El Nino Accelerates Rapidly, Could Become Strongest On Record, Experts Warn
Climate experts warn that the current El Nino cycle is intensifying rapidly and could become the strongest on record by late 2026. Data from global agencies indicates significant ocean warming in the Pacific, which may lead to extreme weather patterns.
Why it matters
The potential for a record-breaking El Nino poses significant risks to global food security, water resources, and infrastructure due to expected climate volatility.
A growing body of observational data and climate model projections point to a significant build-up of ocean heat across the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. Leading global climate agencies, including the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) are warning that the ongoing El Nino cycle is on track to enter the "strong" category, with its peak intensity expected towards the end of the year, particularly during November and December.Commenting on the trends and strength of El Nino, Anushman, Director, Water Resources, at TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute), highlighted the rarity of the developing system, saying the current forecasts point to an exceptionally strong El Nino in late 2026.He said NOAA's latest assessment puts the probability of a very strong El Nino during the Northern Hemisphere autumn and winter at over 90 per cent.
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