Global Droughts Worsen as Atmospheric 'Thirst' Deepens
A recent study highlights how climate change has intensified global droughts by 40% in the last 40 years. The warming atmosphere increases its capacity to hold moisture, worsening drought conditions even where rainfall remains constant. Researchers emphasize the growing impact of atmospheric evaporative demand on drought severity.
- Country:
- India
The impact of climate change on global droughts has become increasingly severe, with new research indicating a 40% intensification over the past four decades. Experts from the University of California-Santa Barbara, among others, report that rising temperatures are causing the atmosphere to hold more moisture, thereby escalating drought conditions.
Chris Funk, director of the Climate Hazards Center, emphasizes the gap between water supply and the atmosphere's moisture demand. This disparity contributes to growing drought severity, as warmer conditions allow the air to 'thirst' for more water, exacerbating dryness in areas with stable rainfall patterns.
Lead researcher Solomon Gebrechorkos highlights the challenges in measuring atmospheric 'thirst' over time. By employing high-resolution climate data and comprehensive global models, the study reveals an alarming trend towards drier conditions, suggesting that a significant portion of recent drought escalation can be attributed to increased atmospheric evaporative demand.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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