Key facts
- El Niño conditions have developed in the equatorial Pacific Ocean.
- The phenomenon is expected to strengthen during India's southwest monsoon season.
- El Niño is historically associated with weaker monsoon rainfall and higher temperatures in India.
- This could lead to agricultural stress, water shortages, and reduced crop yields.
- Lower agricultural output may result in increased food prices.
- The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is also being monitored for its potential to influence rainfall.
El Niño conditions have officially developed over the equatorial Pacific Ocean, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This natural climate phenomenon, characterized by warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the Pacific, is expected to strengthen during India's upcoming southwest monsoon season.
Historically, El Niño events have been associated with weaker monsoon rains, increased temperatures, and significant stress on India's agriculture, which relies heavily on monsoon rainfall. The IMD has already projected that the country could receive below-normal monsoon rainfall this year, with El Niño being a primary contributing factor.