WMO Warns El Niño Could Return By August, Heightening Global Weather Threats
Local News Updated: 02 June 2026 17:34 EAT
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The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has warned that El Niño conditions are likely to develop by August 2026, raising concerns over a fresh wave of extreme weather events across many parts of the world. Climate experts say the phenomenon could influence weather patterns for several months, with a strong possibility of persisting through November.
According to the UN weather agency, warming sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific Ocean have continued to strengthen, creating favorable conditions for the emergence of El Niño. Scientists are closely monitoring ocean and atmospheric indicators that point to the climate pattern's return later this year.
The WMO estimates there is a high probability that El Niño will form during the June-to-August period. Forecast models also suggest that once established, the event is likely to continue through the final months of 2026, potentially affecting agriculture, water resources and disaster preparedness efforts worldwide.
Experts warn that El Niño is commonly associated with increased global temperatures and significant disruptions to rainfall patterns. Some regions may experience severe droughts, while others could face unusually heavy rainfall, flooding and destructive storms.
The organization has cautioned that the developing event could intensify existing climate challenges driven by global warming. Higher background temperatures mean that heatwaves linked to El Niño may become more severe, increasing health risks and placing additional pressure on energy and water supplies.
Several regions are expected to face contrasting weather impacts. Parts of eastern Africa and South America could receive above-average rainfall, while areas including Australia, Indonesia and portions of Asia may encounter drier-than-normal conditions and heightened wildfire risks.
The warning has prompted governments and humanitarian agencies to begin reviewing preparedness plans. Authorities are being encouraged to strengthen early warning systems, improve disaster response capabilities and support vulnerable communities that may be exposed to climate-related shocks.
Meteorologists emphasize that while El Niño is a naturally occurring climate phenomenon, its effects can be amplified in a warming world. With the likelihood of the event increasing, scientists say the coming months will be critical for monitoring its development and preparing for potentially widespread weather disruptions across the globe.
Tags: Cold Weather Edit Editors choice El Nino El Niño Nairobi Weather Weatherman Signs Media Kenya Limited Signsmedia Signstv Signstvkenya
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD