A rapidly strengthening El Nino is expected to dominate global weather patterns in the coming months, increasing the likelihood of extreme heat, drought and flooding across multiple regions, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
The United Nations weather agency warned that the climate phenomenon is developing against a backdrop of unprecedented ocean warmth and rising global temperatures, with scientists saying it has already reached record intensity for this early stage of its development.
The event is expected to continue through spring 2027, with its strongest impacts likely later this year and into next year.
The WMO projected above-normal temperatures across nearly all land areas, with particularly strong heat signals forecast for Africa, southern Europe, the Indian subcontinent, East Asia and South America.
Scientists also warned that changing rainfall patterns could bring drought and heightened wildfire risks to Indonesia, India, other parts of Asia, southern and eastern Australia, sections of South America and southern Africa.
At the same time, above-average rainfall is expected in areas including much of the United States and parts of southern Europe.
Researchers said computer models indicate the current El Nino could become the strongest on record when it reaches its peak, although they noted that projections remain uncertain.
The WMO stressed that early warnings should be matched by preparedness measures to reduce risks for vulnerable communities.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the strengthening El Nino will compound the effects of human-induced climate change.
He called for governments to accelerate climate action and urged an immediate halt to new coal, oil and gas projects, arguing that fossil fuel expansion is intensifying the climate crisis.
The UN also highlighted the need for stronger early warning systems, improved protection for workers exposed to extreme heat and greater public awareness of climate-related risks.
Scientists said El Nino is a natural climate pattern, but its effects are expected to combine with long-term global warming, increasing the severity of weather extremes worldwide.
The WMO said governments and humanitarian agencies still have an opportunity to prepare for the expected impacts before they fully unfold.