El Niño 'supersized' as countries race to prepare for extreme weather, UN warns
The world has entered a "danger zone of extreme weather" as the impacts of El Niño start to be felt globally, UN head António Guterres has warned.
TL;DR
- El Niño is intensifying, potentially becoming the strongest in over 70 years, with impacts expected until at least February 2027.
- The phenomenon causes extreme weather, including droughts, typhoons, and flooding, and is exacerbated by human-induced climate change.
- The UN and WMO are mobilizing to strengthen early warning systems and provide assistance, but vulnerable groups remain at high risk.
- Drier conditions are forecast for Southeast Asia, Central America, and parts of South America, increasing drought and wildfire risks.
- Wetter conditions and increased flooding are expected in parts of East Africa, southern Brazil, and the southern US.
- Ocean temperatures in the Pacific are significantly above average, with concerning implications for marine life and coastal regions like Australia.
- Countries like Indonesia and China are already facing severe wildfire and typhoon threats, respectively.
- Preparedness measures, including early warning systems and medical assistance, are being implemented, but underlying structural issues exacerbate vulnerability.