Published: 9th Feb, 2024
Context
Parts of Los Angeles received a storm powered by an atmospheric river hit the state. Known as a ‘river in the sky’, the weather phenomenon can produce torrential amounts of rain.
What are Atmospheric Rivers?
- Atmospheric rivers are relatively long, narrow regions in the atmosphere – like rivers in the sky – that transport most of the water vapour outside of the tropics.
- Size: Atmospheric rivers can be between 400 and 600 kilometres wide. They can be over 1,600 kilometres long.
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According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, atmospheric rivers can carry up to 15 times the volume of the Mississippi River – which is the 15th largest river in the world. |
- Atmospheric River Formation:
- Atmospheric rivers usually begin over tropical regions. Warm temperatures cause ocean water to evaporate and rise into the atmosphere. Strong winds help to carry the water vapour through the atmosphere.
- As atmospheric rivers move over land, the water vapour rises up farther into the atmosphere. It then cools into water droplets, which fall as precipitation.
- Impacts:
- Heavy rainfall associated with ARs can cause flooding, landslides and mudslides.
- They can also lead to water supply disruption, and develop drought-like conditions.
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