Tropical Highlights - January 2026

 

During January 2026, sea surface temperatures (SSTs) were below average across the east-central and eastern equatorial Pacific (Fig. T18, Table T2). The depth of the oceanic thermocline (measured by the depth of the 20C isotherm) was above-average across much of the equatorial Pacific (Figs. T15, T16). The corresponding sub-surface temperatures were 1-2C above-average in the east-central equatorial Pacific (Fig. T17).

 

Also during January, lower-level wind anomalies were westerly over the western equatorial Pacific, while upper-level wind anomalies were westerly across the east-central and eastern equatorial Pacific (Table T1, Figs. T20, T21). Tropical convection was suppressed near the Date Line (Fig. T25). The equatorial Southern Oscillation index was positive (Fig. T2). Collectively, these oceanic and atmospheric anomalies were consistent with La Nina 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