Mega-Heatwaves in Central Europe: Why Evaporation and Soil Moisture Play a Major Role
Published
Mega-heatwaves are becoming increasingly common in Europe and can bring very high temperatures over long periods. New research now offers a more detailed picture of how these extreme weather situations develop and which factors intensify them. These findings are also important for Austria, as the country lies in Central Europe, where such heat periods are occurring more and more frequently.
As the researchers explain, evaporation and soil moisture play a central role above all. When the ground loses a lot of moisture, it can release less water into the air. As a result, the surface heats up more strongly, and the heat can persist for longer. The evaporation from plants and soils therefore directly influences how hot it gets in a region.
According to the study, areas in Central Europe where the soil is already dry are particularly critical. In such situations, a heatwave can gain intensity more quickly and have a stronger impact. The scientists stress that the interplay of these factors still needs to be investigated more precisely in order to improve forecasts.
The results show how important it is to understand the natural processes in the soil and in the atmosphere. In the future, they could help to better assess the risks posed by heat and to prepare for extreme weather conditions.
Sources: VOL.AT
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