Atmospheric Rivers

Dr. F. Martin Ralph is a synoptic and mesoscale research meteorologist focused on understanding the physical processes that create extremes in precipitation ranging from flood to drought, and on advancing associated observations, predictions, climate projections, and decision support tools. A primary topic has been atmospheric rivers and their role in midlatitude precipitation. From 2001-2013 he was Chief of the Water Cycle Branch at NOAA's Earth System Research Laboratory in Colorado where he led the development of the Hydrometeorology Testbed. He also managed NOAA's Science, Technology and Infusion Program; Chaired NOAA's US Weather Research Program Executive Committee; and led the creation of NOAA's Unmanned Aircraft Systems Program. In 2013, he moved to the University Of California San Diego/Scripps Institution Of Oceanography where he is developing the "Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes."

Chapter1: Introduction.- Chapter2: Structure, Process and Mechanism.- Chapter3: Observing and Detecting ARs.- Chapter4: Global and Regional Perspectives.- Chapter5: Effects of Atmospheric Rivers.- Chapter6: AR Modeling: Forecasts, Climate Simulations, and Climate Projections.- Chapter7: Applications.- Chapter8: The Future of AR Research and Applications.