BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The impacts of the current El Niño event are expected to be felt differently across Solomon Islands, depending on rainfall levels and local water availability.
Director of Meteorological Services, Alick Haruhiru, said that lower-than-normal rainfall is a slow-onset problem that gradually affects communities over time.
Speaking at a press conference earlier last week, Mr Haruhiru said that as dry conditions continue, some areas may begin to experience water shortages which might also lead to wider impacts on health, education, and other essential services.
“If a community has a large population and rainfall remains below normal for two to three months, water tanks, wells, and dams can begin to run dry,” he explained.
Haruhiru, however, said that other climate systems can still bring periods of rain even when El Niño conditions are present.
“One example is the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO), a moving band of clouds that travels around the tropics. When it passes over Solomon Islands, it can bring rain, although its effects usually last for only a short period.
“In terms of temperature, El Niño in Solomon Islands does not produce the extreme heat experienced in larger countries. However, during prolonged dry periods, temperatures can rise to between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius.
“Generally, temperatures across the country remain relatively stable, ranging from 29 to 33 degrees Celsius,” Director Haruhiru said.
He further said that El Niño has historically been associated with an increased risk of tropical cyclones in Solomon Islands.
He said that tropical cyclones are fueled by warm sea surface temperatures.
“During El Niño, warmer ocean temperatures can provide the energy needed for cyclone development, increasing the likelihood of cyclone activity in the region,” Haruhiru said.
He said that authorities will continue to monitor weather conditions and urge communities to prepare for possible water shortages and other impacts associated with the El Niño period.
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
