GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Warming has also resulted in a detectable increase in the precipitation of northern high latitudes. Higher temperatures lead to increased evaporation and surface drying.

Detailed explanation-2: -Climate change can affect the intensity and frequency of precipitation. Warmer oceans increase the amount of water that evaporates into the air. When more moisture-laden air moves over land or converges into a storm system, it can produce more intense precipitation-for example, heavier rain and snow storms.

Detailed explanation-3: -Climate change is occurring faster in high-latitude regions due to the phenomenon of Arctic amplification, the positive feedback effects that spur further warming of the climate. For example: Sea ice reflects the sun’s rays back into space, reflecting more heat than it absorbs, which helps keep the planet cool.

Detailed explanation-4: -There is a relationship between latitude and temperature around the world, as temperatures are typically warmer approaching the Equator and cooler approaching the Poles. There are variations, though, as other factors such as elevation, ocean currents, and precipitation affect climate patterns.

Detailed explanation-5: -As average temperatures at the Earth’s surface rise (see the U.S. and Global Temperature indicator), more evaporation occurs, which, in turn, increases overall precipitation. Therefore, a warming climate is expected to increase precipitation in many areas.