The summer of flooding across the US, and scientists know why
9 months ago
- #extreme weather
- #flooding
- #climate change
- Summer has become a season of anxiety and disruption due to climate change.
- This summer has seen a tragic surge in deadly flash floods across the US.
- Unusually high humidity and moisture levels have led to record precipitable water.
- Multiple states experienced 100-year to 1,000-year deluges simultaneously.
- Notable floods include Texas (130+ deaths), New Mexico, Chicago, and NYC.
- Climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events.
- Atmospheric resonance and jet stream patterns contribute to prolonged extreme weather.
- Short-duration extreme rainfall events show the clearest link to climate change.
- Warm air holds more moisture, leading to heavier downpours and flooding.
- Human-caused greenhouse gas emissions are making extreme rainfall more severe.