Tropical Highlights – February 2013

 

 

 During February 2013, the sea surface temperatures (SSTs) remained colder-than-average across the eastern and east-central equatorial Pacific (Fig. T18, Table T2). The latest monthly Niño indices were -0.4°C for both of the Niño 3.4 region and the Niño 1+2 region (Table T2, Fig. T5). Consistent with these conditions, the depth of the oceanic thermocline (measured by the depth of the 20°C isotherm) remained below average across the eastern and east-central equatorial Pacific (Figs. T15, T16), where corresponding sub-surface temperatures were 1-5°C below average (Fig. T17).

The Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) remained near average during February, with the latest monthly index value being -0.2 (Table T1). Meanwhile, the equatorial low-level easterly trade winds were above-average across the west-central equatorial Pacific (Table T1, Fig. T20). Enhanced convection was seen over the northern Indian Ocean and the western equatorial Pacific during the month (Figs. T25, E3). Collectively, these oceanic and atmospheric anomalies reflect ENSO-neutral conditions.

 

 

For the latest status of the ENSO cycle see the ENSO Diagnostic Discussion at: http://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/index.html