(REUTERS)
The United Nations weather agency warned on Friday that a strong El Nino is expected to intensify starting in August, warning that the phenomenon is likely to increase above-normal temperatures globally and significantly shift rainfall patterns.
El Nino, a period of warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, will continue to steadily intensify into a strong event during August-October 2026.
In addition to a strengthening El Nino, a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is forecast. An IOD is a climate pattern in the western Indian Ocean that becomes warmer on average, while the eastern Indian Ocean becomes cooler than average.
Together, these phenomena can amplify regional climate impacts, including drought, floods, and wildfire risk, particularly around the Indian Ocean basin.
The agency, the World Meteorological Organisation, said it is intensifying its mobilisation of information and support services to help countries anticipate and minimise the impacts of El Nino.
"El Nino is strengthening - adding fuel to a planet already on fire with scorching heat domes, apocalyptic wildfires, and record hot seas. Fossil fuels are fanning the flames of this crisis," said UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres.