The world is bracing for a ‘Godzilla’ El Niño this year. El Niño occurs when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific become unusually warm, disrupting atmospheric circulation and altering rainfall patterns across the globe. The phenomenon can influence everything from droughts to wildfires and floods in different parts of the world. Although El Niño develops far from India's shores, its effects are often felt across the subcontinent, making it a major concern for meteorologists, farmers and policymakers.<h2>What is ‘Godzilla’ El Niño?</h2>Despite the popularity of the term, ‘Godzilla El Niño’ is not an official scientific classification. The term was first widely used to describe the extraordinarily powerful 1997-98 El Niño event, which caused widespread droughts, floods, crop losses and economic damage across multiple continents. The weather pattern resurfaced during the 2015-16 El Niño, another exceptionally strong episode that contributed to record global temperatures and severe weather disruptions.El Niño occurs when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean become significantly warmer than normal, weakening trade winds and altering global atmospheric circulation. This changes rainfall and temperature patterns thousands of kilometres away. When the warming becomes particularly intense, the event is often informally labelled a “Super El Niño” or “Godzilla El Niño”.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greenwashing-are-we-being-fooled-into-buying-eco-friendly-products-that-aren-t-wion-decodes-1780663414074">Greenwashing: Are we being fooled into buying eco-friendly products that aren’t? WION Decodes</a><h2>How does El Niño impact India?</h2>An intense El Niño may weaken monsoons in India. The southwest monsoon accounts for nearly 70 per cent of India’s annual rainfall and is significant for the country’s agricultural sector. A weaker monsoon can affect crop production, and in turn, food prices. It can also impact the availability of water and the economic growth of the country. In the past, El Niño conditions have resulted in major droughts in India, including in 1982, 1987, 2002, 2009 and 2015.According to meteorologists, El Niño weakens the large-scale atmospheric circulation that helps pull moisture-laden winds towards the Indian subcontinent. This results in below-normal rainfall across large parts of the country.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wion-decodes-iss-has-been-leaking-for-nearly-7-years-why-haven-t-we-fixed-it-1780836821307">WION Decodes | ISS has been leaking for nearly 7 years – Why haven’t we fixed it?</a><h2>How an intense El Niño result in a chain of reactions</h2>Although El Niño significantly impact the rain, it is not the only thing it can drive. The phenomenon can also make the weather more unpredictable. While seasonal rainfall may decline overall, some regions can still witness intense downpours, flash floods and extreme weather events. El Niño may increase the frequency of short-duration heavy rainfall events in some parts of the country, despite resulting in below-average rainfall. This means that India may face drought in some regions and flooding in others.Reduced rainfall can adversely affect key kharif crops such as rice, pulses and sugarcane, potentially driving up food prices and inflation. Moreover, lower reservoir levels due to less rainfall may increase water stress in drought-prone regions, while hydropower generation could decline even as electricity demand rises during heatwaves.&nbsp;WATCH | G7 Summit 2026: World Leaders Gather For The High Stakes Summit In Evian-Les-Bains <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/g7-summit-2026-world-leaders-gather-for-the-high-stakes-summit-in-evian-les-bains-1781592997144/embed/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/g7-summit-2026-world-leaders-gather-for-the-high-stakes-summit-in-evian-les-bains-1781592997144/embed/embed</a>

A potential “Godzilla” El Niño could disrupt weather patterns worldwide and impact India’s monsoon. Here’s everything you need to know about the intense climate pattern.

The world is bracing for a ‘Godzilla’ El Niño this year. El Niño occurs when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific become unusually warm, disrupting atmospheric circulation and altering rainfall patterns across the globe. The phenomenon can influence everything from droughts to wildfires and floods in different parts of the world. Although El Niño develops far from India's shores, its effects are often felt across the subcontinent, making it a major concern for meteorologists, farmers and policymakers. What is ‘Godzilla’ El Niño? Despite the popularity of the term, ‘Godzilla El Niño’ is not an official scientific classification. The term was first widely used to describe the extraordinarily powerful 1997-98 El Niño event, which caused widespread droughts, floods, crop losses and economic damage across multiple continents. The weather pattern resurfaced during the 2015-16 El Niño, another exceptionally strong episode that contributed to record global temperatures and severe weather disruptions. El Niño occurs when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean become significantly warmer than normal, weakening trade winds and altering global atmospheric circulation. This changes rainfall and temperature patterns thousands of kilometres away. When the warming becomes particularly intense, the event is often informally labelled a “Super El Niño” or “Godzilla El Niño”. Also read | Greenwashing: Are we being fooled into buying eco-friendly products that aren’t? WION Decodes How does El Niño impact India? An intense El Niño may weaken monsoons in India. The southwest monsoon accounts for nearly 70 per cent of India’s annual rainfall and is significant for the country’s agricultural sector. A weaker monsoon can affect crop production, and in turn, food prices. It can also impact the availability of water and the economic growth of the country. In the past, El Niño conditions have resulted in major droughts in India, including in 1982, 1987, 2002, 2009 and 2015. According to meteorologists, El Niño weakens the large-scale atmospheric circulation that helps pull moisture-laden winds towards the Indian subcontinent. This results in below-normal rainfall across large parts of the country. Also read | WION Decodes | ISS has been leaking for nearly 7 years – Why haven’t we fixed it? How an intense El Niño result in a chain of reactions Although El Niño significantly impact the rain, it is not the only thing it can drive. The phenomenon can also make the weather more unpredictable. While seasonal rainfall may decline overall, some regions can still witness intense downpours, flash floods and extreme weather events. El Niño may increase the frequency of short-duration heavy rainfall events in some parts of the country, despite resulting in below-average rainfall. This means that India may face drought in some regions and flooding in others. Reduced rainfall can adversely affect key kharif crops such as rice, pulses and sugarcane, potentially driving up food prices and inflation. Moreover, lower reservoir levels due to less rainfall may increase water stress in drought-prone regions, while hydropower generation could decline even as electricity demand rises during heatwaves. WATCH | G7 Summit 2026: World Leaders Gather For The High Stakes Summit In Evian-Les-Bains https://www.wionews.com/videos/g7-summit-2026-world-leaders-gather-for-the-high-stakes-summit-in-evian-les-bains-1781592997144/embed/embed

A potential “Godzilla” El Niño could disrupt weather patterns worldwide and impact India’s monsoon. Here’s everything you need to know about the intense climate pattern.

WION Decodes | What is 'Godzilla' El Niño and how can it impact the Indian monsoon?

The coming months could bring South Asia and the wider Indian Ocean region a dangerous mix of climate shocks, economic strain, and geopolitical instability. At the centre of this looming challenge is the anticipated El Niño event, which is likely to disrupt monsoon patterns, intensify weather extremes, and place additional pressure on already fragile food, water, and energy systems.But El Niño will not arrive in isolation. It will intersect with continuing global disruptions—from the war in Ukraine to instability in the Middle East—each of which continues to reverberate through energy markets, food supply chains, and shipping routes. The combined effect is likely to be cumulative, not linear.This is, therefore, a moment that calls for anticipatory regional coordination rather than fragmented national responses.<h2>A record of regional first response</h2>There is already a clear precedent for such coordination in the region.During the COVID-19 pandemic, India emerged as a key first responder, supplying vaccines, medicines, and logistical support across the neighbourhood under its “Neighbourhood First” policy. This helped establish a practical framework for regional cooperation in times of systemic stress.More recently, India played a similar role during the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, providing critical financial assistance, fuel, and essential supplies at a moment of acute vulnerability. India has also been among the first responders during major climate-related disasters, including cyclone events such as Cyclone Ditwa, delivering rapid humanitarian assistance.These are not isolated gestures. They reflect an emerging pattern in which India increasingly functions as a stabilising force in the wider region.This trajectory is reflected in India’s evolving regional frameworks—from Neighbourhood First, to SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), and now the broader MAHASAGAR vision, which signals an expanded maritime and regional engagement architecture.<h2>Why El Niño is different this time</h2>El Niño events have historically been associated with weaker monsoons in South Asia, erratic rainfall patterns, and increased risks of droughts and floods. In a region where agriculture remains highly climate-sensitive, even modest deviations can translate into inflation, rural distress, and fiscal pressure.This year, however, the risks are compounded by global fragilities:* Persistent food and fertilizer price volatility* Elevated energy costs linked to geopolitical tensions* Supply chain disruptions in key commodities* High debt burdens in several neighbouring economiesTogether, these factors reduce the resilience of national systems and increase the risk of cascading shocks across borders.It is also important to recognise that social instability in some fragile countries in the region should be kept in mind, as climate shocks and economic pressures can quickly reinforce each other and create wider humanitarian and political consequences.<h2>The case for a Delhi-based regional initiative</h2>Against this backdrop, there is a strong case for India to convene a regional El Niño preparedness dialogue in Delhi, bringing together neighbouring countries, key development partners, and multilateral institutions.This should not be limited to South Asia alone. The impacts of El Niño extend across the wider Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean region. Participation could include:* Neighbouring states in South and Southeast Asia* The United Nations system* The World Bank and Asian Development Bank* Key bilateral partners such as Japan and others active in regional resilienceGiven its geographic position, institutional capacity, and experience as a first responder, it is both natural and appropriate for India to chair such an initiative.<h2>What the initiative should focus on</h2>The objective should be practical coordination rather than declaratory statements. Three areas stand out:1. Shared forecasting and early warning systemsStrengthening real-time exchange of climate data, monsoon projections, and sectoral risk mapping, particularly for agriculture, water, and fisheries.2. Contingency planning for essential suppliesCoordinating regional approaches to food reserves, fertilizer availability, and energy supply buffers during climatic disruptions.3. Disaster response and financing coordinationImproving interoperability among disaster management systems, and exploring rapid-response financing through multilateral development banks for climate-related shocks.<h2>From Neighbourhood First to MAHASAGAR</h2>India’s regional doctrine has steadily evolved—from Neighbourhood First to SAGAR, and now MAHASAGAR—reflecting a broader conception of responsibility in the Indian Ocean region.Each stage has expanded the scope of engagement: from immediate neighbourhood assistance, to maritime cooperation and growth, to a wider vision of regional interconnectedness. A structured El Niño preparedness initiative would be a natural continuation of this trajectory, embedding climate resilience into the region’s evolving strategic architecture.<h2>Climate as regional security</h2>The distinction between climate events and security outcomes is increasingly blurred. A failed monsoon in one country can trigger food inflation in another; a cyclone can disrupt trade routes; droughts can accelerate migration pressures and fiscal instability.El Niño should therefore be seen not only as a meteorological phenomenon but as a systemic stress test for regional resilience.<h2>Conclusion</h2>India is already widely seen in the region as a first responder in times of crisis. The experiences of COVID-19, the Sri Lankan economic emergency, and climate-related disasters have reinforced this role in practical terms.The next step is to move from reactive response to anticipatory coordination.A Delhi-based regional El Niño preparedness meeting—anchored by India and supported by multilateral institutions and key bilateral partners—would be a timely and pragmatic initiative. In an era of compounding global risks, regional cooperation is no longer optional; it is essential. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

El Niño events have historically been associated with weaker monsoons in South Asia, erratic rainfall patterns, and increased risks of droughts and floods. 

The coming months could bring South Asia and the wider Indian Ocean region a dangerous mix of climate shocks, economic strain, and geopolitical instability. At the centre of this looming challenge is the anticipated El Niño event, which is likely to disrupt monsoon patterns, intensify weather extremes, and place additional pressure on already fragile food, water, and energy systems. But El Niño will not arrive in isolation. It will intersect with continuing global disruptions—from the war in Ukraine to instability in the Middle East—each of which continues to reverberate through energy markets, food supply chains, and shipping routes. The combined effect is likely to be cumulative, not linear. This is, therefore, a moment that calls for anticipatory regional coordination rather than fragmented national responses. A record of regional first response There is already a clear precedent for such coordination in the region. During the COVID-19 pandemic, India emerged as a key first responder, supplying vaccines, medicines, and logistical support across the neighbourhood under its “Neighbourhood First” policy. This helped establish a practical framework for regional cooperation in times of systemic stress. More recently, India played a similar role during the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, providing critical financial assistance, fuel, and essential supplies at a moment of acute vulnerability. India has also been among the first responders during major climate-related disasters, including cyclone events such as Cyclone Ditwa, delivering rapid humanitarian assistance. These are not isolated gestures. They reflect an emerging pattern in which India increasingly functions as a stabilising force in the wider region. This trajectory is reflected in India’s evolving regional frameworks—from Neighbourhood First, to SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), and now the broader MAHASAGAR vision, which signals an expanded maritime and regional engagement architecture. Why El Niño is different this time El Niño events have historically been associated with weaker monsoons in South Asia, erratic rainfall patterns, and increased risks of droughts and floods. In a region where agriculture remains highly climate-sensitive, even modest deviations can translate into inflation, rural distress, and fiscal pressure. This year, however, the risks are compounded by global fragilities: * Persistent food and fertilizer price volatility * Elevated energy costs linked to geopolitical tensions * Supply chain disruptions in key commodities * High debt burdens in several neighbouring economies Together, these factors reduce the resilience of national systems and increase the risk of cascading shocks across borders. It is also important to recognise that social instability in some fragile countries in the region should be kept in mind, as climate shocks and economic pressures can quickly reinforce each other and create wider humanitarian and political consequences. The case for a Delhi-based regional initiative Against this backdrop, there is a strong case for India to convene a regional El Niño preparedness dialogue in Delhi, bringing together neighbouring countries, key development partners, and multilateral institutions. This should not be limited to South Asia alone. The impacts of El Niño extend across the wider Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean region. Participation could include: * Neighbouring states in South and Southeast Asia * The United Nations system * The World Bank and Asian Development Bank * Key bilateral partners such as Japan and others active in regional resilience Given its geographic position, institutional capacity, and experience as a first responder, it is both natural and appropriate for India to chair such an initiative. What the initiative should focus on The objective should be practical coordination rather than declaratory statements. Three areas stand out: 1. Shared forecasting and early warning systems Strengthening real-time exchange of climate data, monsoon projections, and sectoral risk mapping, particularly for agriculture, water, and fisheries. 2. Contingency planning for essential supplies Coordinating regional approaches to food reserves, fertilizer availability, and energy supply buffers during climatic disruptions. 3. Disaster response and financing coordination Improving interoperability among disaster management systems, and exploring rapid-response financing through multilateral development banks for climate-related shocks. From Neighbourhood First to MAHASAGAR India’s regional doctrine has steadily evolved—from Neighbourhood First to SAGAR, and now MAHASAGAR—reflecting a broader conception of responsibility in the Indian Ocean region. Each stage has expanded the scope of engagement: from immediate neighbourhood assistance, to maritime cooperation and growth, to a wider vision of regional interconnectedness. A structured El Niño preparedness initiative would be a natural continuation of this trajectory, embedding climate resilience into the region’s evolving strategic architecture. Climate as regional security The distinction between climate events and security outcomes is increasingly blurred. A failed monsoon in one country can trigger food inflation in another; a cyclone can disrupt trade routes; droughts can accelerate migration pressures and fiscal instability. El Niño should therefore be seen not only as a meteorological phenomenon but as a systemic stress test for regional resilience. Conclusion India is already widely seen in the region as a first responder in times of crisis. The experiences of COVID-19, the Sri Lankan economic emergency, and climate-related disasters have reinforced this role in practical terms. The next step is to move from reactive response to anticipatory coordination. A Delhi-based regional El Niño preparedness meeting—anchored by India and supported by multilateral institutions and key bilateral partners—would be a timely and pragmatic initiative. In an era of compounding global risks, regional cooperation is no longer optional; it is essential. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

El Niño events have historically been associated with weaker monsoons in South Asia, erratic rainfall patterns, and increased risks of droughts and floods.&nbsp;

India should convene a regional El Niño preparedness dialogue in Delhi

Super El Niño is certain to happen now, NASA has confirmed. The American space agency said that a swell of warm water hundreds of kilometres wide was spotted in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of South America, via satellite images. Experts say this is a sure-shot sign that Super El Niño will arrive later this year. Previously, climatologists had flagged the possibility of a monster El Niño arriving this year, which will be nothing like ever seen in the past decades. It is predicted to be on the same scale as the one seen in 1877, the worst one ever recorded since data keeping started. Scientists say the upcoming Super El Niño will be like looking into the future 10 years later. NASA said in a statement, "Waves of higher, warmer water move eastward across the Pacific Ocean a few months before an El Niño emerges. Several have shown up in 2026 satellite data." The data was captured by the Sentinel–6 Michael Freilich satellite launched in 2020.&nbsp;El Niño cycle is a common weather system where strong trade winds, instead of moving east to west, start flowing in the opposite direction. Instead of pushing warm surface water away from South America toward Asia and Australia, it causes it to slosh and pool back eastward towards South America. This temporary disruption to Earth's normal ocean and atmospheric systems occurs every two to seven years.&nbsp;<h2>What NASA satellite saw about El Niño</h2>&nbsp;NASA and other agencies have started noticing signs of one of the strongest El Niño patterns ever recorded. The phenomenon will affect every part of the world, with global average temperatures expected to rise by 3°C this summer. Besides the extreme heat, Super El Niño will also bring extreme rain and flooding to some parts. The NASA satellite tracks warm Kelvin waves to finds signs of an impending El Niño. Nadya Vinogradova Shiffer, lead program scientist at NASA Headquarters in Washington, said, "Sentinel–6 Michael Freilich can track massive Kelvin waves as they cross the Pacific, capture changes in Earth's ocean thermodynamics, improve forecasts of weather extremes, and help communities prepare for potential coastal hazards."&nbsp;<h2>World Meteorological Organization issues warning about El Niño - "World needs to prepare"</h2>A new WMO El Niño/La Niña Update this week stated that there is an 80 per cent likelihood of an El Niño event during June–August 2026. "“The science is clear: El Niño is arriving on our doorstep in the coming months with 90% certainty. &nbsp;The world must treat it as the urgent climate warning it is. El Niño conditions will pour fuel on the fire of a warming world. &nbsp;Impacts will hit even harder, travel even farther, and cross borders with devastating speed," it said in a statement. Talking about what to expect, WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said, “We need to prepare for a potentially strong El Niño event, which will exacerbate drought and heavy rainfall and increase the risk of heatwaves both on land and in the ocean."<h2>What NASA said about Kelvin Waves</h2>&nbsp;NASA explains that El Niño develops when multiple Kelvin waves appear over several months, and the warm water accumulates off the shores of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. The first Kelvin wave this year was seen in January around Micronesia and lasted a few weeks. Then a new wave formed in March. "While this year's event started a bit later than the big El Niños of 2015 and 1997, it's beginning to catch up," Josh Willis, a sea level researcher at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, said.&nbsp;Western North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe, North Africa, and most parts of Asia will see extreme temperatures. Warmer–than–normal conditions can be expected in the Southern Hemisphere also.&nbsp; &nbsp;

NASA has confirmed that Super El Niño is coming for the world this year. Its Sentinel–6 Michael Freilich satellite has spotted a large pool of warm water in the Pacific Ocean near South America, confirming that the worst is coming.

Super El Niño is certain to happen now, NASA has confirmed. The American space agency said that a swell of warm water hundreds of kilometres wide was spotted in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of South America, via satellite images. Experts say this is a sure-shot sign that Super El Niño will arrive later this year. Previously, climatologists had flagged the possibility of a monster El Niño arriving this year, which will be nothing like ever seen in the past decades. It is predicted to be on the same scale as the one seen in 1877, the worst one ever recorded since data keeping started. Scientists say the upcoming Super El Niño will be like looking into the future 10 years later. NASA said in a statement, "Waves of higher, warmer water move eastward across the Pacific Ocean a few months before an El Niño emerges. Several have shown up in 2026 satellite data." The data was captured by the Sentinel–6 Michael Freilich satellite launched in 2020. El Niño cycle is a common weather system where strong trade winds, instead of moving east to west, start flowing in the opposite direction. Instead of pushing warm surface water away from South America toward Asia and Australia, it causes it to slosh and pool back eastward towards South America. This temporary disruption to Earth's normal ocean and atmospheric systems occurs every two to seven years. What NASA satellite saw about El Niño NASA and other agencies have started noticing signs of one of the strongest El Niño patterns ever recorded. The phenomenon will affect every part of the world, with global average temperatures expected to rise by 3°C this summer. Besides the extreme heat, Super El Niño will also bring extreme rain and flooding to some parts. The NASA satellite tracks warm Kelvin waves to finds signs of an impending El Niño. Nadya Vinogradova Shiffer, lead program scientist at NASA Headquarters in Washington, said, "Sentinel–6 Michael Freilich can track massive Kelvin waves as they cross the Pacific, capture changes in Earth's ocean thermodynamics, improve forecasts of weather extremes, and help communities prepare for potential coastal hazards." World Meteorological Organization issues warning about El Niño - "World needs to prepare" A new WMO El Niño/La Niña Update this week stated that there is an 80 per cent likelihood of an El Niño event during June–August 2026. "“The science is clear: El Niño is arriving on our doorstep in the coming months with 90% certainty. The world must treat it as the urgent climate warning it is. El Niño conditions will pour fuel on the fire of a warming world. Impacts will hit even harder, travel even farther, and cross borders with devastating speed," it said in a statement. Talking about what to expect, WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said, “We need to prepare for a potentially strong El Niño event, which will exacerbate drought and heavy rainfall and increase the risk of heatwaves both on land and in the ocean." What NASA said about Kelvin Waves NASA explains that El Niño develops when multiple Kelvin waves appear over several months, and the warm water accumulates off the shores of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. The first Kelvin wave this year was seen in January around Micronesia and lasted a few weeks. Then a new wave formed in March. "While this year's event started a bit later than the big El Niños of 2015 and 1997, it's beginning to catch up," Josh Willis, a sea level researcher at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, said. Western North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe, North Africa, and most parts of Asia will see extreme temperatures. Warmer–than–normal conditions can be expected in the Southern Hemisphere also.

NASA has confirmed that Super El Niño is coming for the world this year. Its Sentinel–6 Michael Freilich satellite has spotted a large pool of warm water in the Pacific Ocean near South America, confirming that the worst is coming.

NASA satellite spots strongest sign of Super El Nino, confirming all predictions - What to expect?

The United Nations is warning countries to prepare for the impacts of El Niño, a climate pattern that can dramatically alter weather conditions around the world. UN officials say the phenomenon could bring higher temperatures, intense heatwaves, heavier rainfall in some regions, and drought in others. The Secretary-General has urged governments to treat the developing conditions as an urgent climate warning, stressing that early preparation could help reduce the impact of future weather-related disasters.

El Niño Forming By Late Summer, UN Warns Of Global Drought & Flood Risks

Super El Niño in the year 2026 is only the sixth such event the world will witness. Scientists have found what is fuelling this phenomenon. A massive blob of warm water exceeding average temperature is causing a heatwave in the ocean.

Super El Niño in the year 2026 is only the sixth such event the world will witness. Scientists have found what is fuelling this phenomenon. A massive blob of warm water exceeding average temperature is causing a heatwave in the ocean.

Super El Niño 2026 - Major discovery under the ocean reveals source

Super El Niño will break 150-year-old records in 2026. Experts say the effects will be similar to what we could see in 2036. India will take a lethal blow, with extreme heat and droughts expected in some parts, and massive floods in a few regions.

Super El Niño will break 150-year-old records in 2026. Experts say the effects will be similar to what we could see in 2036. India will take a lethal blow, with extreme heat and droughts expected in some parts, and massive floods in a few regions.

Super El Niño to bring drought and deluge in India in 2026. Which regions will feel the heat?

Wildfires across the world have surged to record levels in 2026, with scientists warning that worsening heat extremes and the return of El Niño conditions could intensify the crisis in the months ahead. From Africa and Asia to parts of North America, vast stretches of land have already burned this year, underlining the growing impact of climate change on global fire patterns.&nbsp;According to scientists cited by Reuters, more than 150 million hectares have burned globally between January and April this year, around 20 per cent higher than the previous record for the same period. Researchers said the scale of the outbreaks reflects increasingly volatile weather conditions driven by rising global temperatures.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/world-telecommunications-day-fast-net-wider-access-lower-costs-how-india-expanded-internet-access-over-the-last-decade-1778573569086">World Telecommunications Day| Fast net, wider access, lower costs: How India expanded internet access over the last decade</a><h3>Africa and Asia see sharp rise in fires</h3>Africa has recorded the largest area affected, with nearly 85 million hectares burned so far in 2026. Scientists said unusually heavy rainfall in previous months increased vegetation growth, which later became fuel during prolonged dry conditions and extreme heat. The continent’s burned area is estimated to be 23 per cent above previous highs.&nbsp;According to Reuters, Asia has also experienced severe fire activity. Around 44 million hectares have burned across the region, exceeding the previous 2014 record by roughly 40 per cent. Countries including India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos and China have all faced intense fire outbreaks linked to prolonged heat and dry conditions.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-a-single-missile-multiple-warheads-multiple-targets-india-successfully-tests-advanced-agni-missile-with-mirv-system-1778333872576">'A single missile, multiple warheads, multiple targets': India successfully tests Advanced Agni missile with MIRV system</a><h3>El Niño raises fears of worsening extremes</h3>Scientists said conditions may deteriorate further as the northern hemisphere enters summer and El Niño develops in the Pacific Ocean. The World Meteorological Organisation expects El Niño conditions to emerge from May, increasing the likelihood of droughts, heatwaves and further wildfire outbreaks globally. Researchers warned that countries including Australia, Canada and the Amazon rainforest could face heightened fire risks later this year. Scientists described the projected heat extremes as potentially “unprecedented”, reflecting the growing interaction between climate change, extreme temperatures and prolonged drought.&nbsp;

The World Meteorological Organisation expects El Niño conditions to emerge from May, increasing the likelihood of droughts, heatwaves and further wildfire outbreaks globally.

Wildfires across the world have surged to record levels in 2026, with scientists warning that worsening heat extremes and the return of El Niño conditions could intensify the crisis in the months ahead. From Africa and Asia to parts of North America, vast stretches of land have already burned this year, underlining the growing impact of climate change on global fire patterns. According to scientists cited by Reuters, more than 150 million hectares have burned globally between January and April this year, around 20 per cent higher than the previous record for the same period. Researchers said the scale of the outbreaks reflects increasingly volatile weather conditions driven by rising global temperatures. ALSO READ: World Telecommunications Day| Fast net, wider access, lower costs: How India expanded internet access over the last decade Africa and Asia see sharp rise in fires Africa has recorded the largest area affected, with nearly 85 million hectares burned so far in 2026. Scientists said unusually heavy rainfall in previous months increased vegetation growth, which later became fuel during prolonged dry conditions and extreme heat. The continent’s burned area is estimated to be 23 per cent above previous highs. According to Reuters, Asia has also experienced severe fire activity. Around 44 million hectares have burned across the region, exceeding the previous 2014 record by roughly 40 per cent. Countries including India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos and China have all faced intense fire outbreaks linked to prolonged heat and dry conditions. ALSO READ: 'A single missile, multiple warheads, multiple targets': India successfully tests Advanced Agni missile with MIRV system El Niño raises fears of worsening extremes Scientists said conditions may deteriorate further as the northern hemisphere enters summer and El Niño develops in the Pacific Ocean. The World Meteorological Organisation expects El Niño conditions to emerge from May, increasing the likelihood of droughts, heatwaves and further wildfire outbreaks globally. Researchers warned that countries including Australia, Canada and the Amazon rainforest could face heightened fire risks later this year. Scientists described the projected heat extremes as potentially “unprecedented”, reflecting the growing interaction between climate change, extreme temperatures and prolonged drought.

The World Meteorological Organisation expects El Niño conditions to emerge from May, increasing the likelihood of droughts, heatwaves and further wildfire outbreaks globally.

Over 150 million hectares burnt! Global wildfires hit record high in 2026 as extreme heat fuels climate fears

Super El Niño is predicted to slam Earth in 2026 and is expected to set in by June. Experts have warned that this year's weather events would be a window to the world that would be 10 years later. It is expected to break records set 150 years ago. 

Super El Niño is predicted to slam Earth in 2026 and is expected to set in by June. Experts have warned that this year's weather events would be a window to the world that would be 10 years later. It is expected to break records set 150 years ago.&nbsp;

Monster El Nino in 2026 will be the most devastating the world has witnessed in 150 years

Scientists are warning that a powerful El Nino could push global temperatures to dangerous new highs, potentially making 2027 the hottest year ever recorded. European climate monitors say ocean temperatures are already hovering near all-time highs, fuelling fears of stronger heatwaves, droughts, floods, and extreme weather worldwide. Experts warn that warming seas are acting like “boiling oceans,” intensifying the global climate crisis and threatening ecosystems, food security, and public health.


El Nino Conditions Expected To Develop From May Onwards 

El Nino Could Turn 2027 Into the Hottest Year Humanity Has Ever Seen

El Niño significantly impacts China by triggering extreme weather, including severe floods in the Yangtze River valley and droughts in northern regions, often leading to reduced agricultural yields and energy crises. Strong El Niño events often cause hot, dry conditions that reduce hydropower output, forcing higher fossil fuel usage. 


China Flags Energy Risks From El Nino

The powerful El Nino is making a comeback in 2026, signaling a major shift in global weather systems. As the cooling La Nina phase fades, scientists are tracking rising Pacific Ocean temperatures that could trigger extreme heat, erratic rainfall, and climate disruptions worldwide. From droughts to floods, the changing cycle is expected to impact agriculture, economies, and daily life across continents.


El Nino Returns In 2026: Global Weather Set For Turbulence As Temperatures Surge

If you thought the planet needed to cool off, sad news is that

the world’s seas are heating up again.

And it could mean more extreme weather ahead.

El Niño Looms as Oceans Warm Up

Scientists are warning about the possibility of a “Super El Niño” developing later this year, raising concerns about extreme weather events across the world.

A Super El Niño is a stronger version of the El Niño climate phenomenon, which can significantly impact global temperatures, rainfall patterns, and storm activity. Experts say such events can trigger severe heatwaves, floods, droughts, and stronger storms in different parts of the world.

Climate Alert: Possibility Of 'Super El Nino' Later This Year

Around 252 million years ago, more than 90 per cent of all life was wiped out from Earth. This mass extinction ended the Permian geological period and was known as the Great Dying. It was one of the five global catastrophic events in Earth’s history and worse than the extinction event that killed all dinosaurs 65 million years ago.

A massive heating event has been cited as the most logical explanation for it to date. A volcanic activity in the Siberian Traps released carbon dioxide and this led to a sudden warming of the planet. The vast area was about the size of Australia and the emissions resulted in higher temperatures, acid rain and ocean acidification.

Now, according to new research published Thursday in the journal Science, a mega El Niño effect is what likely led to that mass extinction 252 million years ago.&nbsp;

This one was more intense and prolonged than the one humans witness today.&nbsp;

“What we’re showing is that it was a climate-based extinction crisis. It wasn’t just the warming, it’s how the climate responded,” study co-author, Paul Wignall, a professor of paleoenvironments at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom, said.

“If the conditions were bad but constant, life could have evolved to cope with it. But the fact is, it kept lurching from one extreme to the other over the decades.”

To understand the Great Dying, researchers built a computer model of the global climate during the close of the Permian Period. It showed that a rise in global temperatures led the El Niño events to grow in magnitude and length.

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Earth started witnessing extreme weather conditions, with mass flooding for a period of time followed by scorching droughts and so on. This caused wildfires which killed all types of species across the globe and continued for around 100,000 years.

<h2>El Niño originated in&nbsp;Panthalassic Ocean</h2>

El Niño is a climate pattern that originates in the Pacific and affects the entire planet. It affects wind patterns and ocean currents and typically lasts between nine and 18 months, occurring every two to seven years. However, during the warmest phases of the extinction event, it would have stretched for 10 years, Alex Farnsworth, a senior research associate at the UK’s University of Bristol and the study’s joint lead author, said.

It must have originated in the Panthalassic Ocean, which was much larger than the Pacific and so could hold more heat. This in turn made the El Niño effects much stronger and longer.

He maintains that volcanic activity also played a role but wasn't enough to cause a mass extinction of that scale. Similar incidents had happened earlier as well but never triggered a mass extinction.

“It’s volcanism that was the main culprit here, but it had a feedback mechanism on ocean dynamics that led to these much stronger El Niños starting to develop and then (the two things) play in concert,” Wignall said.

This explanation seems plausible considering extinctions started on land before they occurred in the ocean, the study said. “Whilst the oceans were initially shielded from the temperature rises, the mega-El Nino’s caused temperatures on land to exceed most species thermal tolerances at rates so rapid that they could not adapt in time,” co-lead author Yadong Sun, a researcher at China University of Geosciences in Wuhan, said in a press&nbsp;release.

Around 252 million years ago, more than 90 per cent of all life was wiped out from Earth. This mass extinction ended the Permian geological period and was known as the Great Dying.

Around 252 million years ago, more than 90 per cent of all life was wiped out from Earth. This mass extinction ended the Permian geological period and was known as the Great Dying. It was one of the five global catastrophic events in Earth’s history and worse than the extinction event that killed all dinosaurs 65 million years ago. A massive heating event has been cited as the most logical explanation for it to date. A volcanic activity in the Siberian Traps released carbon dioxide and this led to a sudden warming of the planet. The vast area was about the size of Australia and the emissions resulted in higher temperatures, acid rain and ocean acidification. Now, according to new research published Thursday in the journal Science, a mega El Niño effect is what likely led to that mass extinction 252 million years ago. This one was more intense and prolonged than the one humans witness today. “What we’re showing is that it was a climate-based extinction crisis. It wasn’t just the warming, it’s how the climate responded,” study co-author, Paul Wignall, a professor of paleoenvironments at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom, said. “If the conditions were bad but constant, life could have evolved to cope with it. But the fact is, it kept lurching from one extreme to the other over the decades.” To understand the Great Dying, researchers built a computer model of the global climate during the close of the Permian Period. It showed that a rise in global temperatures led the El Niño events to grow in magnitude and length. Also Read: Mega tsunami triggered by falling mountain created a 9-day-long earthquake Earth started witnessing extreme weather conditions, with mass flooding for a period of time followed by scorching droughts and so on. This caused wildfires which killed all types of species across the globe and continued for around 100,000 years. El Niño originated in Panthalassic Ocean El Niño is a climate pattern that originates in the Pacific and affects the entire planet. It affects wind patterns and ocean currents and typically lasts between nine and 18 months, occurring every two to seven years. However, during the warmest phases of the extinction event, it would have stretched for 10 years, Alex Farnsworth, a senior research associate at the UK’s University of Bristol and the study’s joint lead author, said. It must have originated in the Panthalassic Ocean, which was much larger than the Pacific and so could hold more heat. This in turn made the El Niño effects much stronger and longer. He maintains that volcanic activity also played a role but wasn't enough to cause a mass extinction of that scale. Similar incidents had happened earlier as well but never triggered a mass extinction. “It’s volcanism that was the main culprit here, but it had a feedback mechanism on ocean dynamics that led to these much stronger El Niños starting to develop and then (the two things) play in concert,” Wignall said. This explanation seems plausible considering extinctions started on land before they occurred in the ocean, the study said. “Whilst the oceans were initially shielded from the temperature rises, the mega-El Nino’s caused temperatures on land to exceed most species thermal tolerances at rates so rapid that they could not adapt in time,” co-lead author Yadong Sun, a researcher at China University of Geosciences in Wuhan, said in a press release.

What caused the Great Dying 252 million years ago? We may finally know

This year’s drought, worsened by the El Nino weather phenomenon, is impacting 44% of Malawi’s agricultural land and 40% of its 20.4 million inhabitants, as reported by the World Food Programme (WFP).

44% of Malawi's crop area affected by drought

Southern Africa is grappling with a severe drought exacerbated by the El Nino phenomenon, impacting nearly 68 million people, according to the Southern African development community. The drought has led to widespread food shortages, severely affecting countries such as Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Zambia. The crisis stems from the region experiencing its driest February in a century, with rainfall plummeting to just 20% of usual levels.

El Nino drives Africa's food crisis

There were 13 months of straight heat records this year,&nbsp;but mercifully the streak has halted in July as the El Nino phenomenon began to weaken.

Average temperature in July was 16.91 degrees, according to Copernicus, the European climate agency. That was 1.2 degrees above the 30-year average, but slightly lower than July 2023.&nbsp;

This July still was the second warmest as per Copernicus records. July also saw two of the hottest days on record for the month, averaging at 17.16 degrees Celcius.

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Scientists warned that the threat of climate crisis is not over. "The overall context hasn't changed. Our climate continues to warm," Copernicus deputy director Samantha Burgess said.

The severe weather in the recent past included flooding in South Africa, landslides in Indonesia and India, as well as Cyclone Beryl which hit Asia.

A record heatwave in Japan caused at least 130 deaths.

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The El Nino is a weather phenomenon that causes the warming of Pacific Ocean and affects climate across the planet.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

There were 13 months of straight heat records this year, but mercifully the streak has halted in July as the El Nino phenomenon began to weaken. Average temperature in July was 16.

There were 13 months of straight heat records this year, but mercifully the streak has halted in July as the El Nino phenomenon began to weaken. Average temperature in July was 16.91 degrees, according to Copernicus, the European climate agency. That was 1.2 degrees above the 30-year average, but slightly lower than July 2023. This July still was the second warmest as per Copernicus records. July also saw two of the hottest days on record for the month, averaging at 17.16 degrees Celcius. Also read: Japan rocked by powerful twin earthquakes, tsunami advisory issued Scientists warned that the threat of climate crisis is not over. "The overall context hasn't changed. Our climate continues to warm," Copernicus deputy director Samantha Burgess said. The severe weather in the recent past included flooding in South Africa, landslides in Indonesia and India, as well as Cyclone Beryl which hit Asia. A record heatwave in Japan caused at least 130 deaths. Also read: Continents have been mysteriously rising for years now. Scientists now know why The El Nino is a weather phenomenon that causes the warming of Pacific Ocean and affects climate across the planet. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate crisis: 13 months of record-breaking heat stops in July as El Nino phenomenon slows down

Zimbabwe is hit by a severe drought leaving nearly 7.6 million people, almost half of the country's population in need of aid. Along with Zimbabwe, neighbouring countries of malawi and zambia are also facing drought which has worsened by the el-nino effect.

Zimbabwe hit by a severe drought

2023 has been a year of extreme weather conditions. Climate change & El Nino led to soaring temperatures in 2024. Earth's temperature crossed critical threshold in 2023. With wildfires in Canada, Horn of Africa & Middle East to summer heat waves in US, China & Europe. Watch to know more!

Summer 2023 the hottest in 2,000 years; new study's findings alarming

Amid a scorching heatwave in the Philippines, a zoo is providing tigers with frozen treats made&nbsp;from animal blood and is restricting lion mating during the hottest hours of the day. Manila has experienced record-high temperatures, compelling&nbsp;schools nationwide to suspend in-person classes. As residents seek refuge in air-conditioned malls and pools, animals at Manila Zoo are also seeking relief from the extreme heat.

Ensuring the prevention of heatstroke, especially among the large cats, was the primary concern, according to zoo veterinarian Dave Vinas in an interview with AFP on Tuesday, as temperatures soared to 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in the city.

To reduce temperatures inside the concrete enclosures, water is continuously splashed on the walls and ground throughout the day.

Frozen treats, dubbed "bloodsicles," consisting of frozen ground beef or chicken mixed with animal blood and vitamins, are provided for the big cats to lick.

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Additionally, tigers and lions receive regular sprays of water and have access to pools within their enclosures to cool off.

Wendell, a five-year-old Bengal tiger weighing nearly 400 kilogrammes (882 pounds), continuously pants while spending hours submerged in a shallow pool.

Water is also poured in&nbsp;the enclosures housing snakes and turtles to help regulate their body temperature.

While providing ice treats and baths during the warmer months of March, April, and May is routine.&nbsp;

<h2>El Nino weather phenomenon</h2>

The El Niño weather pattern is being attributed to the intense heat and extreme weather conditions in the region.

During the typical high-temperature months of March, April, and May, the archipelago saw the heat index reach the "danger" level of 42°C (108°F).

State meteorologists anticipated even higher temperatures in at least 30 cities and municipalities on Wednesday.

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-philippines-becomes-southeast-asias-fastest-growing-economy-686806/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Philippine Department of Education reported that nearly 6,700 schools suspended in-person classes on Wednesday, April 24th.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid a scorching heatwave in the Philippines, a zoo is providing tigers with frozen treats made from animal blood and is restricting lion mating during the hottest hours of the day.

Amid a scorching heatwave in the Philippines, a zoo is providing tigers with frozen treats made from animal blood and is restricting lion mating during the hottest hours of the day. Manila has experienced record-high temperatures, compelling schools nationwide to suspend in-person classes. As residents seek refuge in air-conditioned malls and pools, animals at Manila Zoo are also seeking relief from the extreme heat. Ensuring the prevention of heatstroke, especially among the large cats, was the primary concern, according to zoo veterinarian Dave Vinas in an interview with AFP on Tuesday, as temperatures soared to 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in the city. To reduce temperatures inside the concrete enclosures, water is continuously splashed on the walls and ground throughout the day. Frozen treats, dubbed "bloodsicles," consisting of frozen ground beef or chicken mixed with animal blood and vitamins, are provided for the big cats to lick. Also read | Philippines stunned as Chinese ‘sleeper cells’ take over sensitive security zone Additionally, tigers and lions receive regular sprays of water and have access to pools within their enclosures to cool off. Wendell, a five-year-old Bengal tiger weighing nearly 400 kilogrammes (882 pounds), continuously pants while spending hours submerged in a shallow pool. Water is also poured in the enclosures housing snakes and turtles to help regulate their body temperature. While providing ice treats and baths during the warmer months of March, April, and May is routine. El Nino weather phenomenon The El Niño weather pattern is being attributed to the intense heat and extreme weather conditions in the region. During the typical high-temperature months of March, April, and May, the archipelago saw the heat index reach the "danger" level of 42°C (108°F). State meteorologists anticipated even higher temperatures in at least 30 cities and municipalities on Wednesday. Also watch | The Philippines becomes Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economy The Philippine Department of Education reported that nearly 6,700 schools suspended in-person classes on Wednesday, April 24th. (With inputs from agencies)

Beating the heat: Lions and tigers cool off with ‘bloodsicles’ at Philippine zoo

The 2023-24 El nino has peaked as one of the five strongest weather phenomena on record. Even if it is currently waning slightly, it still is expected to have an impact on the climate in the upcoming months. This by storing more heat in the atmosphere caused by greenhouse gases released by human activity.

El nino weakens but will keep temperatures high: UN

The El Nino weather pattern has commenced its weakening phase but is anticipated to continue influencing above-average temperatures worldwide, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on Tuesday (March 5).

El Nino, a naturally occurring phenomenon linked to disrupted wind patterns resulting in warmer ocean surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific, typically occurs every two to seven years.

Lasting approximately nine to 12 months, El Nino often triggers extreme weather events such as wildfires, tropical cyclones, and prolonged droughts.

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WMO spokesperson Claire Nullis stated that El Nino reached its peak in December, ranking among the five strongest occurrences in history. While gradually diminishing, it is expected to impact global climate in the upcoming months, leading to above-normal temperatures from March to May in most land areas.

WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo noted that El Nino had played a role in recent temperature records. Since June 2023, every month has set new temperature records, making 2023 the warmest year on record. Saulo emphasised that while El Nino contributed to these elevated temperatures, the primary culprit remains heat-trapping greenhouse gases.

The WMO indicated a 60 per cent likelihood of El Nino persisting from March to May, with an 80 per cent chance of neutral conditions (neither El Nino nor La Nina) from April to June. There is a possibility of La Nina, characterised by unusually cold Pacific Ocean temperatures, emerging later in the year, though the odds remain uncertain, as per the WMO.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/el-nino-could-make-2024-hotter-than-record-2023-679471" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/el-nino-could-make-2024-hotter-than-record-2023-679471&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjrgI6widOEAxUCbmwGHVc_C08QFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0PiSYWruh5MbStD9qCJPoR" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/el-nino-could-make-2024-hotter-than-record-2023-679471" target="_blank">El Nino&nbsp;could make 2024 hotter than record 2023</a>

According to a analysis made earlier stated, El Nino climate event is anticipated to intensify global warming, leading to record-breaking temperatures spanning from the Amazon to Alaska in 2024.

Scientists also project that coastal regions near the Bay of Bengal, the South China Sea, India, the Philippines and the Caribbean will experience exceptional heat until June, with the potential for El Nino's influence to diminish thereafter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/antarcticas-doomsday-glacier-began-retreat-in-1940s-by-el-nino-new-study-694603" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/antarcticas-doomsday-glacier-began-retreat-in-1940s-by-el-nino-new-study-694603&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjrgI6widOEAxUCbmwGHVc_C08QFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2kvqb6zbDfLaKnLTvBDkZe" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/antarcticas-doomsday-glacier-began-retreat-in-1940s-by-el-nino-new-study-694603" target="_blank">Antarctica's 'Doomsday Glacier' has been losing ice since 1940s</a>

El Nino, characterised by the release of heat from the western Pacific Ocean, has historically elevated global surface temperatures and played a significant role in making 2023 the hottest year on record by a substantial margin.

(With inputs from agencies)

The El Nino weather pattern has commenced its weakening phase but is anticipated to continue influencing above-average temperatures worldwide, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on Tuesday (March 5).

The El Nino weather pattern has commenced its weakening phase but is anticipated to continue influencing above-average temperatures worldwide, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on Tuesday (March 5). El Nino, a naturally occurring phenomenon linked to disrupted wind patterns resulting in warmer ocean surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific, typically occurs every two to seven years. Lasting approximately nine to 12 months, El Nino often triggers extreme weather events such as wildfires, tropical cyclones, and prolonged droughts. Also read: El Nino predicted to cause unprecedented heat across Amazon to Alaska in 2024 WMO spokesperson Claire Nullis stated that El Nino reached its peak in December, ranking among the five strongest occurrences in history. While gradually diminishing, it is expected to impact global climate in the upcoming months, leading to above-normal temperatures from March to May in most land areas. WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo noted that El Nino had played a role in recent temperature records. Since June 2023, every month has set new temperature records, making 2023 the warmest year on record. Saulo emphasised that while El Nino contributed to these elevated temperatures, the primary culprit remains heat-trapping greenhouse gases. The WMO indicated a 60 per cent likelihood of El Nino persisting from March to May, with an 80 per cent chance of neutral conditions (neither El Nino nor La Nina) from April to June. There is a possibility of La Nina, characterised by unusually cold Pacific Ocean temperatures, emerging later in the year, though the odds remain uncertain, as per the WMO. Also read: El Nino could make 2024 hotter than record 2023 According to a analysis made earlier stated, El Nino climate event is anticipated to intensify global warming, leading to record-breaking temperatures spanning from the Amazon to Alaska in 2024. Scientists also project that coastal regions near the Bay of Bengal, the South China Sea, India, the Philippines and the Caribbean will experience exceptional heat until June, with the potential for El Nino's influence to diminish thereafter. Also read: Antarctica's 'Doomsday Glacier' has been losing ice since 1940s El Nino, characterised by the release of heat from the western Pacific Ocean, has historically elevated global surface temperatures and played a significant role in making 2023 the hottest year on record by a substantial margin. (With inputs from agencies)

El Nino weakens but will sustain elevated temperatures: UN weather agency

Unveiling new details about Antarctica's "Doomsday Glacier", scientists have revealed that the Thwaites Glacier has been losing ice since the 1940s. The insights into the melting of the glacier are crucial as it can have a potentially catastrophic impact on sea levels.

The findings were published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Researchers, utilising marine sediment cores, unearthed evidence suggesting a significant retreat commenced in the 1940s, likely catalysed by an intense El Nino event.

Julia Wellner, an associate professor of geology at the University of Houston, reportedly highlighted the broader implications of the discovery. She underscored that the Thwaites Glacier's retreat mirrors similar patterns observed in neighbouring Pine Island Glacier ice formations.&nbsp;

“If both glaciers are retreating at the same time, that’s further evidence that they’re actually being forced by something,” Wellner added.

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James Smith, a marine geologist at the British Antarctic Survey, reportedly cautioned that once initiated, ice sheet retreats can persist for decades.&nbsp;Ted Scambos, a glaciologist at the University of Colorado Boulder, also emphasised the compounding effect of natural events and human-induced climate change.

He noted that while natural occurrences may trigger initial destabilisation, sustained warming exacerbates and perpetuates the process.

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Martin Truffer, a physics professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, echoed concerns regarding the fragility of glacier systems in the face of incremental climate shifts.&nbsp;“Humans are changing the climate and this study shows that small continuous changes in climate can lead to step changes in glacier state,” he added.&nbsp;

Watch | New research aims to improve climate &amp; ocean observation

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This study serves as a sobering reminder that the ice's retreat, once set in motion, may prove resistant to mitigation efforts. As the world witnesses the relentless march of climate change, the fate of Antarctica's glaciers hangs in the balance.&nbsp;

The findings were published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

(With inputs from agencies)

Unveiling new details about Antarctica's "Doomsday Glacier", scientists have revealed that the Thwaites Glacier has been losing ice since the 1940s. The insights into the melting of the glacier are crucial as it can have a potentially catastrophic impact on sea levels.

Unveiling new details about Antarctica's "Doomsday Glacier", scientists have revealed that the Thwaites Glacier has been losing ice since the 1940s. The insights into the melting of the glacier are crucial as it can have a potentially catastrophic impact on sea levels. The findings were published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Researchers, utilising marine sediment cores, unearthed evidence suggesting a significant retreat commenced in the 1940s, likely catalysed by an intense El Nino event. Julia Wellner, an associate professor of geology at the University of Houston, reportedly highlighted the broader implications of the discovery. She underscored that the Thwaites Glacier's retreat mirrors similar patterns observed in neighbouring Pine Island Glacier ice formations. “If both glaciers are retreating at the same time, that’s further evidence that they’re actually being forced by something,” Wellner added. Also Read | How applying physical pressure on cells diminishes pain? New study reveals James Smith, a marine geologist at the British Antarctic Survey, reportedly cautioned that once initiated, ice sheet retreats can persist for decades. Ted Scambos, a glaciologist at the University of Colorado Boulder, also emphasised the compounding effect of natural events and human-induced climate change. He noted that while natural occurrences may trigger initial destabilisation, sustained warming exacerbates and perpetuates the process. Also Read | Low speech speed, not limited vocabulary, indicates aging brain health: Study Martin Truffer, a physics professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, echoed concerns regarding the fragility of glacier systems in the face of incremental climate shifts. “Humans are changing the climate and this study shows that small continuous changes in climate can lead to step changes in glacier state,” he added. Watch | New research aims to improve climate & ocean observation × This study serves as a sobering reminder that the ice's retreat, once set in motion, may prove resistant to mitigation efforts. As the world witnesses the relentless march of climate change, the fate of Antarctica's glaciers hangs in the balance. The findings were published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. (With inputs from agencies)

Antarctica's 'Doomsday Glacier' has been losing ice since 1940s, and El Nino is to blame: Study

The global mean temperature has been breached. The average worldwide temperature rose above 1.5° Celsius for the first time, as per the European climate agency.

Global mean temperature breaches 1.5° Celsius threshold for an entire year for the first time

The Colombian government declared a disaster situation on Thursday (Jan 25) and asked for international help to combat the raging wildfires across the country, as the president and local officials&nbsp;said the situation might worsen in the upcoming days.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Situation of disaster and calamity’</h2>

Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro declared a “situation of disaster and calamity”&nbsp;on Thursday. He&nbsp;told reporters that Chile, the United States, Peru and Canada have already responded to the call for help, but did not specify the assistance that will arrive in&nbsp;the South American country.&nbsp;

The government has also asked for help from the United Nations and the European Union. “To the extent that we know that in the coming days and weeks crisis events are going to increase, we want to make sure that we have the physical capacity to address and mitigate them," Petro said.

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He also warned that the situation he described as a “climate crisis” will get worse. He added, “We are going towards an increasingly difficult stage.”&nbsp;

The disaster declaration allows the government to reallocate funds to tackle the wildfires.

<h2>Situation in Colombia</h2>

The local officials raised the number of wildfires from 25 to 31, out of which only nine are under control, reported the Associated Press. So far, they have not ordered mandatory evacuations despite fires burning in the mountains surrounding some residential areas.&nbsp;

Roughly half of the country’s municipalities are on maximum alert due to fire risk, according to the country’s Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies.&nbsp;

The police are using&nbsp;planes authorised to spray chemicals on coca leaf crops to transport and drop water over the fires. Meanwhile, the Colombian army has deployed more than 600 soldiers as well as aircraft and vehicles to mitigate the situation in emergency areas.

Since Monday (Jan 22), the firefighters and armed forces have struggled to contain a series of fires that broke out in the Andean mountains near the capital Bogota.

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The wildfires come after months of hot, dry weather which has been attributed to the El Nino weather phenomenon marked by low rainfall and rise in temperatures. Several cities&nbsp;across the country,&nbsp;over the past few weeks, have witnessed record-high temperatures.&nbsp;

According to Petro, the drought is expected to intensify in February and most of March. Meanwhile, Colombia’s weather agency IDEAM said there’s a high risk of new fires.&nbsp;

On Thursday morning, at least 138 flights at the capital city’s El Dorado airport were affected as smoke billowed over Bogota. “We estimate that the phenomenon is composed of 70% fog and 30% smoke,” said the Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia, in a statement on X.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Colombian government declared a disaster situation on Thursday (Jan 25) and asked for international help to combat the raging wildfires across the country, as the president and local officials said the situation might worsen in the upcoming days.

The Colombian government declared a disaster situation on Thursday (Jan 25) and asked for international help to combat the raging wildfires across the country, as the president and local officials said the situation might worsen in the upcoming days. ‘Situation of disaster and calamity’ Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro declared a “situation of disaster and calamity” on Thursday. He told reporters that Chile, the United States, Peru and Canada have already responded to the call for help, but did not specify the assistance that will arrive in the South American country. The government has also asked for help from the United Nations and the European Union. “To the extent that we know that in the coming days and weeks crisis events are going to increase, we want to make sure that we have the physical capacity to address and mitigate them," Petro said. ALSO READ | Protesters take out 'Invasion Day' rallies to oppose Australia Day holiday He also warned that the situation he described as a “climate crisis” will get worse. He added, “We are going towards an increasingly difficult stage.” The disaster declaration allows the government to reallocate funds to tackle the wildfires. Situation in Colombia The local officials raised the number of wildfires from 25 to 31, out of which only nine are under control, reported the Associated Press. So far, they have not ordered mandatory evacuations despite fires burning in the mountains surrounding some residential areas. Roughly half of the country’s municipalities are on maximum alert due to fire risk, according to the country’s Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies. The police are using planes authorised to spray chemicals on coca leaf crops to transport and drop water over the fires. Meanwhile, the Colombian army has deployed more than 600 soldiers as well as aircraft and vehicles to mitigate the situation in emergency areas. Since Monday (Jan 22), the firefighters and armed forces have struggled to contain a series of fires that broke out in the Andean mountains near the capital Bogota. ALSO READ | Japan New Year earthquake: Tokyo says cost of quake damage could reach $17 billion The wildfires come after months of hot, dry weather which has been attributed to the El Nino weather phenomenon marked by low rainfall and rise in temperatures. Several cities across the country, over the past few weeks, have witnessed record-high temperatures. According to Petro, the drought is expected to intensify in February and most of March. Meanwhile, Colombia’s weather agency IDEAM said there’s a high risk of new fires. On Thursday morning, at least 138 flights at the capital city’s El Dorado airport were affected as smoke billowed over Bogota. “We estimate that the phenomenon is composed of 70% fog and 30% smoke,” said the Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia, in a statement on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Colombia declares disaster, calls for international help due to raging wildfires across the country

This year could be hotter under El Nino's influence than the record-shattering 2023, the United Nations warned Friday, as it urged drastic emissions cuts to combat climate change.

The UN's World Meteorological Organization said new monthly temperature records were set every month between June and December, and the pattern is likely to continue due to the warming El Nino weather phenomenon.

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted there is a one in three chance that 2024 will be warmer than 2023 -- and a 99 percent certainty that 2024 will rank among the five warmest years ever.

NASA climatologist Gavin Schmidt, director of the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, estimated the odds were even higher.

"I put it at about 50-50: 50 percent chance it'll be warmer, 50 percent chance it will be slightly cooler," he told AFP, adding there were hints of "mysterious" changes to Earth's climate systems, that would nonetheless require more data to confirm or refute.

The UN's WMO weather and climate agency said July and August last year were the two hottest months ever recorded, as it officially confirmed 2023 had been the warmest year on record "by a huge margin".

Watch | El nino and export restrictions threaten supply chains into 2024 | World Business Watch

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The WMO said the 2023 annual average global temperature was 1.45 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels (1850-1900).

The 2015 Paris climate accords aimed to limit global warming to well below two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels -- and 1.5C if possible.

The WMO's new secretary-general Celeste Saulo warned that El Nino, which emerged mid-2023, is likely to turn up the heat even further in 2024.

The naturally-occurring climate pattern, typically associated with increased heat worldwide, usually increases global temperatures in the year after it develops.

"The shift from cooling La Nina to warming El Nino by the middle of 2023 is clearly reflected in the rise in temperature," she said.

"Given that El Nino usually has the biggest impact on global temperatures after it peaks, 2024 could be even hotter."

<h2>Humanity's 'biggest challenge'</h2>

NOAA said the 2023 global surface temperature was 1.18C above the 20th-century average, and was hotter than the next warmest year, 2016, by a record-setting margin of 0.15C.

The Arctic, northern North America, central Asia, the North Atlantic and the eastern tropical Pacific were particularly hotter, it said.

Saulo said climate change was now "the biggest challenge that humanity faces".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-alters-japan-coastline-stretching-it-by-around-820-feet-679450">Earthquake alters Japan coastline stretching it by around 820 feet</a>

A WMO report in November found that concentrations of the three main heat-trapping greenhouse gases -- carbon dioxide,&nbsp; 
methane and nitrous oxide -- reached record high levels in 2022, with preliminary data indicating that the levels continued to grow in 2023.

"Climate change is escalating -- and this is unequivocally because of human activities," said Saulo.

<h2>'Catastrophic future' awaits</h2>

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said humanity's actions were "scorching the Earth".

"2023 was a mere preview of the catastrophic future that awaits if we don't act now," he said.

The WMO said that since the 1980s, each decade has been warmer than the previous one -- while the warmest nine years on record had all been since 2015.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/archaeologists-uncover-lost-cities-which-existed-2000-years-ago-in-ecuadorian-amazon-679334">Archaeologists uncover lost cities which existed 2,000 years ago in Ecuadorian Amazon</a>

The EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service issued its 2023 temperature findings on Tuesday, while NOAA and NASA released theirs simultaneously with the WMO on Friday.

The WMO consolidates figures from six major international datasets to provide an authoritative temperature assessment.

It said the 10-year average temperature from 2014 to 2023 was 1.20C above the pre-industrial average. 
Even if Earth's average surface temperature breaches the 1.5C mark in 2024, it does not mean the world has failed to meet the&nbsp;

Paris Agreement target of capping global warming under that threshold.

That would occur only after several successive years above the 1.5C benchmark, and even then the 2015 treaty allows for the possibility of reducing Earth's temperature after a period of "overshoot".

This year could be hotter under El Nino's influence than the record-shattering 2023, the United Nations warned Friday, as it urged drastic emissions cuts to combat climate change.

This year could be hotter under El Nino's influence than the record-shattering 2023, the United Nations warned Friday, as it urged drastic emissions cuts to combat climate change. The UN's World Meteorological Organization said new monthly temperature records were set every month between June and December, and the pattern is likely to continue due to the warming El Nino weather phenomenon. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted there is a one in three chance that 2024 will be warmer than 2023 -- and a 99 percent certainty that 2024 will rank among the five warmest years ever. NASA climatologist Gavin Schmidt, director of the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, estimated the odds were even higher. "I put it at about 50-50: 50 percent chance it'll be warmer, 50 percent chance it will be slightly cooler," he told AFP, adding there were hints of "mysterious" changes to Earth's climate systems, that would nonetheless require more data to confirm or refute. The UN's WMO weather and climate agency said July and August last year were the two hottest months ever recorded, as it officially confirmed 2023 had been the warmest year on record "by a huge margin". Watch | El nino and export restrictions threaten supply chains into 2024 | World Business Watch × The WMO said the 2023 annual average global temperature was 1.45 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels (1850-1900). The 2015 Paris climate accords aimed to limit global warming to well below two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels -- and 1.5C if possible. The WMO's new secretary-general Celeste Saulo warned that El Nino, which emerged mid-2023, is likely to turn up the heat even further in 2024. The naturally-occurring climate pattern, typically associated with increased heat worldwide, usually increases global temperatures in the year after it develops. "The shift from cooling La Nina to warming El Nino by the middle of 2023 is clearly reflected in the rise in temperature," she said. "Given that El Nino usually has the biggest impact on global temperatures after it peaks, 2024 could be even hotter." Humanity's 'biggest challenge' NOAA said the 2023 global surface temperature was 1.18C above the 20th-century average, and was hotter than the next warmest year, 2016, by a record-setting margin of 0.15C. The Arctic, northern North America, central Asia, the North Atlantic and the eastern tropical Pacific were particularly hotter, it said. Saulo said climate change was now "the biggest challenge that humanity faces". Also Read | Earthquake alters Japan coastline stretching it by around 820 feet A WMO report in November found that concentrations of the three main heat-trapping greenhouse gases -- carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide -- reached record high levels in 2022, with preliminary data indicating that the levels continued to grow in 2023. "Climate change is escalating -- and this is unequivocally because of human activities," said Saulo. 'Catastrophic future' awaits UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said humanity's actions were "scorching the Earth". "2023 was a mere preview of the catastrophic future that awaits if we don't act now," he said. The WMO said that since the 1980s, each decade has been warmer than the previous one -- while the warmest nine years on record had all been since 2015. Also Read | Archaeologists uncover lost cities which existed 2,000 years ago in Ecuadorian Amazon The EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service issued its 2023 temperature findings on Tuesday, while NOAA and NASA released theirs simultaneously with the WMO on Friday. The WMO consolidates figures from six major international datasets to provide an authoritative temperature assessment. It said the 10-year average temperature from 2014 to 2023 was 1.20C above the pre-industrial average. Even if Earth's average surface temperature breaches the 1.5C mark in 2024, it does not mean the world has failed to meet the Paris Agreement target of capping global warming under that threshold. That would occur only after several successive years above the 1.5C benchmark, and even then the 2015 treaty allows for the possibility of reducing Earth's temperature after a period of "overshoot".

El Nino could make 2024 hotter than record 2023

The Met Office's provisional data reveals that 2023 was the UK's second warmest year on record, closely trailing behind 2022 by a mere 0.06ºC. This warming trend has significant implications, as both Wales and Northern Ireland experienced their hottest years ever recorded.

The Met Office said that climate change is undeniably contributing to these escalating temperatures, making high temperature records "significantly more likely."

<h2>Hot extremes: June’s sizzle and September’s blaze</h2>

The UK's summer in 2023 bookmarked itself with the hottest June and jointly hottest September on record, witnessing temperatures soaring above 33ºC. These scorching months contributed to the overall warmth experienced throughout the year.

The UK boasts some of the world's oldest temperature records, with the Met Office's Central England Temperature series dating back to 1659. This historical perspective underscores the gravity of recent temperature anomalies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heatwave-warnings-issued-in-australia-authorities-warn-of-bushfire-risk-673110">Also read |&nbsp;Heatwave warnings issued in Australia, authorities warn of bushfire risk</a>

Despite consecutive record-setting years, the UK government faced warnings in July about its unpreparedness for climate change. Advisers pointed out a spike in deaths and operational disruptions in 2022 among the over-65s, signalling the need for urgent action.

Greenpeace's Doug Parr as quoted by the BBC criticised&nbsp;Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's climate actions, accusing him of exacerbating the climate impact.

The Prime Minister's focus on expanding oil and gas drilling while delaying key emission-cutting policies drew sharp criticism.

The UK's record temperatures align with a global trend, evidenced by wildfires in various regions, historically high sea temperatures, and an alarming wildfire season. The Copernicus Climate Change Service is expected to confirm 2023 as the hottest year globally in January.

Scientists attribute the above-average temperatures not only to climate change but also to the El Niño weather phenomenon. Weakened winds in the eastern Pacific contribute to warmer air and increased rainfall, impacting the global climate.

Also watch |&nbsp;2023 Global Heatwaves: From Arizona to Antarctica | WION Wideangle

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/2023-global-heatwaves-from-arizona-to-antarctica-wion-wideangle-674546/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With El Niño expected to persist into the first half of 2024, predictions indicate that this year could become the world's hottest on record. The potential breach of the crucial 1.5ºC warming milestone is a looming concern, representing a symbolic threshold in global climate change negotiations initiated by the 2015 Paris agreement. Countries committed to limiting temperature rises to 1.5ºC, emphasising the urgency of climate action.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Met Office's provisional data reveals that 2023 was the UK's second warmest year on record, closely trailing behind 2022 by a mere 0.06ºC. This warming trend has significant implications, as both Wales and Northern Ireland experienced their hottest years ever recorded.

The Met Office's provisional data reveals that 2023 was the UK's second warmest year on record, closely trailing behind 2022 by a mere 0.06ºC. This warming trend has significant implications, as both Wales and Northern Ireland experienced their hottest years ever recorded. The Met Office said that climate change is undeniably contributing to these escalating temperatures, making high temperature records "significantly more likely." Hot extremes: June’s sizzle and September’s blaze The UK's summer in 2023 bookmarked itself with the hottest June and jointly hottest September on record, witnessing temperatures soaring above 33ºC. These scorching months contributed to the overall warmth experienced throughout the year. The UK boasts some of the world's oldest temperature records, with the Met Office's Central England Temperature series dating back to 1659. This historical perspective underscores the gravity of recent temperature anomalies. Also read | Heatwave warnings issued in Australia, authorities warn of bushfire risk Despite consecutive record-setting years, the UK government faced warnings in July about its unpreparedness for climate change. Advisers pointed out a spike in deaths and operational disruptions in 2022 among the over-65s, signalling the need for urgent action. Greenpeace's Doug Parr as quoted by the BBC criticised Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's climate actions, accusing him of exacerbating the climate impact. The Prime Minister's focus on expanding oil and gas drilling while delaying key emission-cutting policies drew sharp criticism. The UK's record temperatures align with a global trend, evidenced by wildfires in various regions, historically high sea temperatures, and an alarming wildfire season. The Copernicus Climate Change Service is expected to confirm 2023 as the hottest year globally in January. Scientists attribute the above-average temperatures not only to climate change but also to the El Niño weather phenomenon. Weakened winds in the eastern Pacific contribute to warmer air and increased rainfall, impacting the global climate. Also watch | 2023 Global Heatwaves: From Arizona to Antarctica | WION Wideangle With El Niño expected to persist into the first half of 2024, predictions indicate that this year could become the world's hottest on record. The potential breach of the crucial 1.5ºC warming milestone is a looming concern, representing a symbolic threshold in global climate change negotiations initiated by the 2015 Paris agreement. Countries committed to limiting temperature rises to 1.5ºC, emphasising the urgency of climate action. (With inputs from agencies)

Met office declares 2023 as UK’s second warmest year on record

Heatwave, wildfires, Cyclones and droughts The El Nino phenomenon is tightening its grip across Australia with temperatures peaking at 43° C. Authorities have now urged the citizens to stay indoors as much as possible.

Australia heatwave: Sydney bakes in hottest day in three years

Extreme weather events are posing an increased risk to nature, buildings, infrastructure, and human health. These events, expected to increase in frequency and intensity because of climate change, are already causing substantial damage and loss. This is being felt in Africa, while the north is drenched in immense flash floods, the south is reeling under unprecedented heat waves and droughts

El nino strikes northeast, as sun scorches Southern Africa

The number of people killed by floods from heavy rains in Somalia has climbed to 96, state news agency SONNA said on Saturday.

"Somalia's flood death toll climbs to 96," SONNA said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, adding the figure had been confirmed by Mahamuud Moallim, the head of the country's disaster management agency.

Like the rest of east and Horn of Africa, Somalia has been battered by relentless heavy rains that begun in October, caused by the El Nino and Indian Ocean Dipole weather phenomena.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/somalia-at-least-29-killed-300000-displaced-after-worst-floods-in-decades-hit-east-africa-656708">Somalia: At least 29 killed, 300,000 displaced after worst floods in decades hit East Africa</a>

Both are climate patterns that impact ocean surface temperatures and cause above-average rainfall.

The flooding has been described as the worst in decades and has displaced about 700,000 people, according to the United Nations.

The intense rains have unleashed widespread flooding across the country, triggering displacement and exacerbating an already existing humanitarian crisis caused by years of insurgency.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-heavy-rains-floods-wreak-havoc-in-towns-across-east-africa-657097">Heavy rains, floods wreak havoc in towns across East Africa</a>

In neighbouring Kenya the floods have so far killed 76 people, according to the Kenyan Red Cross, and also unleashed widespread displacement, destruction of roads and bridges and left many residents without shelter, drinking and food supplies, according to the charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). 
&nbsp;

The number of people killed by floods from heavy rains in Somalia has climbed to 96, state news agency SONNA said on Saturday. "Somalia's flood death toll climbs to 96," SONNA said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, adding the figure had been confirmed by Mahamuud Moallim, the head of the country's disaster management agency.

The number of people killed by floods from heavy rains in Somalia has climbed to 96, state news agency SONNA said on Saturday. "Somalia's flood death toll climbs to 96," SONNA said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, adding the figure had been confirmed by Mahamuud Moallim, the head of the country's disaster management agency. Like the rest of east and Horn of Africa, Somalia has been battered by relentless heavy rains that begun in October, caused by the El Nino and Indian Ocean Dipole weather phenomena. ALSO READ | Somalia: At least 29 killed, 300,000 displaced after worst floods in decades hit East Africa Both are climate patterns that impact ocean surface temperatures and cause above-average rainfall. The flooding has been described as the worst in decades and has displaced about 700,000 people, according to the United Nations. The intense rains have unleashed widespread flooding across the country, triggering displacement and exacerbating an already existing humanitarian crisis caused by years of insurgency. ALSO READ | Heavy rains, floods wreak havoc in towns across East Africa In neighbouring Kenya the floods have so far killed 76 people, according to the Kenyan Red Cross, and also unleashed widespread displacement, destruction of roads and bridges and left many residents without shelter, drinking and food supplies, according to the charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).

Death toll from flooding in Somalia climbs to nearly 100

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