After a hot and dry El Nino, global weather conditions are expected to show right into a La Nina within the second half of 2024. This could bring much-needed rains to Australia, Southeast Asia and India, while affecting grain and oilseed production within the Americas.
While the intensity and specific impacts remain uncertain, meteorologists are predicting a weak to moderate La Nina, characterised by cooler surface waters off the west coast of South America.
This change could reverse the results of the 2023 El Nino, which caused drought in Asia and boosted harvests in parts of the Americas. Palm oil and rice farms in India, Australia and Southeast Asia could see significant changes depending on rainfall patterns.
For Australia, La Nina will be helpful if rain falls during key periods of the growing season. Rice and palm oil production in Southeast Asia could also increase, while a standard monsoon in India could be a boon for farmers.
In the US, timing La Nina is crucial. A late-season arrival may gain advantage the Corn Belt by speeding harvest, while an earlier arrival could lead on to drought and impact river transport and pastures.
Stay tuned for updates as meteorologists refine their predictions and assess La Nina’s potential impact on global agriculture and weather patterns.
Source: Japan today
