Two consecutive La Niña winters: the following are the possible consequences

Briefly :

• a second winter of La Niña;
• More spurs and precipitation.
• A phenomenon with varying effects.

different process

La Niña has a changing effect on Quebec’s winters. This concentration of cold water in the Pacific Ocean at the equator level has the effect of modulating the airflow at high altitudes. The result: a stampede of the jet stream. “So winter takes a different shade than it would in normal times,” explains Réjean Ouimet, a weather expert.

Consequences of a moderate seizure

When it comes to a moderate La Niña episode, there is a temperature anomaly one degree below average. In the past, the consequences were manifold: we observed more moderation and precipitation in southern Quebec. Precipitation was closer to normal in other regions. “In the case of Montreal, during a moderate episode, we can expect more significant snow episodes,” adds Mr. Ouimet.

changing behaviors

La Niña can be a long-term phenomenon with a delayed effect. For example, during the winter of 2021, the county experienced a mild to moderate episode. But that year, the atmosphere did not react as usual. “Winter had an atmospheric behavior somewhat worthy of an El Niño, which can happen,” the specialist specifies.

Good to know: Unlike La Niña, El Niño is indicated by abnormally high temperatures in the eastern part of the South Pacific. The emergence of this phenomenon puts an end to the hunting season.

What happens when history repeats itself for two consecutive years? Consider the examples of winter 2018, 2012, 2009, and 2000. Here’s the common denominator between the two winters:

• They were generally much cooler than their predecessors;
• It was less snowy with more precipitation;
• We generally see more offers.

In short, these data indicate the most diverse and active winters.

In collaboration with Réjean Ouimet, weather expert

See also: Tick, still present under certain winter conditions