In our earlier post, we expressed our surprise with the weather that we have been experiencing lately. Rains have continued to pound various parts of the country and as a result, flash floods rampaged through villages leaving dozens dead, farmlands destroyed, families homeless and precious infrastructure ruined. We do not see the rains abating soon and it is supposed to be the dry season!
The rains are being attributed to a weak La Nina prevailing over the equatorial Pacific. As this condition persists, the rainy days will remain, even extending up to the month of March.
Question. What should we expect next?
Scientists say that the La Nina and El Nino are the manifestations of different stages of a cyclical pattern known as the Southern Oscillation. Tracking of the patterns were started in the early 20th century and the cycle was observed to occur roughly every six to seven years.
What is disturbing is that La Nina and El Nino are now occurring more frequently and with more ferocity. What is causing this?
A lively debate still rages on whether or not global warming has exacerbated the cycle. As I do not have the most recent empirical data on the subject matter, I am withholding comment on this.
Suffice it to say that I still maintain that we are the keepers of this planet, our only livable planet. We should always remember to take responsibility for our actions that may have an impact on the viability of this place we are living in.
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