The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has warned that El Niño is strengthening rapidly and could become one of the most powerful events recorded since 1950, raising concerns about global temperatures and extreme weather.
According to the WMO’s latest update, the climate phenomenon is expected to reach its peak in December 2026. There is also a nearly 100% chance that it will continue through February 2027. Sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific are forecast to reach exceptionally high levels in the coming months. .
El Niño occurs when temperatures in parts of the Pacific Ocean become warmer than normal, influencing weather patterns across different regions. The phenomenon can increase the likelihood of above-average temperatures while shifting rainfall patterns, raising the risk of droughts in some areas and flooding in others.
The effects could have significant consequences for agriculture, water supplies, food production and local economies. Farmers may face changing growing conditions, while communities exposed to extreme heat, heavy rainfall or prolonged dry spells could experience additional pressure.
The WMO has also highlighted the role of ongoing climate change, which is contributing to already elevated global temperatures. The combination of a strong El Niño and long-term warming could increase the risk of heat-related impacts in the coming months.
However, the effects will vary by region and season, and the strength of El Niño alone does not determine how severe conditions will become in any particular country.
The WMO is working with national meteorological agencies and other organisations to improve forecasts and support preparedness measures as the event develops.
