According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), La-Nina could influence this year's winter, potentially leading to harsh cold conditions in India. While La-Nina didn’t affect the monsoon season this year, its impact may be felt during the winter months.
What is La-Nina?
La-Nina, meaning "the girl" in "Spanish", is a climate event that affects ocean and atmospheric conditions. It occurs when the surface waters in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean are cooler than usual, while the western Pacific Ocean is warmer. This causes cooler air and can impact global weather patterns.
La-Nina’s Impact on India
The "IMD" predicts that La-Nina conditions might develop by the end of September. Although it won’t affect the monsoon season, it is likely to influence the winter season. From late October through November, La-Nina might impact the "northeast monsoon" in "southern India". Expect a significant drop in temperatures from mid-December to January.
IMD Forecast
The IMD estimates a 66% chance of "La-Nina" conditions forming between September and November, with a 75% likelihood of these conditions lasting into the northern hemisphere "winter" (November to January 2025). Currently, the western Pacific Ocean’s surface temperatures are above average, while the eastern Pacific’s temperatures are normal or below average, resulting in neutral ENSO conditions.
Conclusion
La-Nina could bring unusually cold "weather to India" this winter. While it won't affect the current monsoon, it may lead to severe cold conditions. It's advisable to prepare for a colder winter season based on these forecasts.