Could we see a new 'El Nino' in the near future?
20.05.12
Japanese and Australian scientists have already stated that we're heading into, and even preparing for, a new El Nino due to the fast warming of ocean waters near the Equatorial region. But, as of early this year, we've been in a "back and forth" pattern of cooling and warming of ocean waters. We should have a better of idea of this trend over the next month or so.
Sea-surface temperatures are also slightly warmer than normal in the Gulf of Mexico, especially near the U.S. coast. With the current "La Nada" pattern, this could lead to above normal numbers of tropical storms or hurricanes in the Atlantic and Caribbean waters as the season begins on June 1.
SOLAR STORMS HAVE INCREASED SINCE MID APRIL
Solar activity, or storms on the sun, have been in a "back and forth" pattern since late 2011. Many scientists are still saying that this upcoming solar maxima cycle, which is expected to peak in late 2012 or early 2013, should not be very strong. Since late April, however, sunspot numbers have increased dramatically after relatively low solar activity in February and March.
Source: Coeur d'Alene Press