Scientists are using the European Space Agency's SMOS mission to monitor sea-surface temperature and salinity changes across the Pacific Ocean.
Tracking these shifts is critical because sea-surface salinity serves as a key indicator of El Niño. By identifying changes in freshwater and salt patterns, researchers may establish a potential new pathway for early detection [1].
As the Pacific Ocean moves into an El Niño phase this year, the SMOS mission is measuring how these patterns shift. These measurements provide a detailed look at the ocean's surface, allowing scientists to observe the precursors of the climate phenomenon as it develops [1].
"Measurements from satellites such as the European Space Agency's SMOS mission are revealing how freshwater and salt patterns shift across the Pacific," ESA said [1].
The process involves analyzing the concentration of salt in the upper layers of the ocean. When freshwater patterns change, it often signals a shift in atmospheric and oceanic circulation, a primary driver of the El Niño cycle [1].
This satellite-based approach complements existing monitoring systems. By integrating salinity data with temperature readings, the mission provides a more comprehensive view of the Pacific's health and behavior [1].
“Sea-surface salinity is a key indicator of El Niño.”
The ability to detect El Niño earlier through salinity tracking allows governments and agricultural sectors to better prepare for the extreme weather patterns, such as droughts and floods, that typically follow the phenomenon. Moving toward a multi-variable detection system reduces reliance on temperature alone, increasing the reliability of global climate forecasts.
