An atmospheric river is a long plume of tropical moisture over an ocean that can transport large amounts of moisture and produce heavy, widespread rainfall.
November 15, 2025
high
definition
Atmospheric rivers are meteorological features that can deliver concentrated moisture to coastal and inland regions, often causing heavy precipitation.
Atmospheric river storms can deliver heavy rain and strong winds to California; heavy rainfall from atmospheric rivers can help suppress and extinguish active wildfires but can also cause flooding and increase landslide and mudslide risk.
November 13, 2025
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general
Describes effects of atmospheric river weather systems on wildfires and flood/landslide hazards.