Al Niño Raises Sea Levels; Concerns Resurface for 2026

Summary of reviewed data. A study published in the Journal of Geophysical Research provides a comparative analysis of sea level rise caused by the powerful El Niño events of 2014–16 and 2023–24. Although the El Niño of 2023–24 developed over a shorter period, it accelerated sea level rise and generated significant environmental pressure on coastal areas. Scientists predict that an even stronger El Niño could occur by 2026, potentially resulting in more severe global temperature increases and further impacts on sea levels. Kathmandu, 31st August.

El Niño and La Niña are important natural phenomena influencing global weather and climate. During El Niño, the equatorial Pacific Ocean experiences warmer than usual water temperatures, while La Niña sees cooler than average waters in the same region. These events affect not only ocean temperatures but also global temperature patterns, rainfall, and sea level rise. Recent research published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Oceans has conducted a comparative study of the two significant El Niño events of 2014–16 and 2023–24. Researchers found that both events contributed to an increase in the global average sea level, although the causes and regional contributions varied.

Sea levels rose rapidly during 2023–24. According to the study, the global average sea level increased by approximately 9.16 millimeters during the 2014–16 El Niño event, whereas it rose around 7.70 millimeters during the 2023–24 event. While the increase in 2014–16 appears larger at first glance, the 2023–24 El Niño developed comparatively faster, resulting in a more rapid rate of sea level rise. Scientists emphasize that such rapid increases can quickly exert pressure on coastal zones.