What are "atmospheric rivers"? | CBCGDF Ocean&Wetlands Working Group

Atmospheric rivers are airborne water vapor channels that carry huge amounts of water vapor, which have a significant impact on extreme weather such as rainstorms and floods. They are only a few hundred kilometers wide, but can stretch for thousands of kilometers, and are particularly active on the west coast of the United States, coastal Europe, and some parts of China. Scientists pay attention to atmospheric rivers because they transport huge amounts of water vapor and their behavior is unpredictable, which can bring drought-relieving rain or cause floods. New research shows that atmospheric rivers behave more complexly under climate change, which may lead to more extreme weather. For example, it is expected that by the end of this century, atmospheric rivers in the Pacific Northwest may cause sea levels to rise temporarily to three times that of current storms, increasing the risk of flooding.

 


Atmospheric rivers also affect the ocean, stirring up seawater through wind and rainfall, changing ocean temperature and mixed layers. Climate change may make the winds and water vapor brought by atmospheric rivers stronger, increase the risk of coastal flooding, and affect ocean temperature and energy exchange. The impact of atmospheric rivers varies in different regions. For example, southern California mainly brings evaporative cooling, while northern regions have a mixed effect of heating and cooling.

 

These studies are of great significance to disaster prevention and mitigation, agriculture, and water resources management, reminding us that the impact of climate change is comprehensive. Scientists are studying the future trends of atmospheric rivers to provide early warning information to governments and communities. Coastal residents and policymakers need to formulate response measures based on the research results, such as improving flood control facilities and optimizing water resource management. The study of atmospheric rivers helps us understand the complex interactions in the climate system and provides a scientific basis for responding to climate change.

 

Original Chinese Article: https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/JDrJufOCJhj5dB5PDUT0Zg

Translator: Sara

Reviewed by: Richard

Editor: Sara    

Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776





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