Rainfall distribution patterns in South Sulawesi during the El Niño and La Niña periods 1995-2020

Abstract

South Sulawesi, with its diverse geography and climate, experiences fluctuations in rainfall that can have a significant impact on the agricultural sector and people's lives.  The main factor affecting rainfall patterns in this region is the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) climate phenomenon, namely La Niña and El Niño.  This study aims to analyze the distribution pattern of rainfall in South Sulawesi during the period 1995-2020 with a focus on the occurrence of El Niño and La Niña phenomena. The determination of distribution patterns and rainfall anomalies was analyzed descriptively. Based on the results of the analysis shows a striking variation between the western, central and eastern regions. In December-February, rainfall in the western region is high, while the eastern and central regions are low. Peak rainfall occurs in January. In March-May, the eastern region has increased rainfall while the western and central regions have decreased. In June-August there is a decrease in rainfall in all regions, indicating a dry season. In October-November rainfall begins to increase. The influence of La Niña is seen in September, with varying impacts. During weak La Niña, the western region partly experiences increased rainfall, while the western region is stable and the eastern and central regions are stable. During moderate La Niña, the western, central and eastern regions are stable. When La Niña is strong, it has a significant effect on the entire South Sulawesi region. In July, the effect of weak El Niño on rainfall is strong in all regions, while during moderate and strong El Niño, there is no significant impact.