By Zoila Palma:The developing El Niño climate phenomenon has reached record strength, with scientists reporting that daily sea surface temperatures in a key region of the central-eastern Pacific reached 3.05°C above average on September 19, surpassing the previous record of 3.02°C set during the strong 2015 El Niño.
Scientists say some longer-term measures have not yet reached record levels, but the phenomenon is expected to strengthen further as its peak is not anticipated until later this year.
El Niño occurs when weakened Pacific trade winds allow unusually warm ocean water to move eastward, releasing heat into the atmosphere and influencing weather patterns worldwide.
The strength of the current event does not necessarily mean its impacts will be unprecedented, although scientists say effects are already being observed in several regions.
El Niño can increase the risk of storms and flooding in some areas while contributing to drought and wildfires in others. India’s southwest monsoon rainfall was 15% below normal through September 22, while coastal areas of Ecuador, Peru and the southern United States face increased flood risks.
Professor Adam Scaife of the UK Met Office said the record-breaking temperatures before the expected peak demonstrate the magnitude of the event.
Scientists will continue monitoring the phenomenon as it develops, with potential consequences for agriculture, food security, economies and weather patterns across different parts of the world.
The post Developing El Niño becomes strongest on record as Scientists monitor global weather impacts appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma:The developing El Niño climate phenomenon has reached record strength, with scientists reporting that daily sea surface temperatures in a key region of the central-eastern Pacific reached 3.05°C above average on September 19, surpassing the previous record of 3.02°C set during the strong 2015 El Niño. Scientists say some longer-term measures have not
The post Developing El Niño becomes strongest on record as Scientists monitor global weather impacts appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.