India may experience decreased rainfall in the near future, warns a World Meteorological Organization (WMO) official, due to the looming El Nino event. El Nino is the warming phase of the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon, which causes sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean to rise by 0.5 degrees Celsius or more. This temperature increase, coupled with the ongoing effect of greenhouse gas emissions, could disrupt the rainfall patterns in India, leading to erratic weather conditions.
The WMO official cautions that the impact of El Nino could exacerbate the flood-drought cycle in India. The country might witness an enhancement in this cycle, which means that periods of heavy rainfall could be followed by extended dry spells. Such erratic weather patterns can have severe consequences for agriculture, water resources, and overall societal well-being.
Given the potential risks associated with the upcoming El Nino event, Indian farmers are being advised to take proactive measures. The WMO official urges farmers not to wait for an official declaration of an El Nino event. Instead, they should be prepared and adapt their agricultural practices accordingly based on the forecasts indicating the likelihood of El Nino. Taking steps to conserve water, implement efficient irrigation techniques, and diversify crop selections can help mitigate the adverse effects of reduced rainfall.
Climate change has brought about alterations in the ENSO phenomenon, expanding the areas affected and intensifying humidity levels. The El Nino warming exacerbates the heating effect caused by greenhouse gas emissions already present in the atmosphere. As a result, the consequences of El Nino are expected to be more pronounced, potentially leading to further challenges for regions already grappling with climate change impacts.
While the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has not yet declared the onset of an El Nino event, it has been anticipating its occurrence. In years when El Nino is present, the monsoon season tends to be shorter and weaker than normal, often resulting in drought conditions. However, it is important to note that the monsoon season in India has shown promising signs recently, with the monsoon system and rainfall intensifying since June 25 in most parts of the country. Nevertheless, the looming El Nino event remains a cause for concern and warrants close monitoring.
As climate change continues to shape weather patterns around the world, it becomes crucial for nations and communities to adapt and prepare for the potential impacts. With the warning of decreased rainfall due to the impending El Nino event, India must prioritize implementing sustainable agricultural practices, strengthening water resource management, and developing strategies to mitigate the effects of climate variability. By taking proactive measures, India can better navigate the challenges posed by changing weather patterns and safeguard the well-being of its people and the environment.
Source: DownToEarth
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