60% of cities globally experience higher rainfall than surrounding rural areas, creating urban wet islands.

A study from The University of Texas at Austin found that over 60% of 1,056 cities globally experience higher rainfall than surrounding rural areas, creating "urban wet islands." Cities like Houston and Ho Chi Minh City see significant precipitation increases, which can lead to flash flooding. The research reveals a doubling of rainfall differences over 20 years and underscores the need for urban planning to consider rainfall impacts, as larger cities may exacerbate these effects.

September 09, 2024
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