Weather experts have warned that a stronger El Niño weather system is taking hold, forecasting hotter and drier conditions across much of the world. The El Niño system is predicted to strengthen from August to October, leading to higher global temperatures.
According to new data and forecasts released by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on Friday, this will result in increasing rainfall in some regions while others experience drought. The WMO has indicated that the developing weather system is likely to be significantly stronger and more intense than usual.
The risk of a weakened monsoon in India, crucial for farmers, was highlighted, with a forecast for an "enhancement in the probability for below-normal rainfall." This could lead to increased drought, floods, and wildfire risk around the Indian Ocean basin. Drier conditions are also anticipated across parts of equatorial Africa, southern and eastern Australia, large parts of South America, and North America.
Conversely, higher than normal rainfall is expected in southern Europe, central Asia, the Horn of Africa, and south-eastern South America. Marine heatwaves have already been observed this year and are projected to intensify, with the WMO stating temperatures are likely to exceed 2.9C above normal in several regions.