Fed: Activity in China could be lifting tropical rains - CSIRO

AAP General News (Australia)
12-12-2006
Fed: Activity in China could be lifting tropical rains - CSIRO

Scientists say increased economic activity in Asia .. may have lifted rainfall in northern
Australia.

Dr LEON ROTSTAYN from the CSIRO says until now there's been little evidence atmospheric
particles affect climate in the southern hemisphere .. as there is for the northern hemisphere.

Dr ROTSTAYN says climate simulations show the Asian haze is having an effect on the
Australian hydrological cycle .. and has generated increasing rain and cloud since 1950
.. especially over northwest and central Australia.

He says the haze cools the Asian continent and nearby oceans .. altering the delicate
balance of temperature and winds between Asia and Australia.

He says it's not a case of Asian pollution being transported directly over Australia.

AAP RTV dep/sb/cp/ibw

KEYWORD: RAINFALL (CANBERRA)

2006 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.