What's an atmospheric river? AP explains the weather phenomenon
Summary
Atmospheric rivers are large streams of moisture in the sky that can lead to heavy rain or snow over land. They are important for water supply but can also cause natural disasters like floods and mudslides, especially on the U.S. West Coast.Key Facts
- Atmospheric rivers carry moisture from tropical regions to other parts of the world.
- They play a big role in the yearly rain and snow on the U.S. West Coast, contributing 30% to 50% of precipitation.
- These weather systems can cause flooding and mudslides due to heavy rainfall.
- Atmospheric rivers form as moisture is carried by winds associated with cyclones.
- They are typically 250 to 375 miles wide and can transport much more water than major rivers like the Mississippi.
- As the Earth's atmosphere warms, atmospheric rivers are becoming larger, wetter, and more common.
- When hitting mountain ranges, they can cause snow and rain, leading to quick melting and flooding.
- "Pineapple express" is a term for an atmospheric river originating near Hawaii.
- The term "atmospheric river" originated from research in the 1990s.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.