tectonics + enso

What is the hazard risk equation?

Risk (R) = (hazard (H) x vulnerability (V)) / capacity to cope.

What does 'capacity to cope' refer to?

A community's resilience in coping with a hazard.

What factors increase vulnerability to disasters?

Inequality in access to housing, education, health, and jobs; poor governance; highly populated areas; rapid urbanization; weak buildings and infrastructure.

What are the root causes of vulnerability according to the PAR model?

Limited access to power and resources, poor political and economic systems.

What changes occur during El Niño?

Trade winds weaken or reverse direction, causing warm water to shift towards South America, leading to extreme rainfall in South America and drought in Australia.

What are the effects of La Niña in Australia and South America?

In Australia, it leads to catastrophic flooding and tropical cyclones; in South America, it creates extreme high pressure, causing drier conditions.

Why are ENSO events significant for water insecurity?

ENSO events impact global weather patterns, affecting water availability and agricultural planning.

What are 'teleconnections' in the context of ENSO?

Global knock-on effects caused by ENSO events, like El Niño causing weaker monsoons in India.

How often do ENSO cycles occur?

Every 3–7 years.

What is debated regarding climate change and El Niño?

Whether global warming is making El Niño events more frequent and intense, leading to more permanent water insecurity in the Southern Hemisphere.