10 Weather and Climate

Case Study 1: Extreme Weather Events in Europe

Geographical Thought & Perspectives:

• Climate Classification Theory (Köppen, 1900s) – Systematic categorization of climate types.
• Dynamic Climatology (Rossby, 1940s) – Planetary waves influence weather variability.
• Anthropogenic Climate Change (IPCC, 1988–Present) – Human-induced disruptions in weather patterns.

Models/Theories/Laws:

• Weather vs. Climate Model – Short-term atmospheric conditions vs. long-term trends.
• Jet Stream Influence on Weather Extremes – Wind patterns shaping storm tracks.
• Blocking Highs and Heatwaves – Persistent high-pressure systems altering climate.

Recent Data:

• Extreme Heatwaves: Record-breaking temperatures exceeding 45°C in Spain, France, and Italy.
• Storm Frequency: Increased occurrence of severe storms due to jet stream shifts.
• Satellite Observations: ESA confirms weather anomalies affecting Europe.

Spatial Variation:

• Southern Europe: Most affected by heatwaves.
• Northern Europe: Increased frequency of extreme cold events.

Temporal Variation:

• Historical Trends: Weather variability observed since 2000.
• Future Projections: Expected intensification due to climate change.

Source:

• Copernicus Climate Change Service
• Nature Climate Change

Insight:

Extreme weather events validate climate models, emphasizing the role of atmospheric circulation and anthropogenic influences.

Case Study 2: Climate Variability and Changing Rainfall Patterns in Africa

Geographical Thought & Perspectives:

• Climate Classification Theory (Köppen, 1900s) – Systematic categorization of climate types.
• Teleconnections in Climate Systems (Bjerknes, 1969) – Global climatic linkages affecting weather.
• Anthropogenic Climate Change (IPCC, 1988–Present) – Human-induced disruptions in climate trends.

Models/Theories/Laws:

• ENSO Influence on Rainfall – Oceanic temperature anomalies affecting precipitation.
• Hydrological Cycle Disruptions – Reduced precipitation due to atmospheric moisture anomalies.
• Drought Index Models (Palmer Drought Severity Index, SPEI) – Measuring drought intensity.

Recent Data:

• Africa: Severe drought affecting Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia.
• ENSO Monitoring: NOAA confirms strong El Niño phase, reducing rainfall by 30–50%.
• Agricultural Impact: Crop failures leading to food shortages for 5 million people.

Spatial Variation:

• Horn of Africa: Severe drought conditions due to ENSO influence.
• West Africa: Increased rainfall variability affecting agriculture.

Temporal Variation:

• Historical Trends: Increasing drought frequency observed since 2000.
• Future Projections: Expected intensification due to climate change.

Source:

• MDPI
• Copernicus Climate Change Service

Insight:

Climate variability and changing rainfall patterns validate climate models, emphasizing the role of ocean-atmosphere interactions and climate change.