A little follow-up now on the Australian flooding. It has been the biggest weather story of the year so far, with many people using the terms biblical, historic, and record-breaking. The pictures and videos seem to bear this out, so you might be surprised that some locations have had worse flooding in the past. In Brisbane, Australia it is only the third highest flood level in their recorded history. The Brisbane river crested higher in 1974 and in 1893. In fact, the 1893 flood crested almost twice as high as this year’s flood. I suspect the effects of the flood are worse this year due to the higher population in and around the flood plain. Check out this article to see maps of the current and past floods.
Some people are worried about the effects of the flood water on the Great Barrier Reef. Satellite images show a lot of silty muddy water heading into the ocean off the east coast of Australia. No doubt the “dirty” water will temporarily disrupt the ecosystem, but if the Great Barrier Reef survived and thrived after massive floods in the past, it should be able to in 2011 as well.
Of greater danger to the reef is ocean acidification. I suspect that coral will eventually be able to adapt and tolerate warmer ocean water and more acidity, but if non-tolerant species die-out rapidly, it could make for some tough times on the reefs of the world oceans. The ocean acidification is mainly tied to the use of fossil fuels. Even if you think the whole AGW situation is a scam and a hoax, it would be good to use less fossil fuels in order to prevent acidification of the oceans. 2011 is the year when you could get a good start because a handful of electric vehicles are set to be rolled out into showrooms.
Have a good Monday! Meteorologist Justin Loew.