Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)
The IOD is an ocean-atmosphere interaction in the Indian Ocean, measured as the difference in sea surface temperatures (SST) between the western and eastern Indian Ocean. A positive IOD (warmer western, cooler eastern Indian Ocean) enhances moisture availability over India and can partially counteract El Niño's suppressive effect on the monsoon.
- Positive IOD: boosts Indian monsoon rainfall by 10–20% in good years
- Negative IOD: diverts moisture toward Indonesia, weakening Indian rainfall
- IOD and ENSO can interact — positive IOD sometimes acts as a buffer during El Niño years
- Monitored via the Dipole Mode Index (DMI)
● Tracked since February 19, 2026 · last seen July 03, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
03 Jul '26
Indian Ocean Dipole: What is it, and can it rescue India’s faltering 2026 monsoon
Geography
03 Jul '26
The 'little boy' in the Pacific, India's monsoon and the big test ahead
Environment & Ecology
11 Jun '26
El Nino has set in, Positive IOD likely by July, says Japanese weather body
Environment & Ecology
05 May '26
61% chance of El Nino emerging before July, says US’ Climate Prediction Center
Environment & Ecology
22 Apr '26
2026 could see a super El Nino and record-breaking global temperatures
Environment & Ecology
14 Apr '26
El Nino threat looms large as data shows strong link to weak monsoons
Environment & Ecology
See it in today’s brief.
Daily current affairs with every static concept explained in place.
Read the daily brief