In early November, the NOAA announced that a La Niña phenomenon had arrived in the Pacific Ocean. First predicted by the Climate Protection Center (CPC) back in April, the long awaited system is likely to stick around through much of the winter and effect global weather systems.
What is a La Niña?
During a La Niña, the sea surface temperatures across the tropical Pacific Ocean drop to around 3-5 °C below normal. Such a significant change tends to lower global temperatures. This can impact the global climate and disrupt normal weather patterns, which can contribute to intense storms in some places and droughts in others. In the United States, it often leads to increased precipitation and colder temperatures for much of the northern US, with the opposite occurring in the southeastern and southwestern states. NOAA scientists have already forecasted that this is the effect the current La Niña will have for the United States.
The Threat of Drought
The southeast United States has been facing one of the worst droughts in recent years. More than 20% of the region is in extreme or exceptional drought following a hot and dry autumn. Mike Halpert, deputy director of the Climate Prediction Center, says that this La Niña is likely to contribute to the severity of the drought throughout the winter. However, scientists say that the current La Niña is weak and is likely to remain that way. This is a benefit, as it should keep the impact from being so severe. A record-setting El Niño in 2015 brought deadly drought to Asia. It also helped to make 2015 the hottest year on record across the globe.
Weather Protection from US Safe Rooms
Changing ocean and atmospheric conditions have led to weather phenomenons and records never before seen. Blizzards, droughts, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and so many other natural disasters can lead to global famine, hunger, and distress. With so much uncertainty abound due to climate change and an overall increase in global temperatures, it is more important than ever to be prepared for severe weather. Investing in your family’s future with US Safe Rooms is the best way to protect your family from the unknown. Built with high-quality American made steel, our safe rooms and storm bunkers can shield your loved ones from mother nature’s worst. With custom sizing and door options available, we are sure to have a structure to fit your needs and budget. It doesn’t matter if you live in tornado alley or near the San Andreas fault. Our safe rooms and bunkers are the best choice in family protection.
