A major El Niño warning has been issued as scientists and weather experts monitor a potentially exceptional climate event developing in the Pacific. Britain’s Met Office says 2026 could see an unusually strong El Niño, with the possibility of significant global weather impacts.

Pacific sea surface temperatures could rise by more than 3°C, far above the levels normally associated with El Niño. The climate pattern can influence rainfall, winds and temperatures across the world.

For India, the developing El Niño comes at a critical time. A strong El Niño can weaken the Indian monsoon, potentially affecting agriculture, water availability and crop production. The India Meteorological Department has forecast this year’s monsoon at around 90% of the long-period average, according to the report.

Experts warn that the impact could extend beyond the current crop season, potentially affecting the Rabi season and 2027 agriculture. Heatwaves could also become a major concern next year.

El Niño Warning: 2026 Could See Strongest Event In Living Memory | India Monsoon At Risk

The second wave of monsoon rainfall is wreaking havoc across India's northern states. The state of Punjab and the national capital New Delhi were most affected in the last 24 hours. Heavy rainfall has paralysed daily life and flooded vast portions of residential and agricultural land in the state of Punjab. As many as 41 people have been killed due to the devastating torrential floods which hit Punjab recently.

Monsoon rainfall in Indian state of Punjab kills 41 | WION Climate Tracker

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El Niño Warning: 2026 Could See Strongest Event In Living Memory | India Monsoon At Risk

Monsoon rainfall in Indian state of Punjab kills 41 | WION Climate Tracker