Climate change is increasing our risk of both heavy rains and extreme droughts. But why is that? Aren't the two contradictory? Take a look at our new visual guide to how climate change impacts the water cycle. You might remember the water cycle from school: Water evaporates from the land and sea and returns to the earth as rain and snow. Climate change is intensifying that cycle. Higher temperatures mean there is more evaporation. Warmer air can hold more water vapor, which can lead to more intense rainstorms. But much of the water runs off into the rivers and streams, and the soil remains dry. More evaporation from the soil increases the risk of drought. This graphic draws a picture of how global warming changes the water cycle, and in turn is changing the weather we see outside. Take a look at this graphic and share it with your friends. And if you'd like even more detail on climate change and the water cycle