The Sahara is often seen as a barren wasteland. However, recent satellite images reveal surprising sights—lakes and rivers in Morocco and Algeria. This change followed heavy rains in early September 2024. These are not oases; they mark the Sahara returning to a wetter state. Long ago, the Sahara was a lush paradise with rich vegetation.
During the last ice age, Earth was much colder. Large ice sheets covered many areas, making the Sahara Desert larger than today. Cooler temperatures altered rainfall distribution in the tropics. Normally, warm air rises, creating rain. This process faltered during the ice age, leading to more dry conditions in usually wetter areas. Old ocean sediments show evidence of significant dust in the Sahara at that time.
Around 12,500 years ago, a climate shift occurred. Dust levels in the Sahara decreased, indicating increased moisture. This change caused the climate to warm temporarily before cooling again. The Sahara became greener, resembling a savannah due to a change in weather patterns. The intertropical convergence zone moved north during summer, enhancing rainfall.
About 4,000 years ago, rain increased in the Ethiopian Highlands, improving Nile River sediment flow. Later, a climatic event caused the intertropical convergence zone to shift south, resulting in rapid drying of the Sahara and Arabian region. Consequently, Nile River flooding decreased from 2700 to 2100 BCE.
The Sahara has alternated between wet and dry conditions over thousands of years. Recently, however, an unusual cyclone struck the region in September 2024, impacting Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya. This cyclone filled previously dry lakes and rivers. NASA's satellite images show remarkable changes, resembling a makeover.
Some North African areas received up to eight inches of rain during this event. For context, Seattle averages about 40 inches of rain yearly. Lake volumes in Northern Algeria increased, reaching over 70 square miles and depths exceeding seven feet. These ephemeral lakes only fill temporarily, depending on rainfall.
These lakes typically form due to excess water pooling in low-lying areas. The dry Sahara soil absorbs limited water, which may go unused, similar to an overwatered potted plant. A lack of vegetation prevents moisture retention, allowing water to collect in valleys instead.
Notably, a few ephemeral lakes have been named. Lake Yasmina in Moga is one such example. The rain caused some sand dunes to partially submerge, despite the overall dry landscape. The last similar rainfall event occurred 30 to 50 years ago, highlighting the significance of this downpour after six years of drought.
Some previously dry lakes, like Lake Ariki, are finally receiving water. Analysis shows only six storms since 2000 provided sufficient rain for Lake Ariki to fill, with only two surpassing September 2024 levels. While the rain is a welcome change, concerns remain about its duration.
The Sahara tends to receive more rain when humid air from the equator meets warm dry air from the north. Climate scientists predict this collision zone may shift further north as global temperatures rise. Although this could mean more rain, it also presents challenges.
Preparedness for flooding situations remains a concern, as this is not typical for the Sahara. Tragically, at least 18 people have died due to the intense rains in southern Morocco. Authorities prepare for more heavy rain, raising questions about the region's future.
Deserts serve critical roles in the ecosystem, including the Sahara. They act as carbon storage areas and are net carbon sinks. The Sahara alone contains an estimated one trillion metric tons of carbon. Deserts help regulate global temperatures, acting like natural air conditioning.
Moreover, Sahara sand contributes nutrients to distant regions. Studies show Sahara particles enrich soil in the Amazon rainforest. These particles travel across the Atlantic, fostering growth in the Amazon. Without the Sahara, experts warn the Amazon rainforest could face severe decline.
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