The warm phase of a recurring climate pattern, El Niño has a global impact on weather. The phenomenon is characterized by unusually warm ocean temperatures, which often give way to warmer than average temperatures on land, as well as heavy rainfall and an increased risk of severe storm activity.
El Nino’s Impact on the Weather in Georgia
Meteorologists, climatologists, and disaster repair services in Atlanta have noted the following trends these past few months:
- Warmer weather. El Niño is typically accompanied by higher temperatures, especially during the winter months. This was certainly the case in Atlanta, which experienced the warmest December on record in 2015.
- Increased Rainfall. 2015 was Atlanta’s third wettest year on record, and the heavy rainfall has thus far extended into 2016, with much of Georgia hit by regular showers. This extensive rainfall carries the risk of flash flooding, which is expected to strike many Georgia communities this spring.
- Increased risk of storms. Storms have not been as bad as initially predicted, but Georgia residents — particularly those residing in coastal areas — remain at risk. Experts at Colorado State University predict average hurricane activity for this year’s hurricane season. Unfortunately, this means that East Coast residents can expect approximately twelve named storms and five devastating hurricanes. Atlanta disaster repair services are prepared for this possibility.
How Will El Niño Affect the Rest of 2016?
The effects of El Niño are beginning to subside, but now, Georgia must prepare for the potential of La Niña, which is marked by cooler ocean temperatures. The storms associated with La Niña are typically not as strong as those prompted by El Niño, so those residing in Georgia can expect some relief in late 2016 and early 2017.
Feel free to contact us to learn how you can get your home back in order after an El Niño-related flood or hurricane.