Extreme precipitation events in Antarctica, which are mostly dominated by snowfall due to sub-zero temperatures, also include rainfall, according to new research.

BAS scientists studying atmospheric rivers—narrow bands of concentrated moisture in the atmosphere or “rivers in the sky”—have discovered that these phenomena bring not only snow but also rain to parts of Antarctica, even during the continent’s cold winter months. The results are published in the journal The Cryosphere.

Using cutting-edge regional climate models (RCMs) at a high spatial resolution of just one kilometer, the researchers explored how atmospheric rivers interact with Antarctica’s rugged terrain to deliver significant precipitation to key areas, including the Thwaites and Pine Island Ice Shelves in West Antarctica. These are areas known for their ongoing retreat and contribution to global sea-level rise.