The Stream, August 19: Rainfall in the Andes Could Decrease 30 Percent by 2100

The Global Rundown

Rainfall over the Andes in Bolivia and Peru could decrease dramatically in the next century. Water utilities in California are raising rates as the drought continues. Reporters at Wired have asked an age-old question about that glass of water next to the bed.

“The persistence of this drought has begun to outstrip the tools utilities typically use to manage the state’s hydrological cycles.” — Kathryn Masterson, senior director at rating agency Fitch, which recently polled California water utilities about their plans to raise rates. (Reuters)

By The Numbers

78 percent – Proportion of polled California water utilities saying that rates would increase next year or have already increased. The utilities are passing on the cost of mandatory conservation measures to consumers. The poll was conducted by Fitch, a rating agency. The median 2016 increase will be 5 percent. Reuters

Science, Studies, And Reports

Rainfall in the central Andes of Bolivia and Peru could decline by up to 30 percent by 2100, according to a new study by researchers from South America and the University of Zurich. Greenhouse gas emissions are changing wind patterns and keeping more humid air from reaching the mountains and causing precipitation. Models suggest that between 2017 and 2100, the likelihood of dry years will be four times what it was in the pre-industrial era. Thomson Reuters Foundation

On The Radar

Reporters at Wired have interviewed scientists and a water sommelier about why your glass of water tastes stale after sitting out. Potential reasons include changes in temperature and composition of dissolved gases in the water, or, if the glass is sitting out for days and days, microbial growth. Wired