Monday, January 22, 2007

Fire and Ice

A mini heat wave hit Sydney this weekend, making for some good beach book reading conditions. The odd thing about this summer has been that, although the weather has been hot, the water has stayed absolutely frigid. Yesterday, where the temperature reached 100F (40C), the water stayed cold at 60F (15C). It is quite a shock to go from a roasting hot beach to an ice cube of a swim in the ocean. A forty degree swing results in some major shrinkage.

The local scientist in this relationship has not found a conclusive reason as to why this occurring. Papers, news media outlets and the internets have stated that there is some warm water off the coast a few clicks, but the cold water is staying at shallower depths. True to Aussie journalistic standards, no Why in the standard Who What When Where Why has been reported. My bet is El Nino, which the Aussies have labeled "The Ninnie Ninnies" due to their lack of Spanish influence. Playing out like an Al Gore allegory, the effects of global warming have come to roost for even the most casual of lifestyle.

posted by ncawthon at 9:24 AM