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".

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

In pics | Heavy rains, floods wreak havoc in towns across East Africa

Global sugar prices soared to their highest level in almost 13 years in September due to the El Nino weather phenomenon in India and Thailand, the UN food agency said on Friday (Oct 6), while noting that the overall food index was mostly stable nevertheless.

Declines in indices for vegetable oils, dairy and meat offset the surge in sugar and maize prices, said Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

World food price index

According to the UN food agency, the price index which tracks the most globally traded food commodities averaged an estimated 121.5 points in September against the revised 121.6 for August, which previously stood at 121.4 points.&nbsp;

As per Reuters, last month’s figure was 10.7 per cent down year-on-year and 24 per cent below the all-time high reached in March 2022, after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-to-cap-sugar-exports-until-h1-2024-as-el-nino-looms-report-603565">India to cap sugar exports until H1 2024 as El Nino looms: Report</a>

The UN food agency’s cereal index rose 1.0 per cent from the previous month with prices in maize rising as much as seven per cent which has been attributed to a strong demand for Brazilian supplies and slower selling in Argentina as well as an increased barge freight rates in the United States.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, international wheat prices dropped by 1.6 per cent after Russia showed strong supplies and good production prospects, according to the FAO. The price for rice had skyrocketed nearly 10 per cent in August only dipping 0.5 per cent last month amid low import demand.&nbsp;

The UN food agency also noted a drop in the prices of dairy products by 2.3 per cent marking a ninth successive monthly fall which has been attributed to low global import demand and ample stocks.&nbsp;

The FAO has also forecasted the world cereal production this year at 2.819 billion tonnes slightly over the previous estimate of 2.815 billion. This is almost entirely driven by more positive yield estimates for Russia and Ukraine due to continued favourable weather conditions, said the UN food agency.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/financial-institutions-on-high-alert-as-el-nino-poses-risk-to-farm-loans-says-report-606351">Financial Institutions on high alert as El Nino poses risk to farm loans, says report&nbsp;</a>

<h2>Global sugar prices hit 13-year high</h2>

While the food prices across the world steadied, the FAO noted that their Sugar Price Index jumped by 9.8 per cent in September when compared to the month before that, reaching the highest point since November 2010.&nbsp;

This surge has been attributed to the El Nino weather phenomenon which has affected the production in India and Thailand. The climate pattern is often marked by warming ocean surface temperatures and extreme weather events.&nbsp;

The rise in FAO’s Sugar Price Index for a second consecutive month has also raised concerns over a tighter global supply outlook in the upcoming season.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-declares-onset-of-el-nino-says-itll-break-temperature-records-611836">UN declares onset of El Nino, says it'll break temperature records</a>

“This mainly reflects early forecasts pointing to production declines in key sugar producers, Thailand and India, due to drier-than-normal weather conditions associated with the prevailing El Nino event,” said the FAO.&nbsp;

“Higher international crude oil prices also contributed to the increase in world sugar prices,” it added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Global sugar prices soared to their highest level in almost 13 years in September due to the El Nino weather phenomenon in India and Thailand, the UN food agency said on Friday (Oct 6), while noting that the overall food index was mostly stable nevertheless.

Global sugar prices soared to their highest level in almost 13 years in September due to the El Nino weather phenomenon in India and Thailand, the UN food agency said on Friday (Oct 6), while noting that the overall food index was mostly stable nevertheless. Declines in indices for vegetable oils, dairy and meat offset the surge in sugar and maize prices, said Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). World food price index According to the UN food agency, the price index which tracks the most globally traded food commodities averaged an estimated 121.5 points in September against the revised 121.6 for August, which previously stood at 121.4 points. As per Reuters, last month’s figure was 10.7 per cent down year-on-year and 24 per cent below the all-time high reached in March 2022, after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. ALSO READ | India to cap sugar exports until H1 2024 as El Nino looms: Report The UN food agency’s cereal index rose 1.0 per cent from the previous month with prices in maize rising as much as seven per cent which has been attributed to a strong demand for Brazilian supplies and slower selling in Argentina as well as an increased barge freight rates in the United States. Meanwhile, international wheat prices dropped by 1.6 per cent after Russia showed strong supplies and good production prospects, according to the FAO. The price for rice had skyrocketed nearly 10 per cent in August only dipping 0.5 per cent last month amid low import demand. The UN food agency also noted a drop in the prices of dairy products by 2.3 per cent marking a ninth successive monthly fall which has been attributed to low global import demand and ample stocks. The FAO has also forecasted the world cereal production this year at 2.819 billion tonnes slightly over the previous estimate of 2.815 billion. This is almost entirely driven by more positive yield estimates for Russia and Ukraine due to continued favourable weather conditions, said the UN food agency. ALSO READ | Financial Institutions on high alert as El Nino poses risk to farm loans, says report Global sugar prices hit 13-year high While the food prices across the world steadied, the FAO noted that their Sugar Price Index jumped by 9.8 per cent in September when compared to the month before that, reaching the highest point since November 2010. This surge has been attributed to the El Nino weather phenomenon which has affected the production in India and Thailand. The climate pattern is often marked by warming ocean surface temperatures and extreme weather events. The rise in FAO’s Sugar Price Index for a second consecutive month has also raised concerns over a tighter global supply outlook in the upcoming season. ALSO READ | UN declares onset of El Nino, says it'll break temperature records “This mainly reflects early forecasts pointing to production declines in key sugar producers, Thailand and India, due to drier-than-normal weather conditions associated with the prevailing El Nino event,” said the FAO. “Higher international crude oil prices also contributed to the increase in world sugar prices,” it added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World sugar prices hit 13-year high in Sep due to El Nino; food price index 'mostly stable': FAO

The next summer season can be catastrophic due to El Nino and Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers has bought attention to the rising expense of disaster management in his country.

From floods to fires: Australia's growing climate crisis

India is set to mark the driest August since 1901 which is clearly being seen as a result of intensifying El Nino conditions by the senior meteorologists. 
 
This year, the monsoon is also likely to end up being the driest since 2015 as the country recorded a 13 per cent rainfall deficit, officials said. 
 
An India Meteorological Department (IMD) official said that after recording a precipitation deficit of 32 per cent in August and prediction of only subdued rainfall activity in the next three days across the country, India is set to record the driest August since 1901.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-nearing-8-year-low-in-monsoon-rainfall-sources-630086">India nearing 8-year low in monsoon rainfall:&nbsp;Sources</a>

The month of August recorded 254.9 mm of rainfall, which is 30 per cent of the precipitation received in the monsoon season. The country registered a rainfall deficit of 25 per cent in August 2005, 24.6 per cent in 1965; 24.4 per cent in 1920; 24.1 per cent in 2009 and 24 per cent deficit in 1913, as per the IMD data. 
 
IMD chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said that El Nino is the main reason behind below-normal rainfall in August, apart from the "unfavourable phase of the Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO) which is known to reduce convection in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea". 
 
El Nino is the climatic change that takes place due to the warming of waters in the Pacific Ocean near South America. Generally, El Nino is related to the dry weather and weakening monsoon winds in India.

<h2>El Nino impacts two low-pressure systems</h2>

"The favourable phase of MJO results in rainfall even if there is no low-pressure system. July recorded above-normal rainfall due to the favourable phase of MJO," Mohapatra stated. 
 
He added that the prevailing El Nino conditions impacted only two low-pressure systems, among the five, which developed over the Bay of Bengal (BoB). "Another reason for below-normal rainfall in August was a lower number of low-pressure systems in the South China Sea and they, too, moved northward," he further stated. 
 
Low-pressure systems that develop over the South China Sea typically move westward and reach the north BoB after crossing Thailand and Vietnam.

WATCH |&nbsp;El Nino threatens India’s economy with driest monsoon

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Because of the positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), the outlook for the month of September does not look very bleak, said Madhavan Rajeevan, former secretary at the Ministry of Earth Sciences, while speaking to PTI. 
 
"September is not expected to be as bad as August. Models suggest the September rainfall will be on the lower side of the normal," he added. The senior meteorologist held El Nino as the primary reason for the high rainfall deficit recorded in August. 
 
"The absence of the positive phase of MJO must have also played a marginal role," he stated. Meanwhile, Mohapatra said, "Rainfall in September is likely to be on the lower side (94 per cent to 99 per cent) of the normal (422.8 mm).”

(With inputs from agencies)

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India is set to mark the driest August since 1901 which is clearly being seen as a result of intensifying El Nino conditions by the senior meteorologists. This year, the monsoon is also likely to end up being the driest since 2015 as the country recorded a 13 per cent rainfall deficit, officials said.

India is set to mark the driest August since 1901 which is clearly being seen as a result of intensifying El Nino conditions by the senior meteorologists. This year, the monsoon is also likely to end up being the driest since 2015 as the country recorded a 13 per cent rainfall deficit, officials said. An India Meteorological Department (IMD) official said that after recording a precipitation deficit of 32 per cent in August and prediction of only subdued rainfall activity in the next three days across the country, India is set to record the driest August since 1901. ALSO READ | India nearing 8-year low in monsoon rainfall: Sources The month of August recorded 254.9 mm of rainfall, which is 30 per cent of the precipitation received in the monsoon season. The country registered a rainfall deficit of 25 per cent in August 2005, 24.6 per cent in 1965; 24.4 per cent in 1920; 24.1 per cent in 2009 and 24 per cent deficit in 1913, as per the IMD data. IMD chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said that El Nino is the main reason behind below-normal rainfall in August, apart from the "unfavourable phase of the Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO) which is known to reduce convection in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea". El Nino is the climatic change that takes place due to the warming of waters in the Pacific Ocean near South America. Generally, El Nino is related to the dry weather and weakening monsoon winds in India. El Nino impacts two low-pressure systems "The favourable phase of MJO results in rainfall even if there is no low-pressure system. July recorded above-normal rainfall due to the favourable phase of MJO," Mohapatra stated. He added that the prevailing El Nino conditions impacted only two low-pressure systems, among the five, which developed over the Bay of Bengal (BoB). "Another reason for below-normal rainfall in August was a lower number of low-pressure systems in the South China Sea and they, too, moved northward," he further stated. Low-pressure systems that develop over the South China Sea typically move westward and reach the north BoB after crossing Thailand and Vietnam. WATCH | El Nino threatens India’s economy with driest monsoon Because of the positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), the outlook for the month of September does not look very bleak, said Madhavan Rajeevan, former secretary at the Ministry of Earth Sciences, while speaking to PTI. "September is not expected to be as bad as August. Models suggest the September rainfall will be on the lower side of the normal," he added. The senior meteorologist held El Nino as the primary reason for the high rainfall deficit recorded in August. "The absence of the positive phase of MJO must have also played a marginal role," he stated. Meanwhile, Mohapatra said, "Rainfall in September is likely to be on the lower side (94 per cent to 99 per cent) of the normal (422.8 mm).” (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India set to register driest August since 1901 as El Nino conditions intensify

India's monsoon season, a lifeline for its agriculture and economy, is facing a formidable test this year. The El Niño weather pattern has cast a shadow, contributing to the country's impending crisis – the lowest monsoon rains in eight years. This alarming situation is driving concerns across various sectors.

El Niño threatens India’s economy with driest monsoon

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