Weather patterns and climate change are part of a natural cycle of events that have been occurring since the earth first began to form an atmosphere. It is this constant change that allows for evolution and diversity while ensuring nothing on the planet remains locked in stasis. Change is what we fear most due to the fact that we do not know what to expect. We currently have some high profile people running an effective campaign of fear by suggesting sea levels may rise as high as six metres yet there is little real evidence to support such claims.

The cause of climate change is complex but little evidence exists to vindicate current belief that it is industrial emissions causing the current cycle. A single cyclone moving billions of tons of water while pushing air at a phenomenal velocity is testimony to the power behind atmospheric activity and nothing can be done to prevent the onslaught once these forces are in motion. In effect, cyclones (typhoons and hurricanes depending on where in the world you live) carry out an important air conditioning function that rapidly disperses stagnant ocean current and stale air. Wild claims that such eventd are becoming more powerful are not supported because our recorded history of weather represents an infinitesimally small portion of weather events throughout the billions of earth years.

What we do know regarding causes of weather pattern and climate change relate to after effects of significant volcanic activity as well as one or two sizable meteorites impacting on the planet. In August 1883, Krakatoa erupted with a force estimated in excess of 100 kilotons and the sound was heard over 2 000 miles away. Giant tsunamis of 130 feet or more in height devastated coastal settlements many thousands of miles away when over five cubic miles of land mass suddenly disappeared as it was hurled into the atmosphere to altitudes of twenty or more miles. The after effects of this sizable eruption continued for years after with unbelievable sunsets caused by atmospheric dust refracting sunlight and many consider this was a significant volcanic event - not true!

Krakatoa had a notable effect on the climate of the entire world where winters were longer and more severe than usual. It was the blocking effect of atmospheric dust that changed the average temperature and the earth experienced a mini ice age. Irrespective of the damage caused and resultant climatic changes, Krakatoa is not considered a volcanic eruption

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