Q. What is the primary impact of a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) on Australia's climate?
Answer: Heightened Bushfire Risk
Notes: The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) significantly affects Australia's climate by altering sea surface temperatures. A positive IOD phase leads to warmer waters in the western Indian Ocean, resulting in drier conditions and increased temperatures in Australia, which heightens the risk of bushfires. Conversely, a negative IOD can bring wetter conditions, impacting rainfall patterns.