Climate and Environment

We have all noticed the extreme amount of snow currently dumping on our valley. Although this might push one to believe that "global warming" does not exist, climate change can surface in many different ways. Mostly extenuating weather and causing unlikely weather patterns. Currently we are experiencing an El Niño as confirmed by the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). An El Niño occurs when sea temperatures rise for a prolonged amount of time in the tropics of the pacific ocean.

Courtesy of Earth Institute, Columbia University

According to the NOAA these conditions have a 55% chance of lasting through spring. Although El Niño is a regular occuring weather pattern, climate change will increase and create greater effects. These effects can cause, major flooding, drought and extreme heat waves. These extreme weather patterns can in turn affect agriculture, energy use, air quality and healthy ecosystems. So while you are out getting stuck in the powder, remember all the effects that climate can have on our earth.