El Nino Wavers

Sea-level height data from satellite observations through Nov. 15 show that the central equatorial Pacific continues to exhibit an area of higher-than-normal sea surface heights, which correspond to warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures.

Should the warm water continue and spread eastward through December, it could elevate the present weak El Nino episode to a moderate or stronger event. But similar warmings over the past several months have dissipated.

The image shows a red area in the central equatorial Pacific that is about 4 inches (10 centimeters) above normal. These regions contrast with the Gulf of Alaska, where lower-than-normal sea levels (blue areas) continue. There, the sea is between 2 and 5 inches (5 and 13 centimeters) below normal.

Along the equator, the red sea surface heights equate to sea surface temperature departures greater than two degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius).

El Nino is known to alter climate patterns around the world.

• El Nino Now Blamed for Practically Everything

-- LiveScience Staff

Credit: NASA/JPL Ocean Surface Topography Team