---
title: "El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO): Explained"
description: "The El Niño Southern Oscillation is a climate pattern affecting global weather, crucial for understanding monsoon variations in regions like India."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/el-nino-southern-oscillation"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The El Niño Southern Oscillation is a recurring climate pattern in the tropical Pacific involving coupled changes in ocean temperature and atmospheric pressure that alter global weather.
- How does El Niño differ from La Niña?
- Why does ENSO matter for the Indian monsoon?
- How is an El Niño officially declared?
- Is ENSO the same as climate change?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In 2023 the World Meteorological Organization in Geneva declared the onset of El Niño conditions, warning member states of likely temperature records and disrupted rainfall, prompting India's monsoon planners in New Delhi to brace for deficient rains.

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