El Nino’s effects are expected to reduce fish catch in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, as per the latest bulletin from the Indian National Centre For Ocean Information Services (INCOIS). The bulletin, released by BJP Member of Parliament Konda Vishweshwar Reddy, warns of thermal stress in the northern Indian Ocean, potentially leading to coral bleaching and decreased fish catch.
The El Nino event is projected to peak between November 2026 and January 2027, resulting in above-normal sea surface temperatures in the Indian Ocean until April/May 2027. This could trigger coral reef bleaching, marine heat waves, and a decline in fish catch, particularly affecting sardine and mackerel species due to fish stock migration.
The bulletin also anticipates that fish sizes may be impacted by changing marine environmental conditions associated with the developing El Nino. It further notes rough sea conditions in the Bay of Bengal during the monsoon season, posing risks of coastal erosion and flooding in India’s east coast. Conversely, the Arabian Sea and west coast are expected to experience calmer sea conditions, potentially benefiting marine operations.
Maritime operators are advised by INCOIS to monitor alerts, warnings, and advisories closely. The next specialized bulletin is scheduled for release in the second week of July 2026.
