The World Meteorological Organisation has issued an El Niño warning as forecasters track warming in the tropical Pacific Ocean and rising risks of extreme weather in 2026.
The United Nations agency said the likelihood of El Niño has increased for the coming months. However, it said the exact timing and strength remain uncertain.
Several forecasts suggest the event could become strong later this year. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center said it remains unclear whether ocean and atmosphere conditions will support one of the strongest El Niño events.
El Niño forms when wind changes allow warmer water to spread across the tropical Pacific. As a result, the pattern can shift rainfall and temperature trends worldwide.
Read: Super El Niño Forecast Raises Global Weather Fears
UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that El Niño could add to the stress on a planet already affected by human-driven climate change.
Strong El Niño events can raise drought and wildfire risks in parts of Australia, Southeast Asia and South America.
Meanwhile, they can increase flood risks in parts of the southern United States and other regions.
Scientists also warned that global temperatures often rise during El Niño years. Therefore, climate researchers are watching whether 2027 could set another global heat record.
