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Publication Date
18 February 2023

Global Warming is Linked to Monsoon Precipitation Extremes

Subtitle
New study links global warming to monsoon precipitation extremes, but progress on predictability may be in sight.
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Science

A new study has found that global warming is impacting the relationship between El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and monsoon precipitation in Asia and Australia. Aided by tree-ring climate data, this study showed that the relationship between ENSO and monsoon precipitation has been enhanced since the late 20th century, with the influence of anthropogenic climate warming being a significant factor. This effect could lead to more frequent and severe monsoon extremes, resulting in devastating floods and droughts in the monsoonal regions.

However, progress in predicting monsoon precipitation may be in sight. The HyperFACETS project, which aims to improve ocean-atmospheric simulations, could help to make monsoons more predictable in a warmer world. By providing more accurate and timely information on monsoon patterns, policymakers, and communities can better prepare for extreme weather events and take steps to mitigate their impacts.

Overall, this research provides further evidence of the urgent need for action on climate change and highlights the importance of continued monitoring and research into the complex relationship between ENSO and monsoon precipitation. While there is still much work to be done, the potential for improved predictability through projects like HyperFACETS offers hope for a more resilient and sustainable future.

Impact

The findings of this study have significant implications for the public and policymakers alike. The potential for more frequent and severe monsoon extremes underscores the urgent need for action on climate change to prevent the worst effects of global warming on our planet and our communities. As extreme weather events caused by changes in monsoon patterns can have serious consequences for communities and economies, policymakers must take steps to mitigate their impacts and promote sustainable practices. Additionally, the potential for improved predictability through projects like HyperFACETS offers hope for more effective preparedness and response to extreme weather events. Ultimately, this study highlights the importance of continued investment in research and development to better understand the complex relationship between ENSO and monsoon precipitation and to develop solutions that can help build a more resilient and sustainable future.

Summary

This study looks at how global warming is affecting the relationship between El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and monsoon precipitation in Asia and Australia. The researchers found that the relationship between ENSO and monsoon precipitation has become stronger since 1850, mainly due to human-caused climate change. This means that we could experience more frequent and severe monsoon extremes, leading to damaging floods and droughts in these regions. However, there is some hope for the future - a project called HyperFACETS aims to improve ENSO simulation, which could help us predict monsoon patterns more accurately and be better prepared for extreme weather events. Overall, this study highlights the urgent need for action on climate change and continued research to better understand the complex relationship between ENSO and monsoon precipitation.

Point of Contact
Simon Wang
Institution(s)
Utah State University
Funding Program Area(s)
Publication
Asian-Australian summer monsoons linkage to ENSO strengthened by global warming
Xu, Chenxi, S.-Y. Simon Wang, Krishna Borhara, Brendan M Buckley, Ning Tan, Yaru Zhao, Wenling An, Masaki Sano, Takeshi Nakatsuka, and Zhengtang Guo. 2023. “Asian-Australian Summer Monsoons Linkage To Enso Strengthened By Global Warming”. Npj Climate And Atmospheric Science 6 (1). Springer Science and Business Media LLC. doi:10.1038/s41612-023-00341-2.