La Niña is a natural climate phenomenon that cools the Pacific Ocean and affects weather around the globe. Current forecasts from the WMO show that sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific are likely to return to normal soon.
The WMO estimates there’s a 60% chance that sea temperatures will reach a neutral state between March and May 2025, increasing to 70% by April to June 2025. ENSO-neutral means the ocean is not unusually warm (as in El Niño) or cool (as in La Niña). The chance of El Niño developing during this time is very low.
WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo emphasizes the importance of accurate forecasts related to El Niño and La Niña. These predictions are crucial for early warnings and proactive measures. They help save money in sectors like agriculture, energy, and transportation, and they play a significant role in disaster preparedness, saving thousands of lives.
La Niña causes widespread changes in wind, pressure, and rainfall due to its cooling effect on the ocean. Its impacts are often the opposite of those seen during El Niño. For example, while El Niño can lead to drought in Australia, La Niña often brings heavy rains and potential flooding. Conversely, while some areas in South America face drought during La Niña, they might experience wetter conditions during El Niño.
It’s important to note that La Niña events are happening alongside human-induced climate change, which continues to warm the planet and cause extreme weather. In fact, January 2025 was recorded as the warmest January ever, even in the cooler La Niña phase.
While the WMO focuses on ENSO, it also provides regular Global Seasonal Climate Updates. These updates give a broader view of climate patterns, including those in the Atlantic and Arctic regions, as well as tracking sea temperatures and changes in global and local weather.
Looking ahead, most maritime areas are expected to be warmer than usual, except for parts of the eastern Pacific. The WMO predicts above-average land temperatures across nearly all regions worldwide in the upcoming season.
Source link
La Niña
