Why in News?
Satellite imagery has recently revealed a rare meteorological event in the South Pacific Ocean, with three tropical cyclones being simultaneously active in the region.
- Cyclones, named Rae, Seru, and Alfred, developed within a span of 5 days.
- They are currently swirling in waters off the eastern coast of Australia and extending approximately 8,000 kilometres into the Pacific Ocean.
- Unusual Phenomenon - The occurrence of 3 such storms simultaneously is especially unusual this season, as the planet is currently experiencing a La Nina phase.
- La Nina climate phase usually cools ocean temperatures, reducing the energy available to fuel tropical storms.
- As a result, scientists had predicted fewer than average tropical cyclones for the region this year.
- Influencing Factors - The climate crisis is playing a role in intensifying such weather events, as rising ocean temperatures provide additional energy for tropical storms.
- The year 2024 has already recorded the highest ocean temperatures in history.
- While global warming is not increasing the overall number of storms, it is contributing to a rise in the frequency and intensity of higher-category cyclones.
- Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) - It is also pointed to the presence of a phenomenon known as the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO).
- This atmospheric fluctuation creates a zone of rising air and increased rainfall that moves around the globe, lasting for 30 days or more.
- MJO appears to be moving across the south-western Pacific in a manner that could amplify cyclone activity.
- Research also suggests that these storms are moving more slowly over land, increasing their potential for destruction.
- This rare event highlights the complexity of atmospheric systems and the challenges in forecasting extreme weather patterns.
Reference
Down to Earth | Triple cyclones in south pacific
