An atmospheric river is coming to California. It could bring risks of debris flows
The weather phenomena are common for California winters, but they could cause dangerous debris flows or mudslides in recently burned areas.
atmospheric river
Atmospheric rivers aren't new. Why does it feel like we're hearing about them more?
In recent years, "atmospheric river" has become used much more frequently in scientific papers and in media coverage. According to experts who study climate and weather, a few reasons may explain why.
Photos: See how the atmospheric river is battering California
Forecasters now say 8 to 15 inches of rain could fall in the mountains and foothills of Southern California.
Atmospheric river expected to bring life-threatening floods to Southern California
The National Weather Service warns the storm could drop unprecedented rain over a wide area from Saturday night through early next week, with the period of most concern from Sunday into early Monday.
More rain and snow bound for California as back-to-back atmospheric rivers approach
Forecasters say the result could be massive flooding and a potential for avalanches across stretches of the state.
What is an atmospheric river, responsible for the heavy rainfall on the West Coast?
An atmospheric river is a relatively narrow channel of wind, hence the "river," that transports water vapor from the tropics to the West Coast, where it's producing rain and heavy winds.