Devastating Impact on the West Coast
Two recent atmospheric rivers hit the West Coast, triggering floods and mudslides in Southern California, claiming at least nine lives.
The Science Behind Atmospheric Rivers
Jason Cordeira, an atmospheric scientist, explains that atmospheric rivers are like “rivers of water vapor in the sky,” capable of carrying more water than a dozen Mississippi Rivers.
Key FAQs
- Causes: Atmospheric rivers form when moisture channels from the tropics meet landmasses, leading to heavy rains and flooding.
- Duration: These phenomena typically last between three to seven days, dissipating due to rainfall.
- Relation to Hurricanes: While sharing some traits, atmospheric rivers and hurricanes are not directly related.
The Importance of Atmospheric Rivers
Atmospheric rivers play a crucial role in alleviating droughts by replenishing water reservoirs and snowpack in mountainous regions like California.
Climate Change’s Influence
As the climate warms, atmospheric rivers are expected to intensify and become more frequent, posing a greater risk of flooding and water-related disasters.