The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has said that the prevailing El Nino conditions will continue to intensify ahead of its forecast peak in December this year.
According to WMO’s latest monthly Global Seasonal Climate Update, the phenomenon is likely to bring above-average temperatures to much of the world and shift rainfall patterns, increasing the risk of droughts and floods in different regions.
The update forecasts that the sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific will reach record levels during October to December period of 2026, reflecting the strengthening of the El Niño event, which will drive weather patterns and impact economies, ecosystems and communities across the globe.
In a statement, WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said that El Nino was firmly established and strengthening rapidly.
WMO forecasts indicate a near-100 per cent likelihood that it will persist through February 2027, potentially making it one of the strongest El Niño events since at least 1950.