Never heard of the ARkStorm? Here are five frequently asked questions about the storm that could destroy the majority of the state of California.
What is an ARkStorm?
It is a major West Coast winter storm caused by an atmospheric river. The storm could cover 150 to 300 miles with fast moving air that carries moisture from the tropics to California. The storm could cause nearly 45 days of unyielding rainfall.
What does ARkStorm mean?
"A(tmospheric) R(iver) k(1,000) Storm)
How often does an ARkStorm occur?
The ARkStorm happens every 100 to 200 years. The last mega-ARkStorm in California happened in early December 1861 and into 1862. Smaller, but similar storms in southern California happened in 1934, 1938 and 1969; in northern California in 1986 and 1997.
How much damage could the ARkStorm cause?
The ARkStorm could flood thousands of square miles of land, including cities and farm land. The damage could cost up to $725 billion.
How early will meteorologist be able to detect the storm?
Meteorologist will be able detect an ARkStorm about a week before it hits California.
READ MORE: Meteor UCSD ARkStorm study
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