Commercial ships travelling through the Panama Canal are facing a surge in costs as they seek alternative routes because of maritime travel disruption due to the Iran war and falling water levels linked to the intense El Niño weather system.&nbsp;As per reports, a container ship paid $4 million to skip the queue at the Panama Canal, where wait times are now stretching more than a week to pass through the vital maritime choke point.&nbsp;The near-record high auction figure was reportedly paid by the owner of the vessel, the Seaspan Benefactor. The owner could not be identified because the auction data is private.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-gives-intelligence-services-broad-powers-amid-rising-hybrid-threats-security-lapses-1786548101127">Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses</a>&nbsp;Ships are now waiting about 10 days for their turn to pass through the trade route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The route is favoured by shippers, as it usually reduces cost and transit times, especially for large retailers and energy companies that trade between Asia and the US.&nbsp;<h2>Panama Canal Authority runs daily auctions for shipowners</h2>&nbsp;While shipping companies pay a flat fee to reserve a slot for transit through the canal, the Panama Canal Authority also runs daily auctions that allow shipowners to place bids to skip the queue.&nbsp;&nbsp;Starting bids open at about $15,000 for smaller cargo vessels and $55,000 for the largest ships, but these prices can shoot up during times of heavy congestion or high demand.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/heaven-made-in-china-optical-shop-owner-learns-ai-painstakingly-gets-fame-as-video-goes-viral-1786540438553">Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral</a>&nbsp;The $4 million transit fee was paid for Seaspan Benefactor, a 10,100 TEU (20-foot equivalent unit) vessel.&nbsp;Shipowners are willing to pay significantly higher prices at auction to avoid queues, as more vessels stay away from the Gulf and the Red Sea.&nbsp;&nbsp;The military conflict in the Middle East has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab, the narrow waterway between the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa.&nbsp;<h2>Falling water levels amid El Niño a big concern</h2>&nbsp;Prices for travelling through the Panama Canal’s busiest shipping lanes have hit record highs at a time when water levels are falling amid the rapidly developing El Niño weather system.&nbsp;The Panama Canal Authority has said that it would impose limits in late August and early September on how low vessels can travel through the water, known as a ship’s draft, in an effort to keep traffic flowing.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baloch-leader-thanks-indian-media-announces-push-for-recognition-of-republic-of-balochistan-1786479617334">Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’</a>&nbsp;The Panama Canal is not the only crucial trade route affected by low water levels, amid growing international concern over the economic consequences of the climate emergency.&nbsp;Prolonged dry weather across Europe has led to record low water levels in the Rhine, with traders warning that it was not possible to book some cargo shipments on the river, forcing them to pay higher costs to transport goods by road and rail instead.The Rhine is one of Europe’s main arteries for transporting grain, fuel, minerals, and goods.&nbsp;

Ships are now waiting about 10 days for their turn to pass through the trade route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The route is favoured by shippers, as it usually reduces cost and transit times, especially for large retailers and energy companies that trade between Asia and the US.

Commercial ships travelling through the Panama Canal are facing a surge in costs as they seek alternative routes because of maritime travel disruption due to the Iran war and falling water levels linked to the intense El Niño weather system. As per reports, a container ship paid $4 million to skip the queue at the Panama Canal, where wait times are now stretching more than a week to pass through the vital maritime choke point. The near-record high auction figure was reportedly paid by the owner of the vessel, the Seaspan Benefactor. The owner could not be identified because the auction data is private. Also Read: Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses Ships are now waiting about 10 days for their turn to pass through the trade route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The route is favoured by shippers, as it usually reduces cost and transit times, especially for large retailers and energy companies that trade between Asia and the US. Panama Canal Authority runs daily auctions for shipowners While shipping companies pay a flat fee to reserve a slot for transit through the canal, the Panama Canal Authority also runs daily auctions that allow shipowners to place bids to skip the queue. Starting bids open at about $15,000 for smaller cargo vessels and $55,000 for the largest ships, but these prices can shoot up during times of heavy congestion or high demand. Also Read: Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral The $4 million transit fee was paid for Seaspan Benefactor, a 10,100 TEU (20-foot equivalent unit) vessel. Shipowners are willing to pay significantly higher prices at auction to avoid queues, as more vessels stay away from the Gulf and the Red Sea. The military conflict in the Middle East has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab, the narrow waterway between the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa. Falling water levels amid El Niño a big concern Prices for travelling through the Panama Canal’s busiest shipping lanes have hit record highs at a time when water levels are falling amid the rapidly developing El Niño weather system. The Panama Canal Authority has said that it would impose limits in late August and early September on how low vessels can travel through the water, known as a ship’s draft, in an effort to keep traffic flowing. Also Read: Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’ The Panama Canal is not the only crucial trade route affected by low water levels, amid growing international concern over the economic consequences of the climate emergency. Prolonged dry weather across Europe has led to record low water levels in the Rhine, with traders warning that it was not possible to book some cargo shipments on the river, forcing them to pay higher costs to transport goods by road and rail instead. The Rhine is one of Europe’s main arteries for transporting grain, fuel, minerals, and goods.

Ships are now waiting about 10 days for their turn to pass through the trade route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The route is favoured by shippers, as it usually reduces cost and transit times, especially for large retailers and energy companies that trade between Asia and the US.

Panama Canal fees surge; container ship shells out $4 million to jump queue

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday (July 04) directed concerned ministries and officials to remain vigilant and work closely with state governments to support farmers, particularly for kharif crop sowing, as several parts of the country continue to receive below-normal rainfall due to the impact of El Niño.&nbsp;El Niño is a climate phenomenon marked by the warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean. It often weakens the Indian summer monsoon, leading to below-normal rainfall across parts of the country.&nbsp;The Centre reviewed the prevailing rainfall situation and its likely impact on agriculture, water availability and drought conditions in affected regions.&nbsp;"The government is continuously monitoring the situation regarding below-normal rainfall and potential drought conditions in certain parts of the country due to El Niño," an official release said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pezeshkian-ghalibaf-break-down-as-iran-bids-farewell-to-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-1783117672966">Watch: Pezeshkian, Ghalibaf break down as Iran bids farewell to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a><h2>Centre reviews water availability and food security</h2>During the meeting, Shah directed the Ministry of Agriculture and other concerned ministries to stay on alert and coordinate with state governments to ensure farmers receive timely advisories on suitable crop choices based on changing rainfall patterns.He also instructed the Department of Water Resources under the Ministry of Jal Shakti to closely monitor water availability across the country.&nbsp;"The Union Home Minister directed the Ministry of Jal Shakti to monitor all water bodies, large and small, and groundwater across the country," the release said.&nbsp;Shah also stressed the need to encourage crops that require less water in view of changing weather conditions.&nbsp;"He also emphasised the need to focus on alternative crops that require less water, such as fodder, millets and pulses," the release added.&nbsp;The government also assured that food security remains unaffected despite the weather concerns.&nbsp;"Adequate quantities of essential food grains, including rice and wheat, are available in the country, and the prices of essential commodities remain stable," officials informed the meeting.&nbsp;The review comes after India recorded one of its driest Junes on record. The country received just 99.5 mm of rainfall during the month, around 40 per cent below normal, making it the fifth-lowest June rainfall since records began in 1901. Central India was the worst affected region, recording a rainfall deficit of more than 50 per cent.

The Centre reviewed the prevailing rainfall situation and its likely impact on agriculture, water availability and drought conditions in affected regions.



Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday (July 04) directed concerned ministries and officials to remain vigilant and work closely with state governments to support farmers, particularly for kharif crop sowing, as several parts of the country continue to receive below-normal rainfall due to the impact of El Niño. El Niño is a climate phenomenon marked by the warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean. It often weakens the Indian summer monsoon, leading to below-normal rainfall across parts of the country. The Centre reviewed the prevailing rainfall situation and its likely impact on agriculture, water availability and drought conditions in affected regions. "The government is continuously monitoring the situation regarding below-normal rainfall and potential drought conditions in certain parts of the country due to El Niño," an official release said. Also Read: Watch: Pezeshkian, Ghalibaf break down as Iran bids farewell to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Centre reviews water availability and food security During the meeting, Shah directed the Ministry of Agriculture and other concerned ministries to stay on alert and coordinate with state governments to ensure farmers receive timely advisories on suitable crop choices based on changing rainfall patterns. He also instructed the Department of Water Resources under the Ministry of Jal Shakti to closely monitor water availability across the country. "The Union Home Minister directed the Ministry of Jal Shakti to monitor all water bodies, large and small, and groundwater across the country," the release said. Shah also stressed the need to encourage crops that require less water in view of changing weather conditions. "He also emphasised the need to focus on alternative crops that require less water, such as fodder, millets and pulses," the release added. The government also assured that food security remains unaffected despite the weather concerns. "Adequate quantities of essential food grains, including rice and wheat, are available in the country, and the prices of essential commodities remain stable," officials informed the meeting. The review comes after India recorded one of its driest Junes on record. The country received just 99.5 mm of rainfall during the month, around 40 per cent below normal, making it the fifth-lowest June rainfall since records began in 1901. Central India was the worst affected region, recording a rainfall deficit of more than 50 per cent.

The Centre reviewed the prevailing rainfall situation and its likely impact on agriculture, water availability and drought conditions in affected regions.

Govt reviews impact of El Niño triggered rainfall deficit as India records one of its driest Junes

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed the onset of El Niño conditions over the equatorial Pacific Ocean and warned that the climate phenomenon may strengthen further during the monsoon season. In its June 2026 El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) Bulletin, the IMD said that warming sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific have crossed the threshold required for El Niño conditions, which are now expected to strengthen.Sea surface temperatures are above normal, and warmer water is present below the ocean surface, while the atmosphere is also responding to the ocean warming.&nbsp;<h2>What is El Niño?</h2>&nbsp;El Niño is a climate pattern that develops in the equatorial Pacific Ocean when sea surface temperatures become warmer than normal. This sea surface warming changes wind patterns and air pressure, which in turn affects weather across the world.As a result of El Niño, weather patterns shift globally, often causing heavy rain and floods in some regions, drought in others, and sometimes higher overall global temperatures.El Nino is part of a larger system called ENSO, which also includes La Nina, the cooler phase of the cycle.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-satellite-spots-strongest-sign-of-super-el-nino-confirming-all-predictions-what-to-expect-1780666935157">NASA satellite spots strongest sign of Super El Nino, confirming all predictions - What to expect?</a>&nbsp;The atmospheric circulation changes due to El Niño often lead to less rainfall in several parts of Asia, including India.&nbsp;Since India is heavily dependent on the southwest monsoon for water resources and farming, El Niño can have far-reaching consequences on agriculture, the economy, and public health as well.&nbsp;<h2>Impact on rainfall and weather</h2>&nbsp;The most direct effect of El Niño on India is the weakening of the southwest monsoon, which contributes nearly 70% of annual rainfall and is crucial for agriculture, groundwater recharge, and reservoir levels.A strong El Niño can delay the onset of monsoon and lead to below-normal rainfall across many regions, longer dry spells and uneven distribution of rainfall.Less rainfall results in lower water levels in rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater sources, thereby affecting both urban and rural communities.Moreover, some regions may witness extreme weather events like intense localised rainfall due to changing atmospheric conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-below-normal-monsoon-el-nino-rainfall-forecast-1780050508138">IMD predicts below-normal monsoon, heatwave as El Nino develops</a><h2>Impact on agriculture</h2>&nbsp;India’s agriculture sector is the most vulnerable to El Niño as a lot of cultivated land still depends on rainfall.Deficient rainfall can adversely affect major crops like rice, pulses, sugarcane, maize, and oilseeds, as poor soil moisture reduces crop yields. It also increases the dependence on irrigation and more expenditure on water management, electricity, and fertilisers.Lower agricultural output means reduced farm incomes and higher rural distress.&nbsp;Reduced water availability also means less fodder, which impacts livestock and dairy production.&nbsp;<h2>Economic consequences</h2>&nbsp;A weak monsoon can affect economic growth through multiple channels. Low farm output may reduce rural consumption and demand for goods and services. It may also lead to rising prices of essential commodities like cereals, vegetables, and pulses, contributing to food inflation.Water shortage also affects industries like power generation, food processing and manufacturing. Hydropower production can decline if reservoir levels fall significantly and, in turn, cause a cascading effect on the economy.The inflationary pressures due to reduced agricultural output may influence monetary policy and consumer spending, affecting overall economic stability.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/el-nino-returns-global-weather-risks-rise-as-climate-pattern-reactivates-1781254606922/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/el-nino-returns-global-weather-risks-rise-as-climate-pattern-reactivates-1781254606922/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Impact on public health</h2>&nbsp;Weather change impacts health significantly as rising temperatures and prolonged heatwaves increase the risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, heatstroke, and cardiovascular complications. Elderly people, children, outdoor workers and individuals with pre-existing health conditions are especially vulnerable.Water scarcity leads to reduced access to safe drinking water and poor sanitation which, consequently, further contribute to health challenges.Higher temperatures and irregular rainfall make conditions favourable for mosquito breeding and the spread of vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria.People facing crop losses, financial stress, and livelihood uncertainty impact mental health and present challenges.&nbsp;The country needs proactive planning and concerted action to minimise the impact of El Niño and reduce its adverse effects.

The most direct effect of El Niño on India is the weakening of the southwest monsoon, which contributes nearly 70% of annual rainfall and is crucial for agriculture, groundwater recharge, and reservoir levels. A strong El Niño can delay the onset of monsoon and lead to below-normal rainfall.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed the onset of El Niño conditions over the equatorial Pacific Ocean and warned that the climate phenomenon may strengthen further during the monsoon season. In its June 2026 El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) Bulletin, the IMD said that warming sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific have crossed the threshold required for El Niño conditions, which are now expected to strengthen. Sea surface temperatures are above normal, and warmer water is present below the ocean surface, while the atmosphere is also responding to the ocean warming. What is El Niño? El Niño is a climate pattern that develops in the equatorial Pacific Ocean when sea surface temperatures become warmer than normal. This sea surface warming changes wind patterns and air pressure, which in turn affects weather across the world. As a result of El Niño, weather patterns shift globally, often causing heavy rain and floods in some regions, drought in others, and sometimes higher overall global temperatures. El Nino is part of a larger system called ENSO, which also includes La Nina, the cooler phase of the cycle. Also Read: NASA satellite spots strongest sign of Super El Nino, confirming all predictions - What to expect? The atmospheric circulation changes due to El Niño often lead to less rainfall in several parts of Asia, including India. Since India is heavily dependent on the southwest monsoon for water resources and farming, El Niño can have far-reaching consequences on agriculture, the economy, and public health as well. Impact on rainfall and weather The most direct effect of El Niño on India is the weakening of the southwest monsoon, which contributes nearly 70% of annual rainfall and is crucial for agriculture, groundwater recharge, and reservoir levels. A strong El Niño can delay the onset of monsoon and lead to below-normal rainfall across many regions, longer dry spells and uneven distribution of rainfall. Less rainfall results in lower water levels in rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater sources, thereby affecting both urban and rural communities. Moreover, some regions may witness extreme weather events like intense localised rainfall due to changing atmospheric conditions. Also Read: IMD predicts below-normal monsoon, heatwave as El Nino develops Impact on agriculture India’s agriculture sector is the most vulnerable to El Niño as a lot of cultivated land still depends on rainfall. Deficient rainfall can adversely affect major crops like rice, pulses, sugarcane, maize, and oilseeds, as poor soil moisture reduces crop yields. It also increases the dependence on irrigation and more expenditure on water management, electricity, and fertilisers. Lower agricultural output means reduced farm incomes and higher rural distress. Reduced water availability also means less fodder, which impacts livestock and dairy production. Economic consequences A weak monsoon can affect economic growth through multiple channels. Low farm output may reduce rural consumption and demand for goods and services. It may also lead to rising prices of essential commodities like cereals, vegetables, and pulses, contributing to food inflation. Water shortage also affects industries like power generation, food processing and manufacturing. Hydropower production can decline if reservoir levels fall significantly and, in turn, cause a cascading effect on the economy. The inflationary pressures due to reduced agricultural output may influence monetary policy and consumer spending, affecting overall economic stability. https://www.wionews.com/videos/el-nino-returns-global-weather-risks-rise-as-climate-pattern-reactivates-1781254606922/embed Impact on public health Weather change impacts health significantly as rising temperatures and prolonged heatwaves increase the risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, heatstroke, and cardiovascular complications. Elderly people, children, outdoor workers and individuals with pre-existing health conditions are especially vulnerable. Water scarcity leads to reduced access to safe drinking water and poor sanitation which, consequently, further contribute to health challenges. Higher temperatures and irregular rainfall make conditions favourable for mosquito breeding and the spread of vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria. People facing crop losses, financial stress, and livelihood uncertainty impact mental health and present challenges. The country needs proactive planning and concerted action to minimise the impact of El Niño and reduce its adverse effects.

The most direct effect of El Niño on India is the weakening of the southwest monsoon, which contributes nearly 70% of annual rainfall and is crucial for agriculture, groundwater recharge, and reservoir levels. A strong El Niño can delay the onset of monsoon and lead to below-normal rainfall.

IMD warns of El Niño onset: How will it impact India’s weather, rainfall, economy and public health

The Indian Meteorological Department on Friday said that El Niño conditions have developed over the equatorial Pacific Ocean and are likely to impact the Indian southwest monsoon. Weather forecast IMD’s own monsoon modelling system predicts&nbsp;a “moderate to strong” monsoon season ending in September, likely to cause the lowest rainfall of the country in decades. The El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) bulletin confirm that both the ocean and atmosphere now show clear signs of El Niño.&nbsp;<h2>Sea surface temperature over the Pacific and Indian Ocean</h2>In May, the Sea surface temperature over the Pacific Ocean, especially across the central and eastern equatorial Pacific, signalled a warming trend, which increased compared to April. Similarly, the Indian Ocean Sea surface temperature also showed an above-average temperature over the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, which increased compared to April.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-anthropic-fable-5-mythos-5-jailbreaking-national-security-1781335223909">US locks down Anthropic's most powerful AI after alarming jailbreak warning</a><h2>ENSO development&nbsp;</h2>ENSO moved from neutral in June-July 2025 to La Niña from August 2025 to February 2026, then back to neutral in March–May 2026, and by June 2026, the Niño 3.4 index crossed the El Niño threshold. Subsurface Pacific warming is strong and extending beyond the thermocline, the layer where temperature usually drops with depth. This further supports the development of El Niño.&nbsp;<h2>The Indian Ocean Dipole</h2>The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is currently neutral and likely to stay neutral throughout the southwest monsoon season. In a positive IOD, the western Indian Ocean is warmer than usual, and the eastern Indian Ocean is cooler than usual; in a negative IOD, the pattern is reversed. Neutral IOD does not impact the monsoon suppression by El Niño; a positive IOD can somewhat offset the monsoon suppression impact of El Niño. For the Indian Ocean, the forecast shows mostly positive SST anomalies broadly across the basin, but not a clear shift away from neutral IOD conditions.&nbsp;

The IMD has confirmed the development of El Niño conditions over the Pacific Ocean, warning that the phenomenon could suppress India's southwest monsoon and contribute to unusually low rainfall.

The Indian Meteorological Department on Friday said that El Niño conditions have developed over the equatorial Pacific Ocean and are likely to impact the Indian southwest monsoon. Weather forecast IMD’s own monsoon modelling system predicts a “moderate to strong” monsoon season ending in September, likely to cause the lowest rainfall of the country in decades. The El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) bulletin confirm that both the ocean and atmosphere now show clear signs of El Niño. Sea surface temperature over the Pacific and Indian Ocean In May, the Sea surface temperature over the Pacific Ocean, especially across the central and eastern equatorial Pacific, signalled a warming trend, which increased compared to April. Similarly, the Indian Ocean Sea surface temperature also showed an above-average temperature over the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, which increased compared to April. Also Read: US locks down Anthropic's most powerful AI after alarming jailbreak warning ENSO development ENSO moved from neutral in June-July 2025 to La Niña from August 2025 to February 2026, then back to neutral in March–May 2026, and by June 2026, the Niño 3.4 index crossed the El Niño threshold. Subsurface Pacific warming is strong and extending beyond the thermocline, the layer where temperature usually drops with depth. This further supports the development of El Niño. The Indian Ocean Dipole The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is currently neutral and likely to stay neutral throughout the southwest monsoon season. In a positive IOD, the western Indian Ocean is warmer than usual, and the eastern Indian Ocean is cooler than usual; in a negative IOD, the pattern is reversed. Neutral IOD does not impact the monsoon suppression by El Niño; a positive IOD can somewhat offset the monsoon suppression impact of El Niño. For the Indian Ocean, the forecast shows mostly positive SST anomalies broadly across the basin, but not a clear shift away from neutral IOD conditions.

The IMD has confirmed the development of El Niño conditions over the Pacific Ocean, warning that the phenomenon could suppress India's southwest monsoon and contribute to unusually low rainfall.

IMD tracks El Niño growth as concerns mount over India's rainfall outlook

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?

Global temperatures are projected to remain at historic highs over the next five years, with scientists warning that the internationally recognised 1.5°C climate threshold could be breached before the end of the decade. A new report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the UK Met Office forecasts that annual average temperatures between 2026 and 2030 will range from 1.3°C to 1.9°C above pre-industrial levels recorded between 1850 and 1900. The report states there is a 75 per cent chance that the average global temperature during the five-year period will exceed 1.5°C. The WMO further estimates a 91 per cent likelihood that at least one individual year before 2030 will cross the mark.<h2>Arctic Heating Accelerates Faster Than Rest of Planet</h2>The report highlights the Arctic as one of the fastest-warming regions on Earth. Winter temperatures across the Arctic are expected to rise by around 2.8°C above the 1991–2020 average over the next five years, more than three-and-a-half times faster than the global average.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fake-cockroach-janta-party-android-app-flagged-as-critical-malware-threat-report-warns-1779954616682">Fake 'Cockroach Janta Party' Android app flagged as critical malware threat, report warns</a>&nbsp;Scientists further warned that rapid Arctic warming is likely to intensify the melting of sea ice in the Barents Sea, Bering Sea and Sea of Okhotsk during March, a key period for seasonal ice coverage. Melissa Seabrook, a climate scientist at the UK Met Office, told Reuters there was ‘very clear evidence’ that the climate was continuing to warm.<h2>Extreme Weather Risks Continue to Grow</h2>The report also projects wetter conditions across northern Europe, Alaska, Siberia and the Sahel, while the Amazon region is expected to experience drier weather conditions linked to drought and wildfire risks. According to AP, scientists said rising temperatures caused by the continued use of coal, oil and gas are increasing the frequency and severity of floods, droughts and heatwaves worldwide. A strong El Niño event is also forecast later this year and could persist into 2027. The warming of Pacific Ocean surface temperatures associated with El Niño typically raises global temperatures further and can contribute to record-breaking heat.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-canada-s-online-safety-bill-why-tech-giants-like-apple-google-oppose-it-what-it-means-for-user-privacy-wion-decodes-1779886628323">What is Canada’s online safety bill? Why tech giants like Apple &amp; Google oppose it, what it means for user privacy | WION Decodes</a><h2>Temporary Breach Does Not Mean Paris Goals Have Failed</h2>Scientists stressed that temporarily exceeding 1.5°C does not mean the Paris Agreement has formally failed, since the target is measured as a long-term average over two decades rather than a single year. However, researchers warned that every fraction of additional warming carries consequences for ecosystems, human health and infrastructure.&nbsp;&nbsp;The report also indicates an 86 per cent chance that one year before 2030 will surpass 2024 as the hottest year ever recorded. Coral reefs, glaciers and Arctic ecosystems are considered particularly vulnerable even to small increases in global temperature.

The report also indicates an 86 per cent chance that one year before 2030 will surpass 2024 as the hottest year ever recorded. Coral reefs, glaciers and Arctic ecosystems are considered particularly vulnerable even to small increases in global temperature.

Global temperatures are projected to remain at historic highs over the next five years, with scientists warning that the internationally recognised 1.5°C climate threshold could be breached before the end of the decade. A new report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the UK Met Office forecasts that annual average temperatures between 2026 and 2030 will range from 1.3°C to 1.9°C above pre-industrial levels recorded between 1850 and 1900. The report states there is a 75 per cent chance that the average global temperature during the five-year period will exceed 1.5°C. The WMO further estimates a 91 per cent likelihood that at least one individual year before 2030 will cross the mark. Arctic Heating Accelerates Faster Than Rest of Planet The report highlights the Arctic as one of the fastest-warming regions on Earth. Winter temperatures across the Arctic are expected to rise by around 2.8°C above the 1991–2020 average over the next five years, more than three-and-a-half times faster than the global average. ALSO READ: Fake 'Cockroach Janta Party' Android app flagged as critical malware threat, report warns Scientists further warned that rapid Arctic warming is likely to intensify the melting of sea ice in the Barents Sea, Bering Sea and Sea of Okhotsk during March, a key period for seasonal ice coverage. Melissa Seabrook, a climate scientist at the UK Met Office, told Reuters there was ‘very clear evidence’ that the climate was continuing to warm. Extreme Weather Risks Continue to Grow The report also projects wetter conditions across northern Europe, Alaska, Siberia and the Sahel, while the Amazon region is expected to experience drier weather conditions linked to drought and wildfire risks. According to AP, scientists said rising temperatures caused by the continued use of coal, oil and gas are increasing the frequency and severity of floods, droughts and heatwaves worldwide. A strong El Niño event is also forecast later this year and could persist into 2027. The warming of Pacific Ocean surface temperatures associated with El Niño typically raises global temperatures further and can contribute to record-breaking heat. ALSO READ: What is Canada’s online safety bill? Why tech giants like Apple & Google oppose it, what it means for user privacy | WION Decodes Temporary Breach Does Not Mean Paris Goals Have Failed Scientists stressed that temporarily exceeding 1.5°C does not mean the Paris Agreement has formally failed, since the target is measured as a long-term average over two decades rather than a single year. However, researchers warned that every fraction of additional warming carries consequences for ecosystems, human health and infrastructure. The report also indicates an 86 per cent chance that one year before 2030 will surpass 2024 as the hottest year ever recorded. Coral reefs, glaciers and Arctic ecosystems are considered particularly vulnerable even to small increases in global temperature.

The report also indicates an 86 per cent chance that one year before 2030 will surpass 2024 as the hottest year ever recorded. Coral reefs, glaciers and Arctic ecosystems are considered particularly vulnerable even to small increases in global temperature.

Think this is the hottest it gets? UN report warns Earth could smash temperature records by 2030

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

Earth likely to breach 1.5°C warming limit before 2030, UN report warns