Abstract
Central America is a region susceptible to natural disasters and climate change. We reviewed the literature on the main atmospheric and oceanographic forces and climate modulators affecting Central America, for different spatial and time scales. We also reviewed the reported correlation between climate variability, natural hazards and climate change aspects (in the past and future). In addition, we examined the current state of seasonal prediction systems being applied to the region. At inter-annual scales, El Niño/Southern Oscillation is the main climate modulator; however, other indices such as the Tropical North Atlantic, Atlantic Multi-Decadal Oscillation and Pacific Decadal Oscillation, have shown a correlation with precipitation anomalies in the region. Current seasonal forecast systems in the region have shown a constant development, including incorporation of different approaches ranging from statistical to dynamical downscaling, improving prediction of variables such as precipitation. Many studies have revealed the need of including –in addition to the climatic information– socio-economic variables to assess the impact of natural disasters and climate change in the region. These studies highlight the importance of socio-economic and human life losses associated with the impacts caused by natural hazards for organizations and governments. Rev. Biol. Trop. 66(Suppl. 1): S153-S175. Epub 2018 April 01.
Highlights
S153 occur between April to November was another source of extreme precipitation; their effects are more homogeneous over the region
The IntraAmericas Sea (IAS) plays an important role in the global climate, because it receives large amounts of radiation coming from the Sun onto the Earth surface, and this regional waters act like an energy reservoir
Subsidence associated with the spreading of the subtropical high from the north Atlantic to the North American landmass dominates during boreal winter (December to February), as do the strong easterly trades found on its equator ward flank
Summary
S153 occur between April to November was another source of extreme precipitation; their effects are more homogeneous over the region. Depend on the degree of vulnerability of the exposed elements, as well as, the phenomenon’s occurrence and adaptation capacity (Muñoz et al, 2012; Neri & Magaña, 2016). The complex topography of the region requires that the study of climatic effects must be approached from a regional perspective. To understand better the impacts of natural threats, mainly related to hydrometeorological hazards, the objectives of this paper are twofold: a) to review the main atmospheric and oceanic forces and climate modulators affecting Central America and their connection to climate variability and change. B) to examine the current seasonal prediction systems implemented in the region
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call