Everything you need to know about El-Nino

Everything you need to know about El-Nino

News: Any discussion on Indian monsoon these days invariably has references to the El Nino phenomenon.

What is El-Nino?
 El Nino, as is commonly known, refers to an abnormal warming of surface waters in equatorial Pacific Ocean. It is known to suppress monsoon rainfall.
 The opposite phase, La Nina, which is the abnormal cooling of sea surface waters in the same region, is known to aid rainfall over India.
 There is a third, neutral phase, as well in which the sea surface temperatures remain roughly in line with long-term averages. Together, these three phases in the Pacific Ocean are referred to as El Nino Southern Oscillation, or ENSO.
 The playground of this entire system is the equatorial region in the Pacific Ocean. On the east are Ecuador and Peru in northwestern South America and on the west are the islands of Philippines and Indonesia. Between them is nearly 17,000 km of uninterrupted ocean. This region receives the most sunlight anywhere on earth, a lot of which is stored as heat in the ocean.

What is the impact of El-Nino on India?
 It can adversely impact the Indian monsoon leading to fluctuation in rainfall. During such year, India experiences below average rainfall.
 As the rainfall is subdued, it leads to water scarcity, droughts in many regions of India. It impacts crop productivity.
 Negative impact on Farmer’s livelihood.
 El Niño can also lead to public health issues in India. For instance, drier conditions and heat waves can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
 In terms of economics, reduction in agricultural productivity may lead to increase in food prices.
 EL-nino conditions may lead to extreme climate activities – Heatwaves, Cyclonic formations etc.

What are the impacts in other parts of the world?
 Coastal countries in South America like Peru and Ecuador can experience heavy rains and flooding.
 Australia and South-east Asia experience similar weather patterns as India. Decreased rainfall  Drought
 Impact on Agriculture  Food inflation
 East Africa may receive more rain than usual, which could lead to flooding. Southern Africa may face drier conditions, which can lead to water shortages and impacts on agriculture.

How should a country be prepared to face El-Nino conditions?
 Having a dedicated disaster risk reduction funds can help. For example, Peru follows the practice.
 Invest more in technology that accurately predicts when such phenomenon is likely to occur. For example, US-based National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
 Promote climate resilient infrastructure, adopt sustainable agricultural practices. For example, Better irrigation facilities  Diversify Crops   Weather Based Crop insurance etc.
 Protect marine ecosystem comprehensively as they are most likely to face adverse impact of El-Nino.
Source – The Indian Express, BBC