Resilience in times of trouble, helps Australians rise above the floods which swept through Queensland quite literally as a Wall of Water.
Continued rainfall impedes rescue and reconstruction attempts, isolating rural communities and challenging the spirit of the people. The floods resultant of an altered weather pattern induced by the affects of La Niña.
La Niña is the positive phase of the El Niño Southern Oscillation. It is associated with cooler than average sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. Long-range forecast models surveyed by the Bureau suggest that the La Niña is likely to persist into the southern hemisphere autumn.
All climate indicators of ENSO remain beyond La Niña thresholds. The tropical Pacific Ocean remains much cooler than average for this time of year, with temperatures below the surface up to 4 °C below normal in central and eastern parts (comparable to the La Niña event of 1988). Trade winds are stronger than average, while cloud patterns continue to show a typical La Niña signature with suppressed cloudiness in tropical areas near the dateline. The Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) value for December of +27 is the highest December SOI value on record, as well as being the highest value for any month since November 1973.
Our history with extreme climate crisis has influenced Australia’s preparation and execution of emergency protocols, evident in the coordinated efforts of the nation. Updates and assistance for the Queensland Flood Crisis are available via the ABC Emergency website.
As Australians face forces from wild weather, generous support surfaces helping victims rise above the floods.
Celebrities across the globe are offering their support to the Queensland flood victims. Taking to their Twitter pages following the devastation – local and international stars are sending out messages of support and urging fans to make much-needed donations. Sports stars from Qatar to Queanbeyan and beyond have united in their grief for Queensland flood victims and launched huge fundraising efforts also.
To help Queensland rise above the floods make a donation to the Premier’s Flood Relief Appeal
