Strong El Niño May Intensify Global Extremes

The World Meteorological Organization and UN officials warn that a rapidly strengthening El Niño could intensify heat, drought, flooding and wildfire risks in coming months. Forecasts indicate major shifts in rainfall and above-normal temperatures across multiple regions, with the event potentially peaking late in 2026 and lasting into spring 2027. Officials are urging early-warning systems and protective measures, while stressing that human-driven warming can compound El Niño impacts.