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As monsoon transforms, new study warns of deadly heat-rain double threat—and reveals a 2-year prediction breakthrough

A new study highlights the dual threat of extreme humid heat and catastrophic rainfall during the Indian monsoon, while also revealing a powerful new tool to predict the monsoon up to two years in advance. The research paints a sobering picture of climate change's impact on the region.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 23, 2026

Not too sunny, not too shady, just right

In a study on Japanese macaques, researchers found that semi-shade is an important thermoregulatory option under hot, dry conditions. The macaques preferred semi-shade over full shade or sun when it was hot and dry, but not humid. This suggests that semi-shade may play a significant role in helping endotherms cope with heat stress.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPrimates·TypeObservational study·DateJun 3, 2026

AngleNet: a game-changer in atmospheric humidity retrieval

A new deep-learning model, AngleNet, significantly improves the retrieval accuracy of atmospheric relative humidity profiles from ground-based microwave radiometers. The model captures complex nonlinear relationships between brightness temperature and humidity profiles, leading to better understanding and forecasting of atmospheric the...

SourceJournal of Remote Sensing·JournalJournal of Remote Sensing·DateSep 23, 2025

The risk of global water scarcity is greater when accounting for the origin of rain.

A new study reveals that risks to global water security are significantly higher when considering the environmental conditions and governability of areas where moisture evaporates before falling as rain. This approach identifies regions with high water scarcity risk, including those dependent on neighboring countries for upwind moisture.

SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Water·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 2, 2024

Freshwater from thin air

Researchers have developed a hydrogel that can absorb and retain water when combined with a hygroscopic salt, extracting almost six liters of pure water per kilo of material in 24 hours. This technology could play a fundamental role in recovering atmospheric water in drought-stricken regions.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

Understanding changes in extreme precipitation

A study by ETH Zurich researchers reveals that regional variability plays a key role in extreme precipitation, with increasing atmospheric moisture and weaker vertical wind velocities contributing to differences. The decomposition of projections highlights weaknesses in existing climate models and provides insights into where to focus ...

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 15, 2017