LONDON: Scientists are warning that a potentially powerful “Super El Niño” developing in the Pacific Ocean could trigger extreme weather worldwide, raising fears of deadly heatwaves, floods, droughts, crop losses and surging food prices over the coming months, reports CNN. New forecasts by the US Climate Prediction Center show an 82pc chance of El Niño developing by July and a growing likelihood that it could intensify into a rare “Super El Niño” later this year.
Climate experts say the phenomenon could worsen already rising global temperatures and disrupt weather systems across Asia, Africa, the Americas and Europe. Strong El Niño events are typically linked to extreme rainfall in some regions and severe droughts and wildfires in others.
Researchers warned that vulnerable populations could face growing risks from water shortages, food insecurity and climate-related disasters. Historical comparisons with the devastating 1997-98 El Niño and the catastrophic 1877-78 event have intensified concerns over the humanitarian and economic impact of a stronger event in 2026. Forecast models suggest parts of South Asia could experience harsher heatwaves and disruptions to monsoon patterns, while drought and wildfire threats may increase in some regions. Other areas could face heavier rainfall and flooding.
Scientists cautioned that spring forecasts still carry uncertainty, but said ocean temperatures in the tropical Pacific were warming rapidly and conditions increasingly pointed towards a major El Niño event.
