Scientists in Abu Dhabi have identified a weather phenomenon called atmospheric river rapids as a key factor behind severe flooding in the Middle East. These atmospheric rivers are long regions carrying water vapor, and rapids can form within them due to faster air movement, similar to river rapids. These rapids can cause intense rainfall and flooding.
In April 2023, the UAE experienced its heaviest rainfall ever, with over 250mm of rain falling in 24 hours in some areas. The storm was linked to a slow-moving low-pressure system. Researchers from Khalifa University, including Dr. Diana Francis, analyzed these storms and found that atmospheric river rapids are becoming more frequent and intense due to global warming. This results in more extreme weather events, like the historic rain in the UAE.
The study, published in Geophysical Research Letters, used satellite data and ground-based observations to model the atmospheric river responsible for the April 2023 floods. This atmospheric river was the strongest on record for the region, drawing moisture from various sources. The researchers suggest that understanding these atmospheric river rapids can help improve weather forecasting and reduce the impact of such extreme events.
Dr. Francis emphasized that climate change is making these phenomena more common, and a better understanding of their dynamics is essential for future predictions. The researchers also noted the importance of developing an index or scale for atmospheric river rapids to help forecasters mitigate their potentially devastating impacts.
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By Daniel Bardsley. Original content published by thenationalnews.com.