Atmospheric rivers, according to climate expert Mingfang Ting, are narrow bands of concentrated water vapor that have been causing historic rainfall in California. These intense atmospheric moisture bands are responsible for transporting large amounts of water vapor across the globe, particularly from the tropics to the poles. Mingfang Ting explains that there is an overall increase in atmospheric river frequency and intensity in recent years, with climate change contributing to more severe precipitation events. To mitigate potential risks associated with these weather patterns, Ting suggests investing in early warning systems, enhancing infrastructure resilience, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.