New atmospheric river risks historic Eastern flooding

A historic and deadly flood event struck the central and southern United States in early April, fueled by an exceptionally powerful Category 5 atmospheric river that delivered six to ten inches of rain over 750 miles, and over a foot in some areas, causing widespread flash flooding and major damage, particularly in states like Kentucky, Arkansas, Tennessee, Missouri, and Kentucky. Hundreds of roads were submerged, homes were damaged, and local officials in places like Grubbs, Arkansas, struggled to manage levee breaches and overwhelming floodwaters, with emergency measures such as cutting roads to relieve pressure. Scientists emphasize that atmospheric rivers, previously better known in the western U.S., are now becoming more frequent and intense across other regions due to climate change linked to fossil fuel emissions, raising concerns about preparedness in less-affected areas. The recent events highlight the increasing risks of extreme weather as the planet warms, with experts warning that such disasters may become more common and severe in the future.