Water Cycle in the Amazon

What is the average annual precipitation in the Amazon rainforest?

Over 2000 mm, with daily high-intensity convectional rainfall and a short dry season.

What percentage of Amazonian rainfall is recycled by evapotranspiration?

Between 50% and 60%.

What is the role of vegetation in the Amazon’s water cycle?

Trees absorb and store water from soils and release it via transpiration, maintaining high humidity and rainfall.

How does geology influence water storage in the Amazon Basin?

Ancient impermeable crystalline rocks limit storage and cause rapid runoff; permeable sedimentary rocks (e.g. sandstone, limestone) allow aquifer storage and reduce runoff.

How does the relief of the Amazon affect runoff?

Low relief promotes extensive flooding during wet seasons but gentle gradients slow river flow.

How does the atmosphere interact with the water cycle in the Amazon?

High temperatures allow the atmosphere to hold large amounts of water vapour, keeping humidity levels high.

What are the effects of deforestation on the water cycle?

Reduces interception and evapotranspiration, increases runoff by 27×, lowers atmospheric humidity, and cuts regional rainfall by ~20%.

What major event shows deforestation’s impact on flooding?

2014 Madeira River floods — 60 deaths and 68,000 displaced, worsened by deforestation in the Andes.