dipole
/ˈdaɪ.poʊl/
Definition
A recurring climate phenomenon characterized by a difference in sea surface temperatures between the western and eastern parts of an ocean, which alters atmospheric circulation.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Greek 'di-' meaning 'two' and 'polos' meaning 'axis' or 'pivot.' It was originally coined in physics to describe a pair of equal and opposite charges, and later adopted in meteorology to describe this two-sided ocean temperature pattern.
In the news
In this article, the Indian Ocean Dipole refers to the shifting temperature patterns across the tropical Indian Ocean that influence weather thousands of miles away, specifically causing dry spells in the Eastern Mediterranean.
As "Super El Niño" draws global attention, new study shows the Indian Ocean may hold the key to Mediterranean climate extremes
Read the full article ↗EurekAlert!