What are the main factors influencing extreme weather events?.

Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, heatwaves, and floods, are influenced by various factors:

Key Facts

• Climate Change: Rising global temperatures increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather.
• Geographical Location: Areas near coastlines are more prone to hurricanes and flooding.
• Atmospheric Conditions: Changes in air pressure and humidity levels can lead to severe storms.
• El Niño and La Niña: These climate patterns significantly impact weather variability across the globe.

Examples or Use Cases

• Hurricanes: Increased ocean temperatures lead to more powerful storms, as seen with Hurricane Katrina (2005).
• Heatwaves: Regions like Europe experienced record temperatures in 2022, attributed to climate change.

FAQs

1. How does climate change specifically affect hurricanes? Climate change increases sea surface temperatures, providing more energy for hurricanes.
2. What role does geography play in extreme weather? Coastal areas face greater risks due to their exposure to rising sea levels and storms.