Learn all about Australia's crazy weather
La Niña is a weather event that occurs when the Pacific Ocean becomes unusually cool.
This cooling of the Pacific affects the climate around the world and causes some pretty crazy weather patterns. In Australia, we’re currently experiencing a La Niña event, which is leading to a period of seriously wild weather swings!
While we’re by no means meteorologists at Uptown Pokies, we are interested in all things Australian. So with that in mind, it’s time to learn about the effect La Niña is having on Oz.
What is La Niña?
La Niña is a weather phenomenon that is characterised by below-average sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific Ocean. The opposite of a La Niña weather event is called El Niño - it’s a weather phenomenon that is characterised by above-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean.
How is it triggered?
La Niña is most commonly triggered by a strengthening of the trade winds in the Pacific Ocean. This can be due to a change in the atmospheric pressure system or from a higher-than-average rainfall amount over Indonesia.
As these trade winds strengthen, it allows for more cool water to move eastward towards the Americas. The result is cooler than average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, while the western Pacific remains warm.
How does La Niña affect Australia?
La Niña is a weather condition that has a huge influence on Australia's climate. It influences wind, rainfall and pressure patterns in many parts of the country.
While La Niña can be a godsend for some parts of Australia, bringing much-needed rain to drought-stricken areas, it can also cause havoc in other parts of the country. This has been on full display in recent months as a strong La Niña event has caused widespread flooding on Australia's east coast.
East Coast
In the past few weeks, the east coast of Australia has been hit with some of its worst flooding in years.
These floods have caused extensive damage and loss of life, particularly in the state of Queensland and in northern New South Wales. The army has been called in to help with the relief effort and thousands of people have been evacuated from their homes.
Fortunately, Australians around the country have rallied together to support those affected. Myriad charities have been set up to provide financial assistance and there have been many appeals for donations of food, clothing and other essential items.
West Coast
On the west coast of Australia, La Niña has brought about a very different kind of weather phenomenon.
A heatwave is currently sweeping across the states of Western Australia and South Australia (plus Victoria and Tasmania), with temperatures in some areas reaching as high as 40 degrees Celsius. While this is good news for beachgoers who are looking forward to a long hot summer, it's not so good news for farmers who are struggling with the dry conditions.
The heatwave is expected to last for several weeks and there is no end in sight for the drought that is gripping much of rural Australia.
10 tips on how to deal with unpredictable La Niña weather
Many people are unaware of what La Niña weather is and how it affects Australia. The truth is that La Niña impacts both the west and east coast differently. No matter where you're located though, you can prepare for the wild weather swings by following these ten simple tips:
- Prepare for unpredictable weather by stocking up on supplies
- Wear appropriate clothing so you can adjust to changing temperatures
- Always be prepared for the unexpected. This means having an emergency kit stocked with medical supplies.
- Follow the advice of local authorities and evacuate when told to do so
- Keep a close eye on the weather forecast
- Make sure you have a shelter or a plan in case of bad weather
- Have a backup plan in case your original plan doesn't work
- Stay safe and don't take risks during extreme weather conditions
- During a heatwave, it's important to drink plenty of water and take breaks if you're working outside
- If your property is at risk of flooding, disconnect electrical appliances and equipment from the outlet
For everyone else in Australia, we suggest showing your support by providing assistance to those in need if possible. As always, Uptown Pokies is always here to provide respite if you feel like having a punt of the best Aussie online casino games.
Win with Uptown Pokies today!
Deposit $30+
Get 125% Match Bonus + 50 Spins on Top!
Redeem Coupon: CRAZYWEATHER125
Promos info:
CRAZYWEATHER125 bonus holds 25x roll over + 5x on spins winnings, available from the 23rd of March to the 23rd of April, redeemable 2x. Free spins game: Storm Lords
