The El Nino weather pattern is intensifying in the Pacific Ocean and is expected to bring above-normal temperatures to the Maldives over the next three months, the Maldives Meteorological Service (MET) said yesterday.

According to MET’s forecast for September to November, the central region, from Male' Atoll to Thaa Atoll, is expected to receive more rainfall than usual during the period, while the southern atolls are likely to receive less rainfall than normal.

“Temperatures across the country are expected to be above normal,” MET said in a post.

The agency said one of the main effects of El Niño is unusually warm sea surface temperatures, which could threaten the health of coral reefs and create challenges for the fishing industry through changes in sea currents and other weather conditions.

Reduced rainfall in some areas is another potential effect, which could adversely affect agriculture, MET said.

“These developments highlight the vulnerability of Maldives to climate change and the importance of early preparedness in key sectors such as tourism, fisheries and agriculture,” the agency said.

Sea surface temperatures in the Pacific have risen to 2C above normal during the current El Nino event, according to MET. The Nino 3.4 index showed sea surface temperatures rising by 1.8C this month alone.

Although El Niño originates in the Pacific Ocean, MET said its effects are being felt in other regions, with changes now evident in both oceanic and atmospheric conditions.