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Understanding the Weather
What is the Nino3.4 Index?
The Nino3.4 Index, similar to the Southern Oscillation Index, is closely tied in with the El Nino phenomenon. Nino3.4 is the average sea surface temperature anomaly in the area bounded by 5N to 5S and 170W to 120W. Changes in sea-surface temperatures in this region are important in shifting rainfall areas across the far western Pacific Ocean. An El Nino event is indicated if the 5-month running average of the Nino3.4 index exceeds 0.4C for at least six consecutive months. A La Nina event is indicated if this average is below -0.4C for at least six consecutive months.
A graph of the Nino3.4 index is updated weekly on Weatherzone, making it easier to track changes in the Pacific Ocean sea-surface temperatures.
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The Australian fire danger ratings system explained
17:05 AEDT With summer almost upon us, it's worth a quick reminder about the new national fire danger ratings system which came into effect on September 1, 2022.
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