• Source:JND

A major change in ocean temperatures far away in the Pacific may soon affect weather conditions in India. Meteorologists are closely watching the possible development of a strong El Niño event, sometimes referred to as a “Godzilla” El Niño because of its extreme intensity. This powerful climate pattern can disrupt normal rainfall systems across the world.

What Is ‘Godzilla’ El Nino?

The term “Godzilla El Niño” is used to describe exceptionally strong El Niño events. While it is not an official scientific term, it is commonly used to refer to powerful El Niño events that can affect global weather patterns. Even though the phenomenon develops far from India, it can influence the monsoon, agriculture, water supply, and electricity demand across the country.

What Is El Nino?

Global organisations, including the World Economic Forum, have warned that the emerging El Niño may become more than just a weather event. El Niño happens when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean become unusually warm. This alters wind patterns and disrupts rainfall systems around the world. It often brings lower rainfall to some regions, including India during the monsoon season, while causing heavy rain and flooding in other parts of the world.

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How Does El Niño Affect India?

India depends heavily on the southwest monsoon for agriculture, drinking water, and electricity generation. When El Niño is strong, the country often experiences weaker or uneven monsoon rainfall, delayed rains in several states, and longer dry spells accompanied by heatwaves. Such conditions can affect agricultural productivity, leading to pressure on water resources.

What Makes ‘Godzilla’ El Niño Dangerous?

A “Godzilla” El Niño can make weather disruptions more severe and widespread. It can lead to a significant weakening of monsoon rainfall, prolonged heatwaves, a higher risk of drought in some regions, and highly unpredictable rainfall patterns. As nearly half of India’s agricultural sector still depends on rainfall, a weak monsoon can force farmers to delay sowing crops such as rice, maize, soybean, cotton, and pulses. Furthermore, lower rainfall and higher temperatures can also reduce crop yields.

Impact On Water, Power Supply

The impact of a weaker monsoon extends beyond agriculture. Reduced rainfall can lower water levels in dams and rivers, affecting drinking water supplies. Cities that already face water shortages are likely to experience greater challenges. Hot weather can further increase the use of fans, air conditioners, and cooling systems. This will lead to higher electricity demand. Reduced water levels in reservoirs can affect hydropower generation, putting further pressure on the power sector.

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