News Desk
WASHINGTON
The US weather agency has confirmed the arrival of El Niño, warning that the climate pattern could intensify into one of the strongest events on record, bringing widespread global weather disruptions. El Niño, a natural warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, is known to alter global wind and rainfall patterns, often triggering droughts, floods and extreme heat.
Meteorologists at the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said there is a 63 percent chance of a very strong El Niño between November and January, potentially ranking among the most powerful events since records began in 1950.
Experts say the phenomenon typically occurs every two to seven years and lasts around nine to 12 months, often peaking late in the year before influencing global temperatures into the following year.
Scientists have warned that the current climate conditions could worsen its impact, as the planet continues to warm due to fossil fuel emissions.
They say major El Niño events are often linked to drought in parts of South America, Indonesia and Australia, disrupted monsoon patterns in South Asia, and shifting rainfall across tropical regions. Climate analysts also warn that millions of people could face severe consequences, particularly in already vulnerable regions.
Marc Alessi of the Union of Concerned Scientists said the combination of climate change and a potential strong El Niño could push global temperatures to record levels. Mohamed Adow of Power Shift Africa said the phenomenon would not just be a weather event but a serious threat to food security, warning of failed rains, crop losses and rising food prices.
In Central America’s “Dry Corridor”, governments have raised alerts over possible drought conditions, with Guatemala preparing emergency food rations for over a million people. In East Africa, experts warn that communities already affected by repeated droughts and floods could face further shocks. The United Nations has also urged urgent climate action, warning that El Niño conditions could intensify the effects of global warming unless emissions are reduced and adaptation measures strengthened.
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