Between flood and drought: The metric that could better explain what happens to water in the age of climate change
Phys.org
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A key metric in understanding global water systems is evapotranspiration, which measures the amount of water evaporated from land through vegetation. Unlike precipitation, which focuses solely on rainfall, evapotranspiration provides a more comprehensive view of how water cycles function by considering both income (water entering as rain) and expenditure (water lost through evaporation). This metric becomes crucial in addressing climate change impacts, such as droughts and floods, as it reveals how ecosystems adapt to changing conditions.
Evapotranspiration is influenced by factors like temperature, humidity, wind, and solar radiation. In warmer climates, higher rates of this process can lead to increased water stress, affecting vegetation health and agricultural productivity. For instance, rising temperatures due to climate change are causing more frequent droughts in regions where evapotranspiration outpaces precipitation, disrupting local water balances. Conversely, excessive rainfall combined with high evaporation rates can exacerbate flooding by overwhelming drainage systems.
Understanding evapotranspiration is vital for predicting future water availability and managing resources effectively. It helps scientists assess ecosystem resilience, model climate change impacts, and develop strategies to mitigate droughts or manage flood risks. For policymakers and researchers, this metric offers a more nuanced perspective on how global warming affects regional water cycles, enabling better-informed decisions to safeguard water supplies and ecosystems.
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/23/2026