Pune: A recent study conducted by scientists at the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Pune, has revealed that the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) dynamics play a significant role in the increasing trend of heatwaves in South India. The report indicates that compared to North and Northeast India, the southern peninsular region (including Central and Northwestern India) experiences more intense heatwaves during ENSO conditions.
This study, titled “Dynamics of ENSO-led Contrasting Heatwave Patterns over the Indian Region,” was published in the international journal Climate Dynamics on April 6. Researchers from the System Dynamics division, including Sanap, P. Priya, J.S. Choudhary, and D.R. Pattnayak of IMD, contributed to this study.
Previous IMD research by these scientists had shown that post-El Niño events are generally associated with longer, more severe, and widespread heatwaves. The El Niño condition during the spring of 2022 prompted scientists to investigate local temperature patterns and their atmospheric dynamics associated with ENSO events.
During El Niño years, southern peninsular India experienced above-normal temperatures, increased heatwaves, and a decline in rainfall. Conversely, northwestern India saw above-normal temperatures along with increased rainfall. During La Niña years, the pattern reversed: while northwestern India turned hot and dry, southern peninsular India became cooler than normal due to increased rainfall.
Even in central and northern India, persistent and widespread heatwaves were experienced despite strong La Niña conditions.
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