Extreme Climate Events Impacting Southwest Coast, Says Study

A study by researchers from Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat), EUMETSAT, and the UK Met Office found that extreme rainfall events on India’s southwest coast have been steadily increasing.

The rate of increase is 0.23 mm per season.
The research analyzed monsoon rainfall data from 1990 to 2023 on India’s west coast.
It examined observational records, reanalysis data, and sea surface temperature (SST) trends.
The study focused on how moisture flux (movement of moisture in the atmosphere) affects rainfall patterns.

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Key findings of the study

Cause of Extreme Rainfall:
- This trend is linked to rising sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the southeast Arabian Sea, which enhance moisture transport to the region.
  - Since 2014, SSTs in this region have remained above 28°C, leading to more moisture in the air and heavier rainfall.
  - The southwest coast (especially Kerala) is highly vulnerable to these changes.
- Northwest Coast Difference: The northwest coast has not seen similar extreme rainfall spikes but reports increased average monsoon rainfall due to stronger wind-driven moisture flow.
Arabian Sea Warming Faster than Bay of Bengal
- The study found that the Arabian Sea is warming faster than the Bay of Bengal.
  - Since 2006, there has been a strong connection between SST and moisture transport.
- Before 2006, the correlation between SST and moisture flux was negative, but it strengthened to 0.71 between 2007 and 2023.

What is sea surface temperatures (SST)?

SST refers to the temperature of the ocean’s surface layer (measured in oceans, seas, and large lakes).
It is a key factor in studying weather, climate change, and marine life.
Significance of SSTs
- Impact on Weather and Climate
  - Storms and Cyclones: Warmer SSTs provide energy for stronger storms, hurricanes, and monsoons.
  - Monsoon Patterns: SSTs influence rainfall distribution, especially in regions like India.
- Climate Change Indicator
  - - Rising SSTs signal global warming, as oceans absorb most of the Earth’s excess heat.
- Marine Ecosystems
  - Coral Bleaching: High SSTs stress coral reefs, leading to bleaching.
  - Fish Behavior: Changes in SST affect fish migration, breeding, and survival.
How is SST measured?
- Satellite Technology: Primary Method: Satellites provide global, real-time data on ocean temperatures.
- Direct Tools
  - Buoys and Ships: Collect localized, precise measurements.
  - Drones and Sensors: Modern tools enhance data accuracy.
How Is SST Data Used?
- Weather Forecasting
  - Predicts storms, cyclones, and rainfall patterns.
  - Helps issue early warnings for extreme weather events.
- Climate Research
  - Tracks long-term warming trends and ocean health.
  - Studies links between SST rise and climate change impacts.
- Fishing and Marine Industries
  - Guides fishermen to fish-rich zones based on temperature changes.
  - Helps aquaculture industries manage fish farming.

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The southwest coast of India

It is called the “Malabar Coast”.
It generally refers to the western coastline stretching from the Konkan region to Kanyakumari, encompassing parts of the states of Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
Key points about the Malabar Coast:
- Geographical location: This coastal area is situated on the Arabian Sea.
- Wettest region: Considered one of the wettest regions in the Indian subcontinent.

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