Global Temperatures Set to Break Records as El Ni o Strengthens

The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has issued a forecast indicating a 90% probability of an El Ni o event continuing through the second half of 2023. This natural climate pattern, characterised by the warming of ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific, is now expected to develop into a strong event, with significant global repercussions.

Scientists anticipate that the strengthening El Ni o will almost certainly lead to record-breaking global temperatures. The WMO’s assessment highlights that global average temperatures are likely to reach new peaks, surpassing the previous record set in 2016 during the last strong El Ni o.

The climate phenomenon typically influences weather patterns across the globe, leading to more extreme conditions. This includes heightened risks of drought in some regions, while others face increased rainfall and flooding. The WMO cautions that the combined effect of El Ni o and existing climate change trends will intensify these impacts, posing considerable challenges to vulnerable communities and infrastructure worldwide.