The image above shows the strong La Nina event currently in place in the tropical Pacific. The dark blue area shows Sea Surface Temperature Anomalies where the temperature inversion has resulted in strong cooling in the tropical Pacific. This La Nina event follows a weaker El Nino event last winter.
It is typical of La Nina to generate strong winds and heavy precipitation in the western United States and we have heard reports of hurricane force winds and up to a foot of flooding rain falling upon the Pacific Northwest.
Australia is currently suffering from a drought, and it is typical for La Nina to result in heavier precipitation in Australia, which leads many to hope that this years strong La Nina event will bring relief to drought stricken areas of Australia.
