Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Geography
Why in News?
Recently, the WMO has warned that an El Nino is expected to intensify through 2027, which will likely elevate the risks of extreme weather events, agricultural stress, and economic instability.
El Nino (Warm Phase)
- El Niño – It is a natural climate pattern characterized by the warming of ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean.
- Trade winds weaken or reverse.
- Warm water shifts eastward toward South America.
- Effects on India – Often associated with weaker southwest monsoon rainfall.
- Can increase the likelihood of drought conditions and heat waves.
- Global Effects – Droughts in Australia and parts of Southeast Asia.
- Increased rainfall in western South America.
- Warmer global temperatures.
La Niña (Cool Phase)
- La Niña – Sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific become cooler than normal.
- Trade winds strengthen.
- Warm water is pushed further west toward Asia and Australia.
- Effects on India – Generally linked to stronger monsoon rainfall.
- Can increase the risk of floods in some regions.
- Global Effects – Wetter conditions in Australia and Southeast Asia.
- Drier conditions in western South America.
- Slight cooling of global temperatures.
To know more about El Niño click here
Recent warnings of WMO, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Unusually warm ocean waters are contributing to the development of El Niño conditions.
- El Niño events typically lead to increased global temperatures and more extreme weather and rainfall patterns.
- Above-average temperatures are forecast for most regions worldwide from June to August.
- Advanced forecasting enables more effective preparations to protect lives and livelihoods.
- Immediate action is required for informed decision-making, planning, and preparedness.
Reference
WMO | Prepare for El Niño
