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April 26, 2026

World Meteorological Organization warns of El Niño's return between May and July 2026

El Niño Phenomenon Photo: Autonomous Regional Corporation of the Upper Magdalena

World Meteorological Organization warns of El Niño's return between May and July 2026

TL;DR

  • El Niño is predicted to return between May and July 2026, with a high probability of becoming an intense event.
  • Recent analysis of Pacific equatorial conditions shows accelerated sea surface warming, indicating a transition towards El Niño.
  • The WMO highlights the 'spring predictability barrier,' which introduces uncertainty into forecasts during this time of year.
  • El Niño typically causes widespread temperature increases and altered rainfall patterns, with potential for droughts and intense precipitation.
  • Extreme weather events may be amplified by El Niño due to increased energy and moisture in the atmosphere, exacerbated by climate change.