Characterization and Impacts of Atmospheric Rivers

The study of ARs has been facilitated by various datasets, including satellite-based observations, in situ observations, and reanalysis data, and thus resulted in several AR identification techniques across the globe. Observing the impact of ARs and the interest of climate communities across the globe, an international collaborative program Atmospheric River Tracking Method Intercomparison Project (ARTMIP) has been launched to develop a holistic framework to assess the impact of various AR identification methods on climatology, hydrology, and extreme events, quantifying disparities and advancing understanding of future AR changes and associated impacts. Global and regional perspectives reveal the diverse and far-reaching influence of ARs, with notable examples including ARs along the North American West Coast, over the Western United States, Southeastern United States, Europe, Southern South America, and Polar Regions. The relationship between ARs and LSCOs (ENSO, MJO, PDO, etc.) can provide valuable insights into the predictability and variability of AR events. The impacts of ARs are multifaceted, encompassing both beneficial and detrimental effects, such as flooding, drought, and extreme precipitation events. As climate change continues to alter the global landscape, the study of ARs will remain a critical component in predicting and mitigating the effects of extreme weather events.