“The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts that by late fall and early winter, there is a 63% chance this phenomenon will grow strong enough to rank among the most powerful El Niño events on record, dating back to 1950,” according to an article in The Independent.
According to forecasts, this event could match or even surpass the record-breaking El Niño of 1997, which caused billions of dollars in damage due to heat waves, floods, droughts, tornadoes, and wildfires. The natural climate cycle is expected to raise global temperatures and could lead to a significant increase in the number of extreme weather events worldwide.
Which regions of the world are at risk?
The main problems associated with El Niño are expected in the Pacific Ocean—Hawaii and other islands will be at the greatest risk. South America—torrential rains and flooding are expected in some areas, as well as an extremely hot summer. The U.S.—more severe storms with heavy rainfall in the south. Northeast Africa — frequent weather changes: from severe drought to torrential rains. India — severe heat waves.
Australia — drought, wildfires, and heat.
Southern and Southeastern Europe may be hit by abnormal heat: the summer months will bring prolonged and exhausting heat waves with temperatures above 35–40°C. Meanwhile, winter may turn out to be even milder than usual, with no snow cover.
At the same time, El Niño often, but not always, reduces the intensity of the Atlantic hurricane season. The Middle East, suffering from drought, may get a respite.
