Hydroclimate whiplash

Hydroclimate whiplash:  Los Angeles wildfire was intensified due to hydroclimate whiplash.

  • About: Hydroclimate whiplash refers to rapid and extreme swings between wet and dry weather conditions.
  • This phenomenon is becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change.
  • Causes: It is driven by a combination of changing atmospheric circulation patterns and warming temperatures, which intensify weather extremes.
  • Global Trend: Hydroclimate whiplash events have increased by 31% to 66% worldwide since the mid-20th century, with projections of a further rise as global temperatures increase.
  • California Context: In California, wet periods promote dense vegetation growth, followed by prolonged droughts that dry out the vegetation, turning it into fuel for wildfires.
  • Wildfire Link: The dry phases, combined with conditions like low humidity, lack of precipitation, and high temperatures, exacerbate the risk of intense wildfires.
  • Role of Santa Ana Winds: These dry, warm winds descending from the mountains amplify wildfire intensity, especially during drought conditions.