NWS WARNS OF POTENTIAL EL NINO
BY RICKY ISRAEL
The National Weather Service says the country is entering a period of close climate monitoring as signs point to a possible El Niño developing later this year.
National Weather Service’s Assistant Director for Climate Research and Support Services, Kasis Inape, says La Niña conditions (or wet season) have weakened and climate models are now showing a possible shift to El Niño from mid-year onwards.
Mr Inape says if El Niño develops, there is a chance it could become a moderate to strong event, but there is still uncertainty about its strength, timing, and impacts on PNG.
He says people should not panic or rely on false information shared online, as weather experts are still closely monitoring the situation.
El Niño is a natural climate pattern linked to warmer ocean temperatures in the Pacific and is often associated with below-normal rainfall, drought, frost, water shortages, bushfires, and pressure on food production in Papua New Guinea.
The Weather Service warns that reduced rainfall could affect subsistence farming, water supply, hydropower generation, and community health, especially in drought-prone areas.
Government agencies, development partners, and communities are now being encouraged to prepare early by reviewing drought plans, improving water management, promoting drought-resistant farming, and strengthening food storage and emergency planning.
Mr Inape says the National Weather Service will continue providing regular climate updates and advisories through official channels as monitoring continues.
