Various factors, "...have caused the crisis, as they do every year."

So, no big deal?  Or maybe a big deal that it is more severe than other years (question not answered here), Or (gasp, choke!) bigger deal that it happens "every year"? 

It's kinda frustrating sometimes, when you read an article to get answers, but end up having more questions...

G&M: follow-up, maybe? Or how about one of those nifty little "Explainers" you do so well?