Dynamics of humidification in the steppe zone of Southeastern Transbaikalia since the beginning of the 19<sup>th </sup>century evidenced by the cores of Scots pine
Dynamics of the annual radial growth rings of Scots pine growing in the insular forest located in Southeastern Transbaikalia reflect the interannual fluctuations in humidity rather than the air temperature. Maximum consistency between the changes of precipitation and the width of annual rings is observed in the frequency range of about 30-year rhythms. These rhythms of humidification are recorded by meteorological observations since the 1930-s, but according to dendrochronological data they can be traced to the middle of the 19<sup>th </sup>century. Based upon the tree-ring chronology the first decade of the 21<sup>st </sup>century has the most arid conditions during the whole period of tree-ring measurements.