Have you noticed that the weather over the past couple of years has been somehow different? If you have, you are in good company - even the venerable National Geographic asked why we are experiencing the weather aberrations we are as the feature in its most recent issue.

For a very fast paced intro to the science of causes for this phenomenon, check out "Weathergirl goes rogue" here:



She does an admirable job of injecting humour into an otherwise humourless subject. You either laugh, or you cry - but hopefully also reconsider the two block drive to pick up the iced latte.

That's very funny - worth the 2:43 more than once!

You're right (and "rogue weather girl" is too) in saying this is no joke, though. Here's my new "favourite" graphic - the Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI) forecast for 2030-2039. No barbecues needed anywhere near the Mediterranean, most of the US, equatorial South America, and China - it will be hot and dry enough to cook without propane or charcoal! Growing food, on the other hand, will be more of a challenge...