From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Hydroclimate Whiplash
Why in the News?
Since earlier this month Los Angeles has been gripped by devastating wildfires fueled by a rare and alarming meteorological phenomenon known as hydroclimate whiplash.
What is Hydroclimate Whiplash?
- Hydroclimate whiplash refers to rapid and extreme shifts between periods of intensely wet weather and dangerously dry conditions.
- Characteristics:
- Alternates between heavy rainfall and severe drought.
- Typically results in amplified weather extremes, such as floods followed by wildfires.
- Global Trend:
- Hydroclimate whiplash has increased by 31% to 66% worldwide since the mid-20th century, largely due to climate change.
- Projections indicate a 113% rise in such events during sub-seasonal periods with a 3°C increase in global temperatures.
Causes of Hydroclimate Whiplash
- Rising global temperatures intensify hydrological extremes, causing prolonged periods of rainfall and drought.
- Warmer air holds more moisture, leading to heavier rainfalls during wet periods and exacerbating droughts during dry phases.
- Shifts in El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycles influence precipitation and temperature extremes.
- Changes in ocean currents and wind patterns disrupt normal weather cycles, contributing to hydroclimate variability.
- Unusual delays in wet or dry seasons can magnify hydroclimate swings, as seen in regions like California.
How did this phenomenon cause wildfire in LA?
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Impacts of Hydroclimate Whiplash
- Wet periods encourage vegetation growth, which becomes fuel during subsequent dry periods, increasing wildfire risks.
- Intense rainfall during wet periods leads to flash floods and soil erosion, damaging ecosystems and infrastructure.
- Crops are damaged by alternating floods and droughts, reducing yields and increasing food insecurity.
- Roads, dams, and buildings face significant damage from floods, leading to high repair costs.
- Floods contribute to the spread of waterborne diseases, while droughts increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
PYQ:[2011] La Nina is suspected to have caused recent floods in Australia. How is La Nina different from El Nino? 1. La Nina is characterised by an usually cold ocean temperature in equatorial Indian Ocean whereas El Nino is characterised by unusually warm ocean temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean. 2. El Nino has adverse effect on south-west monsoon of India but La Nina has no effect on monsoon climate. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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