What are the effects of El Niño on global weather patterns?

El Niño, a climate phenomenon characterized by the warming of surface waters in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, leads to various global weather effects. These include changes in rainfall patterns, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and shifts in temperature averages.

Key Facts

• El Niño occurs every 2-7 years, affecting global weather for 9-12 months.
• It can lead to droughts in Australia and Indonesia but increased rainfall in the Americas.
• The last significant El Niño event occurred in 2018-2019, impacting millions globally.
• Agricultural sectors, particularly in affected regions, may face crop failures due to altered weather patterns.

Examples or Use Cases

• In the United States, El Niño is associated with wetter winters in the southern states and drier conditions in the Pacific Northwest.
• In East Africa, El Niño can enhance the risk of flooding and landslides, affecting local communities and agriculture.

FAQs

How often does El Niño occur? El Niño events typically occur every 2 to 7 years.

What is the opposite of El Niño? The opposite phenomenon is La Niña, which involves cooler ocean temperatures and has its own distinct weather impacts.