What are the effects of atmospheric rivers on global weather?

Atmospheric rivers are long, narrow regions in the atmosphere that transport moisture from tropical areas to mid-latitude regions. These phenomena play a crucial role in global weather by causing intense rainfall and snow in affected areas. Their impact can lead to both beneficial water supply and hazardous flooding.

Key Facts

• Atmospheric rivers can carry moisture equivalent to the flow of the Mississippi River.
• They are responsible for about 30-50% of the annual precipitation on the West Coast of the United States.
• The term 'atmospheric river' was first coined in 1995 by researchers at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
• Climate change is expected to increase the intensity and frequency of atmospheric rivers.

Examples or Use Cases

• In 2017, a series of atmospheric rivers caused severe flooding in California, leading to widespread evacuations and infrastructure damage.
• Atmospheric rivers contribute to the snowpack in the Sierra Nevada, crucial for water supply.

FAQs

What causes atmospheric rivers? Atmospheric rivers form when moist air flows from tropical regions and is forced to rise over mountains, leading to condensation and precipitation.

How can atmospheric rivers impact agriculture? While they can provide much-needed rainfall, excessive precipitation can lead to soil erosion and crop damage.