Researchers and weather predictors are stating that early indicators show that this year could be an El Nino southern oscillation year. They are basing their predictions on a number of factors, including the temperatures of ocean surfaces. The fluctuations in temperatures occur due to climate changes. These changes cause floods and droughts. These patterns do more than just affect how the air feels - they also affect the prices of food and the supply.
There are certain markers that are noted during these times. They include an increase of surface pressure throughout the Indian Ocean, as well as Australia and Indonesia. This leads to a weakening of air pressure which is seen in the Pacific Ocean, particularly in the east and central areas. Scientists have noted the next change regards trade winds in the South Pacific region, which either blow toward the east or weaken dramatically. As Peru gets an onslaught of rain, the conditions of the Eastern and Western Pacific areas to flip flop. This phenomenon of changes in the surface water is what led to the California drought.
During these weather conditions, areas south of the equator often see more strong rain during the winter months. By contrast, the summer months see less rainfall. This means less heavy storms to contend with. And these patterns may start to happen more often due to the effects of global warming throughout the Earth.
Many scoffed at global warming years ago. But recent reports have led some of the previous doubters to believe the truth of this phenomenon. And as the Earth's population continues to grow and carbon emissions increase, the threat of permanent changes in the Earth's climate is growing. In fact, a very recent report warns leaders that the window of opportunity to reverse the process (or at least maintain it) is closing rapidly unless major changes occur.
We also need to keep in mind that the climate changes that occur do more than just affect weather conditions - they also contribute to food shortages and an increase in certain types of diseases. What we do to the planet has serious long term consequences - and those consequences might not be as long-term as were originally thought.
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