These phenomena impact the ocean-atmosphere system that plays an important role in global weather patterns. During the strong El Nino event in 1997-98 the ski season was virtually ruined in parts of Western North America yet it the growing season was extended due to the unusually warm spring weather. The agricultural, retail and tourism industries are most affected by the weather. It seems many people have an interest in the weather including Canadians. Snowstorms, extreme cold or heat, thunderstorms always seem to be a conversation topic because of the effect these events have on our day to day lives.
Weather can also be destructive when events such as hurricanes tornadoes and floods occur.
In Canada we have some of the most extreme weather conditions in the world. The best example of this was during the ice storm of January 1998 which paralyzed Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec over a five day period with up to 100 mm of ice buildup. Perhaps one of the reasons we are so influenced by the weather here in Canada is due to the harshness of the climate. There is the important job providing accurate and timely weather forecasts. This is where Environment Canada and the National Weather Service fit into the picture.