Context: La Niña is significantly influences global weather, particularly in India, where it impacts the monsoon and winter seasons.
Relevance: GS 1 (Geography ) , GS 3 (Climate Change)
La Niña is a climate phenomenon that occurs when the ocean surface temperatures in the central and east-central equatorial Pacific cool periodically. The term “La Niña” is Spanish for “little girl”.
Monsoon Impact:
- Brings normal or above-normal rainfall during India’s monsoon season, boosting agriculture.
Winter Impact:
Results in colder winters, especially in northern India.
Global Effects:
- Leads to droughts in Africa and intensifies hurricanes in the Atlantic.
Current Situation (2024):
- A low 57% likelihood of La Niña forming this winter.
- If it forms, it is expected to remain weak.
Meteorological Insights:
- Higher wind speeds during La Niña winters may reduce air pollution.
- Lower Planetary Boundary Layer Height (PBLH) could trap pollutants near the ground.
Future Outlook
A persistent La Niña into 2025 could:
- Mitigate summer heatwaves.
- Support robust monsoons, contrasting with the disruptive effects of El Niño.
