Question

What occurs during the weather pattern known as El Nino?

A. A periodic warming of the Pacific Ocean that is an important cause of climate variability around the world
B. A periodic warming of the Atlantic Ocean that is an important cause of climate variability around the world
C. A periodic cooling of the Pacific Ocean that is an important cause of climate variability only in North America
D. A periodic warming of the Pacific Ocean that is an important cause of climate variability only in North America

Answer 1

El Niño is a weather pattern that occurs in the Pacific Ocean. During this time, unusual winds cause warm surface water from the equator to move east, toward Central and South America. El Niño can cause more rain than usual in South and Central America and in the United States.