El Nino Threat Looms Over India: WMO And NASA Warn Of Weak Monsoon And Extreme Heat

New Delhi: Weather agencies around the world have issued a new warning regarding El Nino. According to the assessment of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and other international meteorological institutions, El Nino conditions are developing rapidly in the Pacific Ocean, whose impact may be visible on the global weather in the coming months. This warning is considered important for India because El Nino is often directly linked to weak monsoon and rising temperatures. Weather experts believe that if this system becomes stronger then below normal rainfall may be recorded in many parts of the country.

Can there be a direct impact on monsoon?

According to meteorologists, when El Nino is formed, the temperature in the Pacific Ocean increases, which affects global atmospheric activities. Its effect can also be seen on the Indian monsoon. Data over the past several decades show that the country has often faced below normal rainfall in El Nino years. This time also meteorologists are keeping a special eye on the rainfall situation during July and August.

Why increased concern for agriculture?

Most of the Kharif season crops in India depend on monsoon rains. If rainfall is less than normal then sowing of paddy, maize, pulses and oilseeds may be affected. Agricultural experts say that lack of rain may affect production, which is likely to increase pressure on food grain prices. Many states have already started work on alternative agriculture schemes.

May the temperature also increase?

The effect of El Nino is not limited to rain only. Due to this, higher than normal temperatures are recorded in many areas. Experts associated with the Meteorological Department say that if the monsoon remains weak then the effect of heat may persist for a long time in parts of North, Central and Western India. This may also increase challenges like electricity demand and water crisis.

Have governments started preparations?

In view of the fears of weak monsoon, the central and state governments are paying special attention to water conservation and irrigation management. Contingency agriculture plans have been prepared in many states so that farmers can get relief in case of less rainfall. The condition of the reservoirs and groundwater level is also being continuously monitored.

Has the effect of El Nino not been the same every time?

Experts say that the effect of El Nino is important, but the final estimate of monsoon cannot be made on the basis of this alone. Indian Ocean conditions, local weather systems and other climatic factors also influence rainfall. Therefore, it will be important to keep a constant eye on weather trends in the coming weeks.