Phases of Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO)

Cool (Negative) Phase


                Below-average sea surface temperatures along the west coast of North America
                Above-average sea surface temperatures in the central/western North Pacific

     

          Associated with:

                      Dryer weather in the southwestern United States
                      Colder winters in the western part of North America
                      Increased effects resembling La Niña

               

                    Warm(Positive) Phase