El Niño Could Strengthen Further and Continue Into 2027, WMO Warns

The current El Niño weather phenomenon is expected to strengthen further and could persist into early 2027, raising the likelihood of extreme weather conditions across several parts of the world, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The UN weather agency said unusually warm sea-surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific are driving the latest El Niño event. Forecasts indicate that the phenomenon could intensify in the coming months and remain active until at least February 2027.

El Niño is a naturally occurring climate pattern that develops when waters in the central and eastern tropical Pacific become warmer than usual. Changes in ocean temperatures can influence atmospheric circulation and rainfall patterns far beyond the Pacific, affecting weather conditions across different continents.

The WMO warned that a stronger El Niño could increase the risk of several forms of extreme weather. Depending on the region, countries could experience heavier rainfall and flooding, prolonged droughts, heatwaves and stronger storms. The effects can also disrupt agriculture, water supplies, energy systems and other climate-sensitive sectors.

The agency has called on governments to strengthen preparedness measures and make effective use of early-warning systems as the event develops. Timely forecasts and coordinated planning could help communities reduce the potential impact of weather-related disasters.

Scientists are also closely monitoring the interaction between El Niño and long-term global warming. Rising global temperatures mean that an El Niño event is occurring against an already warmer climate background. The combination could contribute to exceptionally high temperatures globally.

The WMO has warned that 2027 could be among the hottest years on record if the El Niño pattern persists alongside continued human-driven warming. While El Niño itself is a natural phenomenon, climate change can influence the severity and consequences of the temperature extremes associated with it. The WMO stressed the importance of preparing ahead of potentially hazardous weather rather than responding only after extreme events occur. As forecasts become clearer in the coming months, countries will have a better understanding of the areas most likely to face heightened risks.