What are the key weather phenomena affecting global climates?.

In 2024, key weather phenomena such as El Niño and La Niña significantly influence global climates. El Niño typically leads to warmer ocean temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific, resulting in altered precipitation patterns, while La Niña brings cooler ocean temperatures and often leads to opposite effects. These phenomena can cause extreme weather events like floods, droughts, and hurricanes across various regions.

Key Facts

• El Niño occurs every 2-7 years, affecting weather for 9-12 months.
• La Niña can last between 9-12 months, sometimes longer.
• El Niño tends to increase global temperatures by approximately 0.1 to 0.2 degrees Celsius.
• La Niña is associated with a higher likelihood of hurricanes in the Atlantic.

Examples or Use Cases

• During El Niño, South America may experience heavy rains while parts of Southeast Asia face drought.
• La Niña typically brings wetter conditions to the Pacific Northwest of the United States.

FAQs

Q: How do El Niño and La Niña affect agriculture? A: Both phenomena can significantly impact crop yields due to changes in rainfall and temperature.

Q: Are there early warning systems for these weather phenomena? A: Yes, meteorological organizations provide forecasts and monitoring for El Niño and La Niña events.