CLIMATE IN 2002

Abstract

Temperatures in the year 2002 were above the long-term average. This was the second warmest year on record, the only warmer year was 1998. Though not as strong as in 1998, the El nino influenced temperature conditions around the world in 2002. The temperatures of the lower troposphere were above average, and those of the lower stratosphere were below the long-term average. The year was marked by severe drought and numerous wildfires in Australia and the US. Notable temperature extremes in 2002 included a severe heat wave across southwestern Asia in May and June. Global precipitation was below the long-term average, but the monsoon rains in southeast Asia caused extensive flooding along the Mekong Delta. Seasonal flooding in much of southern Asia claimed more than 1000 lives.