In the Pacific Northwest, it is not uncommon to experience a mix of weather patterns during the winter season. This year, the storm season is bringing something new: storms ending inland and dry conditions at the coast. This unusual weather pattern has caused several flood warnings and closures of major highways in the area. However, some residents are enjoying the nice weather at the coast while also being wary of the potential flooding and landslides inland.
Introduction:
Storms are a common occurrence in many parts of the world, and they come with different intensities, durations and impact. In some cases, storms can cause both physical and emotional harm to people, animals, and the environment. As such, it is essential for everyone to stay informed and prepared for any potential storm.
What Causes Storms?
Storms are formed when there is a significant change in atmospheric temperature, pressure, and water content. For instance, during the summer period, solar radiation shots up, leading to an increase in the amount of water evaporating from the ground and oceans. This leads to an increase in moisture content in the air, which causes cloud formation. As the clouds build up, pressure changes take place, leading to storm formations.
Storm Impact on Inland and Coastal Areas
Storm impact differs for inland and coastal areas, with the latter receiving the majority of the damages. Inland areas can still be impacted by rain, strong winds, and flooding, which can lead to transportation disruptions, power blackouts, and destruction of infrastructure. Coastal areas, on the other hand, face more significant storm impacts, such as storm surges and high waves, which can cause severe property damage, displacement of people and animals, and loss of life.
Storms Ending Inland, Dry at the Coast
A unique weather phenomenon that occurs in some regions is when storms end inland and are followed by dryness at the coast. This circumstance happens when storms traveling from over the ocean move inland, and there is considerable precipitation falling on the inland area. However, as the storm moves further away from the ocean, the moisture content decreases significantly, leading to dryness at the coast.
Understanding Storms Ending Inland, Dry at the Coast
This unique weather event can be explained by two scientific concepts – orographic uplift and precipitation shadowing. Orographic uplift happens when mountains or hills rise in the storm’s path and force the precipitation loaded air to move upwards, leading to cloud formation and rain. As the storm moves further inland, the mountains and hills start to lower, leading to a decrease in precipitation, and in some cases, complete storm dissipation.
Precipitation shadowing, on the other hand, occurs when the inland area’s topography changes, leading to the formation of rain shadows. A rain shadow is a dry area that forms on the leeward side of the mountain, where the humidity decreases, and the air is warmer. As the storm moves inland and starts dissipation, the dry air from the rain shadow replaces the moisture-laden air leading to dry conditions at the coast.
Conclusion
Storms are a natural occurrence, and their impact on people, animals, and the environment varies based on the location and intensity. While storms bring much-needed rainfall, they can lead to significant damage and life loss, especially in coastal areas. Understanding the scientific concepts leading to the dryness at the coast following the end of the storm inland can help people and governments prepare and respond appropriately.
