La Niña Weakens: El Niño-Southern Oscillation to Stabilize Weather

La Niña conditions are weakening, transitioning to a neutral ENSO state expected to stabilize weather through summer. This change could impact global crop yields, especially in regions like the central and southern Plains, Brazil, and Eastern Europe, with implications for agriculture.

In a significant climate development, La Niña conditions are showing signs of weakening, according to a U.S. government weather forecaster. The transition to a neutral El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) weather pattern is anticipated by April and is expected to persist through the summer.

La Niña, a component of the broader ENSO climatic cycle, typically results in cooler-than-average temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. This shift often leads to increased chances of floods and droughts, affecting crop yields. In contrast, an ENSO-neutral state suggests average water temperatures, which could stabilize crop production.

Japan's weather bureau has reported a 60% likelihood of normal weather patterns in the coming months. The U.S. National Weather Service's Climate Prediction Center echoes this, with a 62% chance of ENSO neutrality by mid-2025. These conditions could influence agricultural outputs globally, especially for winter wheat in the Plains and corn in Brazil's central regions.

(With inputs from agencies.)