Steady Rise in Extreme Rainfall Events on India's Southwest Coast

A study highlights the increasing trend of extreme rainfall events on India’s southwest coast. Conducted by researchers from the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat), European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT), and the UK Met Office, the study provides insights into monsoon rainfall patterns from 1990 to 2023.

Research Findings

• Increase in Rainfall:
  • Extreme rainfall events are rising at a rate of 0.23 mm per season.
  • This trend is closely linked to the thermodynamic component of moisture flux.
• Influence of Sea Surface Temperature (SST):
  • Warming SSTs in the southeast Arabian Sea enhance moisture flux.
  • Since 2014, SSTs have exceeded 28°C, leading to increased moisture transport.

Implications on Regional Climate

• Southwest Coast Vulnerability:
  • Kerala is particularly susceptible to climate change due to enhanced moisture transport.
• Northwest Coast Observations:
  • While not experiencing similar extreme rainfall increases, there is a rise in average monsoon rainfall linked to dynamic moisture flux.

Scientific Contributions

• Collaboration:
  • The study is a collaborative effort involving experts from Cusat, EUMETSAT, and the UK Met Office.
• Published Work:
  • The research is documented in the International Journal of Climatology.

Conclusion

The study underscores the rapid warming of the Arabian Sea and its impact on extreme rainfall, highlighting the need for further research and potential adaptation strategies for regions like Kerala susceptible to climate change.