WMO Forecasts Strengthening El Niño to Peak in December 2026, Potentially Breaking Records

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) forecasts a significant strengthening of the El Niño phenomenon, with a near 100% certainty to persist until February 2027 and expected to peak around December 2026. Sea surface temperatures in the Niño 3.4 region are projected to reach approximately +3.7°C during October–December 2026, potentially the highest on record. This intensification could lead to widespread extreme weather patterns globally, including increased risks of drought and floods.