How Can Global Warming Cause Snowfall in Mexico?

Mar 10, 2021  14:00 - 14:45

(GMT -4:00) Eastern Time

Event URL:  https://www.exploringbytheseat.com/lesson/can-global-warming-cause-snowfall-mexico/
Hosted by: Exploring By The Seat of Your Pants

Over the past few months, several places usually thought of as having warm climates - such as Greece, Spain, the southern USA and Mexico - have experienced substantial snowfall. These events caused major disruption to the lives of large populations, mainly because they are so unusual in these regions. Some have interpreted snowfall in warm areas as evidence that global warming should not be considered a major concern for humanity. On the other hand, as we will see from this presentation, several areas of research strongly suggest the opposite - that atmospheric warming, particularly in circumpolar regions, is driving unusual and extreme weather events at lower latitudes. The talk will explain how amplified Arctic heating disrupts atmospheric circulation, thereby sending warm air to areas which are usually cold, and cold air - and snow - to areas which are usually warm. This talk is part of our series with the Arctic Institute of North America!