This paper uses tree-ring data from southern China to reconstruct water balance changes in the middle Yangtze River over the last 464 years. The reconstruction reveals a megadrought (1625–1644 CE) affecting both northern and southern China, impacting the Ming Dynasty's downfall. The megadrought's occurrence is linked to Pacific sea surface temperature anomalies, weakened solar activity, and volcanic eruptions. The study provides historical context for mitigating future drought.
Publisher
Communications Earth & Environment
Published On
Aug 17, 2024
Authors
Weipeng Yue, Feng Chen, Max C. A. Torbenson, Xiaoen Zhao, Yonghong Zheng, Yang Xu, Mao Hu, Shijie Wang, Tiyuan Hou, Heli Zhang, Youping Chen
Tags
tree-ring data
water balance
megadrought
Ming Dynasty
climatic factors
historical context
drought mitigation
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