Geography
Why Urban Heat Islands Intensify Convective Rainfall
Quick fact
Cities like Houston and Phoenix can see up to 60% more rainfall downwind of their center compared to rural areas, largely because the urban heat island creates extra instability in the atmosphere.
Why this is interesting
You’ve probably heard that cities are warmer than the countryside—but did you know that this extra warmth can make thunderstorms stronger and dump more rain right over the city?