Following a prolonged period of La Niña conditions, the equatorial Pacific Ocean is displaying clear indications of transitioning towards the neutral El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) state, as reported by the latest update from NOAA. The Climate Prediction Center (CPC) of the agency recently released an updated forecast, revealing a significant weakening of below-average sea-surface temperatures associated with La Niña in the central and east-central Pacific during February.
El Niño and La Niña Climate Patterns Explained
While some remnants of La Niña effects persist in the atmosphere, the overall trend strongly suggests a shift towards a neutral state in the upcoming month, likely lasting through the summer season in the Northern Hemisphere (with a 62% chance between June and August). Despite this transition, a La Niña Advisory remains in place as we approach the onset of spring.
The CPC’s spring temperature outlook for meteorological spring, encompassing March, April, and May, forecasts warm conditions in the southern regions and cooler temperatures in the northern areas.
Fox Weather: How to Stay Informed
Check out the meteorological spring temperature and precipitation outlook for this year. The highest likelihood of above-average temperatures is forecasted for the Southwest and Gulf Coast regions, while the northern United States and parts of Alaska are expected to experience below-average temperatures.
Moreover, the Northwest and Great Lakes regions may see increased rainfall, while the Southwest and much of the Rockies could encounter drier conditions, according to the CPC’s observations.
Understanding El Niño Climate Patterns
Explore the precipitation outlook for the contiguous United States from March to May. Above-average precipitation is anticipated in sections of the Mississippi Valley and interior Northeast, while below-average rainfall is projected along the Gulf Coast and the southern coast of Alaska.
Source: La Niña is dissipating, leading to divergent spring temperatures and varied rainfall patterns: NOAA
