Atmospheric wave theory falls short in explaining rising extreme weather, study suggests
phys.org
A new study stress-tests QRA theory — the leading physics explanation for surging heatwaves and floods — and finds it may not hold up as well as scientists hoped.
Quasiresonant Amplification (QRA) TheoryRossby Wave TheoryResonanceFalsificationism
Theory Briefing
- QRA theory proposes that resonating Rossby waves trap heat and moisture, causing extreme weather spikes — but a new study finds the evidence weaker than claimed.
- Linz and Mooring tested quasiresonant amplification against real atmospheric data and found the theory struggles to reliably predict extreme weather events.
- If QRA theory falls short, climate scientists may lack a robust physical framework to explain — and forecast — the rising frequency of deadly heat and flood events.