric rivers usually bring warm moisture. This can cause lower snow elevations to melt quickly, leading to flooding and affecting local water supplies.
You might have heard of the “pineapple express.” This term refers to a specific type of strong atmospheric river that starts in the tropical Pacific near Hawaii. It’s known for delivering heavy rainfall to the West Coast.
Interestingly, the term “atmospheric river” was introduced in the 1990s by researchers Yong Zhu and Reginald E. Newell at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. They recognized the important role these weather systems play in our climate.
As we continue to study atmospheric rivers, it’s clear that understanding them is vital for preparing for weather-related challenges. With changing climate patterns, we must pay close attention to these powerful water systems to mitigate their potential impacts.
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Science,environment,Climate,Reginald E. Newell,World news,U.S. news
