How Global Weather Patterns Can Influence Rainfall in California
How Global Weather Patterns Can Influence Rainfall in California
Global · Published Sep 11, 2026
Learn how high temperatures on the Tibetan Plateau can trigger extreme rainfall events in California and neighboring states.
Discover the science behind atmospheric rivers and Rossby waves.

The Role of the Tibetan Plateau

The Tibetan Plateau, known for its high elevation, plays a significant role in global weather patterns. When temperatures rise unusually high in this region, it creates atmospheric disturbances that travel eastward along the jet stream. These disturbances can intensify weather systems thousands of miles away, as seen in California during the winters of 2017 and 2023.

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