Weather affects cocoa yield in a few ways. First, the warmth of the atmosphere affects cocoa tree growth, as high temperatures promote blooming and fruiting while low temperatures suppress these processes. Secondly, heavy rains or flooding can greatly reduce cocoa yields as they knock down trees or wash away the trees' nutrient reserves. Finally, variations in sunlight exposure affect cocoa tree growth as well; when daylight hours are shorter, trees must work harder to produce flowers and beans.