El Niño is a climate phenomenon that occurs irregularly every two to seven years in the Pacific Ocean. It is characterized by the warming of the sea surface temperature in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, which can have significant impacts on weather patterns around the world.
El Niño is part of a larger climate pattern called the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which includes both El Niño and its opposite, La Niña. During a La Niña event, the sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific are colder than average, and the atmospheric circulation patterns are different than during El Niño. La Niña can also have significant impacts on weather patterns around the world.
On the other hand, during a La Niña event, Malaysia tends to experience wetter and cooler conditions, with above-average rainfall in many parts of the country. This can lead to flooding, landslides, and other weather-related hazards. La Niña can also affect fisheries and marine ecosystems, with changes in ocean currents and sea temperatures.
El Niño events have been known to have significant impacts on Malaysia's climate and weather patterns. Here are some statistics on the impact of El Niño on Malaysia:
- Dry spells: During the 2015-2016 El Niño event, Malaysia experienced its worst drought in almost two decades, with dry spells lasting up to six months in some parts of the country.
- Crop failures: The 2015-2016 El Niño event also caused significant crop failures in Malaysia, particularly in the rice and palm oil sectors. The Malaysian Palm Oil Board estimated that the El Niño reduced palm oil production by up to 10%.
- Wildfires: The 2015-2016 El Niño event also led to an increase in wildfires in Malaysia, particularly in the states of Selangor, Perak, and Johor. According to the Department of Environment, there were more than 5,000 forest fires in Malaysia in 2016, compared to just over 3,000 in 2015.
- Reduced hydropower output: During the 2015-2016 El Niño event, Malaysia's hydropower output dropped significantly due to reduced water levels in the country's dams. The state-run power company, Tenaga Nasional Berhad, reported a 30% drop in hydropower output during this period.
- Dengue fever outbreaks: El Niño events can also lead to an increase in mosquito populations, which can cause a rise in dengue fever cases. During the 2015-2016 El Niño event, Malaysia experienced a significant increase in dengue fever cases, with more than 120,000 cases and over 200 deaths reported.
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