water matters4
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New Study Shows Promise for Long-Term Weather Forecasts in South America
The Paraguay River is an essential lifeblood for the landlocked country that shares it name, but it can also be the source of deadly and costly floods. Now scientists are one step closer to predicting the likelihood for heavy rain weeks ahead of time.
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America’s Water Infrastructure is Failing—But Here’s How We Could Start to Fix It
A recent event hosted by the Columbia Water Center highlights the challenges and opportunities that nation’s beleaguered water system presents.
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How We Can All Make Waves: Earth Day Reflections from Columbia Water Center
Members of Columbia Water Center share what Earth Day means to them, and offer ways – large and small – that we can all advocate for water and a healthier planet.
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Predicting Hurricane Flooding Risks to the East Coast
Columbia University researchers to help translate hurricane science into projections for planning for climate and weather risks.
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Researchers Map High Levels of Drugs in the Hudson River
In a new study, researchers have mapped out a large variety of discarded pharmaceuticals dissolved throughout the Hudson River. They say that in some places, levels may be high enough to potentially affect aquatic life.
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Cape Town Water Crisis Highlights a Worldwide Problem
Upmanu Lall, director of the Columbia Water Center, explains South Africa’s water shortage and why places in the U.S. could be at risk, too.
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Global Environment Report Card Sees Dirty Air, Failing Fisheries
Many countries are making progress on improving water sanitation and protecting marine ecosystems. But air pollution continues as a leading health problem in many nations, and fisheries are deteriorating almost everywhere.
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Columbia Water Center Year in Review
The Columbia Water Center (CWC) is a leader in applying the science of water and climate to solve real world problems. With current events in mind, we worked with our partners to make progress on several key projects.
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Upmanu Lall Recognized as a Fellow of the American Geophysical Union
The director of the Columbia Water Center and 60 other honorees were commemorated in a ceremony and reception on Wednesday.

AGU25, the premier Earth and space science conference, takes place December 15-19, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. This year’s theme—Where Science Connects Us—puts in focus how science depends on connection, from the lab to the field to the ballot box. Once again, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory and Columbia Climate School scientists, experts, students, and educators are playing an active role, sharing our research and helping shape the future of our planet. #AGU25 Learn More
