El Niño conditions have developed in the tropical Pacific and are forecast to “strengthen rapidly” over the coming months, as the world braces for more bouts of extreme weather.
The World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) global seasonal climate update indicates a strong El Niño event will occur during July to September, increasing the likelihood of heatwaves, droughts and heavy rainfall.
“The WMO community has launched an unprecedented mobilisation to coordinate activities across the United Nations and at regional level to support governments, humanitarian organisations and climate-sensitive sectors,” says WMO Secretary General Celeste Saulo.
“Advanced seasonal forecasts and early warnings are vital to save lives and cushion the impact on our economies and our communities.”
What is El Niño and what does it affect?
