Precipitation
Articles tagged with Precipitation
Buffalo without lake-effect snow? Ancient iceberg scratches reveal a reverse snowbelt
Scientists seek to understand effects of rain falling on snow in the Arctic
Bigger and wetter storms mean drier conditions over time
New study shows why rainfall remains hard to predict in a warming world
A new study reveals that climate models are less confident in predicting regional rainfall patterns due to uncertainties in large-scale wind patterns. This limits confidence in forecasts of floods and droughts, particularly in regions vulnerable to these events.
Illinois scientists sound the alarm on field inundation, work with farmers to find solutions
Field inundation causes widespread problems across the food system, including economic issues, biological changes, and human health impacts. Illinois scientists are working with farmers to develop a customizable toolbox of solutions suited to specific contexts.
Warmer winters and snow drought may threaten western U.S. water by speeding flows, study finds
A new study finds that warmer winters will lead to faster water transit times in the western United States, negatively impacting summer water levels and quality. The research focuses on the Naches River basin, where snowpack declines have already resulted in earlier spring discharges.
AMS science preview: AI forecast limits, unpredictable hurricanes, simplified heat index
New research from the American Meteorological Society explores AI forecasting limits, the impact of climate change on hurricane trends, and simplifies the heat index. The studies find that machine learning can outperform numerical physics-based models in certain conditions, but not universally.
When the land "speaks": How surface conditions shape precipitation in humid Asian monsoon regions
A new review paper reveals that land surfaces in humid monsoon regions shape precipitation characteristics through complex interactions. High-resolution satellite observations and convection-permitting climate models reveal a nuanced understanding of surface moisture, energy balance, and atmospheric dynamics. This challenges the tradit...
Rivers in the sky are driving stronger and more predictable floods new study finds
Researchers found that atmospheric rivers and well-organized atmospheric systems can produce significantly heavier rainfall while also creating clearer signals in the atmosphere. This understanding could improve early warnings for extreme events and sharpen forecasting tools globally.
Study in search of a tropical spring is the first to show some birds flip their breeding season in response to climate
A team of researchers, led by Felicity Newell, tracked over 8,000 birds in Peru's cloud forests and found that breeding times vary significantly due to changing environmental conditions. The results suggest a more complex response to climate change than previously thought.
Understanding mountain water – worldwide
The MountAInWater project uses a unique combination of field work, modeling, and AI to assess climate change impacts on mountain water supplies and identify potential tipping points. The global reanalysis will provide crucial resources for managing future water security challenges.
Fantastic fungi found with ability to freeze water
Researchers have identified fungal proteins that can catalyze ice formation at high subzero temperatures, making them a potential alternative to toxic silver iodide in cloud seeding. The discovery could lead to safer weather modification and improved food preservation techniques.
Where does northwest China's increasing moisture come from? New study points to local sources
A new study found that Northwest China's precipitation increase since the late 1990s is largely driven by local sources, including enhanced evapotranspiration. The region's humidification trend is fueled by warming temperatures, vegetation recovery, and increased meltwater from glaciers and snowpack.
New Aegean index unlocks breakthrough in Mediterranean seasonal rainfall forecasting
A new study reveals that heat uptake fluctuations in the Aegean Sea during August predict Eastern Mediterranean winter rainfall. The Aegean Sea Heat Uptake Anomaly (AQA) index captures year-to-year rainfall variability and improves seasonal forecasting skill.
Forest soils increasingly extract methane from atmosphere
Researchers at the University of Göttingen found that forest soils in south-western Germany absorb more methane as climate conditions become drier and warmer. This contradicts current international meta-analyses, highlighting the importance of long-term monitoring for assessing the effects of climate change.
Research clarifies record-late monsoon onset, aiding northern Australian communities
A recent study has clarified the record-late monsoon onset in Australia, defining its critical impact on water security and cattle industry. The researchers found that local wind conditions over Darwin prevented the upper-level winds from switching to easterlies.
Application of orthogonal CNOP-I in a convection-allowing ensemble prediction system based on CMA-MESO for improving extreme precipitation skill
Researchers improve extreme precipitation forecast accuracy using a novel CNOP-I scheme in a convection-allowing ensemble prediction system. The new method captures nonlinear evolution characteristics of weather systems, leading to more accurate predictions and reduced uncertainty.
New study reveals precursors for forecasting summer clustered extreme precipitation events in Northeast China
Researchers have identified four synoptic patterns contributing to summer clustered extreme precipitation events in Northeast China, including eastward-moving low-altitude vortex and southwesterlies. The study provides a robust assessment of prerequisite conditions for these events and offers insights into short-term forecasting.
Climate change is quietly rewriting the world’s nitrogen cycle, with high stakes for food and the environment
Climate change is altering the global nitrogen cycle, affecting food security, water quality, and biodiversity. The review finds that elevated CO2 boosts plant growth but dilutes protein quality, while rising temperatures reduce yields and increase nitrogen losses.
AMS Science Preview: Volcanic rain, dust storms, and unstable Antarctic air
Recent research reveals that volcanic eruptions can cause unpredictable weather patterns, including volcanic rain, dust storms, and unstable Antarctic air. The study also found that the Antarctic surface atmosphere has become less stable and more prone to gravity waves since the 1950s.
AMS 2026 Meeting showcases atmospheric science and the “human factor”
The 106th Annual Meeting of the American Meteorological Society will focus on the intersection of technology and human decision-making in weather, water, and climate sciences. The meeting will feature keynote presentations, Presidential Sessions, and named symposia highlighting key Earth science topics.
Climate change and rising sea levels to worsen urban health risks in Mumbai, study co-led by Princeton and University of Chicago reveals
A recent study co-led by Princeton and University of Chicago found that deaths caused by rainfall and rising sea levels are almost ten times higher than official statistics suggest in Mumbai. The research highlights the human toll of extreme urban flooding, with slum residents facing disproportionate risks, particularly children under ...
The interannual variation of summer precipitation in the East China Sea exhibits its own uniqueness
Researchers identify unique interannual variability in East China Sea summer precipitation, distinct from Western North Pacific subtropical high. Local cyclonic anomaly plays key role in promoting enhanced precipitation over the ECS.
UAlbany researcher partners on $1.2 million NSF grant to explore tropical monsoon rainfall patterns
A UAlbany researcher is leading a $1.2 million NSF project to integrate climate records from stalagmites, corals, lake sediments, and tree rings to understand past changes in monsoon rainfall patterns. The study aims to improve decadal predictions and risk management for societies vulnerable to climate change.
Research shows how Dust Bowl-type drought causes unprecedented productivity loss
A global research effort by Colorado State University reveals that extreme, prolonged droughts in grasslands and shrublands result in more than twice the loss of plant productivity compared to moderate droughts. The study suggests that these ecosystems lose their ability to recover over time under prolonged dry conditions.
Rain in the Sahara? UIC researchers predict a wetter future for the desert
The Sahara Desert is expected to see a significant increase in rainfall by the second half of the 21st century, with some regions experiencing up to 25% more precipitation. Researchers warn that this change will have far-reaching consequences for billions of people in Africa and beyond.
Hotter does mean wetter
A Kyoto University study found that a 4 degree global temperature increase will intensify extreme precipitation and make it stronger by 7% per degree of warming. However, favorable conditions for extreme precipitation occur when atmospheric moisture is sufficient, not on the hottest days.
AMS science preview: global heat record false? Rainier storms
Recent research from the American Meteorological Society reveals a false global heat record, suggests that severe weather events are increasing in frequency, and predicts an expansion of fire-prone areas. The study also examines the impact of cold wakes on tropical cyclone rainfall and finds that they intensify with global warming.
How metals, organics, and microbes shape iron nanoparticles in nature
Researchers explain how iron nanoparticles form in water or on minerals, organic matter, and microbial biofilms, influencing ecosystem health and pollutant movement. Organic molecules and microbes also play major roles in nanoparticle growth and transformation.
Is flooding under climate change more predictable than we thought?
Researchers from Japan developed a new statistical method to increase accuracy of flood risk projections across 70% of the Earth's landmass. This approach merges climate scenarios with different socioeconomic pathways, offering policymakers powerful insights for adaptation and preparedness strategies.
Engineers uncover why tiny particles form clusters in turbulent air
A new study reveals that small electric charges between particles play a crucial role in forming highly concentrated clusters in turbulent environments. This discovery has significant implications for climate research, medicine, engineering, and science, enabling better predictions and controls.
Climate change could drastically reduce aquifer recharge in Brazil
A study by Brazilian scientists predicts that climate change will significantly impact the country's underground reservoirs, reducing groundwater supply across Brazil. This will increase the risk of water shortages in several regions, especially the Southeast and South.
Pusan National University researchers reveal how uneven ocean warming is altering propagation of the Madden-Julian oscillation
The Madden-Julian Oscillation's speed and intensity are influenced by atmospheric stability, which affects regional convection and tropical cyclones. Uneven ocean warming changes MJO behavior, impacting rainfall patterns and climate forecasts.
Targeted snow monitoring at hotspots outperforms basin-wide surveys in predicting water supply
Researchers found that targeted snow monitoring at hotspots can improve water supply predictions in most basins, with typical gains of 11-14% compared to 4%. This approach is more cost-effective than basin-wide surveys and has potential for more accurate forecasts.
Scientists track lightning “pollution” in real time using NASA satellite
Researchers from the University of Maryland tracked lightning storms in real-time using NASA's TEMPO instrument, detecting nitrogen oxide emissions that affect climate and air quality. The study reveals how lightning can produce pollutants that travel long distances, influencing air quality far from the original storm.
Hot days make for icy weather, Philippine study finds
A new Philippine study reveals that the country's hottest days are more likely to produce hail, contradicting its typical balmy climate. The research used satellite and radar data to confirm the presence of strong updrafts and favorable conditions for hailstorms during hot periods.
Tropical volcanic eruptions push rainfall across the equator
Researchers at Princeton University found that major tropical eruptions create distinct flooding patterns depending on plume location and dispersal. The patterns mostly divide along the line of the equator, with increased rainfall in the tropics in one hemisphere and decreased flooding.
Optimization of key land surface albedo parameter reduces wet bias of climate modeling for the Tibetan Plateau
Researchers optimized a key land surface parameter to reduce the wet bias of climate models for the Tibetan Plateau. The adjustments weakened land-atmosphere interactions, leading to a 16% decrease in precipitation estimates and improved accuracy at 66% of rain gauge stations.
Application of advanced convective entrainment and topography parameterizations improves precipitation simulation over the Tibetan plateau
Researchers improved WRF model precipitation simulation by optimizing Grell-Freitas cumulus scheme and Turbulent Orographic Form Drag scheme. This approach reduced overestimation of precipitation across the Tibetan Plateau.
AMS science preview: New lightning record, fewer hurricanes, fire forecasts
Recent research from American Meteorological Society journals predicts a new record for lightning and a decrease in hurricane frequency. Additionally, fire forecasts have been updated to better manage water resources in Colorado's Gunnison River Basin.
The key to lowering your water bill may already be at your door
The ERIC system combines doorbell cameras and AI to analyze rainfall estimation and automatically adjusts irrigation schedules for more precise water use. Researchers estimate users can save up to $29/month in utility costs and 9,000 gallons of water per month with the innovative irrigation system.
New research helps narrow down uncertainties in near-term precipitation projections for the Asian Water Tower
A new study uses 100 ensemble members to analyze near-term precipitation projections for the QP, finding a complex east–west dipole pattern influenced by the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation. This helps increase consistency of precipitation projections.
Tree pollen reveals 150,000 years of monsoon history—and a warning for Australia’s northern rainfall
A study of tree pollen records in Northern Australia reveals a 150,000-year record of monsoon patterns, showing a potential intensification of the monsoon system due to climate change. This could lead to increased flooding in Australia and droughts in East Asia.
Less snow makes trees absorb less carbon, according to new BU study
A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that warmer summer temperatures increase tree growth, but less snow on the ground slows this growth significantly. This means that New England forests' ability to store carbon in future climate scenarios is likely overestimated.
New research casts doubt on ancient drying of northern Africa’s climate
Researchers analyzed leaf waxes and found no significant drying trend in northern Africa between 3.5 and 2.5 million years ago. This challenges previous interpretations of the climate history of the region. The study suggests that dust deposits may be attributed to changes in wind patterns rather than rainfall.
Alps could face a doubling in torrential summer rainfall frequency as temperatures rise by 2°C
A new study predicts that a 2°C temperature rise could double the frequency of short-lived summer downpours in the Alpine region, causing severe damage and posing risks to lives. The analysis of nearly 300 mountain weather stations found that warm air retains more moisture, intensifying thunderstorm activity.
It’s not just El Niño: New climate phenomenon impacts Hawai‘i rainfall
A new study reveals that the Pacific Meridional Mode plays a major role in Hawaiian rainfall variability, particularly in spring. The research suggests that El Niño emerges as the primary driver of winter rainfall, but the PMM is crucial for spring rainfall, especially on Maui and the Island of Hawai‘i.
The atmospheric memory that feeds billions of people: Newly discovered mechanism for monsoon rainfall
A new study reveals the atmosphere can store moisture over extended periods, creating a physical memory effect. This 'memory' allows monsoon systems to flip between two stable states, with severe consequences for regions relying on monsoon rainfall.
AMS report and statement: "America's economic leadership is at risk"
The American Meteorological Society warns that catastrophic cuts to federal science agencies like NOAA threaten the US weather enterprise, which supports public safety, private sector operations, and national security. A strong weather enterprise is essential for America's economic leadership.
AMS science preview: Fire weather, bumpy hurricane flights, climate extremes and protests
Recent research highlights increased fire activity in the western US, with wildfires becoming less prone to calming down at night. Meanwhile, extreme turbulence on hurricane flights has led to a new 'bumpiness' metric. Climate extremes are also evident in shifting energy demands for heating and cooling in Chinese megacities.
Southern Ocean warming will mean a wetter West Coast
A Cornell University-led study predicts long-term increases in precipitation over East Asia and the Western U.S. as the Southern Ocean warms, regardless of climate mitigation efforts. The research suggests that accounting for cloud feedbacks in climate models can help explain uncertainties and improve predictions.
AMS Science Preview: Data deserts, energy costs, malaria prediction
Climate change drives large increases in electricity demand and costs in Texas due to extreme temperatures. Meanwhile, atmospheric rivers become more frequent, larger, and moister globally. Diagnostic studies also predict malaria outbreaks with five-month lead time using sea-surface temperature anomalies.
Major changes to the Sahara Desert 8,000 years ago uncovered by Moroccan stalagmites
Researchers from the University of Oxford discovered that rainfall in the Sahara Desert increased between 8,700 and 4,300 years ago, coinciding with a rise in Neolithic archaeological sites. This finding highlights the importance of a favourable climate on early pastoralist societies, which relied on rainfall for their livestock.
AMS Science Preview: Wind and wildfire, EF5s, “sitting ducks”
Research highlights the impact of wind on wildfire growth, with areas in the US Southeast vulnerable to extreme heat and precipitation events. Meanwhile, a study suggests the 'drought' of EF5 tornadoes may be due to stricter ratings rather than changes in tornadoes.
New study reveals how reduced rainfall threatens plant diversity
A new study reveals that increased aridity leads to a decrease in plant species diversity in drylands. The research found that the biomass of dominant plant species can obscure this effect, and past extreme droughts strengthen the link between rainfall and species diversity.
Research on past hurricanes aims to reduce future risk
Researchers analyzed tropical storm-related precipitation to understand its impact on local water resources and provide insights into climate predictions. The study aims to help communities prepare for extreme storms and manage water resources before and after the storms.
AMS 2025 meeting promotes atmospheric science for a “thriving planet”
The 105th Annual Meeting of the American Meteorological Society will address key issues in weather, water, and climate. The meeting features a Presidential Forum on physical, social, cultural, and economic impacts of climate change, with experts from the region of the Mississippi River Delta.
What happens in the ocean when two cyclones collide
When two tropical cyclones collide in the Indian Ocean, they can intensify considerably, leading to extreme interactions between the ocean and atmosphere. The study found that effects occurred that have only been observed with much stronger cyclones, including a cooling effect of three degrees Celsius and upwelling of deep water masses.
AMS Science Preview: Turbulence & thunderstorms, heat stress, future derechos
New studies reveal significant increases in Atlantic hurricane seasons and derecho events, while also highlighting the dangers of turbulence near thunderstorms and extreme heat stress. Climate models predict a rise in precipitation extremes across US cities, particularly during winter and spring.