NASA tracked rainfall and soil moisture for a three-month period in 1993 to confirm that these rain patterns were indeed a monsoon. Watch this animation to see the relationship between soil moisture and rainfall in the Southwest U.S. By studying these patterns, scientists can predict monsoon seasons so people can prepare for droughts or floods. Teaching tips, background information, and a student handout are also included.

Concepts

monsoons

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Additional Tags

climate in southwest u.s., pbs learningmedia: north american monsoon, climate and vegetation in u.s. west region

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Classroom Considerations

• Knovation Readability Score: 5 (1 low difficulty, 5 high difficulty)
• The intended use for this resource is Instructional