Unit 2 - Extreme Weather Flashcards
Anti-Cyclone
They are an area of high atmospheric pressure where (cold) air is sinking, meaning there are no clouds or rainfall due to the air sinking and not rising. Seen on a satellite with no cloud cover.
El Nino
When the sea surface temperature is higher than average causing extreme weather events.
ITCZ
Inter-tropical convergence zone, band of low pressure, characterised by warm, moist air which produces huge clouds and frequent thunderstorms. - blocks the high pressure and brings rain
Hadley Cell
Warm air rises at the equator causing thunderstorms moving north and then sinks at the Sahel (during the summer and brings drought). Brings both wet and dry seasons.
NGO
Non-governmental organisations such as Oxfam, work in regions such as the Sahel to help people and reduce the impacts.
Reforestation/Afforestation
Planting more plants and more trees.
Desertification
The process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically as a result of drought.
Polyculture
Using multiple crops in the same space.
Monoculture
Producing/growing a single crop in a field at a time.
Enset (False Banana)
Drought resistant crop that is grown in places such as Ethiopia. Can survive up to 7 years without rain, the leaves are full of water and can hold it for years.
Natural Causes of Wildfire
- Lightning
- Volcanic Eruptions
- Drought
Human Causes of Wildfire
- Campfires
- Glass
- Fireworks
- Cigarettes
- Electricity Wires
Quasi-Natural Hazard
Sometimes natural/sometimes human influenced.
Smokey Bear
Used to educate and inform people on how to safely put out wildfires.
How many people were affected in the Californian wildfire?
13,000 residents, as 24 fires raged across the state.
