WASHINGTON, Oct. 5 (UPI) -- NASA satellite data indicates El Nino has returned to the tropical Pacific Ocean, although in a relatively weak condition that may not persist.
NASA scientists say oceanographic data suggest this year's El Nino is much less intense than the last major El Nino episode that occurred in 1997-1998.
During the past several weeks, NASA's Aqua and Jason satellites have observed a general warming of ocean temperatures and a rise in sea surface heights in the central and eastern Pacific along the equator -- both indicators of El Nino development.
"The present conditions indicate the intensity of this El Nino is too weak to have a major influence on current weather patterns," said Bill Patzert, NASA oceanographer and climatologist. "But, if the ocean waters continue to warm and spread eastward, this event would likely strengthen, perhaps bringing much-needed rainfall to the southwestern and southeastern United States this winter."
Still, scientists remain doubtful about whether the observed El Nino will persist. They say it is important to wait and see how ocean conditions evolve during the next couple of months.
