Strong future increases in Arctic precipitation variability linked to poleward moisture transport
Bintanja, R.; van der Wiel, K.; van der Linden, E.C.; Reusen, J.; Bogerd, L.; Krikken, F.; Selten, F.M. (2020). Strong future increases in Arctic precipitation variability linked to poleward moisture transport. Science Advances 6(7): eaax6869. https://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.aax6869
In: Science Advances. AAAS: New York. ISSN 2375-2548; e-ISSN 2375-2548, more
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| Authors | | Top |
- Bintanja, R.
- van der Wiel, K.
- van der Linden, E.C.
- Reusen, J.
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- Bogerd, L.
- Krikken, F.
- Selten, F.M.
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| Abstract |
The Arctic region is projected to experience amplified warming as well as strongly increasing precipitation rates. Equally important to trends in the mean climate are changes in interannual variability, but changes in precipitation fluctuations are highly uncertain and the associated processes are unknown. Here, we use various state-of-the-art global climate model simulations to show that interannual variability of Arctic precipitation will likely increase markedly (up to 40% over the 21st century), especially in summer. This can be attributed to increased poleward atmospheric moisture transport variability associated with enhanced moisture content, possibly modulated by atmospheric dynamics. Because both the means and variability of Arctic precipitation will increase, years/seasons with excessive precipitation will occur more often, as will the associated impacts. |
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