Atmospheric rivers are long strands of moisture that transport tropical water, making them the potential factor that finally ends a drought or triggers an unexpected rainstorm.
What Are They?
Atmospheric rivers are narrow bands of air that transport moist air towards colder areas. Reports indicate that between 30 to 50 percent of total precipitation in the US West Coast occurs during only a few events. Meteorologists can predict these events five days in advance.
What Causes Floods and Droughts?
Heavy rainfalls and snowfalls over the mountains bring a high probability of flash floods and mudslides, more often when there is a series of storms. But according to hydrologists, they have put an end to many of the most severe droughts in the region, including California’s drought of 2012-2016.
What Does Climate Change Lead to?
Climate change may lead to more severe events, although the impact on separate areas is still uncertain.Understanding official weather warnings helps people prepare for environmental disasters.
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