Atmospheric river

Atmospheric River

An atmospheric river is a long, narrow region in the atmosphere that transports water vapor from the tropics towards the poles. These rivers in the sky are responsible for a significant portion of the horizontal transport of moisture outside of the tropics. While not all atmospheric rivers cause precipitation, when they do, they often cause extreme rainfall and floods, often leading to significant water damage and flood damage.

Formation

Atmospheric rivers form in the warm, moist air of the tropics and are driven towards the poles by the atmosphere's circulation. They are most commonly found in the Pacific Ocean, where they are driven by the prevailing westerly winds. The rivers are typically several thousand kilometers long and only a few hundred kilometers wide, and a single river can carry a greater flux of water than the Amazon River.

Impact

Atmospheric rivers have a significant impact on the weather and climate of the regions they affect. They are a key component of the Earth's global water cycle, as they transport water vapor from the tropics, where it is most abundant, to the drier and colder regions of the poles.

When an atmospheric river makes landfall, it often leads to extreme precipitation. This can lead to severe flooding, particularly in coastal regions where the river meets a mountain range, forcing the moist air upwards and causing it to condense and fall as rain. However, atmospheric rivers are also crucial for the water supply in these regions, as they can replenish reservoirs and contribute to water availability.

Research and Monitoring

The study of atmospheric rivers is a relatively new field of meteorology. Advanced technologies, such as satellite imagery and radar, are used to monitor these phenomena. Understanding atmospheric rivers is crucial for predicting extreme weather events and managing water resources, particularly in regions that are heavily affected by these phenomena.

See Also

• Meteorology
• Climate change
• Water cycle
• Flood