UN Forecasts Historic El Nino, Warns of Global Climate Impact

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has issued a stark warning about an intensifying El Nino phenomenon, predicting it could reach unprecedented levels and persist into early 2027. This natural climate pattern, which warms surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, is anticipated to cause severe weather disruptions worldwide, including increased droughts, floods, and extreme heat.

According to the WMO's recent announcement, there is an almost 100 percent certainty that El Nino will continue through February, marking the strongest confidence level reported in decades. WMO chief Celeste Saulo stated that if current trends hold, this El Nino could surpass all previous records monitored over the past 40 years, with significant climate repercussions expected.

Saulo emphasized that the 2023-24 El Nino is likely to contribute to 2024 becoming one of the warmest years on record, indicating that global temperatures will continue to rise as the effects of this phenomenon unfold. She highlighted the urgency for disaster management teams and sectors sensitive to climate changes, such as agriculture and healthcare, to prepare for the impending challenges.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed these sentiments, warning that the world is facing “uncharted waters” as sea surface temperatures rise. He stated that the current El Nino could deliver significant hardships to communities globally, stressing the need for immediate climate action to mitigate these escalating risks.

El Nino events typically occur every two to seven years, but this upcoming cycle, fueled by extraordinarily high ocean temperatures, is poised to become one of the strongest on record, reshaping weather patterns far beyond the Pacific region.

Source: www.aljazeera.com