With reference to Ocean Mean Temperature (OMT), which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. OMT is measured up to a depth of 26ºC isotherm which is 129 meters in the south-western Indian Ocean during January-March.

2. OMT collected during January-March can be used in assessing whether the amount of rainfall in monsoon will be less or more than a certain long-term mean.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

The correct option is 2 only.

Let us analyze both statements step-by-step to understand why only the second statement is correct.

Analysis of Statement 1:
Ocean Mean Temperature (OMT) is indeed measured up to the depth of the 26 °C isotherm. However, during the period of January to March in the south-western Indian Ocean, this 26 °C isotherm depth typically varies between 50 meters and 100 meters, not 129 meters. More specifically, the mean depth of the 26 °C isotherm in the south-western Indian Ocean during these months is about 59 meters. Since the depth mentioned in the statement (129 meters) is incorrect, Statement 1 is incorrect.

Analysis of Statement 2:
OMT provides a more realistic and stable measure of the ocean's thermal energy content compared to Sea Surface Temperature (SST), which is highly susceptible to short-term atmospheric fluctuations like strong winds or evaporation. The OMT data collected in the south-western Indian Ocean during January to March can be successfully utilized to evaluate and predict whether the summer monsoon rainfall over India will be above or below the long-term mean. Hence, Statement 2 is correct.

Therefore, since Statement 1 is incorrect and Statement 2 is correct, the correct answer is 2 only.