Data shows that atmospheric water vapour has increased by about 4% since the 1970s, closely tracking with rising global temperatures. Notably, this increase occurs not just near Earth's surface but throughout the troposphere – the lowest layer of our atmosphere where weather occurs.
Increases in atmospheric water vapor also amplify the global water cycle. They contribute to making wet regions wetter and dry regions drier. The more water vapor that air contains, the more energy it holds. This energy fuels intense storms, particularly over land. This results in more extreme weather events.
When water from intense storms falls on hard, dry ground, it runs off into rivers and streams instead of dampening soils. This increases the risk of drought. In short, when atmospheric water vapor meets increased levels of other greenhouse gases, its impacts on Earth's climate are substantial.
In practical terms, this means regions near the equator may experience intensified climate impacts as water vapour amplifies warming trends. This tropical amplification can affect weather patterns, precipitation, and atmospheric circulation well beyond the equatorial zones. In contrast, polar regions experience weaker water vapour feedback effects.
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