The Amazon's 'weather engine' has impacts on rainfall globally

[Judi Lynn]

BY KAREN GRAHAM 27 MINS AGO IN SCIENCE

The Amazon's lush greenery and network of waterways are at risk in the face of this summer's record fires, but another force of nature brewing high above the landscape is also deserving of attention, scientists and researchers say.

The unusually large increase in the number of fires in Brazil's Amazon rainforest this year have more than likely been set on purpose by farmers, logging and mining companies. But the damage being done is staggering and will have long-term consequences for humanity.

That being said, Brazil’s government has launched a firefighting initiative, deploying troops and military planes to put out the fires, but this effort will only extinguish smaller blazes and help prevent new fires, experts are saying, reports Reuters.

Precipitation in the Amazon
The annual rainy season won't begin until around September 15, but this presents another problem. Rainforests are subject to heavy rainfall, at least 80 inches (2,000 millimeters) — and in some areas over 430 inches (10,920 mm) — of rain each year. And herein lies the problem - and it could turn out to be very serious.

More:
http://www.digitaljournal.com/tech-and-science/science/the-amazon-s-weather-engine-has-impacts-on-rainfall-globally/article/556718

[bronxiteforever]

1. Kick and recommend.

[matt819]

2. Question

A lot of acreage of the Amazon is burning. Assuming that this same area will be allowed to regrow - politics and farming aside - what is the planetary effect of this regrowth?

[sandensea]

3. My understanding is that virgin rain forests, once burned, never return

There is regrowth, of course - but it usually ends up looking something like Tanzania's savannas.

Better than a soy field or cattle ranch, yes (assuming that can be avoided) - but nothing like the biodiversity and oxygen powerhouse it was before the tragedy.

[matt819]

4. I had no idea.

I have to learn more. Thanks.