DANA meaning meteorology: why is the hurricane that passes through Spain called that and how is it formed?
Learn what the DANA phenomenon means in meteorology, how it is formed and what its consequences are, why is it called that?
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In recent years, the meteorological phenomenon known as DANA has captured the attention of media and citizens in Spain and the world . This term has gained relevance, especially after the recent extreme weather events that have left devastating consequences in several provinces, such as Valencia, but what does its acronym mean?
The increasing frequency of these episodes has raised concerns about their nature and their relationship to climate change, leading many to ask: what is this phenomenon really and why is it given this name?
What is the meaning of DANA in meteorology?
The meaning of DANA in meteorology is actually the acronym for “Isolated Depression at High Levels” , it describes a phenomenon characterized by a mass of cold air that is isolated at high altitudes, far from the general circulation of the atmosphere.
This term has replaced the term “gota fría” (cold drop) , which used to be associated with any type of heavy precipitation. The adoption of the new term also pays tribute to the meteorologist Francisco García Dana , whose work has been fundamental in understanding these phenomena.
How is the DANA phenomenon formed according to meteorology?
The formation of a DANA begins in the upper layers of the atmosphere, where the jet streams flow at high speed.
These currents can present significant undulations, which causes the creation of pockets of cold air that are isolated from the general flow.
When this cold air mass interacts with warmer temperatures at the surface, especially in the Mediterranean , unstable atmospheric conditions are generated that can lead to torrential rains and severe storms.
Why is DANA dangerous?
Although not all DANAs result in disasters, their potential to cause flooding and other extreme phenomena is undeniable. The combination of a warm Mediterranean and this phenomenon can generate torrential rains exceeding 100 liters per square meter in short periods .
This can result in devastating flooding, as seen in recent events that have severely affected communities in Spain.
How long will the DANA last?
Several more days of rain are expected. According to the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), it is likely that the rains in the Peninsula and the Balearic Islands will begin to decrease from Sunday, November 3.
For this reason, in the aforementioned provinces, firefighters and Civil Protection teams are implementing their protocols and asking for support from other security forces to carry out searches for missing persons and rescues.
Is the frequency of these phenomena increasing?
Climate experts have pointed out that the frequency of these events is increasing, and this is closely related to climate change.
Warming Mediterranean waters provide more energy and moisture, creating an environment conducive to the formation of intense storms. Recent studies indicate that rainfall during days of intense rain is increasing, a pattern that is likely to continue in the future.