Projected changes in atmospheric moisture transport contributions associated with climate warming in the North Atlantic

• Published in: Nature Communications
• Main Authors: Fernández Álvarez, José Carlos, Perez Alarcon, Albenis, Eiras Barca, Jorge, Rahimi, Stefan, Nieto Muñiz, Raquel Olalla, Gimeno Presa, Luis
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Nature Communications 2023
• Subjects: 2501.10 Estructura Atmosférica; 2502 Climatología; North Atlantic
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/11093/6341; https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-41915-1; https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-41915-1

Global warming and associated changes in atmospheric circulation patterns are expected to alter the hydrological cycle, including the intensity and position of moisture sources. This study presents predicted changes for the middle and end of the 21st century under the SSP5-8.5 scenario for two important extratropical moisture sources: the North Atlantic Ocean (NATL) and Mediterranean Sea (MED). Changes over the Iberian Peninsula—considered as a strategic moisture sink for its location—are also studied in detail. By the end of the century, moisture from the NATL will increase precipitation over eastern North America in winter and autumn and on the British Isles in winter. Moisture from the MED will increase precipitation over the southern and western portions of the Mediterranean continental area. Precipitation associated with the MED moisture source will decrease mainly over eastern Europe, while that associated with the NATL will decrease over western Europe and Africa. Precipitation recycling on the Iberian Peninsula will increase in all seasons except summer for mid-century. Climate change, as simulated by CESM2 thus modifies atmospheric moisture transport, affecting regional hydrological cycles. Agencia Estatal de Investigación. | Ref. PID2021-122314OB-I00 Xunta de Galicia | Ref. ED431C 2021/44 Xunta de Galicia | Ref. ED481A-2020/193 Universidade de Vigo