The Impact of El Nino on Climate and Marine Life

El Nino is a significant weather phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean, causing climate changes and natural disasters from Alaska to South America. It occurs when sea surface temperatures rise, affecting weather patterns globally. El Nino impacts marine life by disrupting nutrient-rich upwelling, affecting fisheries. On land, it leads to storms, floods, and diseases in the Americas, while causing droughts and wildfires in Southeast Asia and Australia. The 1997-98 El Nino was the largest recorded, causing significant damage and loss of life. Advances in prediction help communities prepare for its effects.

What is El Nino primarily known for?

• A weather phenomenon

• A type of storm

• A type of fish

• A mountain range

How often does an El Nino event typically occur?

• Every year

• Every 2 to 7 years

• Every century

• Every decade

What temperature change in the Pacific Ocean is associated with El Nino?

• 0.5 degrees Celsius increase

• 1.0 degrees Celsius decrease

• No change

• 2.0 degrees Celsius increase

What happens to marine life during an El Nino event?

• Marine life remains unaffected

• Marine life migrates to colder waters

• Marine life thrives

• Marine life migrates to warmer waters

How does El Nino affect fisheries in Central and South America?

• Improves fishing conditions

• No effect on fish population

• Decreases fish population

• Increases fish population

What is a common effect of El Nino in the western United States?

• Colder temperatures

• No significant weather changes

• Droughts

• Increased storms and rainfall

What happens in Southeast Asia and Australia during an El Nino?

• Increased rainfall

• Droughts and wildfires

• Colder ocean waters

• Warmer ocean waters

What was the estimated damage caused by the 1997-98 El Nino?

• 10 million dollars

• 1 billion dollars

• 100 billion dollars

• 33 billion dollars

How many deaths were attributed to the 1997-98 El Nino?

• 2100

• 500

• 5000

• 10000

What advancement helps communities prepare for El Nino?

• Improved weather prediction

• Stronger buildings

• Better fishing techniques

• Increased rainfall