Scientists warn that an incoming El Niño, combined with human-induced climate change, is likely to cause unprecedented weather extremes including wildfires, floods, and severe heatwaves. The current warming climate means El Niño's effects will be more severe than in past decades, with researchers noting that similar events in 2015-2016 and 2023-2024 already contributed to record global temperatures. The World Weather Attribution group emphasizes that while El Niño temporarily raises temperatures, the long-term trend of global warming remains the primary driver of climate extremes.
Background
El Niño is a natural climate pattern that occurs every few years when ocean temperatures in the tropical Pacific rise above normal levels, affecting global weather patterns. The phenomenon has become more severe in recent decades due to the underlying trend of global warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- May 14, 2026 at 09:09 PM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10