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Something weird and worrying is happening with rain, study finds

New research shows global rainfall is becoming more concentrated, creating longer dry spells despite higher overall precipitation. The study, published May 13, reveals this paradox complicates water management and drought forecasting worldwide.
Warmer temperatures allow the atmosphere to hold more water, resulting in stronger bursts separated by longer dry spells. This erratic cycle is consistent with climate change theory, according to researchers analyzing 42 years of global precipitation records.
A 3.6 degree global temperature rise could lead to abnormally dry land conditions for 27% of the world's population, offsetting precipitation gains. Lead author Corey Lesk, a fellow at Dartmouth College, said the finding "really exposes the mechanics of how climate change will affect water resources."
Water managers must now decide whether to release precious reservoirs to collect freshly fallen rain during concentrated events. Longer dry spells complicate management of public water supplies, adding challenges to drought forecasting and resource planning.
The impact of erratic rainfall is visible in Ledgeview, Wis., where the walking bridge on the East River Trail was covered with water April 14 after heavy rainfall. Such localized flooding illustrates how concentrated precipitation affects communities worldwide.

Insights by Ground AI