The La Niña weather phenomenon, known for its global impact, has officially returned, according to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Characterized by cooler-than-average waters in the central Pacific Ocean, La Niña can alter weather patterns across the globe, affecting rainfall, temperatures, and storm activity.

Global impacts expected

La Niña typically brings increased rainfall to regions such as Indonesia, the Philippines, parts of Australia, Central America, northern South America, and southeastern Africa, while potentially causing drought in areas including the Middle East, eastern Argentina, eastern China, Korea, and southern Japan.

In the United States, the phenomenon usually results in wetter conditions and potential snowstorms in northern states, and drier winters in the south. Historically, La Niña can also influence the Atlantic hurricane season, often increasing both the frequency and intensity of storms.

Experts predict a mild event

Experts caution that this year’s La Niña is expected to be weak and short-lived, unlikely to cause major disruptions. Michelle L’Er, NOAA’s lead scientist on El Niño and La Niña studies, noted that forecasts indicate the phenomenon may fade in the coming months, based on models from both NOAA and Columbia University.

Hurricane specialists, including Brian Tang (University at Albany) and Phil Klotzbach (University of Colorado), emphasize that although theoretical conditions could support stronger storm activity, current models suggest limited impact for the upcoming weeks.

Economic considerations

La Niña events have historically caused significant economic losses. A 1999 study estimated that La Niña-induced droughts cost U.S. agriculture between $2.2 and $6.5 billion, surpassing the estimated $1.5 billion cost of an El Niño event. Azhar Ehsan, head of Columbia University’s El Niño/La Niña forecasting team, notes that while a “cold” La Niña is not always the most costly, it often results in substantial financial impacts.

While this year’s La Niña may be mild, meteorologists recommend monitoring its progression due to its potential to alter weather patterns globally, affecting agriculture, water resources, and energy consumption in affected regions.