'El Niño': When Ocean Heat Modifies Global Climate

The El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is a natural climatic phenomenon that occurs in the equatorial Pacific Ocean and affects the global climate. It is characterised by an abnormal warming of the surface waters of the central and eastern Pacific, which alters the usual patterns of atmospheric circulation. This phenomenon can cause significant changes in precipitation and temperatures in different regions of the world, leading to everything from prolonged droughts to heavy rainfall and flooding, depending on the affected area.

This phenomenon occurs in cycles of between 2 and 7 years, and usually lasts several months. Its intensity varies from one event to another, and it can have very significant impacts on sectors such as agriculture, water availability, ecosystems, and the economy. In addition, global warming may intensify the strength, frequency, and duration of its effects.

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