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La Nina

UK //lɑː ˈniː.nə//US //lɑː ˈniː.nə//

Definition

A climate pattern characterized by cooler-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean.

In simple words: A climate pattern with cooler ocean temperatures that affects weather.

Examples

  • La Niña often leads to greater rainfall in the western Pacific.
  • During a La Niña event, drought conditions can occur in the southeastern United States.
  • Experts predict that La Niña will influence the upcoming hurricane season.
  • La Niña cycles can last for several months to years.
  • Researchers study La Niña patterns to predict changes in global weather.

Usage notes

Used mainly in meteorology and climate discussions. Not appropriate for casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone term

Memory hint

Imagine a cool girl named Nina who brings chilly weather.

Collocations

  • La Niña event
  • La Niña phenomenon
  • La Niña pattern
  • La Niña conditions

Synonyms

  • climatic phenomenon
  • weather pattern
  • oceanic event
  • climate anomaly
  • atmospheric condition

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'El Niño', which is the opposite effect.
  • Using it in non-meteorological contexts.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'La Nina' instead of 'La Niña' which includes the tilde.