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Do scientists agree on how La Niña and El Niño cycles might be affected by climate change?

Wednesday, September 16, 2020
By Allegra Taylor
NO

Recent scientific findings around the potential interaction between overall climate changes and La Niña and El Niño weather events are inconclusive.

The terms refer to alternating phases of a weather pattern caused by changes in the temperature of the Pacific Ocean. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, La Niña events represent periods of cold surface temperatures in the Equatorial Pacific. The changes, at irregular intervals, are associated with varying weather patterns across wide areas of the world.

Understanding of the impact a warming climate could have on La Niña or El Niño is not definitive. Studies suggest that climate change could increase the frequency and variability of La Niña and El Niño phases—and El Niño more so.

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