atmospheric humidity It is one of the factors that most influences weather and, consequently, daily activities and resource management. From the formation of rain to the occurrence of intense weather phenomena, the presence of water vapor in the atmosphere It is key to understanding many changes that occur day after day in different regions of the world.
In recent years, the humidity has gained special relevance due to its role in extreme events and ecosystem dynamics. In addition, scientific research have begun to shed light on the impact that increasing atmospheric humidity can have, not only locally, but on the climate balance on a global scale.
Atmospheric rivers and the crucial role of humidity
One of the most surprising phenomena related to the humidity in the atmosphere They are called atmospheric riversThese are enormous flows of warm, humid air that move over the oceans, carrying large amounts of water vapor for thousands of kilometers. Its action can cause heavy rainfall. in areas far from the sea and, according to recent studies, its frequency and intensity could increase significantly in the coming years.
Research suggests that the global increase in atmospheric humidity due to climate change could double the presence of these steam rivers by the end of the century, especially in polar regions like Antarctica. These events not only bring intense rainfall but can also trigger snowfall. The final outcome depends on factors such as local temperature; Rain contributes to the melting of ice shelvesWhile Snow can act as partial compensation for the loss of glacial mass.
The potential of atmospheric rivers to destabilize large ice sheets makes humidity a key player in the debate on sea level rise. Climate models They suggest that without a substantial reduction in polluting emissions, these phenomena could intensify significantly, reshaping forecasts about the future of Antarctic ice and its influence on the oceans.
Climatologist Michelle Maclennan of the British Antarctic Survey stresses the need to closely monitor how the climate evolves. variability of precipitationsince it depends on it anticipate the pace to which the poles could lose ice in the coming decades.
Humidity and local forecasts: direct effects on daily life
At the local level, the air humidity affects multiple aspects of daily weather. For example, in the city of Necochea, days have been recorded with humidity close to 100%, accompanied by drizzle and stable atmospheric pressureThese conditions often result in persistent cloud cover, although the rain may ease as the day progresses.
For its part, in places like Córdoba, the RH can fluctuate considerably: there have been days with levels of 47%, accompanied by clear skies, variable temperatures and total absence of precipitation. Such variability It impacts agricultural activities and the planning of daily tasks, since crops and livestock depend directly on the stability of these parameters.
The explanation of why rain usually occurs in the afternoon, frequently coinciding with the end of work, is linked to the process of evaporation of surface moistureThe heat accumulated by solar radiation during the day favors the formation of convective clouds, which ultimately discharge precipitation in the evening hours.
Innovations that take advantage of environmental humidity
In addition to the environmental impact, the atmospheric humidity It's opening up new possibilities in everyday life thanks to technological advances. Proof of this are devices capable of extracting drinking water directly from the air. These devices, initially designed for areas with scarce water resources, are beginning to be introduced into homes, covering both consumption and environmental purification needs.
Some of these devices use desiccants to capture water vapor, then subject the liquid to desiccant processes. ultraviolet sterilization and filtration to ensure quality, and ultimately allow for direct consumption or use in preparing beverages such as coffee. Although its primary function is to generate drinking water, The process can also contribute to improving indoor air quality, although the reduction in relative humidity is usually only noticeable in small spaces.
On the other hand, these systems have the potential to reduce plastic waste by using biodegradable capsules and offer a convenient alternative for those living far from traditional water supply networks.
La humidity in the atmosphere It is much more than just a meteorological fact; It is present in every aspect of the climate, affects water resources, influences agriculture, rainfall variability, and even technological innovation. Staying well informed about its changes and impacts allows us to better anticipate both the challenges and opportunities our environment presents.
