The El Niño weather phenomenon is expected to strengthen further into 2027, increasing the risk of extreme weather events worldwide, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said Thursday.

According to the UN weather agency, there is a near 100% probability that El Niño will continue through February 2027. Exceptionally warm temperatures in the Pacific Ocean are driving the phenomenon.

Meanwhile, scientists warn that a strong El Niño can disrupt normal rainfall and temperature patterns across several regions. It can also increase the likelihood of extreme events, including powerful storms and typhoons.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the changing climate is pushing the planet into unfamiliar territory.

“El Niño is being supersized before our eyes,” Guterres said, warning that the planet’s oceans are continuing to heat up.

El Niño Expected to Peak Later This Year

El Niño is a naturally occurring climate pattern linked to warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific Ocean.

The phenomenon develops when trade winds weaken, allowing warm water to move eastward across the Pacific. Typically, El Niño occurs every two to seven years and can last for several months to about a year.

Imran Khan’s Sister Files Second Contempt Petition Over Court Order

As a result, its effects can extend far beyond the Pacific region. Some areas may experience heavier rainfall and flooding, while others face drought and unusually high temperatures.

The WMO said the current El Niño is expected to reach its peak toward the end of 2026.

Food and Agriculture Face Growing Risks

The effects of the current El Niño have already been felt in tropical regions. In particular, changing weather conditions have affected soft commodity production and agricultural communities.

Central America’s Dry Corridor has faced severe climate pressures, contributing to food insecurity across vulnerable communities.

Furthermore, continued shifts in rainfall could place additional pressure on agriculture, water supplies and food production in affected regions.

WMO Strengthens Early Warning Efforts

In response to the growing risks, the WMO said it is increasing preparedness and early warning efforts ahead of the expected peak.

WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said timely climate information will be essential for governments and humanitarian organizations.

“We are committed to working closely with partners across the United Nations and humanitarian system,” Saulo said.

She added that the agency aims to provide climate intelligence to support disaster management and climate-sensitive sectors. These include agriculture, health, energy and water resources.

Therefore, authorities are being urged to strengthen preparedness as El Niño develops. Early warnings and coordinated planning could help communities reduce the impact of extreme weather in the months ahead.