Forecasting the strongest winds in North Atlantic winter storms is always a difficult task, however there is one particularly dangerous phenomenon associated with some of the most destructive systems. Sting jets can produce winds in excess of 100 mph (160 kph), across a limited area – only up to 50 miles (80km). Several famous storms have been associated with sting jets, including Cyclone Ulli in 2011 (Scotland), and the Great Storm of 1987 (southern England).
Did you know there are multiple types of drought? When we hear the word drought, most people think of a meteorological drought which is an assessment of the degree of dryness compared to the regional average and duration of this dry period. The meteorological drought takes into account precipitation and temperatures among other parameters as they influence the dry period. There are also hydrological droughts which is when decreased precipitation affects soil moisture, lake levels, groundwater, etc. Lastly, there is agricultural drought which is when the water supply is not able to meet crop demands.
As we head into the second half of winter, a moderate El Nino pattern that began in March is showing signs of strengthening in the Pacific Ocean. Forecasters in both Australia and the United States are calling for a high probability that El Nino will continue into early 2016, and multiple climate models are indicating this El Nino may end up being one of the strongest on record. As a result, significant changes to weather patterns are possible in Australia.
As we head into the second half of summer, a moderate El Nino pattern that began in March is showing signs of strengthening in the Pacific Ocean. The official forecast from the Climate Prediction Center (CPC) calls for a high probability—an 85% chance—that El Nino will continue into early 2016. Several climate models used by forecasters also indicate this El Nino could end up being one of the strongest on record, which would have major implications in the U.S. as weather patterns change.
