El Niño and Doldrums Threaten Great Barrier Reef

New research published in Weather and Climate Dynamics identifies a dangerous weather pattern threatening Australia's Great Barrier Reef. During El Niño, sustained periods of "doldrums"—characterized by weak winds and reduced cloud cover—suppress the ocean's natural cooling process. This leads to rapid sea-surface temperature spikes that can trigger mass coral bleaching.

While doldrums are not caused by the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, their occurrence during an active El Niño significantly elevates marine heat wave risks. Scientists from Monash University and the University of Melbourne successfully mapped how interactions between tropical and mid-latitude weather systems create these prolonged heating phases, providing a clearer understanding of the conditions fatal to coral.

Editor's note: The brief provides a clear, accurate summary of the research findings and the link between weather systems and coral bleaching.